16 research outputs found
Geometric data in urban building energy modeling: current practices and the case for automation
No full textUrban building energy modeling (UBEM) is crucial for addressing energy consumption challenges in urban environments. This study investigates the significant role of geometric data in UBEM, focusing on its impact on accurately capturing urban morphology for realistic simulations and analyses. By reviewing and comparing various bottom-up modeling approaches—white-box, grey-box, and black-box models, this research highlights the methodologies, techniques, and advancements in geometric data collection. A framework is proposed to guide urban planners, architects, engineers, and policymakers in selecting appropriate geometric data collection strategies tailored to specific modeling needs, considering factors such as geometric features, data accuracy, resolution, scalability, and cost. Additionally, the study explores data preprocessing techniques, including noise reduction, feature extraction, and data integration, to improve the quality and usability of geometric data for energy modeling. Recent advancements, such as the integration of computer vision techniques and machine learning for automated building feature extraction and classification, are also examined. The findings provide practical guidance for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of UBEM, contributing to more sustainable urban energy management and better-informed decision-making in urban planning and policy development. This research offers a novel perspective by synthesizing current practices and proposing a comprehensive framework that addresses the ongoing challenges in geometric data collection and utilization in UBEM.Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) under the Discovery Progra
Primary lesser sac myxoid liposarcoma: A case report
No full textAbstractIntroductionLesser sac pathological entities are uncommon. Most of these are tumors and are generally misdiagnosed as retroperitoneal lesions.Case reportA 62year old male with past history of treated hypopharyngeal cancer presented with progressive abdominal distension. Physical examination revealed a midline intra abdominal mass in the epigastrium and umbilical region. Radiological investigations were suggestive of a retroperitoneal tumor,an image guided biopsy was reported as atypical lipoma. Surgical exploration confirmed a large multi lobulated tumor arising primarily from the lesser sac, post operative histopathological examination confirmed a myxoid liposarcoma.DiscussionPrimary lesser sac tumors are rare, a literature review of primary lesser sac tumors with particular reference to myxoid liposarcoma is presented.ConclusionPrimary lesser sac liposarcomas are rare neoplasms. The myxoid variant is unique for its peculiar biological behavior, in its sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiotherapy and for the presence of specific cytogenetic marker
Wheeler: A Three-Wheeled Input Device for Usable, Efficient, and Versatile Non-Visual Interaction
Get PDFBlind users rely on keyboards and assistive technologies like screen readers to interact with user interface (UI) elements. In modern applications with complex UI hierarchies, navigating to different UI elements poses a significant accessibility challenge. Users must listen to screen reader audio descriptions and press relevant keyboard keys one at a time. This paper introduces Wheeler, a novel three-wheeled, mouse-shaped stationary input device, to address this issue. Informed by participatory sessions, Wheeler enables blind users to navigate up to three hierarchical levels in an app independently using three wheels instead of navigating just one level at a time using a keyboard. The three wheels also offer versatility, allowing users to repurpose them for other tasks, such as 2D cursor manipulation. A study with 12 blind users indicates a significant reduction (40%) in navigation time compared to using a keyboard. Further, a diary study with our blind co-author highlights Wheeler\u27s additional benefits, such as accessing UI elements with partial metadata and facilitating mixed-ability collaboration.Paper accepted at UIST\u2724 (Oct 13-16, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
International Construction Measurement Standards: Global Consistency in Presenting Construction Costs
Get PDFThis publication presents an international cost classification system for infrastructure projects. It aims to provide global consistency in classifying, defining, measuring, analysing and presenting the cost of infrastructure projects
International Construction Measurement Standards: Global Consistency in Presenting Construction and Other Life Cycle Costs
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International Construction Measurement Standards: Global Consistency in Presenting Construction and Other Life Cycle Costs
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International Construction Measurement Standards: Global Consistency in Presenting Construction and Other Life Cycle Costs
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