A global view of power system's frequency opens up a new window to the "world" of large system's dynamics. With the aid of global positioning system (GPS), measurements from different locations can be time-synchronized; therefore, a system-wide observation and analysis would be possible. As part of the U.S. nation-wide power frequency monitoring network project (FNET), the first part of the study focuses on utilizing system simulation as a tool to assess the frequency measurement accuracy needed to observe frequency oscillations from events such as remote generation drops in three U.S. power systems. Electromechanical wave propagation phenomena during system disturbances, such as generation trip, load rejection and line opening, have been observed and discussed. Further uniform system models are developed to investigate the detailed behaviors of wave propagation. Visualization tool is developed to help to view frequency behavior simulations. Frequency replay from simulation data provides some insights of how these frequency electromechanical waves propagate when major events occur. The speeds of electromechanical wave propagation in different areas of the U.S. systems, as well as the uniform models were estimated and their characteristics were discussed. Theoretical derivation between the generator's mechanical powers and bus frequencies is provided and the delayed frequency response is illustrated. Field-measured frequency data from FNET are also examined. Outlier removal and wavelet-based denoising signal processing techniques are applied to filter out spikes and noises from measured frequency data. System's frequency statistics of three major U.S. power grids are investigated. Comparison between the data from phasor measurement unit (PMU) at a high voltage substation and from FNET taken from 110 V outlets at distribution level illustrates the close tracking between the two. Several generator trip events in the Eastern Interconnection System and the Western Electricity Coordinating Council system are recorded and the frequency patterns are analyzed. Our trigger program can detect noticeable frequency drop or rise and sample results are shown in a 13 month period. In addition to transient states' observation, the quasi-steady-state, such as oscillations, can also be observed by FNET. Several potential applications of FNET in the areas of monitoring & analysis, system control, model validation, and others are discussed. Some applications of FNET are still beyond our imagination. / Ph. D.

The focus of this study is on the development of a state-of-the-art single-wheel roller rig for studying contact mechanics and dynamics in railroad applications. The use of indoor-based simulation tools has become a mainstay in vehicle testing for the automotive and railroad industries. In contrast to field-testing, roller rigs offer a controlled laboratory environment that can provide a successful path for obtaining data on the mechanics and dynamics of railway systems for a variety of operating conditions. The idea to develop a laboratory test rig started from the observation that there is a need for better-developed testing fixtures capable of accurately explaining the complex physics of wheel-rail contact toward designing faster, safer, and more efficient railway systems. A review of current roller rigs indicated that many desired functional requirements for studying contact mechanics currently are not available. Thus, the Virginia Tech Railway Technologies Laboratory (RTL) has embarked on a mission to develop a state-of-the-art testing facility that will allow experimental testing of contact mechanics in a dynamic, controlled, and consistent manner. VT roller rig will allow for closely replicating the boundary conditions of railroad wheel-rail contact via actively controlling all the wheel-rail interface degrees of freedom: cant angle, angle of attack, and lateral displacement. Two sophisticated independent drivelines are configured to precisely control the rotational speed of the wheels, and therefore their relative slip or creepage. A novel force measurement system, suitable for steel on steel contact, is configured to precisely measure the contact forces and moments at the contact patch. The control architecture is developed based on the SynqNet data acquisition system offered by Kollmorgen, the motors supplier. SynqNet provides a unified communication protocol between actuators, drives, and data acquisition system, hence eliminating data conversion among them. Various design analysis indicates that the rig successfully meets the set requirements: additional accuracy in measurements, and better control on the design of experiments. The test results show that the rig is capable of conducting various contact mechanics studies aimed for advancing the existing art. Beyond developing the experimental testing fixture for studying contact mechanics, this study provides a comprehensive review of the contact models. It discusses the simplifying assumptions for developing the models, compares the models functionality, and highlights the open areas that require further experimental and theoretical research. In addition, a multi-body dynamic model of the entire rig, using software package SIMPACK, is developed for conducting modal analysis of the rig and evaluating the performance of the rig's components. A MATLAB routine is also developed that provides a benchmark for developing creep curves from measurements of the rig and comparing them with existing creep curves. / Ph. D.

The construction industry is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases and health-related pollutants. Monitoring and benchmarking emissions will provide practitioners with information to assess environmental impacts and improve the sustainability of construction. This research focuses on real-time measurement of emissions from non-road construction equipment and development of a monitoring-benchmarking tool for comparison of expected vs. actual emissions. First, exhaust emissions were measured using a Portable Emission Measurement System (PEMS) during the operation of 18 pieces of construction equipment at actual job sites. Second-by-second emission rates and emission factors for carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons were calculated for all equipment. Results were compared to those of other commonly used emission estimation models. Significant differences in emission factors associated with different activities were not observed, except for idling and hauling. Moreover, emission rates were up to 200 times lower than the values estimated using EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) guidelines. Second, the resulting database of emissions was used in an automated, real-time environmental assessment system. Based on videos of actual construction activities, this system enabled real-time action recognition of construction operations. From the resulting time-series of activities, emissions were estimated for each piece of equipment and differed by only 2% from those estimated by manual action recognition. Third, the actual emissions were compared to estimated ones using discrete event simulation, a computational model of construction activities. Actual emissions were 28% to 144% of those estimated by manual action recognition. Results of this research will aid practitioners in implementing strategies to measure, monitor, benchmark, and possibly reduce air pollutant emissions stemming from construction. / Master of Science

Yes / Designing and implementing Performance Measurement System (PMS) is an integral part of management control systems. This paper presents an original and novel approach to designing and benchmarking of PMSs for a manufacturing environment through a hybrid framework which overcomes the shortcomings of earlier models. A detailed review was taken of previous models and their limitations were identified. The present hybrid PMS model seeks to improve the earlier research models by the following novel approach: implementation of a Knowledge Based (KB) expert system, Gauging Absences of Pre-requisite (GAP) analysis and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology in an integrated KBPMS. The paper has shown that the present hybrid (KB-AHP-GAP) approach to developing a KBPMS model is a realistic methodology. The combination of the KB-AHP-GAP approach allows detailed benchmarking of the PMS existing within a manufacturing organisation. Furthermore, this approach can assist in identifying and prioritising the key decisions that need to be actioned to overcome the existing PMS shortcomings.

The forest products industry significantly contributes to Virginia's economy, generating $23 billion annually, employing 109,000 individuals, and providing $345 million to timber landowners. Hardwood log exports are a crucial portion of this economic contribution, with major importers including China, Vietnam, and Canada. Most importing countries have specific requirements to prevent the movement of invasive organisms on the logs imported, of which chemical treatment is common. This study examines the feasibility and implications of transitioning from chemical-based treatments, such as methyl bromide, to a vacuum and steam treatment for hardwood log exports. Our investigation focuses on understanding the barriers to the adoption of this new technology, including industry awareness and perception, regulatory framework challenges, international acceptance, and economic viability. By addressing these areas, we aim to create a comprehensive manual for any company interested in adopting this technology. The manual will include a performance measurement system and a feasibility study to ensure successful implementation. Therefore, this thesis consists of two documents, the first provides background information, a problem statement and methods and results around the investigation of barriers to the adoption of this new treatment and a second document, the proposed manual to assist with implementation. To address the first objective, data were collected through interviews with technology developers, industry experts, and hardwood log importers in China and India. Quantitative data highlighted a 36.7% increase in US hardwood log exports to China in 2023, with species like alder and yellow poplar leading the market. Results indicate that China imports a significantly higher volume of hardwood logs monthly compared to India, highlighting a larger and more consistent demand. Commonly imported species include red and white oak, ash, and walnut. Both countries have strict fumigation requirements, primarily using methyl bromide, underscoring a global reliance on this method despite its environmental concerns. Awareness of alternative treatments such as vacuum and steam is limited, though there is interest in exploring cost-effective and efficient methods. However, adoption is hindered by regulatory approval and the need for proven effectiveness. To facilitate this transition, we created a comprehensive manual for companies to guide them through replacing methyl bromide and other chemical treatments with vacuum and steam technology. This study provides a comprehensive pathway for adopting vacuum and steam technology, addressing technical, regulatory, and economic considerations. The forest products sector can mitigate environmental impact by aligning industry practices with sustainable treatment methods while maintaining international trade relationships. / Master of Science / Virginia's forest industry is a major part of the state's economy, generating $23 billion each year and providing jobs to 109,000 people. Hardwood logs, particularly those exported to countries like China, Vietnam, and Canada, play a significant role in this economic impact. However, these countries require that imported logs be treated to prevent the spread of harmful pests. Traditionally, chemical treatments like methyl bromide have been used, but they pose environmental concerns. Our study explores the possibility of switching to a safer and more environmentally friendly method: vacuum and steam treatment. We looked into the challenges that might come with adopting this new technology, such as how aware the industry is of it, regulatory hurdles, whether international markets would accept it, and whether it's economically feasible. Our goal is to create a helpful guide for companies interested in making this switch, ensuring they have all the information needed to implement the new treatment successfully. To gather insights, we interviewed experts and key players in the industry, including log importers from China and India. We found that while there is interest in exploring new treatments, there are significant challenges, particularly related to getting regulatory approval and proving the effectiveness of the new method. Despite these challenges, our research outlines a clear path for adopting vacuum and steam treatment, which could help the forest products industry reduces its environmental impact while continuing to thrive in international trade.

Currently in the corporate world grows the focus for the speed and intensity with which the process changes, mainly driven by frequent technological innovations, the performance of the economy and strong competition established in its market. Given this challenging scenario, there is the continuing need to identify new techniques, methods and procedures, aimed at the main goal of the strategy, improve performance, competitiveness and leverage their organizational management. Thus, the relentless pursuit of continuous improvement in organizations, demand the implementation of integrated management systems, systemic and measurable as a facilitator in reducing vulnerability to the impact caused by competitive forces, which so conducive to the strengthening of the value chain business. Therefore, this work will be developed based on the activities of CVI Soft Drinks industry Ltda., Franchised The Coca-Cola Company and Heineken Brazil, with factory in Rio Grande Central Region South, with the main objective to propose a Model for Performance Measurement Implementation and Enforcement in an Integrated Management System SGI. Methodologically, a case study will be conducted in order to identify the adherence of the Integrated Management System - SGI in relation to the full implementation of the concepts of Strategic Management, Process Management and requirements of International Standards Management System Certification, to obtain the end a performance measurement system model that facilitates the measurement and analysis of organizational continuous improvement. / Atualmente no mundo corporativo cresce o foco pela rapidez e intensidade com que se processam as mudanças, impulsionadas principalmente pelas frequentes inovações tecnológicas, pelo desempenho da economia e pela forte concorrência estabelecida no seu mercado de atuação. Diante desse cenário desafiador, surge a contínua necessidade de identificar novas técnicas, métodos e procedimentos, visando como principal meta da estratégia, melhorar o desempenho, a competitividade e a alavancagem da sua gestão organizacional. Desta forma, a busca incessante pela melhoria contínua nas organizações, demanda a implementação de sistemas de gestão integrados, sistêmicos e mensuráveis como meio facilitador à redução da vulnerabilidade em relação ao impacto causado pelas forças competitivas, os quais propiciem assim o fortalecimento da cadeia de valor do negócio. Portanto, o presente trabalho será desenvolvido com base nas atividades da indústria CVI Refrigerantes Ltda., franqueada The Coca-Cola Company e Heineken Brasil, com Fábrica na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul, tendo por objetivo principal propor um Modelo para a Medição de Desempenho da Implementação e Execução em um Sistema de Gestão Integrada SGI. Metodologicamente, será realizado um estudo de caso com a finalidade de identificar a aderência do Sistema de Gestão Integrada SGI em relação à aplicação integral dos conceitos de Gestão Estratégica, Gestão de Processos e Requisitos das Normas Internacionais de Certificação de Sistemas de Gestão, visando obter ao final um modelo de sistema de medição de desempenho que facilite a mensuração e a análise da melhoria contínua organizacional.

International Telemetering Conference Proceedings / October 17-20, 1994 / Town & Country Hotel and Conference Center, San Diego, California / The Aircraft Distance Measurement System (ADMS) could be used in Flight Test application to determine the aircraft position and speed during takeoff, landing and acceleration-stop performance test within runway limits using a microwave link.

[pt] São muitas as definições para Sistema de Medição de Desempenho (SMD) na literatura acadêmica, o que demonstra a relevância do tema para os dias atuais. Várias empresas já adotaram um SMD visando monitorar de forma mais eficiente o desdobramento da sua estratégia a partir de indicadores de desempenho, assim como a elaboração de ações corretivas quando da identificação de desvios. O SMD, segundo definição utilizada na dissertação, é um sistema (software, métricas, processo) que executa a medição de desempenho de forma mais consistente e eficiente. Algumas características de um bom SMD: possui indicadores financeiros e não financeiros; auxilia na previsão do que poderá acontecer ao negócio e/ou na constatação do que ocorreu e constrói uma sistemática para avaliação das métricas, assegurando que elas estimulem ações corretivas. Conceitualmente o desenvolvimento de um SMD pode ser dividido em fases, a saber: (1) design (ou construção), (2) implantação, (3) uso e revisão. Todas as fases são igualmente importantes, embora haja mais trabalhos publicados relativos à fase de design. Durante a construção de um SMD, uma das principais dificuldades é a escolha das métricas para compor o sistema. Essa escolha é chave para que os indicadores reflitam de forma adequada a natureza do negócio e possam orientar um trabalho mais assertivo dentro da organização. O desenho de um processo colaborativo e a escolha de uma boa ferramenta tecnológica para auxiliar na avaliação do desempenho também são elementos importantes para o êxito do novo sistema. A diretoria de Logística do Abastecimento da Petrobras percebeu a necessidade de implantação de um SMD para medir seu desempenho de maneira mais integrada, completa e eficaz. Anteriormente ao estudo apresentado nessa dissertação, a diretoria realizava sua avaliação de desempenho de forma muito restrita, e com o uso de indicadores que calculavam simples comparações entre realizado e planejado. A medição de desempenho da época avaliava apenas parte das operações realizadas e não contava com o patrocínio dos gerentes mais altos. Neste contexto, o objetivo desta dissertação é o de analisar o desenho de um SMD na operação de logística de abastecimento da Petrobras dando enfoque na transição entre o desenho e a implantação do sistema. A partir desta pesquisa, foi feito o primeiro diagnóstico de como o desempenho era medido, definiu-se um plano de ação com 29 meses de trabalho para que o SMD estivesse ativo: indicadores prontos, sistema de informação em uso e processo de avaliação estabelecido. Durante o período do projeto foram necessários alguns replanejamentos de escopo por conta de atrasos ou por novas decisões tomadas (como, por exemplo, a decisão de criar um protótipo). Foram seguidos três passos principais no desenrolar do estudo de caso: (1) avaliação do contexto, coleta de dados e planejamento da ação, (2) a fase de design e seu desenvolvimento e (3) avaliação final. Revisão bibliográfica, entrevistas e seminários foram adotados como ferramentas para a pesquisa. Para a construção do SMD foi necessária uma completa avaliação das métricas existentes, sistemas e dados disponíveis para realização do diagnóstico do estado inicial e o planejamento das ações futuras. A partir desse planejamento foram discriminadas as etapas de escolha das métricas e desenho do processo, de pesquisa da solução tecnológica, implantação e avaliação. O projeto originou um conjunto de lições aprendidas para futuros sistemas, sendo uma delas, e principal, as vantagens de se considerar determinadas práticas durante a etapa de design que permitem tratamentos antecipados de possíveis problemas da fase de implantação de um SMD. / [en] Performance Measurement System (PMS) is already a consecrated tendency among companies concerned with an entire and solid set of metrics, process and system to support performance assessment efficiently. The design of a PMS requires deep evaluation of the current measurement situation used, concrete managers engagement and clarity in the objectives and goals to be achieved with the new system. There is little research evidence that illustrates the transition between design and implementation phases of a PMS. Within this context, this dissertation presents a case study carried out at Petrobras concerning the design of a PMS for its Downstream Logistics Division and the preparation of its implementation. The value of applying some practices during design phase in order to prevent implementation problems is considered in the case. Throughout the initiative, conceptual ideas generated by the design team needed to be tested and sometimes adapted in order to provide a better implementation. As consequence, the transition between design and implementation phases revealed to be an important and delicate moment, directly responsible for the success of the PMS implementation. If definitions established and decisions taken during design phase are not properly addressed, it runs the risk of loosing the main purposes of the new system; this particular aspect is discussed in the dissertation regarding the case study observations.

O emprego de práticas Lean pode apoiar melhorias no que se refere a aumentar a eficiência e a qualidade de processos em sistemas de produção. Sistemas como hospitais vêm empregando o chamado Lean Healthcare para criar mais valor aos serviços entregues aos pacientes, reduzir os desperdícios dos processos e aumentar a qualidade nos tratamentos e atendimentos. Nesses ambientes, destacam-se as oportunidades de melhoria em centros cirúrgicos e salas cirúrgicas, responsáveis pelo relevante volume de atendimentos hospitalares e grande parte da receita e estrutura de custos de hospitais. Nesse contexto, a medição de desempenho, assim como a gestão dos indicadores, tem se mostrado uma árdua tarefa, e estudos destacam a relevância dessas práticas para iniciativas Lean Healthcare, as quais podem apoiar a melhoria dos processos e prover tomadas de decisão baseadas em informações confiáveis e precisas. A partir disso, a presente pesquisa propõe a estruturação de um Sistema de Medição de Desempenho (SMD) para apoiar a introdução de práticas Lean em centros cirúrgicos. Esse SMD foi construído a partir de um modelo conceitual baseado em oito requisitos sobre aspectos teóricos advindos de revisões da literatura acerca da relação da gestão de centros cirúrgicos com práticas Lean e de medição de desempenho. O modelo conceitual possibilitou exemplificar os requisitos em um estudo de caso no centro cirúrgico de um hospital brasileiro. Por meio do caso, aspectos práticos foram observados e utilizados para formalizar o SMD, a exemplo do desenvolvimento de cinco classes de indicadores de desempenho (volume de cirurgias, processos cirúrgicos, sustentabilidade financeira, gestão de recursos e stakeholders) e o teste de ferramentas <i\\>Lean (como o mapeamento do fluxo de valor e quadros de gestão visual). Assim, um framework para SMD pode ser estruturado, unindo aspectos teóricos e práticos da pesquisa, de modo a alinhar e promover a medição, melhoria e gestão das operações e estratégias de um centro cirúrgico. Além do framework, um roteiro de seis fases para sua implementação foi desenvolvido, de modo a apoiar futuras replicações do SMD. Espera-se que a presente pesquisa apoie novos estudos teóricos e práticos sobre a gestão de operações na área da saúde, em especial no centro cirúrgico, de forma a aprimorar as práticas atuais e promover benefícios para pesquisas futuras. / The use of Lean can improve production in order to increase process efficiency and quality. Systems, such as hospitals, have been using an approach named Lean Healthcare to create more value to their services delivered to patients, to reduce process wastes and to increase quality of care. In this setting, improvement opportunities in surgical centers and operating rooms, which are responsible for a relevant volume of hospital procedures and a significant share of revenue and costs structure, can be identified. In this context, performance measurement, as well as performance indicators management, have been shown as a tough task, and studies highlighted its relevance in Lean healthcare initiatives, which could support process improvement and provide relevant decision making based on precise and reliable information. From this premise, this research proposes the structuring of a Performance Measurement System (PMS) to support Lean practices introduction in surgical centers. This PMS was supported by a conceptual model based on eight requirements coming from theoretical aspects, such as literature reviews about the relationship of surgical centers management with Lean and performance measurement practices. The conceptual model made it possible to exemplify the requirements through a case study in a surgical center of a Brazilian hospital. Based on this case, practical aspects were observed and used to ground the proposed PMS, such as the development of five performance indicators categories (surgical volume, surgical processes, financial sustainability, resource management and stakeholders) and Lean practices tests (such as value stream mapping and visual management boards). Then, a PMS framework was structured, joining theoretical and practical aspects of the research, in order to align and to promote measurement, improvement and management of a surgical center\'s operations and strategies. Besides the framework, a six-phase implementation guide was developed, in order to support future replications of this PMS. It is expected that this research supports theoretical and practical studies in healthcare operations management, in order to improve the current practices and promote benefits for future research.

Os impactos causados na manufatura das empresas que buscam a implementação das técnicas e ferramentas guiadas pelos conceitos da produção enxuta não se limitam às questões técnicas. Para que se atenda ao dinamismo nas operações requerido por essa filosofia, é dado empowerment aos operadores do chão-de-fábrica para que executem ações corretivas e de melhoria por si próprios, mudando os papéis desses funcionários de simples cumpridores de ordens para tomadores de decisão. Para isso, é necessário que, além da autoridade, esses operadores tenham disponíveis as informações requeridas para fomentar adequadamente suas decisões, e que essas informações sejam atuais e alinhadas às diretrizes definidas para a empresa. Este trabalho propõe um modelo de sistema de medição de desempenho e elementos estruturais que têm por objetivo eliminar a lacuna identificada entre outras propostas de sistemas desse tipo e as necessidades identificadas em ambientes de produção enxuta reais. O modelo é baseado no levantamento bibliográfico da literatura técnica sobre o tema e na realização de estudos de casos de duas empresas reconhecidamente bem-sucedidas na implantação da produção enxuta em suas operações. Propõe-se uma estrutura que internaliza as melhorias desenvolvidas pela empresa em políticas que servirão de base para análises e tomada de decisões futuras, formalizando um ciclo virtuoso de estruturação e gestão do sistema de medição de desempenho para ambientes de produção enxuta. / The impacts caused in the manufacturing in companies that look for the implementation of techniques and tolls driven by lean manufacturing concept are not restricted to technical aspects. In order to achieve the dynamism required by this philosophy, the shop floor workers are empowered and they have to conduct corrective and improvement actions by themselves, what changes their roles from command executioners to decision makers. Therefore, it is necessary that, in addition to the authority, these operators have access to the information required to support their decisions adequately - this information must be up to date and related to the guidelines defined by the company. This dissertation proposes a model of performance measurement system that seeks to eliminate the gap identified among other similar proposals and the needs identified in real lean manufacturing environments. The model is based on bibliographical research in the technical literature and on case studies conducted in two companies recognized as successful in implementing lean manufacturing in their operations. It proposes a framework that incorporates the improvements developed in the company into a policy which will serve as basis for future analysis and decisions, i. e., it formalizes a virtuous circle for structuring and managing the performance measurement system for lean manufacturing environments.