Efficiency Criteria Research Articles

СЕРВИС ПОЖАРНОЙ БЕЗОПАСНОСТИ ПО КРИТЕРИЯМ ТЕХНИЧЕСКОЙ ГОТОВНОСТИ МАШИН СПЕЦИАЛЬНОГО НАЗНАЧЕНИЯ

The issue of diagnosing the operational and technical readiness for emergency response to fire risks of special-purpose vehicles is considered according to the criteria for the acceptable efficiency of the functioning of power plants of fire vehicles under operating conditions. An original instrumental apparatus is proposed for the implementation of an intelligent diagnostic process, including a working mathematical and analytical model in the form of a system of multiple regression equations, which relates the efficiency indicators of fuel equipment adjustments (cyclic fuel supply gc nom, injection pressure Rinj, free section of nozzles µf avtr, injection advance angle inj) with a combination of quality parameters of the combustion process (exhaust gas smoke K, CH, NOx, CO2, CO), measured (controlled) by gas analyzers. The diagnostic method can be implemented according to a program by the on-board processor of a fire truck of 4–5 technological generations or using pre-prepared nomograms.

Topologically free actions and ideals in twisted Banach algebra crossed products

We generalize the influential $C^*$ -algebraic results of Kawamura–Tomiyama and Archbold–Spielberg for crossed products of discrete groups actions to the realm of Banach algebras and twisted actions. We prove that topological freeness is equivalent to the intersection property for all reduced twisted Banach algebra crossed products coming from subgroups, and in the untwisted case to a generalized intersection property for a full $L^p$ -operator algebra crossed product for any $p\in [1,\,\infty ]$ . This gives efficient simplicity criteria for various Banach algebra crossed products. We also use it to identify the prime ideal space of some crossed products as the quasi-orbit space of the action. For amenable actions we prove that the full and reduced twisted $L^p$ -operator algebras coincide.

The Turán and Laguerre inequalities for quasi-polynomial-like functions

This paper deals with both the higher order Turán inequalities and the Laguerre inequalities for quasi-polynomial-like functions that are expressions of the form f(n)=cl(n)nl+⋯+cd(n)nd+o(nd)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$f(n)=c_l(n)n^l+\\cdots +c_d(n)n^d+o(n^d)$$\\end{document}, where d,l∈N\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$d,l\\in \\mathbb {N}$$\\end{document} and d⩽l\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$d\\leqslant l$$\\end{document}. A natural example of such a function is the A-partition function pA(n)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$p_{A}(n)$$\\end{document}, which enumerates the number of partitions of n with parts in the fixed finite multiset A={a1,a2,…,ak}\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$A=\\{a_1,a_2,\\ldots ,a_k\\}$$\\end{document} of positive integers. For an arbitrary positive integer d, we present efficient criteria for both the order d Turán inequality and the dth Laguarre inequality for quasi-polynomial-like functions. In particular, we apply these results to deduce non-trivial analogues for pA(n)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$p_A(n)$$\\end{document}.

Pros and cons of various efficiency criteria for hydrological model performance evaluation

Pros and cons of various efficiency criteria for hydrological model performance evaluation

Модельные технологические решения по обеспечению качества изделий при обработке точением

Model technological solutions for ensuring the quality of products during turning processing are proposed. A study of the workability of materials based on the ISO classification was carried out. To clarify the workability group, the MS code system was used, which allowed not only to clarify the workability group and the terms of delivery of the workpiece, but also to determine the specific cutting force. Based on the classifier-handbook, the parameters of the prefabricated cutting tool were selected and the technological modes for the prescribed processing conditions were determined. Based on the obtained specific cutting force, an algorithm for simplified determination of the cutting force is implemented. A study of the vibrations of the technological machining system was performed, which made it possible to formulate dynamic models for the system as a whole, subsystems of the workpiece and cutting tool. In relation to the dynamic model of the workpiece subsystem. The model has been simplified. A dynamic cutting characteristic was constructed, which made it possible to build an autonomous dynamic model of the technological system. In relation to this model, parameterization was performed, which made it possible to determine the stiffness coefficients of the fixed workpiece, as well as the inertia and dissipation coefficients. In relation to the selected processing conditions, the accuracy and roughness of the treated surface were checked. A study of the stability of the technological system of mechanical processing based on the algebraic Hurwitz criterion is carried out. In the general formulation, the Hurwitz determinant and stability conditions are obtained. The performed complex of calculations showed that the conditions determined by the Hurwitz stability criterion are met. This indicates that when processing in the selected modes, quiet cutting is carried out, which ensures the requirements for the quality of the product. The construction of the stability boundary can be performed in the space of variable technological parameters using the D-partitioning method or based on the R. Loeb algorithm. As a result of constructing the stability boundary in the space of variable parameters, the area of permissible technological modes is highlighted, which is the basis for solving the problem of processing control in accordance with the formed efficiency criteria. The complex of technological solutions presented in the article was deployed and implemented in relation to the turning of coating discs, as well as discs of turbines and compressors of gas turbine engines.

Методичні особливості оцінки рівня компетентності експертів у групі при визначенні ефективності ракетно-космічних комплексів

Expert examination methods greatly facilitate the solution of difficult-to-formalize problems. However, in this case the solution is affected by a subjective factor. The decision-making theory has a number of methodological techniques that diminish its effect on the decision made. This paper presents a method of quantitative evaluation of experts’ competence from the results of an expert examination of the efficiency determination of unique, technically complex systems of special and dual purpose, in particular space-rocket complexes. In an expert examination of projects of such systems, it is suggested that the experts’ competence be quantitatively evaluated in two stages: a preliminary evaluation of the experts’ competence from their factual data and a refined evaluation of the experts’ competence just before the calculation of the expected indices of target efficiency using the results of expert examinations made by the procedure developed. The proposed method of quantitative evaluation of experts’ competence is based on evaluating the qualification of the experts involved in the target efficiency determination of a complex engineering system. A rank matrix constructed on the basis of partial criteria of technical efficiency and additional factors of indirect control is proposed as a tool to eliminate cases where at a high level of expert evaluation consistency the most accurate expert evaluations may be considered anomalous in the expert evaluation of the technical and target efficiency of space-rocket systems. The presented mathematical model of quantitative evaluation of experts’ competence includes parameters that adjust the mathematical model to specific conditions of the expert evaluation (expert evaluation methods employed, measurement scales, specific limitations, etc.). The mathematical model is constructed around the axiom that the “true” estimates of the significance of the objects under evaluation lie within the expert evaluation domain. The paper also presents an enlarged algorithm for adjustment parameter calculation from the results of expert estimate preprocessing. The presented mathematical model and algorithm make it possible to develop a computer program for determining experts’ competence from expert evaluation results.

Strategic assessment of sustainable production in the international automobile sector using efficiency analysis and decision-making models

In the context of escalating global environmental concerns, the automotive industry faces pressing imperatives to align its growth with sustainable practices. This urgency, coupled with the need for a holistic evaluation framework, sets the stage for this study. Motivated by the gaps in quantitatively assessing sustainability, the study aims to discern and quantify the sustainability efforts of leading automotive manufacturers. The objective is to establish a robust, quantifiable link between operational efficiency and sustainability criteria that informs both business strategy and environmental stewardship. To achieve this, an innovative methodology combining the Malmquist Data Envelopment Analysis (Malmquist DEA) framework and the Ordinal Priority Approach (OPA) is employed. The approach analyzes efficiency changes, technological progress, and the industry's adoption of sustainable practices over a five-year period, concluding in the pre-pandemic year of 2020. The findings reveal a notable emphasis on productivity and market exposure, identifying them as pivotal to sustainable manufacturing. The OPA provides a weighted analysis of sustainability criteria based on expert evaluations, emphasizing the integration of environmental initiatives with core business strategies. The study's contribution is twofold: it introduces a novel, quantifiable approach to evaluating sustainability in the automotive industry, and it offers strategic insights for companies seeking to elevate their sustainability profile effectively. However, the reliance on pre-pandemic data and expert opinions marks the limitations of the study, indicating the necessity for further research. Future studies should aim to expand the temporal scope to include the latest industry shifts and to diversify the pool of sustainability criteria, capturing a broader spectrum of environmental and social dimensions. This continued research will enhance the industry's understanding of sustainable manufacturing in the evolving global context.

Development of decision-making technology for the provision of services in project implementation

The object of research is decision-making processes regarding the provision of services within the framework of cross-border projects. To achieve the aim of the research, an analysis of the service provision market was first conducted, its features have been revealed and problems arising in the processes of its functioning have been identified. The main problem is to find the optimal distribution of services between performers in the service management system. A mathematical model of the problem of single- and multi-criteria optimization has been developed, where the problem is decomposed into independent sub-problems. The problem is presented in the form of a linear programming problem. Various efficiency criteria of the found distributions are proposed. Depending on the number of criteria, the problem will be a single-criteria Boolean programming problem or a multi-criteria optimization problem. An iterative method for finding the optimal distribution of services has been created, and individual methods are laid out in the form of production rules, which is understandable and allows to gain new knowledge. Based on the obtained data, a decision-making technology has been developed regarding the distribution of service consumers between performers. At the same time, decision-making methods were used, which allow optimizing the processes of service provision. A systematic approach was used when designing information technology. This made it possible to create an effective and problem-relevant technology that helps in making informed decisions about the distribution of services between participants of cross-border projects. A structural and functional diagram of the decision support system has been developed. Its structural elements are detailed. The obtained results reflect a thorough analysis of the current state of the services market and the development of effective decision-making technology, which contributes to the optimization of work in the field of cross-border projects. This approach can be useful for various subjects involved in the implementation and coordination of international projects.

ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFICIENCY OF FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

As previously shown, many indicators characterise the quality of fire extinguishing systems. The most common quality indicator is fire extinguishing time. For fire extinguishing systems focused on extinguishing Class B fires using sprayed water, the authors have constructed a transcendental equation, the root of which is the fire extinguishing time. We derived the equation provided that the intensity of the sprayed water supply to the combustion centre to be described by the Heaviside function. The dynamic properties of fire are defined using the integral Laplace transform. We obtained the functional dependence of class B fire extinguishing time on fire parameters and showed that this time does not exceed a tenth of the constant fire time. In the first approximation, the inertial properties of the fire extinguishing system can be taken into account by the transfer function of an aperiodic link with a generalised time constant. For this case, we constructed a transcendental equation that determines the fire extinguishing time by the inertial fire extinguishing system. We note that, according to inertial properties, fire extinguishing systems fall into three classes. For each of the three classes, estimates of the extinguishing time of a class B fire were obtained, depending on the dynamic properties of this fire. The results show that this time can change several times. The authors have introduced the criterion for the efficiency of fire extinguishing systems, which characterises the degree of approximation of the speed of the fire extinguishing system to the maximum possible value. This criterion also indicates how much it is necessary to increase the extinguishing agent mass supplied per unit area of the fire relative to the extinguishing agent mass supplied in leaps per unit area of the fire, provided that the extinguishing times are the same. We obtained estimates of the effectiveness of fire extinguishing systems using this criterion. Furthermore, we provided recommendations on the use of the efficiency criterion. Keywords: fire extinguishing system, extinguishing time, efficiency criterion.

Genetic diversity of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum) to mitigate abiotic stress: Drought, heat, and their combination.

Drought and heat are the main abiotic constraints affecting durum wheat production. This study aimed to screen for tolerance to drought, heat, and combined stresses in durum wheat, at the juvenile stage under controlled conditions. Five durum wheat genotypes, including four landraces and one improved genotype, were used to test their tolerance to abiotic stress. After 15 days of growing, treatments were applied as three drought levels (100, 50, and 25% field capacity (FC)), three heat stress levels (24, 30, and 35°C), and three combined treatments (100% FC at 24°C, 50% FC at 30°C and 25% FC at 35°C). The screening was performed using a set of morpho-physiological, and biochemical traits. The results showed that the tested stresses significantly affect all measured parameters. The dry matter content (DM) decreased by 37.1% under heat stress (35°C), by 37.3% under severe drought stress (25% FC), and by 53.2% under severe combined stress (25% FC at 35°C). Correlation analyses of drought and heat stress confirmed that aerial part length, dry matter content, hydrogen peroxide content, catalase, and Glutathione peroxidase activities could be efficient screening criteria for both stresses. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that only the landrace Aouija tolerated the three studied stresses, while Biskri and Hedhba genotypes were tolerant to drought and heat stresses and showed the same sensitivity under combined stress. Nevertheless, improved genotype Karim and the landrace Hmira were the most affected genotypes by drought, against a minimum growth for the Hmira genotype under heat stress. The results showed that combined drought and heat stresses had a more pronounced impact than simple effects. In addition, the tolerance of durum wheat to drought and heat stresses involves several adjustments of morpho-physiological and biochemical responses, which are proportional to the stress intensity.

Technical and Economic Efficiency of Using Multifunctional Containers in Primary Seed Production of Grain Crops

Introduction. A very common technology of pedigree seed production is associated with manual in-process transshipment of many sacks that over time results in damaged sacks and in worsening of grain storage conditions. In this regard, there is a need to design a multifunctional rigid container, which will provide cost-effective storage of seed grain through the airtightness and control of the indoor environment. Aim of the Study. The study is aimed at designing a multifunctional container for primary seed production of grain crops with justification according to the criteria of technical and economic efficiency in comparison with pallet spaces and sacks. Materials and Methods. The state standard for economic evaluation of agricultural machinery was applied to assess the impact of reducing in-process transshipment of many sacks and seed losses in primary seed production of grain crops. Wheat seeds were used as the seed-producing crop under study. As service equipment there were used Wintersteiger Delta plot combine with a cutterbar working width of 2 m, seed bagging system or grain hopper 1.5 m3, Belarus 622 tractor with 1PTS-2 semi-trailer, TOR CD1 10916 electric telpher, and convective grain drying units on the basis of SL-0.3x 2 tray dryer for grain. Results. The authors of the article have estimated the technical and economic efficiency of using sacks and multifunctional containers in technological operations of harvesting, transporting and drying grain. With the annual notional volume of work in 400.7 tons, the saving of total money costs for a plot seed combine-harvester averages 117.9 thousand rubles. The reduction in the cost of work performance is 32.8%, payback period is 2 years; the decrease in the need for service personnel and harvesters is not revealed. At the same time, the reduction in the need for energy sources is 32.3%. Discussion and Conclusion. It has been determined that during technological operations of harvesting, transporting and drying, the best seed production performance is when using the multifunctional container with the following indicators of specific cargo turnover, p: Ui = 800 t/km2; Lг = 0.15 km; b = 0.01 km; Lп‒т = 0.5 km, initial humidity of seeds is 21%. In the process of using this container, the production cost, need for service personnel, energy sources and machinery are reduced.

Analysis of the regulatory database to determine the criteria for the effectiveness of structural and technological solutions for the installation of structural slabs

This article is devoted to the analysis of the regulatory framework in the context of determining the criteria for the effectiveness of structural and technological solutions for the installation of structural slabs. The study is aimed at identifying the regulatory requirements and standards that regulate the process of installation of the covering, in particular structural plates. The authors highlight current issues related to the effectiveness of constructions and installation technologies, as well as conduct a systematic review of the literature and analyze existing norms and standards. Particular attention is paid to defining the key criteria that determine the efficiency and reliability of the installation of structural plates. The results of the study can be useful for specialists in the field of construction design, architectural design and the construction industry. The analysis of the regulatory framework allows modern practitioners and researchers to better understand the requirements for structures and contributes to the further development of standards in the field of installation of structural slabs. Against the background of the rapid development of the construction industry and constant technological evolution in the field of building structures, special attention is devoted to the analysis of the regulatory framework for determining the criteria for the effectiveness of structural and technological solutions, in particular, when installing structural slabs. The article begins with substantiating the relevance of the topic, based on the need to optimize and improve construction processes. The authors identify problems and challenges that often arise in connection with the installation of structural plates, and argue the need for a thorough analysis of regulatory documents. In the future, a systematic review of the literature and existing national and international standards regulating the installation process of structural plates is carried out. Special attention is paid to identifying inconsistencies or gaps in existing regulatory documents and the need for their clarification. The key aspect of the extended analysis is the determination of efficiency and reliability criteria for the installation of structural plates. The authors consider technical and operational aspects, taking into account the impact of the environment and the requirements for the durability of structures. The main results of the research can be useful for practicing engineers, architects and specialists in the construction industry. The conclusions and recommendations of the article can serve as a basis for further scientific research in the field of improvement of regulatory requirements and standards for improving the quality and safety of the installation of structural slabs.

METHOD OF ORGANIZING INTER-MODULE DATA EXCHANGE

The purpose of this article is the development and description of the method of organizing inter-module data exchange, that is based on the parametric presented subsystems, as well as the evaluation of the effectiveness of the developed multiprocessor computing systems. The authors propose a method of organizing inter-modular exchanges, which is based on the parametric presented subsystem. When developing programs using parallelization algorithms, parameters are used that set specific values for the subsystem. These values are determined during the formation of the subsystem. This makes the program independent of the graph of subsystem inter-module connections, on the basis of which this program will be implemented. The effectiveness of the computer system depends on a set of characteristics, which include: performance, reliability, probability of results, stability, manufacturability and others. To compare computer systems as a criterion of efficiency, it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive indicator that will take into account the main indicators. The real efficiency of a computer system is determined by the time it fulfils its functional purpose. Accordingly, the more reliable the system, the more relative time it is used for its intended purpose and the greater its efficiency. Thus, when comparing computer systems, it is necessary to compare their performance taking into account the real reliability of the system. At the same time, depending on the classes of problems being solved, the influence of various indicators (including reliability) on the efficiency of the system changes. Based on the results of the research, the following conclusions can be drawn: the most effective are the computer systems that are implemented on the developed MO. This fact is clearly visible from the comparison of the time spent on calculating not only the test task, but also when calculating the test equation with the test parameters.

Threats to the Food Security of the Russian State in the Modern Settings

Introduction. National security of any state is ensured through development of the various spheres of its life — spiritual, political, military, economic and others. However, the fundamental factor ensuring existence of any society is availability of accessible quality and quantity of food to the citizens. Therefore, the goal of the state socio-economic policy of Russiais to ensure people’s food security. The article analyses the state policy and practices of Russia in countering the threats to the food security of the country in the modern difficult geopolitical settings. The relevance of studying the food security system of the Russian state is induced by one of the priorities of the state socio-economic policy implying the development of the food security threat preventing and countering measures as the fundamental condition of existence of the society. The aim of the study is to analyse the criteria of the state governance efficiency on ensuring the food security of the country, to study the state of the art in this field as well as to identify the existing threats and propose the countering measures. Materials and Methods. The research was conducted using the methods of structural-functional and statistical analysis, content analysis of the normative legal acts in the field of food security, at both national and international levels, the comparative-historical method, comparativism and other methods. Results. The state of the art of the food security system of Russia, which is an integral part of the national security of the state, has been analysed. The regulatory documents and statistical data on the state of the art of the food security of Russia have been investigated. The measures for ensuring the Russian Federation food security have been proposed through expansion of the domestic production of the environmentally friendly and safe for the human health products and other kind of products that is a necessary condition for preserving the population and the nature of our country and the decent standard of living of the Russian citizens. Discussion and Conclusion. The degree of ensuring the state food security has significantly improved, but has not reached the normative threshold values for the whole range of goods. Provision of the high-quality affordable food to the Russian citizens remains a riskogenics factor. The economic sanctions imposed by the Western countries against Russia are a newform of the hybrid warfare. The conclusions drawn upon the research aim to supplement and expand the scientific knowledge on the conditions of ensuring the food security of the Russian state that is the most important concern of the government, because food is the basic condition for existence of all the living beings on the planet. The independence of the state and its national sovereignty depend on ensuring the food security.

Evaluation of the implementation of the free Senior High School education program in North Sulawesi

The implementation of free education must be guaranteed to be implemented in accordance with existing government policies. One of them is evaluating the implementation of free education. This research aims to evaluate the implementation of the free senior high school education program in North Sulawesi Province. The research method used is a descriptive-qualitative method with purposive sampling technique. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews and documentation. The research results show that the evaluation was carried out to measure the extent to which free education was successfully implemented effectively and efficiently. Evaluation of the implementation of free education programs certainly does not necessarily always go according to what has been determined. By analyzing according to the evaluation approach implemented at State Senior High Schools in North Sulawesi, it can be concluded that the implementation of free education evaluation still does not meet the criteria for efficiency, equity, accuracy and responsiveness.

МНОГОФАКТОРНЫЕ МОДЕЛИ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ УСТОЙЧИВОСТЬЮ ВОСПРОИЗВОДСТВЕННЫХ ПРОЦЕССОВ В МНОГОЛЕТНИХ АГРОЦЕНОЗАХ НА ОСНОВЕ КОГНИТИВНЫХ МЕТОДОВ АНАЛИЗА

The necessity of developing multifactorial models for managing the sustainability of reproductive processes in perennial agrocenoses with the participation of orchard crops and grapes is substantiated. The factors influencing the sustainability and efficiency of the production of fruit products and grapes in the Krasnodar region have been identified. Cognitive models for managing the sustainability of reproductive processes in perennial agrocenoses based on technological processes of elements of the fruit and grape-growing management system have been developed. Models for managing the sustainability of reproductive processes are based on cognitive methods of analysis and digital technologies, taking into account the identified systemic relationships in reproductive processes in functional areas of impact according to criteria of efficiency; biologization; environmental management. Cognitive models have made it possible to identify multifunctional relationships in reproductive processes in functional areas of influence, the optimization of which is the basis for the development of digital technologies. The results of cognitive modeling will be the basis for solving applied problems to increase the productivity of fruit agrocenoses, reduce the level of chemical and anthropogenic load on their elements and optimize the costs of production of industrial products. normative parametric model of the stability of reproductive processes in perennial agrocenoses with the participation of orchard crops and grapes has been developed. The tools for managing biotechnological processes in the elements of agrocenosis are proposed. Key words: MODELS, MANAGEMENT, SUSTAINABILITY, COGNITIVE MODELING, COGNITIVE MAPS, DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES, EFFICIENCY

Stability Evaluation of a Simplified Reclaimer Using Fluid–Structure Interaction

This paper describes the numerical modeling and simulation of the wind effects on an ore reclaimer structure using analytical and numerical methods. The physical model is a large machine with a height of 34 m and a width of 77 m, and due to its complexity, a simplified model was used. This study aims to investigate the influence of wind speed on the stability failure of the reclaimer and to provide a more efficient and precise stopping criterion. The simulations were performed using a two-way FSI (fluid–structure interaction) approach. An FSI analysis was performed to study the dynamic behavior of a numerical model consisting of two separate parts with contact constraints. This article also highlights the importance of FSI in improving the reliability of the stability failure. Finally, the numerical results showed differences compared to the analytical model, and the wind load limit to stability failure was observed at higher wind speeds. The structure was able to support wind velocities higher than suggested by the FEM (European Materials Handling Federation) standard without stability fails.

Chaotic Path-Planning Algorithm Based on Courbage–Nekorkin Artificial Neuron Model

Developing efficient path-planning algorithms is an essential topic in modern robotics and control theory. Autonomous rovers and wheeled and tracked robots require path generators that can efficiently cover the explorable space with minimal redundancy. In this paper, we present a new path-planning algorithm based on the chaotic behavior of the Courbage–Nekorkin neuron model with a coverage control parameter. Our study aims to reduce the number of iterations required to cover the chosen investigated area, which is a typical efficiency criterion for this class of algorithms. To achieve this goal, we implemented a pseudorandom bit generator (PRBG) based on a Courbage–Nekorkin chaotic map, which demonstrates chaotic behavior and successfully passes all statistical tests for randomness. The proposed PRBG generates a bit sequence that can be used to move the tracked robot in four or eight directions in an operation area of arbitrary size. Several statistical metrics were applied to evaluate the algorithm’s performance, including the percentage of coverage of the study area and the uniformity of coverage. The performance of several competing path-planning algorithms was analyzed using the chosen metrics when exploring two test areas of the sizes 50 × 50 cells and 100 × 100 cells, respectively, in four and eight directions. The experimental results indicate that the proposed algorithm is superior compared to known chaotic path-planning methods, providing more rapid and uniform coverage with the possibility of controlling the covered area using tunable parameters. In addition, this study revealed the high dependence of the coverage rate on the starting point. To investigate how the coverage rate depends on the choice of chaotic map, we implemented six different PRBGs using various chaotic maps. The obtained results can be efficiently used for solving path-planning tasks in both real-life and virtual (e.g., video games) applications.

Does urban bus route assignment improve air quality?

Worldwide, one of the most important causes of mortality is air pollution. To solve this problem, governments have implemented policies to reduce on-road and industrial emissions. In this regard, the Barcelona city council and Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) started implementing the Nova Xarxa de Bus (NXB) to redefine the bus network following the criteria of connectivity, efficiency, and rationality. This policy was implemented in seven phases from 2012 to 2018. In this context, this paper analyses the impact of this policy on Barcelona’s air quality using a dataset from 2008 to 2016. Using a difference-in-difference approach, we show that implementing these new routes increased air quality in Barcelona. Additionally, we show that pollution decreased in each phase analysed, especially in the air quality stations near the main roads. From our results, we can infer that an optimal bus route design can improve air quality in urban areas.

Study on the adsorption of nutrients in the wastewater of catfish ponds by the adsorbent system prepared from peat

Fabrication of adsorbent materials has been done by mixing peat and coal slag, the ratio of 70:30 by weight. The obtained material has a specific surface area S of 10.45 m2/g, rough surface morphology with many functional groups, with high adsorption capacity. The time to reach adsorption equilibrium is 120 minutes, COD adsorption capacity of 15.54 mg/g, N-NH4 adsorption capacity of 10.72 mg/g. The kinetic law of N-NH4 adsorption obeys the apparent second order type 2 equation. The N-NH4 adsorption isotherm obeys both Langmuir and Freundlich equations. The materials are used to adsorb substances in catfish pond wastewater with the criteria of BOD5, COD, N-NO3, N-NH4, total phosphorus, and treatment efficiency from 24.95 to 88.81%.