Optimal controller/observer gains of discounted-cost LQG systems

The linear-quadratic-Gaussian (LQG) control paradigm is well-known in literature. The strategy of minimizing the cost function is available, both for the case where the state is known and where it is estimated through an observer. The situation is different when the cost function has an exponential discount factor, also known as a prescribed degree of stability. In this case, the optimal control strategy is only available when the state is known. This paper builds on from that result, deriving an optimal control strategy when working with an estimated state. Expressions for the resulting optimal expected cost are also given

The catalytic oxidation of organic contaminants in a packed bed reactor

The catalytic oxidation of several hydrocarbons was studied over noble metal and metal oxide catalysts. A fast empirical method was developed to determine the minimum operating temperature required to guarantee complete conversion of the hydrocarbon.\ud \ud The influence of the operating parameters such as the inlet concentration and residence time, as well as the chemical character of the component to be oxidized, have been investigated. The results can be described satisfactorily by a simple isothermal, plug flow reactor model and first-order reaction kinetics. In the case of simultaneous oxidation of different components a significant mixture effect was not observed. The presence of water in the feed did significantly inhibit the oxidation of alkanes.\ud \ud Of the applied catalysts, Pt was the most effective for the combustion of the alkenes, whereas Pd showed a higher activity for the oxidation of alkanes

Design expertise in public and social innovation

Over the past decade a new type of design practice has emerged that is aimed at addressing complex societal problems through public and social sector innovation. As opposed to traditional product design teams, design processes in this sector tend to be distributed among numerous actors. In these ‘designing networks’ it is less clear which type and level of design expertise is required and who should have it. In this paper, we investigate design expertise in public and social innovation through a study of the practices of five innovation agencies. We particularly looked at the expertise of framing. The study provides preliminary answers to how much and what kind of design expertise we need, who should have it, and how we can teach and learn this expertise. The results indicate that designing for complex societal problems requires high level design expertise with regard to framing and managing a design process. This requires capability building beyond the methodical approaches that are currently being offered to public and social sector staff members

Aspects of goal-oriented model-error estimation in convection-diffusion problems

For goal-oriented model adaptation a model-error estimator is required to drive the adaptation process. In recent years publications have appeared on the dual-weighted residual (DWR) method in the application of model-error estimation in output functionals. In this paper we study the application of the DWR method for convection-diffusion problems where hierarchical models are of different type. Omitting the diffusion operator often results in a singular perturbation problem considering the model residual in the limit of vanishing diffusion. This is caused by the change of mathematical type of the model equations and therefore the applied boundary conditions. In this work we show how a model error estimator is developed for steady and unsteady convection-diffusion problems. It is found that a weak formulation and weakly imposing boundary and initial conditions leads to a dual-weighted model-error estimator that also incorporates boundary residuals

Improving communication and practical skills in working with inpatients who self-harm: a pre-test/post-test study of the effects of a training programme

BACKGROUND: Differing perspectives of self-harm may result in a struggle between patients and treatment staff. As a consequence, both sides have difficulty communicating effectively about the underlying problems and feelings surrounding self-harm. Between 2009 and 2011, a programme was developed and implemented to train mental health care staff (nurses, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, and occupational therapists) in how to communicate effectively with and care for patients who self-harm. An art exhibition focusing on self-harm supported the programme. Lay experts in self-harm, i.e. people who currently harm themselves, or who have harmed themselves in the past and have the skills to disseminate their knowledge and experience, played an important role throughout the programme. METHODS: Paired sample t-tests were conducted to measure the effects of the training programme using the Attitude Towards Deliberate Self-Harm Questionnaire, the Self-Perceived Efficacy in Dealing with Self-Harm Questionnaire, and the Patient Contact Questionnaire. Effect sizes were calculated using r. Participants evaluated the training programme with the help of a survey. The questionnaires used in the survey were analysed descriptively. RESULTS: Of the 281 persons who followed the training programme, 178 completed the questionnaires. The results show a significant increase in the total scores of the three questionnaires, with large to moderate effect sizes. Respondents were positive about the training, especially about the role of the lay expert. CONCLUSION: A specialised training programme in how to care for patients who self-harm can result in a more positive attitude towards self-harm patients, an improved self-efficacy in caring for patients who self-harm, and a greater closeness with the patients. The deployment of lay experts is essential here

On the adjoint solution of the quasi-1D Euler equations: the effect of boundary conditions and the numerical flux function

This work compares a numerical and analytical adjoint equation method with respect to boundary condition treatments applied to the quasi-1D Euler equations. The effect of strong and weak boundary conditions and the effect of flux evaluators on the numerical adjoint solution near the boundaries are discussed