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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Soft Systems'
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Wharton, Ryland N. "Soft Information Systems." The Ohio State University, 2012. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1339116092.
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Zhang, Wei. "Soft-input soft-output multiuser detection for coded wireless multiuser systems." Thesis, University of Ottawa (Canada), 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/29276.
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Multiuser detection permits the joint detection of signals from multiple sources. An optimal multiuser detector for coded multiuser systems is usually practically infeasible due to the associated complexity. An iterative receiver consisting of a soft-input soft-output (SISO) multiuser detector and a bank of SISO single user decoders can provide a system performance which approaches to that of the single user system after many iterations. On the other hand, it has a feasible computational complexity.
We first propose and analyze three types of SISO multiuser detectors, which are mainly based on the underlying ideas of the traditional (non-SISO) multiuser detectors. These are: decorrelators, linear minimum mean square error (MMSE) detectors and parallel decision feedback detectors. In contrast to these traditional detectors, our SISO multiuser detectors make good use of soft inputs provided by SISO single user decoders and in turn, provide soft outputs to them. The resulting system performance converges quickly, while keeping the computational complexity of the SISO detectors proportional to the number of users cubed. This is a significant complexity reduction in comparison to the optimal detector which has a complexity exponentially proportional to the number of users.
Secondly, we consider adaptive SISO multiuser detection. As it is well known, the optimum and many suboptimum SISO multiuser detectors require a lot of a priori information of the multiuser system, such as all users' transmitted waveforms, relative delays as well as the channel impulse response. In this thesis, we apply adaptive algorithms in the SISO multiuser detector in order to avoid the need for this a priori information. We propose two adaptive SISO parallel decision feedback detectors based on the normalized least mean square (NLMS) and recursive least squares (RLS) algorithms for both synchronous and asynchronous direct-sequence code-division multiple-access (DS-CDMA) systems. Compared with traditional non-SISO adaptive detectors, our SISO adaptive detectors effectively exploit the a priori information of coded symbols to further improve their convergence performance. This a priori information is obtained from a bank of single user decoders. Monte-Carlo simulation results are presented and compared. Moreover, we extend adaptive SISO parallel decision feedback detection to asynchronous DS-CDMA systems over slow frequency non-selective Rayleigh fading channels.
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Kiddie, Paul David. "Decentralised soft-security in distributed systems." Thesis, University of Birmingham, 2011. http://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/1731/.
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Existing approaches to intrusion detection in imperfect wireless environments employ local monitoring, but are limited by their failure to reason about the imprecise monitoring within a radio environment that arises from unidirectional links and collisions. This compounds the challenge of detecting subtle behaviour or adds to uncertainty in the detection strategies employed. A simulation platform was developed, based on the Jist/SWANS environment, adopting a robust methodology that employed Monte-Carlo sampling in order to evaluate intrusion detection systems (IDS). A framework for simulating adversaries was developed, which enabled wormholes, black holes, selfishness, flooding and data modification to be simulated as well as a random distribution thereof. A game theoretic inspired IDS, sIDS, was developed, which applied reasoning between the detection and response components of a typical IDS, to apply more appropriate local responses. The implementation of sIDS is presented within the context of a generic IDS framework for MANET. Results showed a 5-15% reduction in false response rate compared to a baseline IDS over a number of attacking scenarios. sIDS was extended with immune system inspired features, namely a response over multiple timescales, as employed by the innate and adaptive components of the immune system, and the recruitment of neighbouring agents to participate in a co-ordinated response to an intrusion. Results showed a true response rate of 95-100% for all simulated attack scenarios. For random misbehaviour and assisted black hole scenarios, PDR gains of up to 30% and 15% were observed respectively compared to the pure game theoretic approach, tracking the omniscient network performance in these scenarios. In all, this study has shown that applying game theoretic reasoning to existing detection methods results in better discrimination of benign nodes from adversaries, which can be used to bias network operation towards the benign nodes. When fused with immune system inspired features, the resulting IDS maintained this discrimination whilst substantially reducing attack efficacy.
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Holwell, Susan. "Soft systems methodology and its role in information systems." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1997. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.364316.
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Mirijamdotter, Anita. "A multi-modal systems extension to soft systems methodology." Doctoral thesis, Luleå, 1998. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:ltu:diva-18309.
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This thesis develops a design method for social systems that do not fit the conventional industrial pattern and that consequently are not apt for regulation through mechanical means. It builds upon Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), one of the most widely used and well regarded of design methodologies. Yet, the systems science literature has identified some weaknesses in this methodology, and these have been confirmed in the critical evaluation and the empirical study of this thesis. It was found that SSM tends to be relativistic in normative issues, that its modelling is at times reductionistic and that there are philosophical inconsistencies between its different phases of design. THe task in this thesis has been to preserve the methodological strengths of SSM while at the same time attempt to correct its weakness by combining it with another systems sience approach: Multi-modal Systems Thinking. This approach incorporates a multi-dimensional framework of life and a management model to attain viability in social systems. The combination of SSM with this new framework results in a Multi-modal Soft Systems Methodology (Arvidsjaur Method for short) that has been tested empirically in a project for unemployed youth in Arvidsjaur, a small municipality in the north of Sweden. The Arvidsjaur Method is an effective tool in four ways. Firstly, it incorporates normative standards that overcome the criticisms regarding SSM's relativistic stance. Secondly, it enhances philosophical consistency in the complete design process. Thirdly, it provides a managerial design structure and fourthly, it offers a potential for designing systems that support a holistic, complete and dignified human life. Such an approach is also likely to assist us in appreciating different perspectives of our post- modern society and in making appropriate choices.Godkänd; 1998; 20060928 (evan)
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Yang, Hee Doo. "Design, Manufacturing, and Control of Soft and Soft/Rigid Hybrid Pneumatic Robotic Systems." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/100635.
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Soft robotic systems have recently been considered as a new approach that is in principle better suited for tasks where safety and adaptability are important. That is because soft materials are inherently compliant and resilient in the event of collisions. They are also lightweight and can be low-cost; in general, soft robots have the potential to achieve many tasks that were not previously possible with traditional robotic systems.
In this paper, we propose a new manufacturing process for creating multi-chambered pneumatic actuators and robots. We focus on using fabric as the primary structural material, but plastic films can be used instead of textiles as well. We introduce two different methods to create layered bellows actuators, which can be made with a heat press machine or in an oven. We also describe origami-like actuators with possible corner structures. Moreover, the fabrication process permits the creation of soft and soft/rigid hybrid robotic systems, and enables the easy integration of sensors into these robots. We analyze various textiles that are possibly used with this method, and model bellows actuators including operating force, restoring force, and estimated geometry with multiple bellows. We then demonstrate the process by showing a bellows actuator with an embedded sensor and other fabricated structures and robots.
We next present a new design of a multi-DOF soft/rigid hybrid robotic manipulator. It contains a revolute actuator and several roll-pitch actuators which are arranged in series. To control the manipulator, we use a new variant of the piece-wise constant curvature (PCC) model. The robot can be controlled using forward and inverse kinematics with embedded inertial measurement units (IMUs). A bellows actuator, which is a subcomponent of the manipulator, is modeled with a variable-stiffness spring, and we use the model to predict the behavior of the actuator. With the model, the roll-pitch actuator stiffnesses are measured in all directions through applying forces and torques. The stiffness is used to predict the behavior of the end effector. The robotic system introduced achieved errors of less than 5% when compared to the models, and positioning accuracies of better than 1cm.Doctor of Philosophy
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Tapp, Thomas L. "Soft decision decoders for mobile messaging systems." Diss., Georgia Institute of Technology, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/13416.
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Scholes, James. "Extending the application of Soft Systems Methodology." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1986. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.292912.
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Tapp, Keith A. "Mapping democratic practice using soft systems methodologies /." [St. Lucia, Qld.], 2001. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe16138.pdf.
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Aldarmi, Saud Ahmed. "Scheduling soft-deadline real-time transactions." Thesis, University of York, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.310917.
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Miles, R. K. "The Soft Systems Methodology : A practicable framework for computer systems analysis." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1987. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.380317.
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Forbes, Paul. "The development and dissemination of soft systems methodology." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.254192.
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Zhang, Shawn Xia. "A high performance soft keyboard for mobile systems." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1998. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp01/MQ31876.pdf.
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Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta. "A multi-modal approach to soft systems methodology /." Luleå : Luleå Univ. of Technology (Luleå tekniska univ.), 2002. http://epubl.luth.se/1402-1544/2002/41.
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Sample, Ian Robert. "Soft acrylic resins as potential drug delivery systems." Thesis, Queen Mary, University of London, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.246772.
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Ledington, P. W. J. "Intervening in organisational conversations using soft systems methodology." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.276848.
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Davids, Steven Emlyn. "A soft systems approach to social sciences projects." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52133.
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Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2001ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This paper asks the question: "Is the Guide to the PMBOICs method appropriate for doing projects of a social science character?" Inthis enquiry extensive use is made ofliterature that is available via the world wide web. This paper follows the school of thought that regards the world as a complex set of interrelated systems. Humans as social beings are an integral part of these complex systems. In order to do justice to human endeavours, one must understand the systems in which humans operate and interpret all human undertakings in relation to those systems. Three broad types of systems approaches to project management are distinguished. A common underlying principle of all three approaches is that they regard social systems as complex, highly volatile and in constant flux. A direct consequence of this characteristic of social systems is that project goals are also not simple and rigidly fixed. The project goals are also complex, in constant flux and open-ended. The traditional Guide to the PMBOICs method for doing project management is unable to deal effectively with these complex and volatile system problems. This paper advocates that a slightly modified version of Checkland's soft systems method be used to deal with social projects, which are by definition, also complex projects. It is proposed that Checkland's soft systems method should be used in addition to the traditional approach. The method proposed by this paper is, to various degrees, already being implemented in practice. The proposed method is, however, presently not being catered for in the project management software packages that are readily and commercially available.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Hierdie studie ondersoek die vraag: "Is die metode soos voorgestel in die Guide to the PMBOK geskik vir projekte met 'n sosiaal wetenskaplike karakter?" In die ondersoek word op grootskaal gebruik gemaak van literatuur wat beskikbaar is op die internet. Hierdie studie sluit aan by die wetenskaplike gedagterigting wat die wêreld beskou as bestaande uit 'n reeks ingewikkelde en onderling verbinde sisteme. As sosiale wese is die mens 'n integrale deel van hierdie gekompliseerde sisteme. Om reg te laat geskied aan menslike handelinge, moet die sisteme waarbinne die mens leef verstaan word. Menslike handeling moet ook vertolk word teen die agtergrond van daardie sisteme en in verhouding tot die sisteme. Drie gedagterigtings kan onderskei word binne die sisteem benadering tot projekbestuur. 'n Gemeenskaplike en onderliggende beginsel van al drie gedagterigtings is dat hulle sosiale sisteme beskou as gekompliseerd, uiters onbestendig en in voortdurende beweging. 'n Direkte gevolg van hierdie eienskap van sosiale sisteme is dat projekte se doelwitte ook nie maklik definieerbaar en stabiel is nie. Projekte se doelwitte is gekompliseerd, onbestendig en oop. Die konvensionele metodes vir projekbestuur soos voorgestel deur die Guide to the PMBOK is nie in staat om hierdie gekompliseerde en onbestendige sisteem probleme effektief te hanteer nie. Hierdie studie debatteer dat 'n effens gewysigde weergawe van Checkland se sagte sisteem metode gebruik word vir die doen van sosiale projekte, wat per definisie gekompliseerde projekte is. Dit word aan die hand gedoen dat Checkland se sagte sisteem metode gebruik word saam met die konvensionele benadering. Die metode wat hierdie studie bepleit, word alreeds tot vlakke in die praktyk toegepas. Daar word egter nie voorsieining gemaak vir die voorgestelde metode in rekenaar sagte ware programme in projekbestuur wat redelik algemeen in die kleinhandel beskikbaar is nie.
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Dobbin, Trevor Johnston. "A soft systems approach to object oriented analysis." Thesis, University of Ulster, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.274551.
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Mears-Young, Bridget R. "Logistics and its implementation : a soft systems approach." Thesis, University of Lincoln, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.263960.
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Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta. "A multi-modal approach to soft systems methodology." Doctoral thesis, Luleå tekniska universitet, Innovation och Design, 2002. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:ltu:diva-18130.
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The main aim of my research is to explore ways of enriching Soft Systems Methodology by developing intellectual tools that can help designers to conceptualise, create and evaluate different design alternatives. This directs the focus on the methodology’s modelling phase even though some ideas related to analysis also will be presented. In order to realize this objective the study proposes the following supplements. Firstly, a framework of 15 modalities (knowledge areas) is suggested as a supplement to existing analysis techniques, with the aim of helping the analyst identify important aspects that need to be understood in order to identify relevant issues for modelling. Secondly, a concept called qualifying function is proposed as an additional modelling tool for drawing out different perspectives of a particular problem situation, discussing desirable purposes for the design, and for exploring the underlying rationale behind a suggested transformation or a stated Weltanschauung. Thirdly, an expansion of the measures of performance used in SSM modelling, for evaluating conceptual models of possible design alternatives, is suggested. This expansion also builds on the modal framework. Based on both the theoretical and the practical work I have done I conclude that using the modalities as a general framework in analysis, modelling and evaluation, as well as using the concept qualifying function to tease out and clarify relevant transformations and underlying value systems has practical benefits and therefore can be said to enrich Soft Systems Methodology.Godkänd; 2002; 20060928 (evan)
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Struhar, Vaclav. "Improving Soft Real-time Performance of Fog Computing." Licentiate thesis, Mälardalens högskola, Inbyggda system, 2021. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:mdh:diva-55679.
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Fog computing is a distributed computing paradigm that brings data processing from remote cloud data centers into the vicinity of the edge of the network. The computation is performed closer to the source of the data, and thus it decreases the time unpredictability of cloud computing that stems from (i) the computation in shared multi-tenant remote data centers, and (ii) long distance data transfers between the source of the data and the data centers. The computation in fog computing provides fast response times and enables latency sensitive applications. However, industrial systems require time-bounded response times, also denoted as RT. The correctness of such systems depends not only on the logical results of the computations but also on the physical time instant at which these results are produced. Time-bounded responses in fog computing are attributed to two main aspects: computation and communication. In this thesis, we explore both aspects targeting soft RT applications in fog computing in which the usefulness of the produced computational results degrades with real-time requirements violations. With regards to the computation, we provide a systematic literature survey on a novel lightweight RT container-based virtualization that ensures spatial and temporal isolation of co-located applications. Subsequently, we utilize a mechanism enabling RT container-based virtualization and propose a solution for orchestrating RT containers in a distributed environment. Concerning the communication aspect, we propose a solution for a dynamic bandwidth distribution in virtualized networks.
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Dai, Gao Yang. "A novel soft forwarding technique for cooperative communication /." View abstract or full-text, 2010. http://library.ust.hk/cgi/db/thesis.pl?ECED%202010%20DAI.
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De, Meij Garcia-Montoya Luisa Fernanda. "Systematic narratives : a study of an information system for the Colombian coffee industry." Thesis, University of Lincoln, 1997. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.387701.
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McClintock, Shaunna. "Soft computing : a fuzzy logic controlled genetic algorithm environment." Thesis, University of Ulster, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.268579.
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Greer, Desmond. "Software engineering risk : understanding and management." Thesis, University of Ulster, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.326127.
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Al, Harrasi Nabhan Harith. "Understanding Omani academic library collaboration : a soft systems approach." Thesis, University of Sheffield, 2012. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.575551.
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Abstract The primary aim of this research was to understand the situation of Omani academic library collaboration (OALC). The results show that the situation of Omani academic library collaboration was problematical due to lack of library collaboration activities in Oman, financial and human constraints that have rendered working in isolation no effective, and challenges related to purchasing, processing and providing services and information to the library community. Therefore, an investigation was required to understand factors that delay establishment of collaboration activities, factors that support working collaboratively, and methods and strategies that can be used to improve the current situation of OA Le. Soft systems methodology (SSM) was used as an interpretive approach to find out about the problematical situation and to model, discuss and improve OALe. Four academic libraries were involved in this study: Sultan Qaboos University Library, Nizwa University Library, Sohar University Library, and Dhofar University Library. 23 participants were involved in describing their situation in one-to-one interviews in order to gain understanding of the complexity of OALe. Then three group interviews were used tor the purpose of modelling and discussing conceptual activities which were suggested to improve the situation. Systems that are systematically desirable and culturally feasible were identified. A workshop was then organised to implement the awareness raising system, improve inter-group communication and conflict resolution, establish a strategic planning committee composed of representatives from every library to carry out the activities, and develop some rules and regulations that could be used to operate and control the system of interlibrary loans. The changes achieved through the process of the research would impact on three dimensions of the academic libraries: structure, attitude and procedures. The contribution of this research is in the appl ication of SSM in academ ic library collaboration.
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Skelhon, Thomas S. "Synthesis and application of colloids in soft matter systems." Thesis, University of Warwick, 2013. http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/59833/.
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We explore two distinct domains in the field of soft matter. The first three experimental chapters concern the synthesis, characterisation and application of Janus particles fabricated by heterogeneous polymerisation techniques. Initially in Chapter 2 we describe an optimised one pot seeded emulsion polymerisation strategy to render submicron amphiphilic Janus particles exhibiting surface active behaviour which can be tuned by the variation of hydrophilic to hydrophobic lobe volume ratios. These particles have been shown to inhibit ice recrystallisation in aqueous systems. In Chapter 3 we explore the synthesis of hard-soft Janus particles comprising of respective high and low glass transition temperature lobes. Although the rate of polymerisation is unaffected by available seed particle surface area, particles with multiple soft lobes and secondary nucleation occur below a seed surface area threshold. We additionally demonstrate the ability to fabricate sub-micron hard-soft Janus particles. Chapter 4 utilises the particles made in the previous chapter as building blocks to fabricate ‘colloidal molecules’ and colloidosomes. In the former case, cluster morphology of particles is shown to be governed by surface area minimisation of the central soft domain. The final two experimental chapters explore two different strategies to emulsify water into chocolate whilst retaining the desirable physical characteristics of the confectionery. In Chapter 5 we utilise colloidal silica and a cationic polyelectrolyte to generate highly stable quiescent Pickering emulsions, allowing up to 50% of the fat content in chocolate to be replaced with water and fruit juice. Chapter 6 improves upon this work by allowing the replacement of up to 80% of the fat content in chocolate by the dispersion of aqueous hydrogels within the chocolate fat matrix. In both chapters we characterise the physical properties of the formulations and demonstrate their suitability for use in chocolate confectionery.
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Robbins, Mark J. "Describing colloidal soft matter systems with microscopic continuum models." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2012. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/9383.
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In this thesis we explore two different theories for modelling soft matter systems. We start by discussing density functional theory (DFT) and dynamical density functional theory (DDFT) and consider the thermodynamics underpinning these theories as well as showing how the main results may be derived from the microscopic properties of soft matter. We use this theory to set up a model for the evaporation of the solvent from a thin film of a colloidal suspension. The general background for such systems is discussed and we display some of the striking nanostructures which self-assemble during the evaporation process. We show that our theory successfully reproduces some of these patterns and deduce the various mechanisms and transport processes behind the formation of the different structures. In the second part of this thesis we discuss results for a second model; the phase field crystal (PFC) model. The model equations are discussed, showing how they may be derived from DDFT as well as discussing the general background of PFC models. We present some results for the PFC model in its most commonly used form before going on to introduce a modified PFC model. We show how the changes in the model equations are reflected in the thermodynamics of the model. We then proceed by demonstrating how this modified PFC model may be used to qualitatively describe colloidal systems. A two component generalisation of the modified PFC model is introduced and used to investigate the transition between hexagonal and square ordering in crystalline structures. We conclude by discussing the similarities and connections between the two models presented in the thesis.
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Stahr, H. "Heuristics and soft systems of health care risk management." Thesis, University of Salford, 2000. http://usir.salford.ac.uk/2045/.
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The formal management of risk was an idea in its early stages of introduction into the National Health Service when this research started. In this thesis I document the development of my thinking as an acute hospital risk manager over the last five years as I developed the Trust's risk management system. Using Action Learning as the research approach, I explored theories and concepts and tested them in the fire of real world action and reflective questioning of experiences. The definition of risk is explored in relation to health care, as are the approaches used to manage these risks. A key finding is that risk management decision making does not generally fit into either programmed or non-programmed decision making models but neither do decision makers guess. Decision makers tend to use heuristics, which are simple rules of thumb, which generally help them make the right decision with minimum mental effort. However, heuristics also tend to be applied inappropriately and can result in an organisation being exposed to unacceptable levels of serious risk. A number of key heuristics are identified and they appear to fall into two general types, B-heuristics and E-heuristics. The B-heuristics are 'basic' in form and can be summarised as a simple sentence while, E-heuristics have an 'extended' form which can be summarised as a list of related simple sentences. Knowledge of heuristics helped in the design of the Trust's risk management which has been implemented and its effectiveness tested in the field. This field testing has demonstrated that the worst effects of heuristics can be mitigated by effective soft-system design.
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Davies, Lynda J. "The cultural aspects of intervention with Soft Systems Methodogy." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.328763.
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Hedlund, Johan, and Joel Lundberg. "Intressentanalys & kravhantering inom agil metod : med stöd av soft systems methodology." Thesis, Luleå tekniska universitet, Digitala tjänster och system, 2020. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:ltu:diva-79556.
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This study explores stakeholder analysis and requirements engineering within an agile project at a system development company requesting a case management system. Stakeholder analysis is commonly explored in traditional project planning studies, such as the waterfall model. In agile projects, on the other hand, it is not common to have a project-planning phase or to carry out a stakeholder analysis, often due to that a stakeholder analysis entail a long and extensive documentation. Our study explores how Soft Systems Methodology can be used in an agile project-planning phase as well as how rich pictures from the SSM support requirements engineering. The study is based on an agile method in which the project-planning phase is expected to deliver a product log, and hence a requirements list. Requirements are collected, modelled and validated together with users in the form of user stories where role, goals and purpose are expressed in a sentence. Stakeholders and roles are identified and analyzed using methods in Soft Systems Methodology, like "finding-out" analyses. The result is then presented in so called rich pictures of the current situation and in a future desired situation. The data collection is carried out together with informants at the case company in the form of observations and semi-structured interviews. The result of the study indicates how rich pictures from SSM can support the start-up of an agile project.Denna studie utforskar intressentanalys och kravinsamling inom ett agilt projekt på ett systemutvecklingsföretag som efterfrågar ett ärendehanteringssystem. Intressentanalyser är vanligt förekommande och utforskade i traditionella förstudier så som enligt vattenfallsmodellen. I agila projekt är det däremot vanligt att en förstudie inte utförs eller att förstudien inte innehåller en intressentanalys, ofta på grund av att intressentanalyser innebär lång och omfattande dokumentation. Vår studie utforskar hur Soft Systems Methodology kan användas i en agil förstudie samt hur rika bilder från SSM stöttar kravhantering. Studien utgår från an agil metod där förstudien förväntas leverera en produktlogg, där studiens fysiska bidrag blir en kravlista. Krav samlas in, modelleras samt valideras tillsammans med användare i formen av användarhistorier där roll, mål och syfte uttrycks i en mening. Intressenter och roller identifieras och analyseras med hjälp av metoder inom Soft Systems Methodology, som exempelvis ”finding out”-analys. Resultatet presenteras därefter i så kallade rika bilder över nuvarande situation samt i en framtida önskad situation. Datainsamlingen görs tillsammans med informanter på ett fallföretag i form av observationer och semistrukturerade intervjuer. Utfallet av studien visar hur den rika bilden från SSM kan stödja uppstarten av ett agilt projekt.
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Henckel, Svante. "Från föreställningar till relevanta system : Linköpings universitetsbibliotek analyseras med hjälp av Soft Systems Methodology." Thesis, Högskolan i Borås, Institutionen Biblioteks- och informationsvetenskap / Bibliotekshögskolan, 1996. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hb:diva-17763.
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The background to this thesis is the impact of information technology on libraries and librarywork. If information technology causes changes in the tasks and work of libraries, thenlibrary organisations should also change. It is important to engage and inform the staff if suchchanges are to succeed. This thesis investigates the notions about library tasks and librarywork among eight "middle-managers" at Linkopings universitetsbibliotek.The investigation is based on interviews and then analysed with Soft Systems Methodology(SSM). By identifying the "Weltanschauung" of the staff, the thesis tries to create logicallydesirable and culturally feasible models of systems relevant to the situation at Linkopingsuniversitetsbibliotek. Based on the interviews, this thesis proposes two such models.The first model aims to make the library users competent to seek, find and evaluate their owninformation. The aim of the second model is to make library work more efficient by gettingthe staff to see themselves as parts of a process instead of isolated functions.
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Park, Jong Il. "Trellis based soft output decoding algorithms for concatenated coding systems." Diss., Georgia Institute of Technology, 1998. http://hdl.handle.net/1853/13898.
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Lin, Caixue. "Unified and effective soft real-time processing in integrated systems /." Diss., Digital Dissertations Database. Restricted to UC campuses, 2006. http://uclibs.org/PID/11984.
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Lewis, Paul John. "The evaluation of social action programmes : a #soft' systems approach." Thesis, Lancaster University, 1989. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.276137.
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Litchfield, Simon John. "Numerical models of soft X-ray emission in accreting systems." Thesis, University of Leicester, 1992. http://hdl.handle.net/2381/35720.
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CamarÃo, Diego de Lucena. "Diffusive properties of soft condensed matter systems under external confinement." Universidade Federal do CearÃ, 2014. http://www.teses.ufc.br/tde_busca/arquivo.php?codArquivo=13612.
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CoordenaÃÃo de AperfeiÃoamento de Pessoal de NÃvel SuperiorNesta tese estudamos a influÃncia de potenciais de confinamento externos nas propriedades dinÃmicas de sistemas de matÃria condensada mole. Analisamos as propriedades difusivas de dois sistemas especÃficos utilizando simulaÃÃes computacionais (DinÃmica Molecular de Langevin e DinÃmica Browniana). No CapÃtulo 1, introduzimos o tÃpico sobre matÃria condensada mole. Mostramos vÃrios aspectos teÃricos e experimentais neste tipo de sistema. Fazemos uma breve introduÃÃo ao tÃpico de difusÃo, onde discutimos os principais aspectos do movimento Browniano. Introduzimos o problema de difusÃo em linha (SFD, do inglÃs "single-file diffusion") e o discutimos, teorica e experimentalmente, no contexto de sistemas de matÃria condensada mole. No CapÃtulo 2, introduzimos os mÃtodos computacionais utilizados nesta tese. Discutimos os mÃtodos de DinÃmica Molecular e suas variantes, o mÃtodo de DinÃmica de Langevin e DinÃmica Browniana. TambÃm introduzimos algoritmos de integraÃÃo utilizados nos capÃtulos posteriores. Nos Caps. 3, 4 e 5, analisamos dois sistemas distintos, (i) um sistema de partÃculas de Yukawa confinadas em um canal parabÃlico quasi-unidimensional (q1D) e (ii) um sistema de colÃides magnÃticos sob a influÃncia de um potencial parabÃlico e uma modulaÃÃo periÃdica externa ao longo da direÃÃo nÃo confinada. No primeiro sistema, estudamos a transiÃÃo do regime de difusÃo em linha (SFD) para o regime de difusÃo normal (2D). No segundo sistema, estudamos os efeitos de vÃrios parÃmetros que caracterizam o sistema (e.g., a magnitude do campo magnÃtico externo e a presenÃa da modulaÃÃo periÃdica externa) em suas propriedades dinÃmicas. Finalmente, apresentamos um sumÃrio dos principais resultados obtidos nesta tese e mostramos algumas questÃes em aberto como perspectivas para pesquisas futuras na Ãrea de difusÃo em sistemas de matÃria condensada mole.
In this thesis we study the influence of external confinement potentials on the dynamical properties of soft condensed matter systems. We analyze the diffusive properties of two specific systems by means of Langevin and Brownian Dynamics simulations. In Chapter 1, we introduce the subject of soft condensed matter. We show several theoretical and experimental aspects of these type of systems. We make a brief introduction to the topic of diffusion, where we discuss main aspects of Brownian motion. We introduce the single-file diffusion (SFD) problem and discuss it in the context of soft condensed matter systems, both theoretically and experimentally. In Chapter 2, we introduce the computational method used in this thesis. We discuss Molecular Dynamics (MD) and its variants, Langevin and Brownian Dynamics simulations. We also introduce numerical algorithms used in the following chapters. In Chapters 3, 4 and 5, we analyze two different systems, namely (i) a system of interacting Yukawa particles confined in a parabolic quasi-one-dimensional (q1D) channel and (ii) a system of magnetic colloidal particles under the influence of both a parabolic confinement potential and a periodic external modulation along the unconfined direction. In the former, we study the transition from the single-file diffusion (SFD) regime to the two-dimensional (2D) diffusion regime. In the latter, we study the influence of several parameters that characterizes the system, e.g., the strength of an external magnetic field and the periodic modulation along the unconfined direction, on its dynamical properties. Finally, we present the summary of the main findings reported in this thesis and we show some open questions as perspectives for future research in the field of diffusion in soft condensed matter systems.
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Yang, Yingjie. "Investigation on soft computing techniques for airport environment evaluation systems." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2008. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/35015.
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Spatial and temporal information exist widely in engineering fields, especially in airport environmental management systems. Airport environment is influenced by many different factors and uncertainty is a significant part of the system. Decision support considering this kind of spatial and temporal information and uncertainty is crucial for airport environment related engineering planning and operation. Geographical information systems and computer aided design are two powerful tools in supporting spatial and temporal information systems. However, the present geographical information systems and computer aided design software are still too general in considering the special features in airport environment, especially for uncertainty. In this thesis, a series of parameters and methods for neural network-based knowledge discovery and training improvement are put forward, such as the relative strength of effect, dynamic state space search strategy and compound architecture.
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Camarão, Diego de Lucena. "Diffusive properties of soft condensed matter systems under external confinement." reponame:Repositório Institucional da UFC, 2014. http://www.repositorio.ufc.br/handle/riufc/11285.
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CAMARÃO, Diego de Lucena. Diffusive properties of soft condensed matter systems under external confinement. 2014. 142 f. Tese (Doutorado em Física) - Programa de Pós-Graduação em Física, Departamento de Física, Centro de Ciências, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, 2014.Submitted by Edvander Pires (edvanderpires@gmail.com) on 2015-04-09T20:25:36Z No. of bitstreams: 1 2014_tese_dlcamarao.pdf: 4771668 bytes, checksum: 12d4989237a73eeafcc143c607fa30dd (MD5)
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In this thesis we study the influence of external confinement potentials on the dynamical properties of soft condensed matter systems. We analyze the diffusive properties of two specific systems by means of Langevin and Brownian Dynamics simulations. In Chapter 1, we introduce the subject of soft condensed matter. We show several theoretical and experimental aspects of these type of systems. We make a brief introduction to the topic of diffusion, where we discuss main aspects of Brownian motion. We introduce the single-file diffusion (SFD) problem and discuss it in the context of soft condensed matter systems, both theoretically and experimentally. In Chapter 2, we introduce the computational method used in this thesis. We discuss Molecular Dynamics (MD) and its variants, Langevin and Brownian Dynamics simulations. We also introduce numerical algorithms used in the following chapters. In Chapters 3, 4 and 5, we analyze two different systems, namely (i) a system of interacting Yukawa particles confined in a parabolic quasi-one-dimensional (q1D) channel and (ii) a system of magnetic colloidal particles under the influence of both a parabolic confinement potential and a periodic external modulation along the unconfined direction. In the former, we study the transition from the single-file diffusion (SFD) regime to the two-dimensional (2D) diffusion regime. In the latter, we study the influence of several parameters that characterizes the system, e.g., the strength of an external magnetic field and the periodic modulation along the unconfined direction, on its dynamical properties. Finally, we present the summary of the main findings reported in this thesis and we show some open questions as perspectives for future research in the field of diffusion in soft condensed matter systems.
Nesta tese estudamos a influência de potenciais de confinamento externos nas propriedades dinâmicas de sistemas de matéria condensada mole. Analisamos as propriedades difusivas de dois sistemas específicos utilizando simulações computacionais (Dinâmica Molecular de Langevin e Dinâmica Browniana). No Capítulo 1, introduzimos o tópico sobre matéria condensada mole. Mostramos vários aspectos teóricos e experimentais neste tipo de sistema. Fazemos uma breve introdução ao tópico de difusão, onde discutimos os principais aspectos do movimento Browniano. Introduzimos o problema de difusão em linha (SFD, do inglês "single-file diffusion") e o discutimos, teorica e experimentalmente, no contexto de sistemas de matéria condensada mole. No Capítulo 2, introduzimos os métodos computacionais utilizados nesta tese. Discutimos os métodos de Dinâmica Molecular e suas variantes, o método de Dinâmica de Langevin e Dinâmica Browniana. Também introduzimos algoritmos de integração utilizados nos capítulos posteriores. Nos Caps. 3, 4 e 5, analisamos dois sistemas distintos, (i) um sistema de partículas de Yukawa confinadas em um canal parabólico quasi-unidimensional (q1D) e (ii) um sistema de colóides magnéticos sob a influência de um potencial parabólico e uma modulação periódica externa ao longo da direção não confinada. No primeiro sistema, estudamos a transição do regime de difusão em linha (SFD) para o regime de difusão normal (2D). No segundo sistema, estudamos os efeitos de vários parâmetros que caracterizam o sistema (e.g., a magnitude do campo magnético externo e a presença da modulação periódica externa) em suas propriedades dinâmicas. Finalmente, apresentamos um sumário dos principais resultados obtidos nesta tese e mostramos algumas questões em aberto como perspectivas para pesquisas futuras na área de difusão em sistemas de matéria condensada mole.
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Alvbrant, Joakim. "A study on emerging electronics for systems accepting soft errors." Licentiate thesis, Linköpings universitet, Elektroniska Kretsar och System, 2016. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-126333.
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Moore’s law has until today mostly relied on shrinkage of the size of the devices inintegrated circuits. However, soon the granularity of the atoms will set a limit together with increased error probability of the devices. How can Moore’s law continue in thefuture? To overcome the increased error rate, we need to introduce redundancy. Applyingmethods from biology may be a way forward, using some of the strategies that transformsan egg into a fetus, but with electronic cells. A redundant system is less sensitive to failing components. We define electronic clayas a massive redundancy system of interchangeable and unified subsystems. We show how a mean voter, which is simpler than a majority voter, impact a redundant systemand how optimization can be formalized to minimize the impact of failing subsystems.The performance at given yield can be estimated with a first order model, without the need for Monte-Carlo simulations. The methods are applied and verified on a redundant finite-impulse response filter. The elementary circuit behavior of the memristor, ”the missing circuit element”, is investigated for fundamental understanding and how it can be used in applications. Different available simulation models are presented and the linear drift model is simulated with Joglekar-Wolf and Biolek window functions. Driven by a sinusoidal current, the memristor is a frequency dependent component with a cut-off frequency. The memristor can be densely packed and used in structures that both stores and compute in the same circuit, as neurons do. Surrounding circuit has to affect (write) and react (read) to the memristor with the same two terminals. We looked at artificial neural network for pattern recognition, but also for self organization in electronic cell array. Finally we look at wireless sensor network and how such system can adopt to the environment. This is also a massive redundant clay-like system. Future electronic systems will be massively redundant and adaptive. Moore’s law will continue, not based on shrinking device sizes, but on cheaper, numerous, unified and interchangeable subsystems.
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Narunsky, Larry. "A Soft Systems approach to identifying and resolving organisational issues." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1995. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/22498.
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Bibliography: pages 249-252.This thesis is concerned with identifying and resolving organisational issues and details research that was undertaken in a manufacturing organisation, Rhomberg Brasier - a company which has been experiencing problems, which have developed in recent years.
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Endrejat, Frieder. "Medium voltage petrochemical drives : soft start and adjustable speed systems." Doctoral thesis, University of Cape Town, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/10431.
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Includes bibliographical references.Medium voltage synchronous machines are used for large petrochemical compressor motor drives (>13 MW) at high application voltages (e.g. +-11 kV). Limited research exists on the application of Voltage Source Inverters (VSIs) for these petrochemical loads. An application concept is described where the converter is used to start several motors and to drive one at adjustable speed. Associated benefits in terms of availability, hazardous areas and switching surge overvoltages are outlined. A technology feasibility study illustrates that new VSI Cascaded H Bridge (CHB) technology and the application concept is economically feasible. Ultimately the research illustrates how and where new VSI technology can economically be applied with a significantly lower risk level.
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Hindle, Giles Anthony. "Developing a systemic textual analysis method based on the human activity system modelling language of soft systems methodology." Thesis, University of Lincoln, 2003. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.400869.
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Rangoonwala, Sakina Kougianos Elias. "A Verilog 8051 soft core for FPGA applications." [Denton, Tex.] : University of North Texas, 2009. http://digital.library.unt.edu/permalink/meta-dc-11013.
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Cole, Alison J. "An agent-centred method for systemic improvement of business processes." Thesis, University of Portsmouth, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.310397.
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Dang, Quan Chu. "A soft-systems-conceived model with knowledge representation for informations systems in the office environment." Thesis, London South Bank University, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.264821.
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Alzaffin, Mohammad. "A systems approach to leadership development in the Dubai Police : using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM)." Thesis, University of Hull, 2015. http://hydra.hull.ac.uk/resources/hull:16401.
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The Dubai Police, striving to meet the needs of one of the most rapidly developing communities in the world, found themselves struggling to satisfy the needs of an expanding and increasingly diverse population as well as dealing with the expectations within the force from high-qualified officers who had benefited from education in the most modern universities. Seeking to improve the service to all stakeholders, HE the Commander-in-Chief introduced the concept of Total Quality Management. The introduction and continuing application of Total Quality Management was undertaken by an over-arching general department dedicated to Total Quality together with the introduction of experts into every general department. Unfortunately, the benefits were not as universal or as consistent as had been hoped. It was thought blocks to progress arose from the rigidity of the hierarchical and militaristic style of leadership prevalent in the force. A leadership style more inclusive of officers at all level was needed, one which was also alive to the expectations of external stakeholders, the residents, visitors and executives of business interests in Dubai. The researcher was asked to study how leadership operated in the Dubai Police, how leaders viewed progress in Total Quality Management among their peers and subordinates and how subordinates assessed their immediate superiors’ performance as leaders. To this end, 31 semi-structured interviews provided data for qualitative analysis and 475 respondents completed a questionnaire for quantitative analysis. The interviews revealed great respect for the military traditions of the Dubai Police, pride in progress made in Total Quality Management to date, an acknowledgement that this had been uneven and of the existence of pockets of resistance, results borne out of the responses to the questionnaire. Subjects were keen to improve the situation but had not embraced the latest management techniques available, tending to use reductionist methods to solve problems. The researcher was requested to explore the benefits of holistic systems thinking to liberate consideration of problems and blocks to further progress in Total Quality Management. The Dubai Police were advised that systems thinking has advantages over older methods as it involves consideration of all aspects of a problem as a whole, including the interest of all stakeholders, leading to more satisfactory solutions of wider application. Among its advantages are the broader spectrum of investigation called for the greater involvement of subordinates so that a much more detailed (richer) picture can be obtained. The Dubai Police were therefore recommended to employ Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as a means to achieving flexibility in leadership, deeper involvement of lower tiers of management in planning and quicker reaction to changing crime patterns. The Dubai Police should study western policing methods more deeply and invoke local universities in further research. The research indicated the Dubai Police needed to be more attuned to global development in policing attitudes and techniques.
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Singh, Abhay Kumar. "Sensor network and soft sensor design for stable nonlinear dynamic systems." Diss., Texas A&M University, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/1969.1/4326.
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In chemical processes, online measurements of all the process variables and parameters required for process control, monitoring and optimization are seldom available. The use of soft sensors or observers is, therefore, highly significant as they can estimate unmeasured state variables from available process measurements. However, for reliable estimation by a soft sensor, the process measurements have to be placed at locations that allow reconstruction of process variables by the soft sensors. This dissertation presents a new technique for computing an optimal measurement structure for state and parameter estimation of stable nonlinear systems. The methodology can compute locations for individual sensors as well as networks of sensors where a trade-off between process information, sensor cost, and information redundancy is taken into account. The novel features of the approach are (1) that the nonlinear behavior that a process can exhibit over its operating region can be taken into account, (2) that the technique is applicable for systems described by lumped or by distributed parameter models, (3) that the technique reduces to already established methods, if the system is linear and only some of the objectives are examined, (4) that the results obtained from the procedure can be easily interpreted, and (5) that the resulting optimization problem can be decomposed, resulting in a significant reduction of the computational effort required for its solution. The other issue addressed in this dissertation is designing soft sensors for a given measurement structure. In case of high-dimensional systems, the application of conventional soft sensor or observer designs may not always be practical due to the high computational requirements or the resulting observers being too sensitive to measurement noise. To address these issues, this dissertation presents reduced-order observer design techniques for state estimation of high-dimensional chemical processes. The motivation behind these approaches is that subspaces, which are close to being unobservable, cannot be correctly reconstructed in a realistic setting due to measurement noise and inaccuracies in the model. The presented approaches make use of this observation and reconstruct the parts of the system where accurate state estimation is possible.
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Stoyanova, Petia Venkova. "Knowing and modelling of human enterprises : a holistic approach." Thesis, University of Sunderland, 2001. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.364526.
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The desire to develop a holistic framework for knowing and modelling in human enterprises is not new. Methodologies, such as Systems Dynamics, Soft Systems and the Viable Systems Model all claim a holistic perspective. Each of these approaches emphasises the interrelatedness of `things', rather than the `things' themselves. Thus, they avoid the possible fragmentation that can occur when elements within a situation are treated as if they exist independently. Unfortunately, the systems approaches flounder because they fail to reconcile knowledge with the path that brings it into being, or to satisfactorily deal with the concepts of order or communication in language. The Thesis, therefore, provides a greater clarification of these issues, in the light of enactive cognitive science, chaos theory and contemporary theories on dialogue. As a result, a new framework is presented, for knowing and modelling in human enterprises, that is based on our `new' understanding of holism. The organisational context of the Thesis is provided by two generic models, both developed by the author (a model of Duopoly Competition and a model of Chaos Control ), together with a case study of the Danish hearing aid manufacturer Oticon. The Thesis concludes by presenting various insights arising from our new frame of reference and reflecting on their challenges for organisations.
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Gregory, Frank Hutson. "A logical analysis of soft systems modelling : implications for information system design and knowledge based system design." Thesis, University of Warwick, 1993. http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/2888/.
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The thesis undertakes an analysis of the modelling methods used in the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) developed by Peter Checkland and Brian Wilson. The analysis is undertaken using formal logic and work drawn from modern Anglo-American analytical philosophy especially work in the area of philosophical logic, the theory of meaning, epistemology and the philosophy of science. The ability of SSM models to represent causation is found to be deficient and improved modelling techniques suitable for cause and effect analysis are developed. The notional status of SSM models is explained in terms of Wittgenstein's language game theory. Modal predicate logic is used to solve the problem of mapping notional models on to the real world. The thesis presents a method for extending SSM modelling in to a system for the design of a knowledge based system. This six stage method comprises: systems analysis, using SSM models; language creation, using logico-linguistic models; knowledge elicitation, using empirical models; knowledge representation, using modal predicate logic; codification, using Prolog; and verification using a type of non-monotonic logic. The resulting system is constructed in such a way that built in inductive hypotheses can be falsified, as in Karl Popper's philosophy of science, by particular facts. As the system can learn what is false it has some artificial intelligence capability. A variant of the method can be used for the design of other types of information system such as a relational database.