Technology Research Institute Research Articles

Characterizing the Impact of Emergent Technologies on Earth Communications Reliance for Crewed Deep Space Missions

Future human expeditions into deep space will encounter unique design challenges posed by the increasing distance from Earth, one of which is the inability to maintain near-continuous communication with ground support teams. As a result, the habitat and crew will require a higher level of operational self-sufficiency informed by onboard self-awareness and decision-making capabilities to accomplish functions that have historically involved extensive support from mission control personnel. These include, for example, task planning and anomaly detection, diagnosis and correction, as well as monitoring of consumable usage rates and system performance. Novel emergent technologies in the domain of ‘smart’ systems and digital twins can be employed to enable the onboard capabilities needed to function with minimal Earth communication. However, these technologies are generally low-TRL and difficult to incorporate through traditional systems engineering methods.This work proposes an extension of utility theory to assess the potential reduction in Earth communication reliance between baseline and emergent technologies, scored through a summation of weighted attributes and evaluated against future deep space mission needs and constraints. Case studies are defined from technology under development in the NASA Habitats Optimized for Missions of Exploration (HOME) Space Technology Research Institute (STRI), a project charged with developing and evaluating technologies to enable highly autonomous deep space habitats, and compared to the current baseline technologies used onboard the International Space Station. Notional deep space mission needs and constraints are informed from current NASA plans for the Moon and Mars. These in turn are broken out into higher resolution attributes that are used to assess the operational capabilities of each emergent technology and whether it offers a potentially viable solution for deep space. These technology attributes are scored through a series of semi-structured subject-matter interviews and compared to notional deep space mission constraints. Additional considerations for technology maturation and integration are also discussed. The design analysis paradigm described and demonstrated here can be adapted to assess the degree to which other emergent technologies rely on Earth-based communication, and is intended to provide trade space considerations for future research and development towards deep space habitat self-sufficiency.

과학기술분야 정부출연연구기관의 연구사업화에 관한 이해충돌 법적 검토

This study examines the commercialization of research conducted by government-funded science and technology research institutes (hereinafter referred to as 'science and technology research institutes') and the associated legal frameworks for preventing conflicts of interest. The aim is to analyze the perceptions within the research community and propose legal improvements. Science and technology research institutes are tasked with not only conducting scientific research but also promoting technology transfer and commercialization for the dissemination and utilization of research outcomes. However, this process may involve personal interests or commercial activities, which can lead to conflicts of interest. Notably, since the implementation of the Act on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest in 2022, issues related to technology transfer and commercialization have been raised, necessitating a thorough review. The perception survey conducted within the research community revealed differences in views on research commercialization between science and technology research institutes and other organizations, with the potential for conflict of interest concerns posing a more significant barrier in the former. Additionally, research-oriented companies and researcher-founded startups reported experiencing limitations in collaboration due to conflict of interest concerns. The proposed legal improvements include: first, the establishment of explicit provisions related to researcher entrepreneurship within the Act on the Establishment, Operation and Fostering of Government-Funded Science and Technology Research Institutes to provide a clear legal basis for proactive efforts; second, a reconsideration of the application of the Act on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest to science and technology research institutes, with the consideration of exceptions or exclusions reflecting the unique nature of research and development; and third, the suggestion to utilize existing laws, such as the National Research and Development Innovation Act, to establish autonomous conflict of interest management systems within these institutes. These measures aim to strike a balance between the public responsibilities of research institutions and the social utilization of research outcomes, ensuring that researchers can actively commercialize their research while fulfilling their ethical responsibilities.

Design of Business Ecosystem Mapping in the Black Soldier Fly Industry of Bandung City

BSF (Black Soldier Fly) maggot cultivation is an alternative organic waste management that is growing rapidly in the city of Bandung. This research aims to design a business ecosystem map for the BSF maggot cultivation industry in Bandung City. The method used is business ecosystem mapping with a qualitative approach modified by Zheng Ma. The research results show that the BSF maggot cultivation industry in Bandung City has six main groups of actors, namely maggot producers, maggot consumers, maggot raw material suppliers, maggot cultivation equipment and technology suppliers, government, and research institutions. Interactions between actors are driven by shared values, such as sustainability, circular economy and economic value. External factors that influence the development of the BSF maggot cultivation industry in Bandung City are government policy (politics), market trends (economics), public awareness (social) and technological progress (technology). Reconfiguration of the BSF maggot cultivation business ecosystem in Bandung City by incorporating elements of changes in external factors. The map of changes in the BSF maggot cultivation business ecosystem in the city of Bandung over the next 5 years includes: (1) increasing BSF maggot production to meet market demand, (2) developing new products and services based on BSF maggots, (3) increasing collaboration between actors, (4) strengthening human resource capacity, and (5) encouraging the development of environmentally friendly BSF maggot cultivation technology.

Performance testing of a novel short axis photomultiplier tube for the HUNT project

Photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) with large-area cathodes are increasingly being used in cosmic-ray experiments to enhance detection efficiency. The optical modules (OMs) of the High-Energy Underwater Neutrino Telescope (HUNT) have employed a brand new N6205 20-inch microchannel plate photomultiplier tube (MCP-PMT) developed by the North Night Vision Science & Technology (Nanjing) Research Institute Co. Ltd. (NNVT). In order to make the 20-inch PMT fit into the 23-inch diameter pressure-resistant glass sphere, NNVT improved the internal structure of PMT and shortened the height of PMT by more than 10 cm. The first batch of these PMTs has been delivered for preliminary research work. This paper describes a specific PMT testing platform built for the first batch of 15 MCP-PMTs, and some performance parameters of PMT, such as peak-to-valley ratio, TTS and nonliniearity, are measured. The measurement results show that the new PMT still has good performance and can meet the requirements of HUNT project.

Support and Research Activities for Local Manufacturing Companies in the Hiroshima Prefectural Technology Research Institute

Support and Research Activities for Local Manufacturing Companies in the Hiroshima Prefectural Technology Research Institute

Novel Composites for Lightweighting in Deep Space Applications

Abstract The evolution of carbon nanotube composites, as inspired by the Materials Genome Initiative, unlocks new potential for materials sustainability in challenging deep space applications. This article describes research and development work at the Institute for Ultra-Strong Composites by Computational Design (US-COMP), a NASA Space Technology Research Institute consortium. US-COMP has developed a novel composite material with mechanical properties per unit mass that exceed state-of-the-art structural composites.

Strategies for Healthcare Disaster Management in the Context of Technology Innovation: the Case of Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, integrating technology and innovation is crucial for advancing sustainable healthcare disaster management, enhancing disaster response and recovery, and minimizing long-term environmental and social impacts. The purpose of the study is to assess the impact of modern technological innovations on the effectiveness of disaster management in health care in Bulgaria with a focus on Health Information Systems (HIS), Telemedicine, Telehealth, e-Health, Electronic Health Records, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Public Communication Platforms, and Data Security and Privacy. These innovations, when integrated effectively, can significantly strengthen Bulgaria's preparedness and response capabilities, improving efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint of disaster interventions. Collaboration with technology experts, research institutions, and international organizations is essential for successful implementation. The research aims to assess how these technologies can enhance disaster management efficacy, adopting a methodical approach using Systematic Literature Reviews (SLRs). Systematic Literature Reviews (SLRs) utilize precise criteria for research selection and evaluation to reduce bias, systematically compiling and analyzing data from various studies to offer evidence-based insights. They are crucial for uncovering research gaps, indicating areas needing further exploration. Findings highlight the transformative potential of technology integration in streamlining communication, data management, and operational efficiency. The study underscores the urgent need for an integrated approach and a culture of innovation within the healthcare sector, emphasizing ongoing assessment and adaptation of technology-based strategies. While acknowledging limitations and calling for further research, the study provides valuable insights into Bulgaria's healthcare disaster management strategies and sets the stage for future investigations to refine and expand upon these strategies. It advocates for a strategic framework guiding the efficient integration of technology into disaster management, aiming for resilient and patient-centric healthcare systems.

Analisis Eksplorasi Strategi Perusahaan Dalam Menghadapi Disrupsi Digital Di Era Industri 6.0: Studi Kasus Pada PT. Aneka Tambang Tbk

This qualitative research explores the strategies implemented by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTAM) in facing digital disruption in the industrial era 6.0. By using a case study approach and involving 10-15 key participants from ANTAM management, this research reveals the company's comprehensive digital transformation efforts. Data collection methods include in-depth interviews, participant observation, document analysis, and literature review. The main strategies implemented include the implementation of digital technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, automation and robotics in mining operations; digital human resource development; transformation of organizational culture that supports innovation; as well as strategic partnerships and collaborations with technology companies, start-ups and research institutions. ANTAM also pays great attention to aspects of cyber security and data protection. The research results show that digital transformation has a positive impact on increasing operational efficiency, productivity, cost savings, work safety, new product development, as well as the competitiveness and sustainability of ANTAM's business. This research provides valuable insights for companies in the mining sector and related industries in formulating effective digital transformation strategies.

Development of a field-reversed configuration device using radio frequency antennas to produce E × B for current-drive

A unique field-reversed configuration (FRC) experiment is presently being assembled at the Plasma Technology Research Institute, KFE. It is a compact small-scale FRC device, which uses a set of radio frequency (RF) antennas to produce an internal E × B that drives the electrons for current-drive, in which E is the electric field and B is the magnetic field. This is very similar to the rotating magnetic field (RMF) current-drive, where the horizontal and vertical antennas are driven 90° out of phase. For this device, the RF antennas are arranged differently than the RMF. The RF antennas, being two separate sets, are positioned inside the vacuum chamber. Each set consists of 8 coils, for a total of 16 coils, where 80~100 kHz sine and cosine waveform currents are applied. One set of coils generates a radial B-field, while the other set provides an E-field in the z-direction. As the phase changes, the E and B fields are switched by these two sets. Nevertheless, E × B propagates in the same θ-direction so that this allows the electrons to rotate around the circumference of the device. The FRC device will test wave heating by launching 2.45 GHz microwaves. Also, passive stabilizers are positioned at each end to provide extra stability while preventing tilt instability. The experiment is expected to produce its first plasma in 2025.

The triple helix collaboration: lessons from a Chinese provincial innovation ecosystem

PurposeInnovation is vital for sustainable regional development. Government is generally not a source of innovation per se, but the authors shows that by establishing and funding an industrial innovation ecosystem, it can create fertile conditions for research institutions to introduce innovative technologies into industry and for industry to introduce its gaps and needs to motivate and direct academic research. This paper aims to present a case study of the Jiangsu Industrial Technology Research Institute (JITRI) as a “triple helix” collaboration model engaging Industry-University-Research (IUR) institutions. The authors aim to provide a fresh perspective on constructing innovation ecosystems, promoting value creation and advancing the adoption of industrial technology.Design/methodology/approachTaking JITRI as a case study, this research examines its innovative approaches to interfacing with IUR organizations within China’s Yangtze Delta region. The authors propose a multilayered framework where JITRI serves as the core, facilitating the formation of a robust innovation ecosystem with diverse IUR entities.FindingsThis framework comprises three layers: core, platform and support. JITRI acts as the central nexus, binding these elements together and fostering a cohesive innovation ecosystem. By analyzing the operational mechanisms of the Jiangsu Provincial innovation system, the authors gain valuable insights into how JITRI bridges the gap between academia and industry. This facilitates the efficient commercialization of technologies. The success of the JITRI approach presents a compelling model for emulation by other provincial innovation ecosystems seeking to enhance their innovation capabilities.Research limitations/implicationsThis study enriches the ongoing conversation on innovation ecosystems, proposing novel avenues for further research. However, the field requires continuous monitoring through longitudinal studies. Given the long-term nature of such initiatives, the full impact of this approach might only be realized over several decades.Practical implicationsJITRI aims to create a robust and innovative provincial innovation ecosystem through its focus on IUR collaboration. This unique approach offers valuable insights and ideas for fostering the development of thriving innovation ecosystems in other provinces. These insights encompass new perspectives on innovation ecosystem development, value creation and industrial advancement.Originality/valueThis study pioneers the use of the JITRI system as a case study, offering valuable insights with potential application to innovation ecosystems across China and globally.

Development of a fully implicit ODE-solver for containment analysis code

The thermal–hydraulic dynamics in containment are governed by a system of stiff ordinary differential equations (ODEs). A fully implicit discretization scheme is adopted to discretize these ODEs in order to mitigate the effects of stiffness. In comparison with explicit or semi-implicit discretization schemes that are subject to Courant limits on time steps, the fully implicit discretization scheme is more suitable for a containment analysis code that focuses on predicting both short-term and long-term thermal–hydraulic parameters after an accident. This study introduces a general-purpose ODE solver for the containment analysis code. The outline of the solver is as follows: The fully implicit discrete equations lead to a large set of nonlinear equations that need to be solved using Newton’s iterative method. The partial derivative components in the Jacobi matrix are calculated by the perturbation method using finite difference approximation, which avoids the complicated derivation of partial derivatives. The scaling modification technique is incorporated into this ODE solver to deal with significant differences in unknown variable magnitudes, and the line search method is introduced to address the difficulty of obtaining an accurate root estimate with Newton’s method when the initial guess is far from the actual root. This proposed ODE solver was applied to two typical stiff ODE problems to test its stiffness-suppressed ability and to demonstrate that this proposed solver can perform calculations with a very large time step. Then, the CASSIA code, a containment analysis code developed by China Nuclear Power Technology Research Institute Co., Ltd (CNPRI), equipped with this ODE solver, was applied to the CSNI (Committee on the Safety of Nuclear Installations) benchmark problem and the Carolinas Virginia Tube Reactor (CVTR) test 3 problem to preliminarily demonstrate that the proposed ODE solver can perform containment thermal–hydraulic analysis correctly. This study could provide references for the development of a home-made containment analysis code.

Proton and muon beam tests for ultra-fast MCP-PMT detectors

In collaboration with the North Night Vision Science and Technology (Nanjing) Research Institute Co. Ltd, researchers at the Institute of High Energy of Physics in China have successfully developed the 20-inch micro-channel-plate photomultiplier tube (MCP-PMT) that exhibits high detection efficiency (DE) for use in the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO). Due to the long drift path of electrons from photocathode to MCP, the 20-inch MCP-PMT has a time resolution on the order of nanoseconds. Recently, the team has made advancements in ultra-fast MCP-PMTs (FPMTs), achieving picosecond-level time resolution with both 1-inch and 2-inch types. By now, prototypes featuring single-anode, 2 × 2 anodes, 4 × 4 anodes, and 8 × 8 anodes have been successfully manufactured and tested. The 8 × 8 anode FPMT, in particular, demonstrates a transit time spread (TTS) of 36 ps (Sigma) in single photon mode, thanks to its meticulously engineered structure. To assess the FPMT’s time performance under beam conditions, two beam tests were conducted at Fermi Lab and CERN. In these tests, the 8 × 8 pixel arrays of four distinct radiators, including LYSO, BGO, Pb glass and quartz glass, were paired with the 8 × 8 anodes FPMT. This setup involved the use of two radiator-coupled FPMT detectors for particle detection. The best coincidence time resolution recorded was 64 ps (Sigma) with a 120 GeV proton beam and 56 ps (Sigma) with a 108 GeV muon beam.

Chip Diplomacy: Chip War Taiwan, People’s Republic China and United States and its Implications for Indonesia

The main goal of this research is to analyze the implications of chip war between PRC, US and Taiwan and its implications to Indonesia. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach to gain an in-depth understanding and description of the phenomenon or issues related chip war between PRC, US and Taiwan and its implication to Indonesia. Result and findings is During the 1970s, the Taiwanese government established the Industrial Technology Research Institute, tasked with conducting research in the realm of silicon chips. The United States and China are competing to dominate the semiconductor industry. Taiwan has become the world's largest chip production center. The political situation between the United States, Taiwan, and China is heating up. Taiwan holds a key position in global semiconductor production.

Natural Language Processing Patents Landscape Analysis

Understanding NLP patents provides valuable insights into innovation trends and competitive dynamics in artificial intelligence. This study uses the Lens patent database to investigate the landscape of NLP patents. The overall patent output in the NLP field on a global scale has exhibited a rapid growth over the past decade, indicating rising research and commercial interests in applying NLP techniques. By analyzing patent assignees, technology categories, and geographic distribution, we identify leading innovators as well as research hotspots in applying NLP. The patent landscape reflects intensifying competition between technology giants and research institutions. This research aims to synthesize key patterns and developments in NLP innovation revealed through patent data analysis, highlighting implications for firms and policymakers. A detailed understanding of NLP patenting activity can inform intellectual property strategy and technology investment decisions in this burgeoning AI domain.

Efficacy of a Comprehensive Weight Reduction Intervention in Male Adolescents With Different FTO Genotypes.

The FTO gene polymorphisms may influence the effects of lifestyle interventions on obesity. The present study aimed to assess the influence of the rs9930506 FTO gene polymorphism on the success of a comprehensive weight loss intervention in male adolescents with overweight and obesity. This study was carried out on 96 adolescent boys with overweight and obesity who were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 53) and control (n = 43) groups. The blood samples of the participants were collected, and the FTO gene was genotyped for the rs9930506 polymorphism. A comprehensive lifestyle intervention including changes in diet and physical activity was performed for 8 weeks in the intervention group. Following the lifestyle intervention, BMI and fat mass decreased significantly in the intervention group compared with the control group (both p < 0.05), while no change was found in weight, height or body muscle percentage between the groups. The participants in the intervention group with the AA/AG genotype and not in carriers of the GG genotype had a significantly higher reduction in BMI (-1.21 vs. 1.87 kg/m2, F = 4.07, p < 0.05) compared with the control group. The intervention in individuals with the AA/AG genotype has been significantly effective in weight loss compared with the control group. The intervention had no association effect on anthropometric indices in adolescents with the GG genotype of the FTO rs9930506 polymorphism. Name of the registry: National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute; Trial registration number: IRCT2016020925699N2; Date of registration: 24/04/2016; URL of trial registry record: https://www.irct.ir/trial/21447.

IRANIAN CYBER CAPABILITIES AS A TOOL OF DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN POLICY

Iran is among the most advanced countries in terms of cyber capabilities. Activities in the digital sphere have both offensive and defensive dimensions and are directed both outward and inward. This article attempts to systematize information on Iran's cyber capabilities, both internal and external. The purpose of the article is to discuss the challenges to individual states and the international community as a whole posed by Iranian activities in the digital sphere. The question the author seeks to answer in the article is how Tehran uses the digital tools it possesses to implement its security strategy. The author used theoretical methods related to the analysis and criticism of available sources, such as reports of technology companies and research institutes, intelligence documents, and legal acts. She also used a case study method, which enabled it to examine specific cases of Iranian cyber activities to find answers to the question of the strategic importance of cyberspace for the Iranian government.

Real-World Evidence to Inform Regulatory Decision Making: A Scoping Review.

Real-world evidence (RWE) is increasingly considered in regulatory decision making. When, and to which extent, RWE is considered relevant by regulators likely depends on many factors. This review aimed to identify factors that make RWE necessary or desirable to inform regulatory decision making. A scoping review was conducted using literature databases (PubMed, Embase, Emcare, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) and websites of regulatory agencies, health technology assessment agencies, research institutes, and professional organizations involved with RWE. Articles were included if: (1) they discussed factors or contexts that impact whether RWE could be necessary or desirable in regulatory decision making; (2) focused on pharmacological or biological interventions in humans; and (3) considered decision making in Europe or North America, or without a focus on a specific region. We included 118 articles in the scoping review. Two major themes and six subthemes were identified. The first theme concerns questions addressable with RWE, with subthemes epidemiology and benefit-risk assessment. The second theme concerns contextual factors, with subthemes feasibility, ethical considerations, limitations of available evidence, and disease and treatment-specific aspects. Collectively, these themes encompassed 43 factors influencing the need for RWE in regulatory decisions. Although single factors may not make RWE fully necessary, their cumulative influence could make RWE essential and pivotal in regulatory decision making. This overview contributes to ongoing discussions emphasizing the nuanced interplay of factors influencing the necessity or desirability of RWE to inform regulatory decision making.

High accuracy prediction of the post-combustion carbon capture process parameters using the Decision Forest approach

This paper investigates the relationships among the important process parameters that impact Post-combustion Carbon Capture (PCC) carbon dioxide (CO2) separation. A better understanding of the complex relationships among those parameters can support optimization and performance enhancement of the separation process. Being able to precisely predict the process parameters will enable the operator to determine the current state of the process, forecast any potential changes or events, and adjust process parameters to enhance the plant's performance. With the objective of studying the process parameters' correlations in the amine-based PCC process, we modeled the multi-year historical production data of the Clean Energy Technologies Research Institute (CETRi) (formerly known as the International Test Center for PCC or ITC) in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, using a Decision Forest approach. The model validation process revealed that the Decision Forest model produced higher predictive accuracy than previous efforts. The Decision Forest models we developed also represent knowledge about the importance of parameters involved in the capture process, and such knowledge is useful for further optimization of the capture process in the future.

Mix desing method lightweight concrete

There are several methodologies for Portland cement concrete dosage, among these, the method recommended by the Technological Research Institute of the State of São Paulo - IPTUSP, which is widespread in Brazil. Although it does not present dosage factors for lightweight concrete, this paper proposes a dosage method based on the IPT method for lightweight concrete with EPS. The concrete was dosed with CPV ARI cement, sand and EPS, and two volumes of aggregates (m) were made, thus making a rich and a poor trace, for this, two aggregate contents (m) were executed, thus making a rich and a poor mix, being them: 1:1, 1:2 (aggregates mix in real volume (L) per kg of cement), respectively. Then, each mix (1:m) was dosed with three different levels of EPS (25, 50 and 75%, to each "m"). The properties of the concretes were evaluated in the fresh state, through the slump test [1] and specific mass through the known volume method, and, in the hardened state, by the specific mass test [2] and compressive strength [3]. With the results obtained from this study, it was possible to elaborate a dosage diagram for each "m" analyzed, obtaining the values of the EPS content, projection of compressive and slump resistance, indicated in a dosage abacus made from the test results, these parameters are essential for the determination of the concrete mix.

Accreditation of the handheld 3-dimensional scanner and conventional photo images for area measurement.

Accurate assessment of wound areas is crucial in making therapeutic decisions, as the prognosis and changes in the size of the wound over time play a significant role. An ideal assessment method should possess qualities such as speed, affordability, accuracy, user-friendliness for both patients and healthcare professionals, and suitability for daily clinical practice. This study aims to introduce a handheld 3-dimensional (3D) scanner and evaluate its accuracy in measuring wound areas. Engineers from the Industrial Technology Research Institute in Taiwan developed a handheld 3D scanner with the intention of extending its application to the medical field. A project was conducted to validate the accuracy of this 3D scanner. We utilized a smartphone (Asus ZenFone 2 with a 13-million-pixel rear camera), a digital single-lens reflex digital camera (Nikon, D5000, Tokyo, Japan), and the 3D scanner to repeatedly measure square papers of known size that were affixed to the curved surface of life-size facial mask or medical teaching breast models. The "Image J" software was employed for 2-dimensional image measurements, while the "3D Edit" software was used to assess the "area of interest" on 3D objects. By using square papers with predetermined dimensions, the measurement-associated error rate (ER) could be calculated for each image. Three repeated measurements were performed using the "Image J" software for each square paper. The ERs of the 3D scan images were all below 3%, with an average ER of 1.64% in this study. The close-up mode of the smartphone exhibited the highest ER. It was observed that as the area increased, the ER also increased in the digital single-lens reflex camera group. The extension distortion effect caused by the wide-angle lens on the smartphone may increase the ER. However, the definition of a healthy skin edge may vary, and different algorithms for calculating the measurement area are employed in various 3D measurement software. Therefore, further validation of their accuracy for medical purposes is necessary. Effective communication with software engineers and discussions on meeting clinical requirements are crucial steps in enhancing the functionality of the 3D scanner.