Optimal control of non-stationary differential linear repetitive processes

Differential repetitive processes are a distinct class of continuousdiscrete 2D linear systems of both systems theoretic and applications interest. The feature which makes them distinct from other classes of such systems is the fact that information propagation in one of the two independent directions only occurs over a finite interval. Applications areas include iterative learning control and iterative solution algorithms for classes of dynamic nonlinear optimal control problems based on the maximum principle, and the modelling of numerous industrial processes such as metal rolling, and long-wall cutting etc. The new results in is paper solve a general optimal problem in the presence of non-stationary dynamics

“I Identify with Her,” “I Identify with Him”: Unpacking the Dynamics of Personal Identification in Organizations

Despite recognizing the importance of personal identification in organizations, researchers have rarely explored its dynamics. We define personal identification as perceived oneness with another individual, where one defines oneself in terms of the other. While many scholars have found that personal identification is associated with helpful effects, others have found it harmful. To resolve this contradiction, we distinguish between three paths to personal identification—threat-focused, opportunity-focused, and closeness-focused paths—and articulate a model that includes each. We examine the contextual features, how individuals’ identities are constructed, and the likely outcomes that follow in the three paths. We conclude with a discussion of how the threat-, opportunity-, and closeness-focused personal identification processes potentially blend, as well as implications for future research and practice

Seeing More than Orange: Organizational Respect and Positive Identity Transformation in a Prison Context

This paper develops grounded theory on how receiving respect at work enables individuals to engage in positive identity transformation and the resulting personal and work-related outcomes. A company that employs inmates at a state prison to perform professional business-to-business marketing services provided a unique context for data collection. Our data indicate that inmates experienced respect in two distinct ways, generalized and particularized, which initiated an identity decoupling process that allowed them to distinguish between their inmate identity and their desired future selves and to construct transitional identities that facilitated positive change. The social context of the organization provided opportunities for personal and social identities to be claimed, respected, and granted, producing social validation and enabling individuals to feel secure in their transitional identities. We find that security in personal identities produces primarily performance-related outcomes, whereas security in the company identity produces primarily well-being-related outcomes. Further, these two types of security together foster an integration of seemingly incompatible identities—”identity holism”—as employees progress toward becoming their desired selves. Our work suggests that organizations can play a generative role in improving the lives of their members through respect-based processes

Experimental Verification of a Depth Controller using Model Predictive Control with Constraints onboard a Thruster Actuated AUV

In this work a depth and pitch controller for an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) is developed. This controller uses the model predictive control method to manoeuvre the vehicle whilst operating within the defined constraints of the AUV actuators. Experimental results are given for the AUV performing a step change in depth whilst maintaining zero pitch

Structure and management issues of the emerging ornamental fish trade in Eritrea

Following independence from Ethiopia in 1993, Eritrea resumed exploiting Red Sea and Arabian fish species for the ornamental trade in 1995 as a means to earn foreign exchange from sparsely exploited marine resources. This paper describes the findings of research conducted in 1997, in collaboration with the Eritrean Ministry of Fisheries. The capture, transport and export of aquarium fish were reviewed and potential impacts and the status of management were investigated through liaison with stakeholders and researchers. From 1995 to 1997 two companies exported approximately 60,000 fish per year, mainly to the USA, worth US$65,000 (export value). Seventyfive species (from 22 families) were exported. Damselfishes made up two-thirds of total exports but more valuable families (angelfishes and butterflyfishes) were more economically significant. To earn revenue for Eritrea, a 20% export tax was imposed, although this was calculated from declarations by the operators. The emerging nature of the trade allowed detailed monitoring by the Ministry of Fisheries. However, management efforts were constrained by a lack of capacity for enforcement and baseline research. Several potential effects of the trade exist but other, land-based impacts may be more pressing concerns for Eritrea’s reefs. Research priorities for management are discussed as well as the implications of mariculture of Eritrean species by other nations

Constrained optimal control theory for differential linear repetitive processes

Differential repetitive processes are a distinct class of continuous-discrete two-dimensional linear systems of both systems theoretic and applications interest. These processes complete a series of sweeps termed passes through a set of dynamics defined over a finite duration known as the pass length, and once the end is reached the process is reset to its starting position before the next pass begins. Moreover the output or pass profile produced on each pass explicitly contributes to the dynamics of the next one. Applications areas include iterative learning control and iterative solution algorithms, for classes of dynamic nonlinear optimal control problems based on the maximum principle, and the modeling of numerous industrial processes such as metal rolling, long-wall cutting, etc. In this paper we develop substantial new results on optimal control of these processes in the presence of constraints where the cost function and constraints are motivated by practical application of iterative learning control to robotic manipulators and other electromechanical systems. The analysis is based on generalizing the well-known maximum and $\epsilon$-maximum principles to the