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This paper aims to analyze the key factors influencing the synchronization performance of distributed motion control system and to improve the synchronization performance for peripherals control of this system.

This paper deals with the software synchronization problems of distributed motion control system based on real-time Ethernet. First, combined with communication and control tasks, the key factors affecting synchronization performance of system are analyzed. Then, aiming at key factors and considering the synchronization of system bus, protocol conversion and task scheduling, a software synchronization method based on CANopen protocol and real-time Ethernet is proposed. Finally, the feasibility of this method is verified by establishing distributed motion control system and testing the synchronization performance of terminal control signals of slaves.

Based on this method, the results show that the synchronization accuracy for peripherals control of all slaves could be about 100 ns.

This research provides high-precision synchronization method, which could lay a foundation for the application of distributed motion control system in the field of assembly automation, such as multi-axis assembly robots control.

In distributed motion control system, many factors affect the synchronization performance. At present, there is no synchronization method that could comprehensively consider these factors. This paper not only analyzes the key factors influencing the synchronization performance of system but also proposes a synchronization method. Therefore, the method proposed in this paper has certain theoretical value and engineering significance.

Wireless sensor networks (WSN), as a solution for buried water pipe monitoring, face a new set of challenges compared to traditional application for above-ground infrastructure monitoring. One of the main challenges for underground WSN deployment is the limited range (less than 3 m) at which reliable wireless underground communication can be achieved using radio signal propagation through the soil. To overcome this challenge, the purpose of this paper is to investigate a new approach for wireless underground communication using acoustic signal propagation along a buried water pipe.

An acoustic communication system was developed based on the requirements of low cost (tens of pounds at most), low power supply capacity (in the order of 1 W-h) and miniature (centimetre scale) size for a wireless communication node. The developed system was further tested along a buried steel pipe in poorly graded SAND and a buried medium density polyethylene (MDPE) pipe in well graded SAND.

With predicted acoustic attenuation of 1.3 dB/m and 2.1 dB/m along the buried steel and MDPE pipes, respectively, reliable acoustic communication is possible up to 17 m for the buried steel pipe and 11 m for the buried MDPE pipe.

Although an important first step, more research is needed to validate the acoustic communication system along a wider water distribution pipe network.

This paper shows the possibility of achieving reliable wireless underground communication along a buried water pipe (especially non-metallic material ones) using low-frequency acoustic propagation along the pipe wall.

Smart grid is an integration between traditional electricity grid and communication systems and networks. Providing reliable services and functions is a critical challenge for the success and diffusion of smart grids that needs to be addressed. The purpose of this study is to determine the critical criteria that affect smart grid reliability from the perspective of users and investigate the role big data plays in smart grid reliability.

This study presents a model to investigate and identify criteria that influence smart grid reliability from the perspective of users. The model consists of 12 sub-criteria covering big data management, communication system and system characteristics aspects. Multi-criteria decision-making approach is applied to analyze data and prioritize the criteria using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process based on the triangular fuzzy numbers. Data was collected from 16 experts in the fields of smart grid and Internet of things.

The results show that the “Big Data Management” criterion has a significant impact on smart grid reliability followed by the “System Characteristics” criterion. The “Data Analytics” and the “Data Visualization” were ranked as the most influential sub-criteria on smart grid reliability. Moreover, sensitivity analysis has been applied to investigate the stability and robustness of results. The findings of this paper provide useful implications for academicians, engineers, policymakers and many other smart grid stakeholders.

The users are not expected to actively participate in smart grid and its services without understanding their perceptions on smart grid reliability. Very few works have studied smart grid reliability from the perspective of users. This study attempts to fill this considerable gap in literature by proposing a fuzzy model to prioritize smart grid reliability criteria.

To analyse the evolution of the Swedish telecommunications sector (1970‐2003), with a focus on barriers and drivers of innovative activity.

Developing a functional approach to innovation systems analysis, where six basic interdependent functions need to be served for a new technology to be developed and diffused and for a supporting industry to evolve. The sector is divided into four major sub‐sectors: traditional fixed telecom; mobile telephony; fixed data communications (including internet); and mobile data communications (including mobile internet).

Relate to two questions: first, how did it happen that Sweden developed a leading innovation system for mobile telephony but not for data communication; and second, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the innovation system for mobile data communications? Findings include that early developments mattered, innovative search direction is crucial as are the provision of incentives for innovative activity.

Functional analysis of innovation systems useful for guiding policy actions, which should have the purpose of strengthening weak functions, removing bottlenecks and stimulating inducement mechanisms, in particular if used to stimulate the transition from one phase to another. It needs further development, in particular with respect to the understanding of diffusion processes.

The stimulation of innovation in, and diffusion of, mobile and broadband data services is crucial to development of the innovation system, globally, in Europe and in Sweden. An innovation system which allows for entrepreneurial experimentation should be fostered. Early stage financing and diffusion of services are major system weaknesses. Regulatory authorities should consider addressing innovation explicitly.

New (adapted) approach for guiding policy action. Better understanding of dynamics in the telecom sector, and the comparative success and failure of Swedish industry in sub‐sectors.

The purpose of this paper is to design an open architecture of an interconnected communication system (ICS) for multi‐level electric power control centers (EPCC) based on Tele‐control Application Service Element (TASE.2), which possesses specialties of high performances, robustness, cost‐efficiency, quick‐restoration, and easy‐maintenance.

Based on the hierarchy and structure of TASE.2, the overall architecture of the ICS for multi‐level EPCC is put forward at first. As the key devices in the system, the structures of the communication gateway (CG) and common interface are designed. Then, the logical procession flows in CG and the con modes, for both CG and IC are analyzed in detail. The web‐based software configuration of remote maintenance and fault diagnosis is discussed conceptually.

As a standardized, well‐developed, and efficient protocol, TASE.2 is considered to be the most suitable protocol to support the ICS for multi‐level EPCC.

The performance of the ICS needs to be further simulated.

Practical architecture for ICS for multi‐level EPCC with robustness and cost‐efficient specialty is designed in principle, which is very useful for manufacturers to develop pilot devices or even products.

This paper proposes a new ICS scheme for multi‐level EPCC based on TASE.2 is proposed.

British government approves data network After months of preparation by HM Treasury's Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA), the first phase of the Government Data Network (GDN) has now been accepted. Trials of GDN took place in January, and it has now been implemented for daily use in 178 Customs and Excise locations throughout Britain. GDN is operated by Racal Data Networks.

Communication and Information Management (CIM) is crucial for any organisation and effectiveness of CIM can result in significant improvement to the bottom line and customer satisfaction. The purpose of this paper is to investigate and streamline the communication and information system within an “infrastructure support service” company using Six Sigma methodology.

The research involved a triangulation approach of case study and use of survey instrument to find a solution to the problem.

The paper highlights a significant concern with regard to CIM within all the business units of the group. The effectiveness of the present CIM system for the whole group is below industry average with regard to accuracy and timeliness of CIM, resulting in an inefficient management reporting system. Operating in a highly competitive and time‐bound environment, correct and real time reporting is paramount. The main reasons for the ineffectiveness of CIM across the group can be attributed to two main factors; data management and communication systems being used. The paper also illustrates an appreciation of the use of Six Sigma within a transactional environment.

This study is a novel application of Six Sigma methodology within the communication and information management system.

The efficiency and effectiveness of hospital emergency rooms depend on the effectiveness of the information and communication system as well as on the physical facility itself. Describes the role of information technology in the design of contemporary ER systems. A computerized information board is one system that can enhance the operation of an ER facility. Describes the structure of this system, as well as its integration with other computerized systems. Also describes design features that may help to reduce ER delays/frustration. Because many types of professionals are involved in the daily operations of an ER facility, their input to the design is essential. For this reason, also describes a group decision‐making process.

We describe the first prototypes of an inter‐robot infrared localisation and communication system. The system detects the relative positions (both range and bearing) of autonomous mobile robots with an update rate of up to 20 Hz, a range of up to 3 m and an accuracy of 40 cm for range and 45° for bearing. In addition, each robot can send at least 1 byte of data to all the other robots within the range per update cycle. Flocking on a group of eight robots is used as a non‐trivial real‐world test of this system. We conclude the paper by discussing advantages, limitations, and future improvements of the system.

This paper aims to share the vision of integrated building systems based on internet protocol (IP) based on the presentations and facilitated discussions at the BuilConn: Cisco's Connected Real Estate Roundtable in Spring 2006.

Based on the observation of the BuilConn Conference Roundtable and related literature, this paper lays out requirements to support IP‐ and computer‐based integration of building systems.

The authors detail the value proposition, challenges, and related engineering and business transformations of integrated building systems. While cost savings, new advanced services, and flexibility in building operations are the major benefits, the main challenges are the missing awareness and knowledge in the building industry, the educational gap among real estate professionals and owners, the implementation of appropriate security, the use of intelligent building technology, performance and cost saving issues, specific problems for building renovation projects, and the realization of reliable critical building operations. Furthermore, the balance between IP and non‐IP devices, benefits of the IP itself, and the need for more elaborate standards were discussed at the Roundtable. The Roundtable participants identified the following critical transformations within the building project environment to make integrated IP‐based building systems a reality: more flexible design, construction, and facility management contracts, earlier involvement of integration experts, and more flexibility in today's design process.

The participants felt that only when these transformations are accomplished and the mentioned challenges resolved will companies be able to take full advantage of the benefits and realize the vision of integrated IP‐based building systems.

This paper summarizes the presentations and facilitated discussions at the Roundtable, which have, so far, only been accessible to the roundtable participants, and provides a reflecting point of view of participants from the building industry, building owners, and academic representatives on strategic and operational issues around IP‐based building systems.