Analysis of transient waves in structural systems

High intensity stress waves resulting from impact loading are known to increase the possibility of failure in many engineering structures. Elastomeric materials such as rubber have been used in such cases as stress wave attenuators with varying degree of success. Stress wave theory offers a practical approach to study the dynamic behaviour of such systems and suggests criteria for an appropriate design. This paper presents an analysis of high intensity stress waves in a simulated structural system to study the effects of stresses and strain rates due to transient waves. A geometric modelling approach is used to develop an equivalent simplified model of the structural system and to determine the stress and strain rate attenuation factors. Theoretical analysis and results agree well with the experimental results obtained from the actual system

Manufacturing resource planning for industry growth

Manufacturing resource planning (MRPII) is a modern technique of planning and controlling the operational, engineering and financial resources in a manufacturing industry. It is a company-wide computer-based system designed to simulate the manufacturing control function of the whole organisation and provides an effective tool for management to optimise all resources with the aim of improving efficiency and productivity. This paper presents a critical assessment of MRP II techniques in relation to its implementation in an average manufacturing industry. The paper outlines the evolution of MRP II, its benefits to modern industry and includes a discussion of some modern MRP II packages developed for personal computers. The paper concludes that the adoption of such modern technique is of paramount importance for the growth and sustenance of Australian industries, and that MRP II can be successfully implemented in any industry with careful planning and review

Manufacturing in Australia : preparing for the 1990's

Many reports and white papers have been produced in the last decade stressing the problems Australian manufacturing industry in particular and all industries in general have been and are facing.The Institution of Engineers, Australia found it necessary to set up the Task Force on manufacturing which presented its report in 1980 (Crisp, 1980). The Australian Commonwealth Government also found it necessary to set up a number of Inquiries resulting in a number of measures and Programs. The most recent was the establishment of the National Industries Extension Service (NIES) along the line of the successful Agricultural Extension Service. The Senate Inquiry on the Revitalisation of the Manufacturing Industry was still in full swing towards the end of 1987. Submissions were received from industry, academic and government sectors and as such, cover many considerations including educational, public perception of technology and management efficiency. This paper recognises these investigations, inquiries and studies and wishes to suggest the next step that has to be taken following recommendations, suggestions and advice made by them. This next step and a few after it appear to land themselves well in the laps of the industry. It seems that even under the present difficult conditions, opportunities still abound for those who are pro-active in outlook and willing to persist and pursue the vision of success. In this paper is outlined the experience of one such company

Recommendations for Management of Diabetes during Ramadan: update 2020, applying the principles of the ADA/EASD Consensus

Fasting the Holy month of Ramadan constitutes one of the five pillars of the Muslim faith.Although there is some evidence that intermittent fasting during Ramadan may be of benefit in losing weight and cardiometabolic risk factors, there is no strong evidence these benefits apply to people with diabetes. The ADA/EASD consensus recommendations emphasize the importance of patient factors and co-morbidities when choosing diabetes medications including the presence of co-morbidities, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), heart failure (HF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), hypoglycaemia risk, weight issues and costs.Structured education and pre-Ramadan counselling are key components to successful management of patients with diabetes. These should cover important aspects like glycaemic targets, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), diet, physical activity including Taraweeh prayers, medication and dose adjustment, side effects and when to break the fast. The Decision Cycle in figure 1 adapted for the specific situation of Ramadan provides an aid for such an assessment.Children with type 1 diabetes should strongly be advised not to fast due to the high risk of acute complications such as hypoglycaemia and probably diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), although there is very little evidence that DKA is increased in Ramadan. [1]Pregnant women with diabetes or gestational diabetes should be advised to avoid fasting because of possible negative maternal and fetal outcomes.Hypoglycaemia is a common concern during Ramadan fasting. To prevent hypoglycaemic and hyperglycaemic events, we recommend the adoption of diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) principles.The use of the emerging technology and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during Ramadan could help to recognize hypoglycaemic and hyperglycaemic complications related to omission and/or medication adjustment during fasting; however, the cost represents a significant barrier. </p