Real eigenvalue analysis in NASTRAN by the tridiagonal reduction (FEER) method

Implementation of the tridiagonal reduction method for real eigenvalue extraction in structural vibration and buckling problems is described. The basic concepts underlying the method are summarized and special features, such as the computation of error bounds and default modes of operation are discussed. In addition, the new user information and error messages and optional diagnostic output relating to the tridiagonal reduction method are presented. Some numerical results and initial experiences relating to usage in the NASTRAN environment are provided, including comparisons with other existing NASTRAN eigenvalue methods

A 2D systems approach to iterative learning control for discrete linear processes with zero Markov parameters

In this paper a new approach to iterative learning control for the practically relevant case of deterministic discrete linear plants with uniform rank greater than unity is developed. The analysis is undertaken in a 2D systems setting that, by using a strong form of stability for linear repetitive processes, allows simultaneous con-sideration of both trial-to-trial error convergence and along the trial performance, resulting in design algorithms that can be computed using Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs). Finally, the control laws are experimentally verified on a gantry robot that replicates a pick and place operation commonly found in a number of applications to which iterative learning control is applicable

Automated land-use mapping from spacecraft data

The author has identified the following significant results. In response to the need for a faster, more economical means of producing land use maps, this study evaluated the suitability of using ERTS-1 computer compatible tape (CCT) data as a basis for automatic mapping. Significant findings are: (1) automatic classification accuracy greater than 90% is achieved on categories of deep and shallow water, tended grass, rangeland, extractive (bare earth), urban, forest land, and nonforested wet lands; (2) computer-generated printouts by target class provide a quantitative measure of land use; and (3) the generation of map overlays showing land use from ERTS-1 CCTs offers a significant breakthrough in the rate at which land use maps are generated. Rather than uncorrected classified imagery or computer line printer outputs, the processing results in geometrically-corrected computer-driven pen drawing of land categories, drawn on a transparent material at a scale specified by the operator. These map overlays are economically produced and provide an efficient means of rapidly updating maps showing land use

A numerical study of bifurcations in a barotropic shear flow

In the last few years, more and more evidence has emerged suggesting that transition to turbulence may be viewed as a succession of bifurcations to deterministic chaos. Most experimental and numerical observations have been restricted to Rayleigh-Benard convection and Taylor-Couette flow between concentric cylinders. An attempt is made to accurately describe the bifurcation sequence leading to chaos in a 2-D temporal free shear layer on the beta-plane. The beta-plane is a locally Cartesian reduction of the equations describing the dynamicss of a shallow layer of fluid on a rotating spherical planet. It is a valid model for large scale flows of interest in meteorology and oceanography

The spin vector of Venus determined from Magellan data

A control network of the north polar region of Venus has been established by selecting and measuring control points on full-resolution radar strips. The measurements were incorporated into a least-squares adjustment program that improved initial estimates of the coordinates of the control points, pole direction, and rotation rate of Venus. The current dataset contains 4206 measurements of 606 points on 619 radar strips. The accuracy of the determination is driven by spacecraft ephemeris errors. An accurate estimate of the rotation period of Venus was obtained by applying an ephemeris improvement technique. The second cycle closure orbits improved ephemeris solutions for 40 orbits (376-384, 520-528, 588-592, 658-668, 1002-1010, 1408-1412, 1746-1764, and 2166-2170) are included and fixed in the geodetic control computations, thus trying the network to the J2000 coordinate system

An integrated review program for the preparation for the United States medical license examination (USMLE)

The primary objective of the present educational research program is to improve upon existing commercially available USMLE review programs. With the clear shortage of both residency slots, the medical student's performance (score), on the USMLE assumes a new and critical importance. Furthermore, there is a global need for 4.3 million new doctors and nurses. This shortage is particularly evident in Central and Southeast Asia. Many of the needed new doctors will most probably be required to pass the USMLE