2002 CONTROL AWARENESS DAYS

Pedro Albertos

University of Valencia

Abstract: Control principles and concepts are pervading most engineering and scientific fields. The analysis of the presence of feedback as well as the dynamic behavior of any class of systems help to explain classical concepts and to go beyond, encouraging young people to undertake innovative approaches in their studies and designs. Examples of that can be illustrated by basic systems such as:

• RLC, Inductive-capacitive-resistor circuit. Being able to design active circuits with "negative resistor".
• Extension of the previous example to non-dissipative dumping
• Design plants which are unstable by purpose, to improve the maneuverability, by adding the appropriate control system. Aircrafts, exothermic reactors, S¿
• Economic investing system, preventing the feedback and the formation of loops The use of feedback also in simplifying the process design, allowing inaccurate models and disturbances Also, examples from natural systems, such as the human body temperature regulation, the heart operation, the maintenance and disturbing of ecosystems, or the "simplest" human standing position illustrate the presence of feedback and control. This motivates a general treatment of, among others, the basic concepts of system dynamics, feedback, disturbances, tracking, regulation, and models, expanding the perspective of the students following any specialized curriculum.

Arizona State University

"Semiconductor Manufacturing Capacity Analysis and Improvement"

Abstract:  Controls in the semiconductor manufacturing industry branch many different disciplines from engineering to economics. The capital-intensive nature of this industry is demanding more and more productivity from the manufacturing plants.  The plant managers must perform capacity analysis to determine machines capable of boosting production. Process control improvements on these machines increase the overall efficiency of the plant and decrease production costs. A discussion of this industry will be presented along with a model of a semiconductor manufacturing plant and the mathematics for selecting the "constraining" machines.

Dominique Duncan

University of Kansas

Abstract:  Undergraduate's Partnership with K-12 I will share my experience with participating in outreach programs for K-12 sponsored by KU's mathematics department. The importance and benefits for undergraduates from this kind of outreach activity will be discussed. Examples of successful REU research team projects in math, science, and technology done by undergraduates and junior high and high school students will be provided.

Shane Haas

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Abstract: Mathematics is a natural language for solving real-world problems. Control theory, probability, and statistics provide meaningful insights into complex systems such as financial markets and the Internet. We will discuss how mathematics can turn a single dollar into millions, and can hurl bits of information around the globe at the speed of light!

Jing Sun

Ford Research Laboratory

"Control and Mobility"

Abstrtact:  Control is regarded as a key enabling technology in automotive industry.  We will explore briefly the exciting field of automotive engine control.  Several examples will be given, where controls played a critical role in enhancing safety, performance, driveability, and emission.

John Westman

Miami University, Oxford Ohio

"Control, Mathematics, Computers and Cancer: An Integrated Approach to Cancer Treatment"

Abstract:  The goal of this presentation is to show the role of control, mathematics, and computers in the treatment of cancer. Cancer represents a complex biological system that affects a great number of people.  By using mathematics, a description of how cancer evolves can be formed. With this model, one can explore how various treatments will affect the cancer. The selection of the treatment, the dose administered, the way in which the dose is administered, and when the treatment is given represents the control parameters for clinical treatment. These are very difficult >problems and computers are employed to solve the control problem. Computational examples will be used to illustrate how control and mathematics can be used to think about creative ways to treat cancer. Please note, even though the focus in this presentation is on cancer, the implications and ideas presented can be applied to many other areas as well, for example, the treatment of epilepsy and diabetes.

Yiannis Zachariou

University of Kansas

Abstract:  Stochastic Analysis and Control in Finance, Telecommunications and Medicine Simulation of stochastic processes using MATLAB will be demonstrated. Applications of stochastic analysis and control to finance, telecommunications and medicine will be discussed.