To see the other types of publications on this topic, follow the link: Soft Approach.
Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Soft Approach'
Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles
Consult the top 50 dissertations / theses for your research on the topic 'Soft Approach.'
Next to every source in the list of references, there is an 'Add to bibliography' button. Press on it, and we will generate automatically the bibliographic reference to the chosen work in the citation style you need: APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago, Vancouver, etc.
You can also download the full text of the academic publication as pdf and read online its abstract whenever available in the metadata.
Browse dissertations / theses on a wide variety of disciplines and organise your bibliography correctly.
1
Ashley, Simon James. "Business performance measurement : a soft systemic approach." Thesis, City University London, 2001. http://openaccess.city.ac.uk/8282/.
Full textAbstract:
The first objective of the research presented in this thesis, was to perform an investigation into the challenges of business performance measurement. The second objective of the research was to respond to these challenges, by articulating a Soft Systemic approach to business performance measurement. To meet the objectives of the research, the project draws on two key areas: a review of literature about measurement in different fields of study; and three real world action research case studies. The work in these areas is presented in this thesis, the main topics of which are: - Identifying specific challenges to measurement in the area of business performance measurement. - Identifying a number of generic causes of complexity in measurement situations; and introducing a new measurement classification based on the complexity of measurement situations. - Using the new classification of measurement situations to critique the traditional approach to measurement; and thereby identifying situations, such as business performance measurement, where a new approach to measurement is needed. -Proposing a set of Soft Systemic principles to measurement; and showing that this Soft Systemic approach is significantly different to the traditional approach. -Showing that the Soft Systemic approach is more suitable to the complex challenges of business performance measurement. -Translating the Soft Systemic approach into a practical framework, the Soft Systemic Performance Measurement Framework (SSPMF), to assist measurement practitioners in business performance measurement; and validating that framework in case study work.
2
Hiziroglu, Abdulkadir. "A soft computing approach to customer segmentation." Thesis, University of Manchester, 2009. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.503072.
Full textAbstract:
Improper selection of segmentation variables and tools may have an effect on segmentation results and can cause a negative financial impact (Tsai & Chiu, 2004). With regards to the selection of segmentation variables, although general segmentation variables such as demographics are frequently utilised based on the assumption that customers with similar demographics and lifestyles tend to exhibit similar purchasing behaviours (Tsai & Chiu, 2004), it is believed the behavioural variables of customers are more suitable to use as segmentation bases (Hsieh, 2004). As far as segmentation techniques are concerned, two conclusions can be made. First, the cluster-based segmentation methods, particularly hierarchical and non-hierarchical methods, have been widely used in the related literature. But, the hierarchical methods are criticised for nonrecovery while the non-hierarchical ones are not able to determine the initial number of clusters (Lien, 2005). Hence, the integration of hierarchical and partitional methods (as a two-stage approach) is suggested to make the clustering results powerful in large databases (Kuo, Ho & Hu, 2002b). Second, none of those traditional approaches has the ability to establish non-strict customer segments that are significantly crucial for today's competitive consumer markets. One crucial area that can meet this requirement is known as soft computing. Although there have been studies related to the usage of soft computing techniques for segmentation problems, they are not based on the effective two-stage methodology. The aim of this study is to propose a soft computing model for customer segmentation using purchasing behaviours of customers in a data mining framework. The segmentation process in this study includes segmentation (clustering and profiling) of existing consumers and classification-prediction of segments for existing and new customers. Both a combination and an integration of soft computing techniques were used in the proposed model. Clustering was performed via a proposed neuro-fuzzy two stage-clustering approach and classification-prediction was employed using a supervised artificial neural network method. Segmenting customers was done according to the purchasing behaviours of customers based on RFM (Recency, Frequency, Monetary) values, which can be considered as an important variable set in identifying customer value. The model was also compared with other two-stage methods (Le., Ward's method followed by k-means and self-organising maps followed by k-means) based on select segmentability criteria. The proposed model was employed in a secondary data set from a UK retail company. The data set included more than 300,000 unique customer records and a random sample of approximately 1 % of it was used for conducting analyses .. The findings indicated that the proposed model provided better insights and managerial implications in comparison with the traditional two-stage methods with respect to the select segmentability criteria. --' The main contribution of this study is threefold. Firstly it has the potential benefits and implications of having fuzzy segments, which enables us to have flexible segments through the availability of membership degrees of each customer to the corresponding customer segments. Secondly the development of a new two-stage clustering model could be considered to be superior to its peers in terms of computational ability. And finally, through the classification phase of the model it was possible to extract knowledge regarding segment stability, which was utilised to calculate customer retention or chum rate over time for corresponding segments.
3
Armstrong, Helen L. "A soft approach to management of information security." Curtin University of Technology, School of Public Health, 1999. http://espace.library.curtin.edu.au:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=10235.
Full textAbstract:
The key theme of this research is the planning and management of information security and in particular, the research focuses on the involvement of information stakeholders in this process. The main objective of the research is to study the ownership of, and acceptance of responsibility for, information security measures by stakeholders having an interest in that information.
4
Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta. "A multi-modal approach to soft systems methodology /." Luleå : Luleå Univ. of Technology (Luleå tekniska univ.), 2002. http://epubl.luth.se/1402-1544/2002/41.
Full text
5
Davids, Steven Emlyn. "A soft systems approach to social sciences projects." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52133.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2001ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This paper asks the question: "Is the Guide to the PMBOICs method appropriate for doing projects of a social science character?" Inthis enquiry extensive use is made ofliterature that is available via the world wide web. This paper follows the school of thought that regards the world as a complex set of interrelated systems. Humans as social beings are an integral part of these complex systems. In order to do justice to human endeavours, one must understand the systems in which humans operate and interpret all human undertakings in relation to those systems. Three broad types of systems approaches to project management are distinguished. A common underlying principle of all three approaches is that they regard social systems as complex, highly volatile and in constant flux. A direct consequence of this characteristic of social systems is that project goals are also not simple and rigidly fixed. The project goals are also complex, in constant flux and open-ended. The traditional Guide to the PMBOICs method for doing project management is unable to deal effectively with these complex and volatile system problems. This paper advocates that a slightly modified version of Checkland's soft systems method be used to deal with social projects, which are by definition, also complex projects. It is proposed that Checkland's soft systems method should be used in addition to the traditional approach. The method proposed by this paper is, to various degrees, already being implemented in practice. The proposed method is, however, presently not being catered for in the project management software packages that are readily and commercially available.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie studie ondersoek die vraag: "Is die metode soos voorgestel in die Guide to the PMBOK geskik vir projekte met 'n sosiaal wetenskaplike karakter?" In die ondersoek word op grootskaal gebruik gemaak van literatuur wat beskikbaar is op die internet. Hierdie studie sluit aan by die wetenskaplike gedagterigting wat die wêreld beskou as bestaande uit 'n reeks ingewikkelde en onderling verbinde sisteme. As sosiale wese is die mens 'n integrale deel van hierdie gekompliseerde sisteme. Om reg te laat geskied aan menslike handelinge, moet die sisteme waarbinne die mens leef verstaan word. Menslike handeling moet ook vertolk word teen die agtergrond van daardie sisteme en in verhouding tot die sisteme. Drie gedagterigtings kan onderskei word binne die sisteem benadering tot projekbestuur. 'n Gemeenskaplike en onderliggende beginsel van al drie gedagterigtings is dat hulle sosiale sisteme beskou as gekompliseerd, uiters onbestendig en in voortdurende beweging. 'n Direkte gevolg van hierdie eienskap van sosiale sisteme is dat projekte se doelwitte ook nie maklik definieerbaar en stabiel is nie. Projekte se doelwitte is gekompliseerd, onbestendig en oop. Die konvensionele metodes vir projekbestuur soos voorgestel deur die Guide to the PMBOK is nie in staat om hierdie gekompliseerde en onbestendige sisteem probleme effektief te hanteer nie. Hierdie studie debatteer dat 'n effens gewysigde weergawe van Checkland se sagte sisteem metode gebruik word vir die doen van sosiale projekte, wat per definisie gekompliseerde projekte is. Dit word aan die hand gedoen dat Checkland se sagte sisteem metode gebruik word saam met die konvensionele benadering. Die metode wat hierdie studie bepleit, word alreeds tot vlakke in die praktyk toegepas. Daar word egter nie voorsieining gemaak vir die voorgestelde metode in rekenaar sagte ware programme in projekbestuur wat redelik algemeen in die kleinhandel beskikbaar is nie.
6
Dobbin, Trevor Johnston. "A soft systems approach to object oriented analysis." Thesis, University of Ulster, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.274551.
Full text
7
Mears-Young, Bridget R. "Logistics and its implementation : a soft systems approach." Thesis, University of Lincoln, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.263960.
Full text
8
Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta. "A multi-modal approach to soft systems methodology." Doctoral thesis, Luleå tekniska universitet, Innovation och Design, 2002. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:ltu:diva-18130.
Full textAbstract:
The main aim of my research is to explore ways of enriching Soft Systems Methodology by developing intellectual tools that can help designers to conceptualise, create and evaluate different design alternatives. This directs the focus on the methodology’s modelling phase even though some ideas related to analysis also will be presented. In order to realize this objective the study proposes the following supplements. Firstly, a framework of 15 modalities (knowledge areas) is suggested as a supplement to existing analysis techniques, with the aim of helping the analyst identify important aspects that need to be understood in order to identify relevant issues for modelling. Secondly, a concept called qualifying function is proposed as an additional modelling tool for drawing out different perspectives of a particular problem situation, discussing desirable purposes for the design, and for exploring the underlying rationale behind a suggested transformation or a stated Weltanschauung. Thirdly, an expansion of the measures of performance used in SSM modelling, for evaluating conceptual models of possible design alternatives, is suggested. This expansion also builds on the modal framework. Based on both the theoretical and the practical work I have done I conclude that using the modalities as a general framework in analysis, modelling and evaluation, as well as using the concept qualifying function to tease out and clarify relevant transformations and underlying value systems has practical benefits and therefore can be said to enrich Soft Systems Methodology.Godkänd; 2002; 20060928 (evan)
9
Islam, Nilufar. "Evaluating source water protection strategies : a soft computing approach." Thesis, University of British Columbia, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/2429/30842.
Full textAbstract:
Source water protection is an important step in the implementation of a multi-barrier approach that ensures delivery of safe drinking water cost effectively. However, implementing source water protection strategies can be a challenging task due to technical and administrative issues. Currently many decision support tools are available that mainly use complex mathematical formulations. These tools require large data sets to conduct the analysis, which make their use very limited. A simple soft-computing model is proposed in this research that can estimate and predict a reduction in the pollutant loads based on selected source water protection strategies that include storm water management ponds, vegetated filter strips, and pollution control by agricultural practice. The proposed model uses an export coefficient approach and number of animals to calculate the pollutant loads generated from different land uses (e.g., agricultural lands, forests, roads, livestock, and pasture). A surrogate measure, water quality index, is used for the water assessment after the pollutant loads are discharged into the source water. To demonstrate the proof of concept of the proposed model, a Page Creek Case Study in Clayburn Watershed (British Columbia, Canada) was conducted. The results show that rapid urban development and improperly managed agricultural area have the most adverse effects on the source water quality. On the other hand, forests were found to be the best land use around the source water that ensures acceptable drinking water quality with a minimal requirement for treatment. The proposed model can help decision-makers at different levels of government (Federal/ Provincial/ Municipal) to make informed decisions related to land use, resource allocation and capital investment
10
Jeyakanthan, Velautham Engineering & Information Technology Australian Defence Force Academy UNSW. "Electro-osmotic stabilisation of soft soils : a numerical approach." Awarded by:University of New South Wales - Australian Defence Force Academy. Engineering & Information Technology, 2009. http://handle.unsw.edu.au/1959.4/44101.
Full textAbstract:
A numerical formulation for two-dimensional electro-osmotic consolidation in soft clays was derived from the basic equations of fluid flow, current flow and virtual work law. And, a well known elasto-plastic soil model, Modified Cam Clay was embedded into the formulation and implemented into the finite element program AFENA. The formulation was evaluated by comparing the predicted settlement and pore water pressure response with the values obtained from laboratory tests. The tests were conducted in an electro-osmotic triaxial apparatus, which was modified from a standard triaxial apparatus to facilitate electro-osmotic consolidation and required measurements. A series of electro-osmotic consolidation tests under different initial stress conditions were conducted to evaluate the finite element model and very good agreements between the observed and predicted results were observed. Another set of electro-osmotic tests were conducted with the similar initial stress, but different boundary conditions to examine the effects of electrochemical changes during the electro-osmosis. The study showed an apparent increase in the preconsolidation pressure and alteration in the coefficient of consolidation as a result of the electrochemical changes. A one-dimensional electro-osmotic consolidation problem was simulated and analysed, and the settlement and pore water pressure responses were compared with the solutions obtained from Esrig's (1968) one-dimensional theory. Another problem involving combined electro-osmotic and direct loading consolidation was also analysed and the results were compared with the solutions obtained from Wan and Mitchell's (1976) theory. Excellent matches were observed in both cases mentioned above for constant values of electro-osmotic and hydraulic permeabilities. However, the effects of varying electro-osmotic and hydraulic permeabilities, which are practically far more significant and not adopted in the theories mentioned above, were also analysed and the results presented. An attempt was made to simulate and analyse one of the successful field trial of electro-osmotic stabilisation conducted by Bjerrum et al (1967) on Norwegian quick clay. Good agreement between the predicted and reported settlement was observed for the first 50days of the treatment period. However, the model over-predicted the settlement after this period and the possible causes for this variation are discussed.
11
Anderson, Matthew John. "Comparative soft anatomy : a new approach to primate taxonomy." Thesis, Oxford Brookes University, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.325485.
Full text
12
Al, Harrasi Nabhan Harith. "Understanding Omani academic library collaboration : a soft systems approach." Thesis, University of Sheffield, 2012. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.575551.
Full textAbstract:
Abstract The primary aim of this research was to understand the situation of Omani academic library collaboration (OALC). The results show that the situation of Omani academic library collaboration was problematical due to lack of library collaboration activities in Oman, financial and human constraints that have rendered working in isolation no effective, and challenges related to purchasing, processing and providing services and information to the library community. Therefore, an investigation was required to understand factors that delay establishment of collaboration activities, factors that support working collaboratively, and methods and strategies that can be used to improve the current situation of OA Le. Soft systems methodology (SSM) was used as an interpretive approach to find out about the problematical situation and to model, discuss and improve OALe. Four academic libraries were involved in this study: Sultan Qaboos University Library, Nizwa University Library, Sohar University Library, and Dhofar University Library. 23 participants were involved in describing their situation in one-to-one interviews in order to gain understanding of the complexity of OALe. Then three group interviews were used tor the purpose of modelling and discussing conceptual activities which were suggested to improve the situation. Systems that are systematically desirable and culturally feasible were identified. A workshop was then organised to implement the awareness raising system, improve inter-group communication and conflict resolution, establish a strategic planning committee composed of representatives from every library to carry out the activities, and develop some rules and regulations that could be used to operate and control the system of interlibrary loans. The changes achieved through the process of the research would impact on three dimensions of the academic libraries: structure, attitude and procedures. The contribution of this research is in the appl ication of SSM in academ ic library collaboration.
13
Lewis, Paul John. "The evaluation of social action programmes : a #soft' systems approach." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.276137.
Full text
14
Spiegel, Andrew William. "A Soft ECU Approach to Develop a Powertrain Control Strategy." The Ohio State University, 2015. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1430904023.
Full text
15
Narunsky, Larry. "A Soft Systems approach to identifying and resolving organisational issues." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/22498.
Full textAbstract:
Bibliography: pages 249-252.This thesis is concerned with identifying and resolving organisational issues and details research that was undertaken in a manufacturing organisation, Rhomberg Brasier - a company which has been experiencing problems, which have developed in recent years.
16
Garcia, Raymond Christopher. "A soft computing approach to anomaly detection with real-time applicability." Diss., Georgia Institute of Technology, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/21808.
Full text
17
Mirzoev, Alexander. "Multiscale simulations of soft matter: systematic structure-based coarse-graining approach." Doctoral thesis, Stockholms universitet, Institutionen för material- och miljökemi (MMK), 2013. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:su:diva-94756.
Full textAbstract:
The soft matter field considers a wide class of objects such as liquids, polymers, gels, colloids, liquid crystals and biological macromolecules, which have complex internal structure and conformational flexibility leading to phenomena and properties having multiple spacial and time scales. Existing computer simulation methods are able to cover these scales, but with different resolutions, and ability to link them together performing a multiscale simulation is highly desirable. The present work addresses systematic multiscaling approach for soft matter studies, using structure-based coarse-graining (CG) methods such as iterative Boltzmann inversion and inverse Monte Carlo. A new software package MagiC implementing these methods is introduced. The software developed for the purpose of effective CG potential derivation is applied for ionic water solution and for water solution of DMPC lipids. A thermodynamic transferability of the obtained potentials is studied. The effective inter-ionic solvent mediated potentials derived for NaCl successfully reproduce structural properties obtained in explicit solvent simulation, which indicates the perspectives of using the structure-based coarse-graining for studies of ion-DNA and other polyelectrolytes systems. The potentials have temperature dependence, dominated mostly by the electrostatic long-range part which can be described by temperature dependent effective dielectric permittivity, leaving the short-range part of the potential thermodynamically transferable. For CG simulations of lipids a 10-bead water-free model of dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine is introduced. Four atomistic reference systems, having different lipid/water ratio are used to derive the effective bead-bead potentials, which are used for subsequent coarse-grained simulations of lipid bilayer. A significant influence of lipid/water ratio in the reference system on the properties of the simulated bilayers is noted, however it can be softened by additional angle-bending interactions. At the same time the obtained bilayers have stable structure with correct density profiles. The model provides acceptable agreement between properties of coarse-grained and atomistic bilayer, liquid crystal - gel phase transition with temperature change, as well as realistic self-aggregation behavior, which results in formation of bilayer, bicell or vesicle from a dispersed lipid solution in a large-scale simulation.At the time of the doctoral defense, the following paper was unpublished and had a status as follows: Paper 4: Submitted.
18
Tai, Yu-Wing. "Soft color segmentation with image-based applications : an alternating optimization approach /." View abstract or full-text, 2005. http://library.ust.hk/cgi/db/thesis.pl?COMP%202005%20TAI.
Full text
19
Ibrahim, Almahdi Mohamed Saleh. "Soft enterprise resource planning implementation related issues: a case study approach." Thesis, University of Salford, 2006. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.492400.
Full textAbstract:
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have evolved from the Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems and, accordingly, manufacturing companies represent the natural environment for their application. Nevertheless, ERP systems have also been introduced to different environments (e.g. service industries, refineries etc) with considerable success. However, comparatively little research has been conducted in the area of ERP implementation in such contexts of application.
20
Lavoie-Perrier, Marie-Anne. "Soft Body Impact Modeling and Development of a Suitable Meshless Approach." Thesis, Université Laval, 2008. http://www.theses.ulaval.ca/2008/25507/25507.pdf.
Full text
21
Greswell, Tammy Jane. "A soft systems approach to the formulation of a manufacturing strategy." Thesis, University of Plymouth, 1998. http://hdl.handle.net/10026.1/2767.
Full textAbstract:
This work investigated the understanding and use of current manufacturing strategy methods within the UK aerospace industry. Several key issues were identified which suggested a need to rethink the process of manufacturing strategy formulation. The set of issues included: the lack of explicit manufacturing strategies by several case organisations, a lack of the general use of developed manufacturing strategy tools and techniques, and a general evolution of organisations from functionally based to a business process focus. These issues suggested that the current approaches to manufacturing strategy were not reaching their target audience practitioners, and that further development of the manufacturing strategy formulation process was necessary to improve the usability and subsequent use of manufacturing strategy concepts. Taking these issues into account, the research used three cycles of learning using the soft systems methodology to develop a greater understanding of the domain of manufacturing strategy. Cycle One identified the process of manufacturing strategy formulation as a problem situation and used systems concepts and soft systems methods to develop three manufacturing strategy archetypes. These included a customer focussed / market led approach, a best practice approach and a knowledge-based approach to manufacturing strategy. Each archetype was developed using systems concepts by defining a root definition and developing conceptual models in order to make the thinking explicit, systemic, and useful to practitioners. Cycle Two explored the manufacturing strategy formulation processes of aerospace organisations and provided a sound base to identify appropriate changes to current manufacturing strategy methods based on both functionally orientated and business process focussed organisations. The third cycle developed a modified approach to the formulation of a manufacturing strategy using soft systems concepts, which was incorporated into a workbook format in order to test out the changes identified and learning experienced in the previous cycles. The format and use of the approach were validated using several case organisations, using the criteria that research results should be useful to practitioners within the production and operations management domain. The contribution of the work comes from the critical evaluation of existing manufacturing strategy methods and techniques, the development of three manufacturing strategy making systems and the development of a modified approach for developing a manufacturing strategy. The evaluation determined that the above were not well enough developed for the evolving aerospace industry. Opportunities for improvement were identified which were incorporated into an improved method for formulating a manufacturing strategy. The method makes use of three manufacturing strategy archetypes, developed using systems theory to ensure the thinking surrounding manufacturing strategy is made explicit and systemic. The approach is based around Checklands' (1990) soft systems methodology and each iteration of the methodology should be seen as a cycle of learning.
22
Silva, Daniele Fernandes e. "A levels-of-precision approach for physics-based soft tissues modeling." reponame:Biblioteca Digital de Teses e Dissertações da UFRGS, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10183/119120.
Full textAbstract:
Simulação computacional de ambientes cirúrgicos têm sido amplamente utilizados, normalmente para treinamentos, ajudando no desenvolvimento de habilidades essenciais e minimizando erros em procedimentos cirúrgicos. Para estes ambientes, é essencial a obtenção de um comportamento mais realista, sendo importante o uso de técnicas com alta precisão, além de uma simulação em tempo real. A fim de melhor controlar este trade-off entre eficiência e eficácia, apresentamos um ambiente híbrido e adaptativo que combina um conjunto de métodos para alcançar uma boa precisão e desempenho na simulação. Nosso sistema mescla métodos físicos de deformação (Método de Elementos Finitos e Mass-Mola) com um método não-físico que aproxima o comportamento dos primeiros (Green Coordinates), sendo capaz de utilizar o método apropriado dependendo da situação. Para melhor simular um ambiente cirúrgico completo, foram implementadas ferramentas adicionais para interação, permitindo pegar e manipular, queimar, e sentir os objetos do cenário. Nosso sistema proporciona grande imersão ao usuário, consumindo menos recursos computacionais e aumentando as taxas de atualização da simulação.Computational simulation of surgical environments have been widely used usually for trainings, improving essential skills and minimizing errors in surgical procedures. As these environments are always looking for a more realistic behavior, it is important to use high-precision techniques while ensuring a real-time simulation. In order to better manage this trade-off between efficiency and effectiveness, we present a hybrid and adaptive environment that combines a set of methods to achieve good accuracy and performance for a simulation. Our system merges physically deformation methods (Finite Elements Method and Mass Spring Damper) with a non-physical method that approximates the formers behavior (Green Coordinates), being able to use the appropriate method depending on the situation. To simulate an approximation of a complete surgical environment, we also implement interaction tools, such as picking, burning, and haptic feedback. Our system provides great immersion for the user, consuming less computational resources and increasing update rates.
23
Lavoie, Marie-Anne. "Soft body impact modeling and development of a suitable meshless approach." Doctoral thesis, Université Laval, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11794/20956.
Full textAbstract:
Cette thèse présente des travaux récents relatifs à la modélisation d'impact de projectiles mous et le développement d'une méthode numérique sans maillage. En premier lieu, la théorie rattachée aux impacts d'oiseaux ainsi que les méthodes numériques et résultats expérimentaux disponibles sont donnés afin d'établir des normes pour les simulations d'impact d'oiseaux. Les connaissances générales concernant les impacts d'oiseaux sont ensuite améliorées par des tests récents qui utilisent un substitut pour l' oiseau. Une recette pour le substitut est donnée afin de servir de référence dans les procédures de certification pour les impacts d'oiseaux. Les résultats sont également fournis afin de valider les modèles numériques et promouvoir l'utilisation des outils numériques dans le design de structures aéronautiques ainsi que dans le processus de certification. Les détails du montage expérimental sont donnés ainsi qu'une analyse de la précision des résultats obtenus et quelques sources d'erreurs à éviter dans l'éventualité où d'autres tests auraient lieu. Finalement, la méthode sans maillage smoothed particles hydrodynamics (SPH) est modifiée afin qu'un algorithme maison puisse traiter le problème d'impact d'oiseaux. Afin de rencontrer cet objectif, des améliorations sont apportées à la formulation mathématique afin de traiter les problèmes d'instabilités numériques rapportés dans la littérature. Ensuite, des lois de comportement et des équations d'état ont été ajoutées. L'algorithme résultant peut être utilisé pour plusieurs types de problèmes, ce qui rend la méthode SPH très attrayantes pour les simulations numériques avec grandes déformations.
24
Bhupatiraju, Murali K. "Direct and inverse models in metal forming : a soft computing approach /." The Ohio State University, 1999. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1488190595941775.
Full text
25
Suwa, Aki. "Soft energy paths in Japan : the backcasting approach to energy planning." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2005. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/1446820/.
Full textAbstract:
Climate change is increasingly recognised as a serious threat to the global ecosystem. The international framework, such as the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change provides a main mechanism to harness world-wide commitment for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction, to cope with the climate change. Japan is one of the countries which are required to reduce significant amounts of GHG emissions, including C02. The Japanese energy policy is rather fragmented and ineffective in coping with the global climate challenge, and often highly controversial options have been included. Nuclear is, for example, considered by the Japanese government as one of the most important elements to meet its obligation, although there are many doubts over the legitimacy of the option in the light of sustainable development. Against this background, it is critical to review the current energy policy and policy making processes in Japan. This study takes the challenge to propose alternative future visions and to examine their implications in the real policy context. Backcasting methodology, that creates a normative vision and identifies policy path to reach the vision, is identified as a highly relevant conceptual framework to this study. A strategic perspective is applied to the analysis, and the core research quest includes whether the strategic level of discussion between different parties could reduce the policy conflicts and divisions. The study offered four visions and the subsequent policy packages. The detailed policy paths are created to achieve the visions. Two tier evaluation stages are set to validate the policy packages and paths, through communication with selected Japanese energy experts. The study provides an insight as to the effectiveness of the methodology, and the legitimacy of the proposed visions and policy packages. Series of recommendation are made in terms of methodological and policy perspective. In particular, a "policy road map" is proposed as an effective tool to present policy coordination that enables cross strategic and time based policy analysis.
26
Bennetts, P. "An holistic approach to software quality : the development of a contingent model." Thesis, University of Bristol, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.302103.
Full text
27
Rucci, Josh. "A hard or soft approach? reconfiguring South Korean relations with North Korea /." Click here for download, 2007. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1288668421&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=3260&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
Full text
28
Buckley, Oliver. "Efficient Haptic and Visual Soft Tissue Deformation using a Particle-Based Approach." Thesis, Bangor University, 2009. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.505991.
Full text
29
Khattar, Sandeep. "An approach to sourcing optimization at a high volume soft drink manufacturer." Thesis, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/37135.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.B.A.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management; and, (S.M.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering; in conjunction with the Leaders for Manufacturing Program at MIT, 2006.Includes bibliographical references (p. 60).
The Pepsi Bottling Group (PBG) is the world's largest manufacturer, seller, and distributor of carbonated and non-carbonated Pepsi-Cola beverages. The supply chain network in the United States consists of 52 plants, over 360 warehouses, and an ever growing portfolio of SKU's. Currently, there is no robust method for determining the sourcing strategy - in which plant(s) to produce each product. The objective of this thesis is to develop an approach that allows PBG to determine where products should be produced to reduce overall supply chain costs while meeting all relevant business constraints. An approach to sourcing utilizing an optimization algorithm is presented, along with a suggested implementation plan. This approach has demonstrated the potential to generate significant cost savings throughout the supply chain. The research for this thesis was conducted during an internship with the Pepsi Bottling Group, in affiliation with the Leaders for Manufacturing program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
by Sandeep Khattar.
S.M.
M.B.A.
30
Hjalmarsson, David Alexandre. "South Korea's Public Diplomacy: A Cultural Approach : The Acquirement of Soft Power." Thesis, Södertörns högskola, Institutionen för samhällsvetenskaper, 2013. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:sh:diva-22517.
Full textAbstract:
Public Diplomacy has been around for decades, in some parts of the world more than others. Despite that, research related to public diplomacy has mainly focused on approaches serving governments’ policy concerns. A large part of the research has also surrounded efficiency aspects: the level of impact culminating from public diplomacy activities. This tunnel vision has undoubtedly contributed to the limitation of theoretical and methodological development. From that standpoint, this study attempts to contribute and fill the existing theoretical and methodological gap. The study builds on the research by Yun (2005), directed by J. E. Gruing, and examines the reliability of her framework and sheds light on some potential shortcomings and eventual amendments. Suggesting the convergence of public diplomacy and public relation, the model is composed of two theoretical frameworks. Public diplomacy as the dependent variable is anchored in Grunig’s excellence theory and national culture as determinants (independent variable) is anchored in Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory. As did Yun, the study finds that cultural dimensions as determinants for South Korea’s public diplomacy do not possess sufficient explanatory power to understand South Korea’s public diplomacy management. A historical lens and additional contextual factors would hypothetically better explain Korea’s public diplomacy, paving the way for future studies.
31
Soundararajan, Shvetha. "Agile Requirements Generation Model: A Soft-structured Approach to Agile Requirements Engineering." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/34511.
Full textAbstract:
The agile principles applied to software engineering include iterative and incremental development, frequent releases of software, direct stakeholder involvement, minimal documentation and welcome changing requirements even late in the development cycle. The Agile Requirements Engineering applies the above mentioned principles to the Requirements Engineering process.
Agile Requirements Engineering welcomes changing requirements even late in the development cycle. This is achieved by using the agile practice of evolutionary requirements which suggests that requirements should evolve over the course of many iterations rather than being gathered and specified upfront. Hence, changes to requirements even late in the development cycle can be accommodated easily.
There is however, no real process to the agile approach to Requirements Engineering. In order to overcome this disadvantage, we propose to adapt the Requirements Generation Model (a plan-driven Requirements Engineering model) to an agile environment in order to structure the Agile Requirements Engineering process. The hybrid model named the Agile Requirements Generation Model is a soft-structured process that supports the intents of the agile approach. This model combines the best features of the Requirements Generation Model and Agile Software Development.Master of Science
32
Chilvers, Alison H. "Managing long-term access to digital data objects : a metadata approach." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2000. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/7239.
Full textAbstract:
As society becomes increasingly reliant on information technology for data exchange and long-term data storage the need for a system of data management to document and provide access to the 'societal memory' is becoming imperative. An examination of both the literature and current 'best practice' underlines the absence to date of a proven universal conceptual basis to digital data preservation. The examination of differences in nature and sources of origin, between traditional 'print-based' and digital objects leads to a re-appraisal of current practices of data selection and preservation. The need to embrace past, present and future metadata developments in a rapidly changing environment is considered. Various hypotheses were formulated and supported regarding: the similarities and differences required in selection criteria for different types of Digital Data Objects (DDOs), the ability to define universal threshold standards for a framework of metadata for digital data preservation, and the role of selection criteria in such a framework. The research uses Soft Systems Methodology to investigate the potential of the metadata concept as the key to universal data management. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the attitudes of information professionals in the United Kingdom towards the challenges facing information-dependent organisations attempting to preserve digital data over the long-term. In particular, the nature of DDOs being encountered by stakeholders, the reasons, policies, and procedures for preserving them, together with a range of specific issues such as: the role of metadata, access to, and rights management of DDOs. The societal need for selection to ensure efficient long-term access is considered. Drawing on - SSM modelling, this research develops a flexible, long-term management framework for digital data at a level higher than metadata, with selection as an essential component. The framework's conceptual feasibility has been examined from both financial and societal benefit perspectives, together with the recognition of constraints. The super-metadata framework provides a possible systematic approach to managing a wide range of digital data in a variety of formats, created/owned by a spectrum of information-dependent organisations.
33
Stoyanova, Petia Venkova. "Knowing and modelling of human enterprises : a holistic approach." Thesis, University of Sunderland, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.364526.
Full textAbstract:
The desire to develop a holistic framework for knowing and modelling in human enterprises is not new. Methodologies, such as Systems Dynamics, Soft Systems and the Viable Systems Model all claim a holistic perspective. Each of these approaches emphasises the interrelatedness of `things', rather than the `things' themselves. Thus, they avoid the possible fragmentation that can occur when elements within a situation are treated as if they exist independently. Unfortunately, the systems approaches flounder because they fail to reconcile knowledge with the path that brings it into being, or to satisfactorily deal with the concepts of order or communication in language. The Thesis, therefore, provides a greater clarification of these issues, in the light of enactive cognitive science, chaos theory and contemporary theories on dialogue. As a result, a new framework is presented, for knowing and modelling in human enterprises, that is based on our `new' understanding of holism. The organisational context of the Thesis is provided by two generic models, both developed by the author (a model of Duopoly Competition and a model of Chaos Control ), together with a case study of the Danish hearing aid manufacturer Oticon. The Thesis concludes by presenting various insights arising from our new frame of reference and reflecting on their challenges for organisations.
34
Kothamasu, Ranganath. "Intelligent condition based maintenance a soft computing approach to system diagnosis and prognosis /." Cincinnati, Ohio : University of Cincinnati, 2005. http://www.ohiolink.edu/etd/view.cgi?acc%5Fnum=ucin1141339344.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Cincinnati, 2005.Title from electronic thesis title page (viewed Apr. 13, 2006). Includes abstract. Keywords: Condition Based Maintenance, Model based maintenance, Neuro-Fuzzy, Backpropagation, Information Entropy, Model selection. Includes bibliographical references.
35
Chapula, Cesar Augusto Macias. "Soft systems approach to information problems at the structural level of health care." Thesis, City University London, 1992. http://openaccess.city.ac.uk/7759/.
Full textAbstract:
Different forces are increasing the need for improved methods that measure quality in health care. Elements of structure, process, and outcome need to be identified, defined, and monitored in order to assess quality of health care. Systems theory and methodology have been applied to a broad spectrum of health care problems. Much of the analytical work has taken place at the process/operational level. Accordingly, the information/decision processes are usually supported at the operational/managerial level. The information bases for decisions and action-taking at the structure and policy level however, require further analysis and research. In this research, a problem situation regarding information access and use was identified at the structure level of a "health care system". The problem focused on the barriers, values, and impact of scientific and technical information, as assessed by 36 physicians who play the role of regional coordinators for conducting activities on health education and research within the "system". The hypothesis underlying this work is that a Soft Systems approach can be used as a methodology to understand and learn about the information problems that exist at the structure level of a "health care system". It is estimated that through the inquiry process of Soft Systems Methodology, results can contribute to identify a pathway whereby the role of information access and use on quality of health, at the structure-process and process-outcome levels of health care be established. Soft Systems Methodology was useful both (1) to tackle information problems at the structure level of health care; and (2) to enrich the different concepts of human activity systems that participate in the delivery of health care at the structure, process, and outcome levels. This research provided a model to such approach. Recommendations and further lines of research are also proposed.
36
Williams, John C. "Counterinsurgency meets soft power an alternative approach to deterring terrorist recruitment in Mindanao." Thesis, Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10945/3709.
Full textAbstract:
Terrorist activity in Southeast Asia remains a challenge to U.S. national security. In particular, terrorist organizations in the Philippines continue to conduct deadly attacks and attract more recruits despite U.S. and Philippine government counterinsurgency (COIN) efforts. Within the last seven years following the 9/11 terrorist attack, the Philippine and U.S. governments have combined efforts to address insurgency as a threat that hinders peace and security within the Philippines as well as Southeast Asia. Despite the ongoing counterinsurgency operations in Mindanao, the southern region of the Philippines continues to exist as a hub for terrorist recruitment, training, and operations. A key aspect of hindering insurgency growth within the Philippines is deterring terrorist recruitment by first identifying the underlying conditions that promote discontent among the people of Mindanao that make them susceptible to the ideology of militant Islam and then implementing a strategy that includes a full range of activities from kinetic to non-kinetic methods. It is clear that economic conditions, poor governance, lack of adequate social and educational programs are all contributing factors to the instability of Mindanao. What's not so clear is how to disrupt the cycle that sustains the terrorists while gaining the affection of the Muslim minority who have been in opposition with the predominantly Christian government. This thesis examines the counterinsurgency strategy by recognizing effective practices and identifying shortfalls in the approach. Our findings suggest that by applying a mix of soft power, as defined by Professor Joseph Nye, as well as nooÌ politik as defined by Professor John Arquilla and Dave Ronfeldt, in relation to hard power practices, an alternative approach to counterinsurgency can offer the U.S. and Philippine governments a long-term sustainable strategy that will diminish future radical Islamic threats and stabilize Mindanao.
37
Smith, Jason S. Stroh Rieka M. Williams John C. "Counterinsurgency meets soft power an alternative approach to deterring terrorist recruitment in Mindanao /." Monterey, Calif. : Naval Postgraduate School, 2008. http://edocs.nps.edu/npspubs/scholarly/theses/2008/Dec/08Dec%5FSmithJ.pdf.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.S. in Defense Analysis)--Naval Postgraduate School, December 2008.Thesis Advisor(s): Borer, Douglas ; Lober, George. "December 2008." Description based on title screen as viewed on January 30, 2009. Includes bibliographical references (p. 77-82). Also available in print.
38
KOTHAMASU, RANGANATH. "INTELLIGENT CONDITION BASED MAINTENANCE - A SOFT COMPUTING APPROACH TO SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS." University of Cincinnati / OhioLINK, 2006. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1141339344.
Full text
39
Silva, Alvarado Laura T. "A soft systems methodology approach to multifunctional landscapes : understanding interactivity and engaging stakeholders." Thesis, University of Sheffield, 2016. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/13870/.
Full textAbstract:
Landscapes are intrinsically multifunctional. However, only some landscapes display synergistic dynamism between ‘natural’ and ‘cultural’ landscape functions. Positive dynamism between landscape functions is a property that has usually emerged fortuitously and over a long period of time. The literature suggests that the promotion of landscape multifunctionality through purposive landscape interventions can set appropriate ‘initial conditions’ to speed up the emergence of multifunctional, resilient and distinctive landscapes. The challenges for landscape practitioners are to understand complex relationships between landscape functions and to include people as an integral part of the landscape. This research studies multifunctional landscapes as social-ecological systems, and its methodology is applied to the area covered by the National Forest Company (NFC), in England. After reviewing literature on landscape functions as systems, three GIS-based systems are used to explore and compare approaches to mapping landscape functions. This provides a basis to apply a Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) approach to the interpretation of landscape function interactions. Eight landscape function system conceptual models were developed, which were evaluated through workshops with NFC and their stakeholders. The initial literature review and GIS exercises broadly confirmed that, due to the limitations of available existing spatial data, mapping exercises could only be a complement to landscape multifunctionality assessments. However, an approach based on SSM, by placing stakeholder participation at the centre of its structured thinking process, advances on previous approaches. Not only did the models successfully depict interactions between landscape functions, but also they were evaluated as a useful approach to support knowledge generation and decision-making. SSM proved to be a qualitative approach that gave structure to multifunctionality complexity. This thesis proposes SSM as a methodology to support policy development on landscape function systems dynamics through the use of qualitative models and stakeholder participation.
40
Karpenko, Tatyana S. "Te(te(te(text)xt)xt)xt : a cognitive approach to the study of intertextuality." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.268003.
Full text
41
Kavaliūnaitė, Sigita. "Soft security in the context of Eastern Dimension of European neighbourhood policy: a management approach." Doctoral thesis, Lithuanian Academic Libraries Network (LABT), 2013. http://vddb.laba.lt/obj/LT-eLABa-0001:E.02~2013~D_20130206_095551-32509.
Full textAbstract:
The subject matter of this research is content, features, role and prospects of soft security in the context of Eastern Dimension of European Neighbourhood Policy by identifying and analysing soft security as a component of the European Union initiated joint project management in the area of Eastern Dimension of European Neighbourhood Policy covering Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, as well as Russian Federation. The objective of this research is to define ability of soft security component to effectively facilitate the process of security governance leading to increasing level of regional security and stability.Šios disertacijos tyrimo objektas – minkštasis saugumas Europos kaimynystės politikos Rytų dimensijos kontekste, identifikuojant ir analizuojant minkštąjį saugumą kaip Europos Sąjungos inicijuojamų bendrų projektų ES Kaimynystės politikos Rytų dimensijos erdvėje, apimančioje Armėniją, Azerbaidžaną, Baltarusiją, Gruziją, Moldovą ir Ukrainą, o taip pat ir Rusijos Federaciją,valdymo komponentą. Siekiama, analizuojant minkštąjį saugumo komponentą, atskeisti jo gebėjimą skatinti, įgalinti ir lengvinti regiono saugumo ir stabilumo efektyvaus valdymo procesą.
42
Banham, G. P. "Improving knowledge retention and use in construction project team environments : a soft systems methodology approach." Thesis, University of Surrey, 2009. http://epubs.surrey.ac.uk/2815/.
Full textAbstract:
This study provides an understanding and identification of knowledge management challenges in project teams within a single organization. Identification of challenges has generated discussion and recommendations are put forward for improving the level of knowledge management within the organization. This information is useful to those who are involved in knowledge management in project environments in construction; equally, the methodology can be applied to other types of project teams.
43
鄭鳳嬌 and Fung-kiu Patty Cheng. "A computer aided design approach for evaluation of consolidation with vertical drains in soft clays." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1995. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B3121292X.
Full text
44
Cheng, Fung-kiu Patty. "A computer aided design approach for evaluation of consolidation with vertical drains in soft clays /." Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 1995. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B19592395.
Full text
45
Alzaffin, Mohammad. "A systems approach to leadership development in the Dubai Police : using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM)." Thesis, University of Hull, 2015. http://hydra.hull.ac.uk/resources/hull:16401.
Full textAbstract:
The Dubai Police, striving to meet the needs of one of the most rapidly developing communities in the world, found themselves struggling to satisfy the needs of an expanding and increasingly diverse population as well as dealing with the expectations within the force from high-qualified officers who had benefited from education in the most modern universities. Seeking to improve the service to all stakeholders, HE the Commander-in-Chief introduced the concept of Total Quality Management. The introduction and continuing application of Total Quality Management was undertaken by an over-arching general department dedicated to Total Quality together with the introduction of experts into every general department. Unfortunately, the benefits were not as universal or as consistent as had been hoped. It was thought blocks to progress arose from the rigidity of the hierarchical and militaristic style of leadership prevalent in the force. A leadership style more inclusive of officers at all level was needed, one which was also alive to the expectations of external stakeholders, the residents, visitors and executives of business interests in Dubai. The researcher was asked to study how leadership operated in the Dubai Police, how leaders viewed progress in Total Quality Management among their peers and subordinates and how subordinates assessed their immediate superiors’ performance as leaders. To this end, 31 semi-structured interviews provided data for qualitative analysis and 475 respondents completed a questionnaire for quantitative analysis. The interviews revealed great respect for the military traditions of the Dubai Police, pride in progress made in Total Quality Management to date, an acknowledgement that this had been uneven and of the existence of pockets of resistance, results borne out of the responses to the questionnaire. Subjects were keen to improve the situation but had not embraced the latest management techniques available, tending to use reductionist methods to solve problems. The researcher was requested to explore the benefits of holistic systems thinking to liberate consideration of problems and blocks to further progress in Total Quality Management. The Dubai Police were advised that systems thinking has advantages over older methods as it involves consideration of all aspects of a problem as a whole, including the interest of all stakeholders, leading to more satisfactory solutions of wider application. Among its advantages are the broader spectrum of investigation called for the greater involvement of subordinates so that a much more detailed (richer) picture can be obtained. The Dubai Police were therefore recommended to employ Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as a means to achieving flexibility in leadership, deeper involvement of lower tiers of management in planning and quicker reaction to changing crime patterns. The Dubai Police should study western policing methods more deeply and invoke local universities in further research. The research indicated the Dubai Police needed to be more attuned to global development in policing attitudes and techniques.
46
Al-Rahmani, Ahmed Hamid Abdulrahman. "A combined soft computing-mechanics approach to damage evaluation and detection in reinforced concrete beams." Thesis, Kansas State University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/2097/13597.
Full textAbstract:
Master of ScienceDepartment of Civil Engineering
Hayder A. Rasheed
Damage detection and structural health monitoring are topics that have been receiving increased attention from researchers around the world. A structure can accumulate damage during its service life, which in turn can impair the structure’s safety. Currently, visual inspection is performed by experienced personnel in order to evaluate damage in structures. This approach is affected by the constraints of time and availability of qualified personnel. This study aims to facilitate damage evaluation and detection in concrete bridge girders without the need for visual inspection while minimizing field measurements. Simply-supported beams with different geometric, material and cracking parameters (cracks’ depth, width and location) were modeled in three phases using Abaqus finite element analysis software in order to obtain stiffness values at specified nodes. In the first two phases, beams were modeled using beam elements. Phase I included beams with a single crack, while phase II included beams with up to two cracks. For phase III, beams with a single crack were modeled using plane stress elements. The resulting damage databases from the three phases were then used to train two types of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs). The first network type (ANNf) solves the forward problem of providing a health index parameter based on the predicted stiffness values. The second network type (ANNi) solves the inverse problem of predicting the most probable cracking pattern, where a unique analytical solution is not attainable. In phase I, beams with 3, 5, 7 and 9 stiffness nodes and a single crack were modeled. For the forward problem, ANNIf had the geometric, material and cracking parameters as inputs and stiffness values as outputs. This network provided excellent prediction accuracy measures (R2 > 99%). For the inverse problem, ANNIi had the geometric and material parameters as well as stiffness values as inputs and the cracking parameters as outputs. Better prediction accuracy measures were achieved when more stiffness nodes were utilized in the ANN modeling process. It was also observed that decreasing the number of required outputs immensely improved the quality of predictions provided by the ANN. This network provided less accurate predictions (R2 = 68%) compared to ANNIf, however, ANNIi still provided reasonable results, considering the non-uniqueness of this problem’s solution. In phase II, beams with 9 stiffness nodes and two cracks were modeled following the same procedure. ANNIIf provided excellent results (R2 > 99%) while ANNIIi had less accurate (R2 = 65%) but still reasonable predictions. Finally, in phase III, simple span beams with 3, 5, 7 and 9 stiffness nodes and a single crack were modeled using plane stress elements. ANNIIIf (R2 > 99%) provided excellent results while ANNIIIi had less accurate (R2 = 65%) but still reasonable predictions. Predictions in this phase were very accurate for the crack depth and location parameters (R2 = 97% and 99%, respectively). Further inspection showed that ANNIIIi provided more accurate predictions when compared with ANNIi. Overall, the obtained results were reasonable and showed good agreement with the actual values. This indicates that using ANNs is an excellent approach to damage evaluation, and a viable approach to obtain the, analytically unattainable, solution of the inverse damage detection problem.
47
Sekalala, Sharifah Rahma. "Achieving access to antiretroviral medicines : favouring a soft law approach in the global fight against AIDS." Thesis, University of Warwick, 2011. http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/49482/.
Full textAbstract:
In 1986, the first case of HIV/AIDS was reported. A decade later, it had killed over 25 million people. Many, especially those in the developing world, were dying slowly and agonisingly from a disease that had no cure. Entire communities were losing so many people in the prime of their lives changing the fabric of those societies irrevocably. When antiretroviral medicines were discovered, there was a sense of optimism. Although these medicines were not a cure for AIDS, sufferers for the first time had hope of an almost normal life, a life without debilitating pain, a life where getting AIDS did not necessarily mean a death sentence. Unfortunately, the new ARVs were governed by the international law trade regime. These medicines had patents on them which allowed the pharmaceutical companies who owned them to exclude other users and charge astronomical prices. Millions of AIDS sufferers especially those from the developing world simply could not afford to pay these prices. This thesis examines the response of the international legal regime to this dilemma. It argues that a hard law approach was unsuited to creating greater access to ARVs as this meant prioritising patent rights which always invariably led to cost implications for the user. Many of the people who suffered from AIDS in developing countries were therefore still left unable to afford these medicines. By contrast the thesis argues that a soft law approach has been more effective. Soft law unlike its hard law counterpart makes it easier for States to reach agreement due to its non-binding nature. This also makes it faster for countries to achieve a consensus over issues, which makes it preferable when dealing with public health pandemics, such as AIDS, where speed is of the essence. Soft law is also more flexible and easier to supplement, amend or replace when faced with changing circumstances. In pursuing this argument, the World Trade Organization regime and the United Nations regime from which the majority of conceptual responses to the access to ARV problems have originated are assessed. In doing so the research suggests that soft law initiatives have developed a humanitarian norm of access to ARVs so as to enhance the prospect of universal access programmes that give free ARVs to those who would have been unable to afford them otherwise.
48
Li, Wenming. "Group-EDF: A New Approach and an Efficient Non-Preemptive Algorithm for Soft Real-Time Systems." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2006. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc5317/.
Full textAbstract:
Hard real-time systems in robotics, space and military missions, and control devices are specified with stringent and critical time constraints. On the other hand, soft real-time applications arising from multimedia, telecommunications, Internet web services, and games are specified with more lenient constraints. Real-time systems can also be distinguished in terms of their implementation into preemptive and non-preemptive systems. In preemptive systems, tasks are often preempted by higher priority tasks. Non-preemptive systems are gaining interest for implementing soft-real applications on multithreaded platforms. In this dissertation, I propose a new algorithm that uses a two-level scheduling strategy for scheduling non-preemptive soft real-time tasks. Our goal is to improve the success ratios of the well-known earliest deadline first (EDF) approach when the load on the system is very high and to improve the overall performance in both underloaded and overloaded conditions. Our approach, known as group-EDF (gEDF), is based on dynamic grouping of tasks with deadlines that are very close to each other, and using a shortest job first (SJF) technique to schedule tasks within the group. I believe that grouping tasks dynamically with similar deadlines and utilizing secondary criteria, such as minimizing the total execution time can lead to new and more efficient real-time scheduling algorithms. I present results comparing gEDF with other real-time algorithms including, EDF, best-effort, and guarantee scheme, by using randomly generated tasks with varying execution times, release times, deadlines and tolerances to missing deadlines, under varying workloads. Furthermore, I implemented the gEDF algorithm in the Linux kernel and evaluated gEDF for scheduling real applications.
49
Stewart, Roger William. "A systemic approach to the analysis of team behaviour using sociometry and soft systems analysis techniques." Thesis, Kingston University, 1995. http://eprints.kingston.ac.uk/20589/.
Full textAbstract:
A current strategy adopted by organisations to react more quickly to their changing environments is the creation and operation of teams. This research examines the relationship of organisational structure, behaviour and communications within the teams, between the teams and to the organisation. An integrated analysis approach of Soft Systems Analysis linked to Sociometry has been developed and used in the following organisations: the Defence Research Agency to analyse these relationships in Naval command and control teams; Richmond Borough Council Library Services to consider the effects of structural reorganisation; and for the National Health Service a failures analysis of the development of Electronic Patient Record systems. The results of this research were as follows. First, a confirmation of the applicability of the integrated analysis approach to the examination of the relationship of organisational structure, behaviour and communication. Second, the successful development of new techniques for the analysis of structure and communications. Third, the development of team behavioural and key process models within teams. These were validated by their application to the Piper Alpha oil platform disaster. A measure of the success of this research is the continuation of activities within the DRA and Richmond Library Services, and the extension of activities to the Swedish Armed Services.
50
Faraci, Alessandro. "A multiresolution nonlinear finite element approach to real-time simulation of soft tissue deformation with haptic feedback." Thesis, Imperial College London, 2006. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.430145.
Full text