<p>There exist several known methods for calculation of radio coverage for ground-based systems. As far as we know there are no equivalent methods for the case of flying platforms when the altitudes and speeds are significantly different to those of ground-based systems. </p><p>This thesis describes the theoretical concepts behind calculations of radio coverage for flying platforms. An investigation is made to sort out what is important and possible to employ in a model for simulations. A method is described and implemented in a program for evaluation of flying radio systems. Two typical cases of flight missions are simulated and discussed. </p><p>It is found that the free space model is valid most of the mission time. The contribution from the antennas is found to be small in comparison to the path loss. Further investigations suggested are e.g. better ground reflection models and a better model for the flight mechanics.</p>

The fields of System-On-Chip (SOC) and Embedded Systems Design have received a lot of attention in the last years. As part of an effort to increase productivity and reduce the time-to-market of new products, different approaches for Electronic System-Level Design frameworks have been proposed. These different methods promise a transparent co-design of hardware and software without having to focus on the final hardware/software split. In our work, we focused on enhancing the component database, modeling and synthesis capabilities of the System-On-Chip Environment (SCE). We investigated two different virtual platform emulators (QEMU and OVP) for integration into SCE. Based on a comparative analysis, we opted on integrating the Open Virtual Platforms (OVP) models and tested the enhanced SCE simulation, design and synthesis capabilities with a JPEG encoder application, which uses both custom hardware and software as part of the system. Our approach proves not only to provide fast functional verification support for designers (10+ times faster than cycle accurate models), but also to offer a good speed/accuracy relationship when compared against integration of cycle accurate or behavioral (host-compiled) models. / text

This thesis focus on memory-aware algorithms tailored for hierarchical memory architectures, found for instance within multicore processors. We first study the matrix product on multicore architectures. We model such a processor, and derive lower bounds on the communication volume. We introduce three ad hoc algorithms, and experimentally assess their performance.We then target a more complex operation: the QR factorization of tall matrices. We revisit existing algorithms to better exploit the parallelism of multicore processors. We thus study the critical paths of many algorithms, prove some of them to be asymptotically optimal, and assess their performance.In the next study, we focus on scheduling streaming applications onto a heterogeneous multicore platform, the QS 22. We introduce a model of the platform and use steady-state scheduling techniques so as to maximize the throughput. We present a mixed integer programming approach that computes an optimal solution, and propose simpler heuristics. We then focus on minimizing the amount of required memory for tree-shaped workflows, and target a classical two-level memory system. I/O represent transfers from a memory to the other. We propose a new exact algorithm, and show that there exist trees where postorder traversals are arbitrarily bad. We then study the problem of minimizing the I/O volume for a given memory, show that it is NP-hard, and provide a set of heuristics.Finally, we compare archival policies for BLUE WATERS. We introduce two archival policies and adapt the well known RAIT strategy. We provide a model of the tape storage platform, and use it to assess the performance of the three policies through simulation.

This thesis deals with the mapping and the scheduling of workflows. In this context, we consider unreliable platforms, with processors subject to failures. In a first part, we consider a particular model of streaming applications : the filtering services. In this context, we aim at minimizing period and latency. We first neglect communication costs. In this model, we study scheduling problems on homogeneous and heterogeneous platforms. Then, the impact of communication costs on scheduling problems of a filtering application is studied. Finally, we consider the scheduling problem of such an application on a chain of processors. The theoretical complexity of any variant of this problem is proved. This filtering property can model the reliability of processors. The results of some computations are successfully computed, and some other ones are lost. We consider the more frequent failure types : transient failures. We aim efficient and reliable schedules. The complexity of many variants of this problem is proved. Two heuristics are proposed and compared using using simulations. Even if transient failures are the most common failures in classical grids, some particular type of platform are more concerned by other type of problems. Desktop grids are especially unstable. In this context, we want to execute iterative applications. All tasks are executed, then a synchronization occurs, and so on. Two variants of this problem are considered : applicationsof independent tasks, and applications where all tasks need to be executed at same speed. In both cases, the problem is first theoretically studied, then heuristics are proposed and compared using simulations.

In the final master’s dissertation analysis on current 15below communication platform PASNGR. In addition to this there is a short analysis done on each of PASNGR components to find out usage possibilities. Furthermore, the platform is dependant on Reservation Systems, so analysis on them is done as well, including processes and data. The goal of this dissertation is to create a mobile app integrated into PASNGR. For this reason integration analysis is done, by reviewing components, data and functions. After analysis is done, Business Process Model is created to represent the workflow of the app, including internal processes and interaction with PASNGR. Furthermore a review of mobile application technologies is done, including common tools used in development. By doing this there is the best solution for current 15below developers’ environment found. The solution would mean the least resources to be used to develop the app. Finally a prototype of the mobile application is created, to show the possibilities. The app works on Android and iOS platforms, gives an ability for user to download itineraries and store for offline usage, an ability to scan a barcode at the airport straight from the app, give post flight experience feedback for the airline, receive schedule change notifications and accept them. / Baigiamajame magistro darbe atliekama kompanijos „15below“ naudojamos avialinijų komunikacijos su keleiviais platformos „PASNGR“ analizė. Atskirai atliekama trumpa kiekvieno „PASNGR“ modulio apžvalga įvertinant taikymo galimybes. Be to, kadangi platforma yra priklausoma nuo globaliųjų paskirstymo sistemų, apžvelgiamos ir jos apimant procesus, bei naudojamus duomenis. Darbe yra numatomas sukurti mobiliosios aplikacijos prototipas surištas su „PASNGR“ platforma. Tam tikslui yra atliekama integracijos analizė, apžvelgiant komponentus, duomenis ir funkcijas. Galiausiai yra sukuriamas veiklos proceso modelis atvaizduojantis mobiliosios aplikacijos prototipo veikimo principus, bei interakciją su platforma „PASNGR“. Darbo eigoje apžvelgiamos mobiliųjų aplikacijų technologijos, bei įrankiai joms kurti. Taip parenkamas priimtiniausias spendimas esamai kompanijos „15below“ programuotojų aplinkai ir lemiantis minimalias sąnaudas. Galiausiai sukuriamas mobiliosios aplikacijos prototipas veikiantis Android ir iOS platformose, gebantis atsisiųsti elektroninius bilietus į mobilųjį įrenginį ir jame išsaugoti naudojimui neprisijungus prie interneto, leidžiantis naudotojui skenuoti brūkšninį kodą oro uoste, po skrydžio pateikti nuomonę apie gautas avialinijų paslaugas, priimti pranešimus apie skrydžių pakeitimus, bei leisti juos patvirtinti.

The objective of the study was to develop a framework for the implementation of a Business Information Management System in order to increase the efficiency of the knowledge management strategy in the ultimate quest to deliver administrative support to public schools at the Gauteng Department of Education within the Sedibeng East District Office geographical area. A literature investigation was done on the concepts of e–Government, eplatforms, information technology and enablers to determine if Government models are working effectively and efficiently. Based on the findings of the literature study, a questionnaire was designed and used to measure the efficiency of the knowledge management strategy in the base of administrative support to public schools. Government to Government models are the ability to interact and support services through the availability of e–platforms in the ultimate support, and sharing of knowledge through effective knowledge management. Knowledge in an organisation alternates between tacit and explicit knowledge as it goes from an idea to explicit knowledge that can be shared throughout the whole organisation and in the process gives the necessary administrative support to public schools and learners. Proper managed and implemented systems are important for the management of knowledge in an organisation. Knowledge management is a never–ending cycle that starts at discovering knowledge and goes through generating knowledge, evaluating knowledge, sharing the newly found knowledge to leveraging the knowledge. This cycle forms the heart of a knowledge management model like the different education e–platforms that is available. It was concluded that the knowledge in an organisation can be managed with the help of one standardized e–platform model throughout the entire Education Department. Knowledge in an organisation is a very important resource and ought to be strategically managed. The knowledge management strategy starts by determining what knowledge is needed and what is available in the organisation. The chosen standardized model will form the central part of a successful knowledge management strategy. The test for the success of a knowledge management strategy is determined with a knowledge audit. The state of the knowledge management strategy at Gauteng Department of Education, Sedibeng East District Office was assessed by employing convenience survey questionnaires to extract the data. Sedibeng East District Office and therefore the Department of Education, still have a long way to go in order to optimise the management of knowledge. The key area of concern is a lack of a written knowledge management strategy and policy which results in informal e–platform usage and therefore different ways of managing knowledge. A large portion of the indecisiveness seen in the analysis of the questionnaires could be attributed to the lack of a formal knowledge management strategy. It was further concluded that a knowledge gap assessment is the start of the knowledge management strategy and will give direction to the strategy. The culture at Sedibeng East District Office was not tested to determine if the staff will be supportive of a knowledge management strategy. However, the survey indicated that much needed administrative support to public schools needs to be formalized in order to optimize the services and standards of support. A practical knowledge management framework is proposed in order to assist the Department in the implementation of a knowledge management strategy and bridging the gaps found after analysing the questionnaires. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

The last thirty years there has been a dramatic change in relationship marketing. The use of computers connected to the Internet at work places has increased over time and social media is widely used in marketing strategies. Social media is a new phenomenon to communicate with each other, it enables market information based on individual consumer’s experiences. Therefore managers are seeking a way to incorporate social media into their strategies, but this is more common within B2C than B2B. The purpose is to investigate the potential for industrial corporations, within the warehousing industry, to use social media for maintaining established relationships within B2B, as a part of their marketing strategy. The primary data is collected by qualitative interviews with relevant corporations. The study includes four corporations within the industrial industry, an illustrative corporation that have issues regarding using social media or not, and one expert interview.  The secondary data is collected from previous research, articles and journals. From the theoretical framework and empirical research, it seems to be more useful for corporations acting in the market of B2C rather than in B2B to use social media. Major of the interviewed corporations were thinking of using social media as a part of their marketing strategy, but almost no one were using it as a tool today. The younger generation, raised in a technological society, seem to generally have a broader knowledge of social media and what advantages and disadvantages the use can lead to. From this thesis it does not seem that one social media is better than another since different social media platforms are used in different ways. Therefore, it is not possible to say that one specific social media suits all corporations. However, if a corporation decides to use social media as a marketing tool, they need to be aware of the time required for it and be prepared for negative effects since they are open platforms, free for everyone to express their feelings. Within B2B, the trend of having a personal relation with customer and supplier is very strong and social media can never replace this personal relationship. The conclusions and recommendations is instead to use social media as an integrated marketing tool within their strategy.

The objective of the study was to develop a framework for the implementation of a Business Information Management System in order to increase the efficiency of the knowledge management strategy in the ultimate quest to deliver administrative support to public schools at the Gauteng Department of Education within the Sedibeng East District Office geographical area. A literature investigation was done on the concepts of e–Government, eplatforms, information technology and enablers to determine if Government models are working effectively and efficiently. Based on the findings of the literature study, a questionnaire was designed and used to measure the efficiency of the knowledge management strategy in the base of administrative support to public schools. Government to Government models are the ability to interact and support services through the availability of e–platforms in the ultimate support, and sharing of knowledge through effective knowledge management. Knowledge in an organisation alternates between tacit and explicit knowledge as it goes from an idea to explicit knowledge that can be shared throughout the whole organisation and in the process gives the necessary administrative support to public schools and learners. Proper managed and implemented systems are important for the management of knowledge in an organisation. Knowledge management is a never–ending cycle that starts at discovering knowledge and goes through generating knowledge, evaluating knowledge, sharing the newly found knowledge to leveraging the knowledge. This cycle forms the heart of a knowledge management model like the different education e–platforms that is available. It was concluded that the knowledge in an organisation can be managed with the help of one standardized e–platform model throughout the entire Education Department. Knowledge in an organisation is a very important resource and ought to be strategically managed. The knowledge management strategy starts by determining what knowledge is needed and what is available in the organisation. The chosen standardized model will form the central part of a successful knowledge management strategy. The test for the success of a knowledge management strategy is determined with a knowledge audit. The state of the knowledge management strategy at Gauteng Department of Education, Sedibeng East District Office was assessed by employing convenience survey questionnaires to extract the data. Sedibeng East District Office and therefore the Department of Education, still have a long way to go in order to optimise the management of knowledge. The key area of concern is a lack of a written knowledge management strategy and policy which results in informal e–platform usage and therefore different ways of managing knowledge. A large portion of the indecisiveness seen in the analysis of the questionnaires could be attributed to the lack of a formal knowledge management strategy. It was further concluded that a knowledge gap assessment is the start of the knowledge management strategy and will give direction to the strategy. The culture at Sedibeng East District Office was not tested to determine if the staff will be supportive of a knowledge management strategy. However, the survey indicated that much needed administrative support to public schools needs to be formalized in order to optimize the services and standards of support. A practical knowledge management framework is proposed in order to assist the Department in the implementation of a knowledge management strategy and bridging the gaps found after analysing the questionnaires. / Thesis (M.B.A.)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.

A number of MIR sensing platforms and methods were developed in this research work demonstrating potential applicability of MIR spectroscopy for studying hydrocarbon systems in extreme environments. First of all, the quantitative determination of the diamondoid compound adamantane in organic media utilizing IR-ATR spectroscopy at waveguide surfaces was established. The developed analytical strategy further enabled the successful detection of adamantane in real world crude oil samples. These reported efforts provide a promising outlook for detection and monitoring of diamondoid constituents in naturally occurring crudes and petroleum samples. IR-ATR spectroscopy was further utilized for evaluating and characterizing distribution, variations, and origin of carbonate minerals within sediment formations surrounding a hydrocarbon seep site - MC 118 in the Gulf of Mexico. An analytical model for direct detection of 13C-depleted authigenic carbonates associated with cold seep ecosystems was constructed. Potential applicability of IR-ATR spectroscopy as direct on-ship - and in future in situ - analytical tool for characterizing hydrocarbon seep sites was demonstrated. MIR evanescent field absorption spectroscopy was also utilized to expand the understanding on the role of surfactants during gas hydrate formation at surfaces. This experimental method allowed detailed spectroscopic observations of detergent-related surface processes during SDS mediated gas hydrate formation. The obtained IR data enabled proposing a mechanism by which SDS decreases the induction time for hydrate nucleation, and promotes hydrate formation. Potential of MIR fiberoptic evanescent field spectroscopy for studying surface effects during gas hydrate nucleation and growth was demonstrated. Next, quantifying trace amounts of water content in hexane using MIR evanescent field absorption spectroscopy is presented. The improvement in sensitivity and of limit of detection was obtained by coating an optical fiber with layer of a hydrophilic polymer. The application of the polymer layer has enabled the on-line MIR detection of water in hexane at low ppm levels. These results indicate that the MIR evanescent filed spectroscopy method shows potential for in-situ detection and monitoring of water in industrial oils and petroleum products. Finally, quantification of trace amounts of oil content in water using MIR evanescent field absorption spectroscopy is reported. Unmodified and modified with grafted hydrophobic polymer layer silver halide optical fibers were employed for the measurements. The surface modification of the fiber has enabled the on-line MIR analysis of crude oil in water at the low ppb level. Potential application of MIR fiber-optic evanescent field spectroscopy using polymer modified waveguides toward in-situ low level detection of crude oil in open waters was demonstrated.

Bibliography: leaves 369-402 / viii, 402 leaves ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, 1987