Interactive cutting path analysis programs

The operation of numerically controlled machine tools is interactively simulated. Four programs were developed to graphically display the cutting paths for a Monarch lathe, Cintimatic mill, Strippit sheet metal punch, and the wiring path for a Standard wire wrap machine. These programs are run on a IMLAC PDS-ID graphic display system under the DOS-3 disk operating system. The cutting path analysis programs accept input via both paper tape and disk file

Augmentor emissions reduction technology program

Technology to reduce pollutant emissions from duct-burner-type augmentors for use on advanced supersonic cruise aircraft was investigated. Test configurations, representing variations of two duct-burner design concepts, were tested in a rectangular sector rig at inlet temperature and pressure conditions corresponding to takeoff, transonic climb, and supersonic cruise flight conditions. Both design concepts used piloted flameholders to stabilize combustion of lean, premixed fuel/air mixtures. The concepts differed in the flameholder type used. High combustion efficiency (97%) and low levels of emissions (1.19 g/kg fuel) were achieved. The detailed measurements suggested the direction that future development efforts should take to obtain further reductions in emission levels and associated improvements in combustion efficiency over an increased range of temperature rise conditions

Topology of the Galaxy Distribution in the Hubble Deep Fields

We have studied topology of the distribution of the high redshift galaxies identified in the Hubble Deep Field (HDF) North and South. The two-dimensional genus is measured from the projected distributions of the HDF galaxies at angular scales from $3.8''$ to $6.1''$. We have also divided the samples into three redshift slices with roughly equal number of galaxies using photometric redshifts to see possible evolutionary effects on the topology. The genus curve of the HDF North clearly indicates clustering of galaxies over the Poisson distribution while the clustering is somewhat weaker in the HDF South. This clustering is mainly due to the nearer galaxies in the samples. We have also found that the genus curve of galaxies in the HDF is consistent with the Gaussian random phase distribution with no significant redshift dependence.Comment: 14 pages, 4 figures, submitted to Ap

Inspiring minds: How big questions can build students’ epistemic insight and improve attitudes towards STEM

This article examines the impact that an ‘epistemically insightful’ approach to informal science learning can have on students’ attitudes, aspirations and perceptions of STEM subjects. It uses interim findings from a research and outreach project, including sustained Saturday activity programmes for ages14–16 and residential summer schools for ages 15–19, designed to create confident scholars who can engage with difficult philosophical questions raised by current technological advances. The Inspiring Minds project at Canterbury Christ Church University, Kent, UK, delivers informal science learning in schools and informal settings based on an epistemic insight-led approach to STEM outreach and education

Formality and informality in the summative assessment of motor vehicle apprentices: a case study

This article explores the interaction of formal and informal attributes of competence‐based assessment. Specifically, it presents evidence from a small qualitative case study of summative assessment practices for competence‐based qualifications within apprenticeships in the motor industry in England. The data are analysed through applying an adaptation of a framework for exploring the interplay of formality and informality in learning. This analysis reveals informal mentoring as a significant element which influences not only the process of assessment, but also its outcomes. We offer different possible interpretations of the data and their analysis, and conclude that, whichever interpretation is adopted, there appears to be a need for greater capacity‐building for assessors at a local level. This could acknowledge a more holistic role for assessors; recognise the importance of assessors’ informal practices in the formal retention and achievement of apprentices; and enhance awareness of inequalities that may be reinforced by both informal and formal attributes of assessment practices