Brain Controlled Car for Disabled Using Artificial Intelligence - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 5 Words: 1563 Downloads: 8 Date added: 2017/09/18 Category Technology Essay Type Argumentative essay Tags: Artificial Intelligence Essay Did you like this example? A Paper Presentation on BRAIN CONTROLLED CAR FOR DISABLED USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Submitted on the event of Zeitgeist’09 At UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING JNTU, KAKINADA Presented by: Y. H. H. S . AYYAPPA. S SREEKANTH. GELAM II MCA II MCA [emailprotected] om [emailprotected] com ADITYA INSTITUTE OF P. G. STUDIES Kakinada, E. G. Dist, A. P. 1. ABSTRACT This paper considers the development of a brain driven car, which would be of great help to the physically disabled people. Since these cars will rely only on what the individual is thinking they will hence not require any physical movement on the part of the individual. The car integrates signals from a variety of sensors like video, weather monitor, anti-collision etc. it also has an automatic navigation system in case of emergency. The car works on the asynchronous mechanism of artificial intelligence. It’s a great advance of technology which will make the disabled, abled. In the 40s and 50s, a numbe r of researchers explored the connection between neurology, information theory, and cybernetics. Some of them built machines that used electronic networks to exhibit rudimentary intelligence, such as W. Grey Walters turtles and the Johns Hopkins Beast. Many of these researchers gathered for meetings of the Teleological Society at Princeton and the Ratio Club in England. Most researchers hope that their work will eventually be incorporated into a machine with general intelligence (known as strong AI), combining all the skills above and exceeding human abilities at most or all of them. A few believe that anthropomorphic features like artificial consciousness or an artificial brain may be required for such a project. 2. INTRODUCTION The video and thermogram analyzer continuously monitor activities outside the car. A brain-computer interface (BCI), sometimes called a direct neural interface or a brain-machine interface, is a direct communication pathway etween a human or animal brain (or brain cell culture) and an external device. In one-way BCIs, computers either accept commands from the brain or send signals to it (for example, to restore vision) but not both. Two-way BCIs would allow brains and external devices to exchange information in both directions but have yet to be successfully implanted in animals or humans. In this definition, the word brain means the brain or nervous system of an organic life form rather than the mind. Computer means any processing or computational device, from simple circuits to silicon hips (including hypothetical future technologies such as quantum computing) Once the driver (disabled) nears the car. The security system of the car is activated. Images as well as thermo graphic results of the driver are previously fed into the database of the computer. If the video images match with the database entries then the security system advances to the next stage. Here the thermo graphic image verification is done with the database. Once the driver passes this stage the door slides to the sides and a ramp is lowered from its floor. The ramp has flip actuators in its lower end. Once the driver enters the ramp, the flip actuates the ramp to be lifted horizontally. Then robotic arms assist the driver to his seat. As soon as the driver is seated the EEG (electroencephalogram) helmet, attached to the top of the seat, is lowered and suitably placed on the driver’s head. A wide screen of the computer is placed at an angle aesthetically suitable to the driver. Each program can be controlled either directly by a mouse or by a shortcut. For starting the car, the start button is clicked. Accordingly the computer switches ON the circuit from the battery to the A. C. Series Induction motors. 3. BIOCONTROL SYSTEM The biocontrol system integrates signals from various other systems and compares them with originals in the database. It comprises of the following systems: ?Brain-computer interface ?Automatic security syst em ?Automatic navigation system Now let us discuss each system in detail. 3. 1. BRAIN – COMPUTER INTERFACE Brain-computer interfaces will increase acceptance by offering customized, intelligent help and training, especially for the non-expert user. Development of such a flexible interface paradigm raises several challenges in the areas of machine perception and automatic explanation. The teams doing research in this field have developed a single-position, brain-controlled switch that responds to specific patterns detected in spatiotemporal electroencephalograms (EEG) measured fromthe human scalp. We refer to this initial design as the Low- Frequency Asynchronous Switch Design (LF-ASD) (Fig. 1). Fig. 1 LF-ASD The EEG is then filtered and run through a fast Fourier transform before being displayed as a three dimensional graphic. The data can then be piped into MIDI compatible music programs. Furthermore, MIDI can be adjusted to control other external processes, such as ro botics. The experimental control system is configured for the particular task being used in the evaluation. Real Time Workshop generates all the control programs from Simulink models and C/C++ using MS Visual C++ 6. 0. Analysis of data is mostly done within Mat lab environment. FEATURES OF EEG BAND Remote analysis data can be sent and analyzed in real-time over a network or modem connection. Data can be fully exported in raw data, FFT average formats. Ultra low noise balanced DC coupling amplifier. Max input 100microV p-p, minimum digital resolution is 100 microV p-p / 256 = 0. 390625 micro V p-p. FFT point can select from 128 (0. 9375 Hz), 256 (0. 46875 Hz), 512 (0. 234375 Hz resolution). Support for additional serial ports via plug-in boar; allows extensive serial input output control. Infinite real-time data acquisition (dependent upon hard drive size). Real-time 3-D 2-D FFT with peak indicator, Raw Data, and Horizontal Bar displays with Quick Draw mode. Full 24 bit colo r support; data can be analyzed with any standard or user. Customized color palettes; color cycling available in 8 bit mode with QuickDrawmode. Interactive real-time FFT filtering with Quick Draw mode. Real-time 3-D FFT (left, right, coherence and relative coherence), raw wave, sphere frequency and six brain wave switch in one OpenGL display. Full Brainwave driven Quick Time Movie, Quick Time MIDI control; user configurable Full Brain wave driven sound control, support for 16 bit sound; user configurable Full image capture and playback control; user configurable. Fig. 2: EEG Transmission Fig. 3 EEG 3. 1. 1. TEST RESULTS COMPARING DRIVER ACCURACY WITH/WITHOUT BCI 1. Able-bodied subjects using imaginary movements could attain equal or better control accuracies than able-bodied subjects using real movements. 2. Subjects demonstrated activation accuracies in the range of 70-82% with false activations below 2%. 3. Accuracies using actual finger movements were observed in the range 36- 83% 4. The average classification accuracy of imaginary movements was over 99% Fig. Brain-to- Machine Mechanism The principle behind the whole mechanism is that the impulse of the human brain can be tracked and even decoded. The Low-Frequency Asynchronous Switch Design traces the motor neurons in the brain. When the driver attempts for a physical movement, he/she sends an impulse to the motor neuron. These motor neurons carry the signal to the physical components such as hands or legs. Hence we decode the message at the motor neuron to obtain maximum accuracy. By observing the sensory neurons we can monitor the eye movement of the driver. Fig. Eyeball Tracking As the eye moves, the cursor on the screen also moves and is also brightened when the driver concentrates on one particular point in his environment. The sensors, which are placed at the front and rear ends of the car, send a live feedback of the environment to the computer. The steering wheel is turned through a specific angl e by electromechanical actuators. The angle of turn is calibrated from the distance moved by the dot on the screen. Fig. 6 Electromechanical Control Unit Fig. 7 Sensors and Their Range 3. 2. AUTOMATIC SECURITY SYSTEM The EEG of the driver is monitored continually. When it drops less than 4 Hz then the driver is in an unstable state. A message is given to the driver for confirmation and waits for sometime, to continue the drive. A confirmed reply activates the program for automatic drive. If the driver is doesn’t give reply then the computer prompts the driver for the destination before the drive. 3. 3. AUTOMATIC NAVIGATION SYSTEM As the computer is based on artificial intelligence it automatically monitors every route the car travels and stores it in its map database for future use. The map database is nalyzed and the shortest route to the destination is chosen. With traffic monitoring system provided by xm satellite radio the computer drives the car automatically. Video a nd anti-collision sensors mainly assist this drive by providing continuous live feed of the environment up to 180 m, which is sufficient for the purpose. Fig. 8 EEG Analysis Window 4. CONCLUSION When the above requirements are satisfied and if this car becomes cost effective then we shall witness a revolutionary change in the society where the demarcation between the abler and the disabled vanishes. Thus the integration of bioelectronics with automotive systems is essential to develop efficient and futuristic vehicles, which shall be witnessed soon helping the disabled in every manner in the field of transportation. 5. REFERENCE 1. Off-line Classification of EEG from the New York Brain- Computer Interface (BCI) Flotzinger, D. , Kalcher, J. , Wolpaw, J. R. , McFarland, J. J. , and Pfurtscheller, G. , Report #378, IIG-Report Series, IIG: Institutes for Information Processing, Graz University of Technology, Austria 1993. . Man-MachineCommunications through Brain-Wave Processing Keir n, Z. A. and Aunon, J. I. , IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Magazine, March 1990. 3. Automotive engineering, SAE, June 2005 4. Automotive mechanics , Crouse , tenth edition , 1993 5. The brain response interface: communication through visually-induced electrical brain responses Sutter, E. E. , Journal of Microcomputer Applications, 1992, 15: 31-45. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Brain Controlled Car for Disabled Using Artificial Intelligence" essay for you Create order

How Safety Is An Essential Human Need Essay - 1209 Words

Introduction Safety is an essential human need. Implementation of this need is determined by the level of development of the state, its economic and cultural components, and the degree and quality of life. In the history of social and philosophical thought, the problem of security of the individual, society, and the state has always occupied the minds of politicians, public figures, scientists, writers, and practitioners. Therefore, this paper will focus on Plato, Plutarch, and Arendt’s understanding of safety in society as well as it will regard the modern conditions of the security components. Plato about Safety in a Society According to Plato, the state should pay particular attention to the soldiers who ensure its safety. It means that no other problems should detract the soldiers from their task to preserve safety. Plato understands security as an ‘aid,’ or a ‘salvation.’ He elaborated an integrated system of safety concept, which included its fundamental mechanisms and maintenance. The philosopher ensures that the security mechanisms include, first of all, the establishment of social institutions (Cooper, John and Hutchinson 40). Second, Plato states the society’s safety entails the education of citizens and the formation of their moral state. Third, safety consists of providing all citizens of society with the means which are necessary for life. The ideal model of society, as Plato states, is where the security of the person is ensured only within the framework ofShow MoreRelatedSafety And Health Of Human Resource Management Essay1541 Words   |  7 Pages Safety and health in human resource management Martha Mbugua East Centarl University Safety and health in human resource management Introduction Human resource management in any organization is responsible for various aspects that concern the employees. Safety and health is one aspect the human resource professionals oversee in any given workplace environment (Clarke, Ward, 2006).Human resource professionalsRead MoreFundamental Of Hrm By Gary Dessler1505 Words   |  7 PagesBooks Summary Book 1 Fundamental of HRM by Gary Dessler (third edition) is the book that can be used by human resource managers because it contains details pertaining their roles and leadership insights in working organizations. The book covers a wide range of HR topics and shows readers the importance of HRM and a wealth of functional examples and applications. The book explains ways of managing human resources today, opportunities and diversity management and strategy analysis for HRM leaders. The secondRead MoreAcceptance of Others is Necessary Essay683 Words   |  3 Pagesthings have needs. Whether the needs be as basic as food or as complex as discovering the reason for existence, all organisms have them. â€Å"Maslow wrote that, beyond the basic needs for water, food, shelter, and the like, people’s needs are ‘for safety, belongingness and identification, for close love relationships, and for respect and prestige’†. In a way, we all strive to fulfill these needs at some point in our lives. For example, in order to satisfy the need for safety, human beings live togetherRead MoreSkills and Competencies818 Words   |  4 Pagesstrong communication skills, but communication is really a competency that relies on a combination of certain skills, behavior and knowledge. To communicate effectively a person may need to understand cultural diversity, have advanced language skills, and behave with patience. Interpersonal communication is essential in every area of life, but it especially critical in the field of nursing. Nurses are responsible for understanding and for being understood. They are required to both listen carefullyRead MoreThe Future Of The Healthcare Delivery System1443 Words   |  6 PagesThe future of the healthcare delivery system is changing. Due to the complexities related to health and nursing care delivery the nursing profession needs to look at ways to expand nursing knowledge. There is now greater focus on health promotion, illness prevention as well as how to handle high acuity, chronic disease management across the care continuum in a cost effective manner (AACN 2011). The educational levels required for nurses have been long debated. The Tri-Council for Nursing hasRead MoreThe Impact Of Strategic Human Resource Management Essay1552 Words   |  7 Pagesimpact of Strategic human resource management- Strategy human resources can be characterized as the interfacing of human assets with key objectives and targets to enhance business execution and create authoritative society that encourage development, adaptability and competitive advantage. In a business, Strategic human asset management means tolerating and including the Human Resources work as a key accomplice in the definition and usage of the organization s techniques through Human Resources exercisesRead MoreAnimal Experimentation1612 Words   |  7 PagesTesting). Imagine the world without the essential vaccines that are used to promote healthy humans, but that is the world without animal experimentations. The lack of animal experimentations is the lack of vaccines which would cause many illnesses that would also lead to losing countless numbers of lives. In addition, society has been more dependable upon cosmetics; therefore, the demand of cosmetics promotes animal experimentations to insure on the safety of using these products. Society would notRead MoreSafety Management Systems For Aviation Service1684 Words   |  7 Pagesthis essay, some basic concepts need to be understood. Such as the framework behind Safety Management System (SMS) and how safety thinki ng has evolved over time. This essay will also provide an overview on how organisational behaviour and human factors play a powerful role in the establishment of a positive safety culture within an organisation. Different regulatory bodies and National Aviation Authorities use different definitions for the management of safety principles. For the purpose of thisRead MoreHow Salinity Affects The Amount Of Oxygen Duckweed Produces1368 Words   |  6 PagesHow Salinity Affects the Amount of Oxygen Duckweed Produces Question How does the amount of salinity affect how much oxygen is given off by duckweed? Manipulated Variable (Sodium Chloride) The manipulated variable in our project is sodium chloride, commonly known as salt. Sodium chloride is a cube-shaped mineral that is mined all over the world. It is known scientifically as NaCL, and it is made up of 40% sodium and 60% chlorine. Sodium chloride is essential to most living things on Earth. ForRead MorePersuasive Essay On Animal Testing1155 Words   |  5 Pagesand nothing can justify torturing and killing innocent animals. Although many believe that animal testing is the best way to improve human health by finding new treatments and tests for the safety of the products, the physical torture and painful deaths of animals are not worth the possible human benefits. Some people believe that animal testing is essential for the medical breakthrough, while others disagree. Thanks to biomedical research people are living longer, healthier and happier lives

Instilling Safety Awareness in Children Free Essays

Name : Lim Xiao Pei Class : 4S1 IC No. : 971022-08-5976 Topic : Instilling Safety Awareness In Children Theme : Social Issues Children are innocent. They don’t have a clear idea of what a bad person might look like. We will write a custom essay sample on Instilling Safety Awareness in Children or any similar topic only for you Order Now They probably think someone with a moustache and ugly or evil facial expression is a bad person. The children do not think that women and kind-looking elderly men may be the bad person. The best people to teach children about personal safety are their parents. In view of the mounting number of crimes involving young children,parents must think about how they can protect their children from the danger that lurk around them. First of all,children need to know about their neighbours and living area. Parents should tell their children where they can visit when parents are not around. It will be great if boundaries are set outlining the areas that they can go to. If your children are invited by friends and neighbours to areas beyond the set boundaries,tell them that they should first check with you before venturing out. Then,remind your child to look out for the strangers hanging around frequently. Teach them to be aware of people who go round chatting up little kids or strangers cruising the neighbourhood. Parents must make sure that their children are aware of safety measures to take with regards to strangers,before allowing them to venture out on their own. Children should be told that if they feel uncomfortable when a stranger approaches them,they should run away without any hesitation. They should also be taught to say â€Å"No† and to shout for help when necessary. Parents should also be cautious in allowing their children to go out by themselves to meet friends at public places. Though it may be tiresome,parents should accompany their children if they need to wait for their friends. If possible,parents can pick up their friends and send them to their destination too. Furthermore,parents must always be sure where their children at all times. They should make sure that their children do not accept any gifts or invitations from any strangers. Besides,parents must realize that potential dangers involving child abuse and sexual assault lurk in places where children spend most of their time. Thus,parents should teach their children the ways to protect themselves. If possible,parents can send their children to learn martial arts too. Parents must be approachable to their children. When a child confesses to wrongdoing,find out the facts of the case before punishing them. Do not forget to give them a chance to explain and see how you can help them to solve the problem. If parents are unapproachable to children,they will bias to strangers who treat them very nice. The time has came for the community to work together to prevent crimes in our neighbourhood. Creating a safe neighbourhood is everyone’s responsibility. When we help to keep all the children safe,we are protecting our own family too. *This is very important as children are still young and cannot detect the approaching of danger. For example,the six-year-old child,William Yau Zhen Zhong was left with his siblings,Eric and Cindy in his parents’ car as they went to a shop. He apparently got out of the car to look for his parents when Cindy started crying. He was reported missing after that. Nine days later,his body was found in a river. How to cite Instilling Safety Awareness in Children, Essay examples

Performance In Airlines Industry In Kenya -Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Discuss About The Performance In Airlines Industry In Kenya? Answer: Introducation The target market of Coca Cola does not contain a specified segment. Though it does not target a specific market, their targeting strategy is based on the demographics of the chosen segment (Mokaya et al., 2012).Age - based on the age they can target specifically the consumers of 15-30 years old people. As the people with less than 15 will be, much younger consumers and they cannot be reached easily. The people more than 30 years old will be more health conscious. Reaching the chosen target marketing can also be done easily through partnerships, for example, fast food chains in the international market (Mokaya et al., 2012).Lifestyle - the busy and mobile generation of youth, the work life addicts can be the most important consumers that can be targeted.Occupation and nature the fun loving and the adventure loving people needs to be targeted. As the brand, positioning in the current market is to target people with those characteristics.The customers media habits can also be analysed for media exposure in their daily life (Mokaya et al., 2012). Positioning Coca Cola can strategically position itself in the soft-drink market. The new tagline of the brand is taste the feeling is to target people who likes have the fun and entertainment in their food. The company has always positioned itself with relation to joy and happiness in the company(Janiszewska and Insch, 2012). The high degree of loyalty comes from the satisfaction if the Figure 1 Source: (Mokaya 2012) The new brand positioning is to target the market with unique selling proposition that is related to joy and happiness. The brand can also be positioned according to the values that can be be attractive to people that does not comes under the target market managementt of the company (Janiszewska and Insch, 2012). Coca Cola classic with their competitors are can be positioned as traditional and medium sugar based. In addition, their Coke Zero can be positioned as modern and low sugar soft drink and diet coke can be less sugar and traditionally positioned in the customer mind. A value proposition for target market The customer value proposition of coca cola is very specific to a point and main mission of the company is to deliver its customer the different brand stories that the company have adapted though the years. The story they are telling this time is to taste the feeling that is categorised as lifestyle based to increase the happiness and joy one can feel after having the soft drink. Coca-cola as a brand of non-alcoholic beverage sector has differentiated their products in the segment very well (Muhamad et al. 2012). The core benefits and a unique value propositions that the company gives its customers are related to joy and happiness. The new value proposition that can tick the customers can be the money saving schemes in the big purchases and the health consciousness of the diet coke. To implement this messages of Coca colas new brand positioning can give a focused differentiated method of reaching out to the consumers (Muhamad et al., 2012). Value proposition canvas Product features Products : Coca cola Classic Coke Zero Diet Coke Features: Best selling soft drink for quenching thirst Health drink Experience for customers: The tagline says taste the feeling Customers Reference Janiszewska, K. and Insch, A., 2012. The strategic operations of brand positioning in the place brand concept: elements, structure and application capabilities.Journal of International Studies Vol,5(1). Mokaya, S., Kanyagia, P. and Wagoki, J., 2012. Market positioning and organizational performance in the Airlines industry in Kenya.International Journal of Arts and Commerce,1(4), pp.121-132. Muhamad, R., Melewar, T.C. and Faridah Syed Alwi, financial, 2012. Segmentation and brand positioning for Islamic financial services.European Journal of Marketing,46(7/8), pp.900-921.

Answers to More Questions About Usage

Answers to More Questions About Usage Answers to More Questions About Usage Answers to More Questions About Usage By Mark Nichol Confusion about words or phrases with similar connotations or constructions is common; here are several questions from DailyWritingTips.com readers about usage, and my responses. 1. What is the difference between remuneration and emolument? The words have essentially the same meaning – â€Å"compensation or payment† though remuneration also pertains to payment by a customer or client, and emolument also refers to perquisites, or perks (privileges or offers for employees such as one’s own parking space or free use of a fitness center.) 2. I wish to know when and where to use toward or towards, and what is the difference? The words are variations with identical meanings. Towards is British English, though many Americans use it, especially in conversation. Toward is preferable in formal US English. 3. In my country, bottled, aerated drinks like Coca-Cola and Pepsi are called â€Å"cold drinks† universally. But a sizable community calls them â€Å"cool drinks.† How do I convince and let them know the difference between cool and cold? Also, many people use the term action in place of acting when it comes to describing someone’s performance in a film or a play. â€Å"Cold drink† (and â€Å"cool drink†) may be universal in your country, but there are many terms for carbonated beverages, so I think any effort to try to control usage in this case is futile. As for action used as you describe, English usage evolves, and what may seem like an aberration now will often become standard vocabulary in the future. Even if action never becomes formally acceptable as a synonym for acting, its persistence as a variant is probably inevitable. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Regarding Re:Among vs. Amongst25 Idioms with Clean

A Critical Study of Sainsburys Managing information systems (MIS) The WritePass Journal

A Critical Study of Sainsburys Managing information systems (MIS) INTRODUCTION: A Critical Study of Sainsburys Managing information systems (MIS) INTRODUCTION:MANAGING INFORMATION SYSTEMS ACROSS VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS IN J.SAINSBURY’S SUPERMARKET:Information systems in checkouts:Decision making at three tiers of management in Sainsbury’s:Conclusion:ReferencesRelated INTRODUCTION: Managing information systems (MIS) is a process which provides information to an organization to manage effectively. managing information system(MIS) is a system that combines both the human and computer based resources which can be used to collection of raw data, retrieving   data, storing the data, processing the data and   converting it in to the information which is able to communicate with all levels of management using the information technology. MIS enables the user/organization to manage things effectively. it provides the   base to an organization to   make better decisions and to handle critical problems, controlling and coordinating   the organization successfully. Information system is not a option but it is a essential requirement by any organization. it is also the mediator between different levels of management. it plays very important role in organizational level. it also makes easier to communicate each other effectively. it is also updates the information across various levels and gives a chance to rethink of future plans. it gives the external information about other firms to stand in the competitive environment successfully. it is not only a useful tool but it must be included in any organization to run their business. MIS in any organization is supposed to provide information to their customers. MANAGING INFORMATION SYSTEMS ACROSS VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS IN J.SAINSBURY’S SUPERMARKET: Information systems is very crucial factor to any organization from top level management to employees, manufacturers, suppliers, retailers,   marketing analysts,   warehouses, supply chain management.. Etc. Based on the information system, an organization management could include planning, organizing, directing, controlling, evaluating and reporting etc.. An information system is the heart of any organization to assess the companies past review’s and performance and to plan the present and future organizational objectives. Information system uses the database to store large amounts of data, statically analyzing the data, and to produce it in to useful information that can be used by various levels of management. Information system is used by the managers of their own departments to identify the critical issues occurred in the past activities, discussing about the issue with the other team members of the department and planned to solve and overcome the problems. Managing information systems in Sainsbury’s stores:   Sainsbury’s supermarket is the uk’s largest major food retailing chain.   It has 525 supermarkets and 303 convenience stores, a Sainsbury’s bank. For the big corporate organization like Sainsbury’s, it is essential requirement to managing information systems in an efficient way. Information systems is used in Sainsbury’s at various levels of management and various departments. The information systems are used in a supermarket stores at various levels from stock handling controlling to maintain appropriate temperatures in fridges and freezers. In the supermarket stores uses the several computer systems which can be called LAN (LOCAL AREA NETWORK). These computer systems are aims to operate the stock control and checkout systems. These are one that incorporates the functionality of multiple devices. Every authorised person can access these data base systems.   In stores, hand held devices are introduced and allow the administration staff, shop floor colleagues and stock control staff to change the price of products and creating price labels, and for future deliveries. The hand held devices are also called shelf edge computers (SEC). Every individual product has unique code to identify the product details; the item has a unique barcode which can be scan by the hand held scanners.   Electronic point of sale (EPOS) is a machine located at every checkout. E POS contains a digital display to display , a keyboard, a scanner which can read bar codes, a set of scales, a printer, a debit card reader and a till drawer. All of these components are attached to a till. Each and every item should have a unique code number that is independent of all other product. Even the same product of different sizes needs a unique code to identify the product. The unique bar code numbers are printed on the outside of the product packaging or attached label to that product which is shown in the figure (a) below. Figure (d): hand held system Barcodes are combined with a set of thick black lines and white lines. Ex: Figure(c). Figure (e) : EPOS Information systems in checkouts: The EPOS reads the product barcodes at the checkouts till machine, and identifies the product and it finds the cost of the product, after scanning the product the machine gives an option to the customer whether they have any nectar card, staff discount card, any voucher card. After all it charges the customer appropriately. Each card mentioned above also has barcode on it, and the machine identifies it uniquely. All till machines are connected together with a branch server system via cables. Each and every product information stored in the branch system, it gives the information to tills when it needed. When scanning an item by the scanner the machine sends the product details to the database. So that the server system can identify that how many remaining items of the same product are available in shelves, it gets the information about that particular product such as how many number of items are sold out, how many are left in the shelves, how many product details are totally sold out . After getting the information about all products it stores the information about that product in the database. It helps to identify the number of product are totally sold out, and in out of stock. So the store can order the delivery of that product. Also the system checks that the product has any special offer and it gives discount where it is needed. Each and every product and service related details are stored in the database and it communicates with all the other systems including tills, it exchanges the information at all the times. When scanning the item it tells the customer that it has been read correctly by giving beep sound. If it not gives any sound one can assume that it has not been read correctly. And there is also an option on the screen that without scanning a product, by entering the code number by using the keyboard can identify the product. For example any reduced items that mean the item has short life and store reduced the cost of an item. After billing the cus tomer receives a paper bill which is made by the printer. The printer is attached with every till and it shares the information and prints on a piece of paper. the customers are allowed to pay by cash or debit card. When the customers use the card, he/she is supposed to put the card on the reader, it also use the information system, whether the card is authorised and it is from authorised bank. The card reader shares the information with all associated banks, and assesses the card information and the debit the amount correctly. The processes of using debit cards are called electronic transfer funds. Stock control: the information systems play an important role in stock control in the super market stores. In the process of billing customers it is known to the server that the number of remaining products is available in the store. in fact, there are also some damaged products or expired products are remained on the shelves. Stock fillers dispose the expired one and use the reduced price labels with new barcodes on it , if the product has short life. Stock control department uses the information system, and it orders the products where it is needed, and stores the information about the number of products are delivered to the store when they get the delivery. The price labels are usually placed   on the shelves borders, and the stock controllers scans the price labels where it is empty. Stock control is useful asset in finding the stores profit assessment. The assessment is based on the number of products are delivered to the store and number of products are sold out, the number o f the products are damaged, the number of products expired. This is the important information stored in the database by the stock control team. The each computer in the store is linked with branch server system, which is connected with a head branch of a supermarket computer sever. All the database of an individual store is stored in the head office server system. It maintains the chain of computer systems effectively via extranet sources. Extranet is like a internet but, completely private database network and is connected to internet via satellite. It is because of the process of exchanging information and managing information system of all the stores of the Sainsbury’s stores. Sainsbury’s head office is located in the heart of city of London. It has the database over nearly eight hundred store branches. Figure (f): branch computer link to headquarters visa satellite. Inter communication between the branch stores to head branch of the store: Every day the individual store sends the information about sales of the stores to main branch, the head branch estimates the number of items needs to be delivered to the store. The head branch also gets an overview of the sales of the individual store, and estimates the performance levels and suggests the improvements to the branch stores. Figure (g) network model Every individual store sends the daily report to the head quarters. Based on the store information head branch database system stores the updated information such as stocks, performance levels, etc.. Using the updated information the head quarters estimates need of improvement levels and stock deliveries to the stores. The information about stock deliveries are communicates with distribution of warehouses via information systems. The warehouse department which has large chunks of ready to deliver material delivers the stock immediately to the required stores. The whole Sainsbury’s maintain the same price levels and it updates any change of product prices are communicated to the branch stores. The product price changes are affects the branch stores immediately and followed work by the overnight workers. Human resource management information systems: information systems plays very important role in human resource department in any organisation. Maintaining the thousands of employees in a big organisation like Sainsbury’s is not a simple thing. The HR department uses the information system effectively to employ the staff to their needs and providing them training. Sainsbury’s HR department in all stores sends the information about new employees that the store employed, the employee details, employee position, contracted hours, employee salaries. Sainsbury’s HR department uses their website to employ the new staff that they required. The each and every individual store of Sainsbury’s sends the information about the need of staff resources in their store, the hours of work required, which department require the new staff. The head office then receives the information about all stores vacancies and posts on line at their website. It updates the information day to day as required. The hr department of head office sends the information to IT department in the head office about vacancy details and need to be posted on line. The IT department then receives the data and posted on their websites. It works effectively by the IT department. The IT department designed the website in an easy understandable form. When the candidate’s checks that there are any vacancies arise, and found their suitable position, they can apply immediately online. The website asks the candidates to register in the recruitment website. The registration in the recruitment website is very easy by following instructions. After registering in the site, they can progress their application. The website stores the candidates registration details and gives them unique id which is useful for the forth communication, the candidates information submitted on the site is very confidential and not known the third person, because of the successful maintenance of the informatio n and database systems. The Sainsbury’s website allows the number of candidates applying for a given position is set to a limit. So as to reduce the huge applications for the position that they might cause problem to selection department. All these limitations are set by the department by the use of the information systems. The website asks the candidates to attempt an online exam, which is used to tests candidate’s abilities as a preliminary test. The number of all limited allowed number of candidates attempts the exam and finish their application. The stored database system can get the result of the candidates test details automatically and sends to the HR department. HR department then assesses the candidate’s ability based on their test further forwards application to progress. All successful candidates information is stored once in the database available to head office hr department. The HR department assigns each successful candidate with a unique id to identify the colleague. Information systems in Accounts department: The HR department maintains the daily report of employees attendance, and their working hours each day and sends the information to accounts department for payrolls. The HR information systems maintains a report of each employees, that the contracted hours of the employees, holiday pay booked by the employees, the salary of the employees, and premium pay of work, bonus of the employees and their eligibility. Every week of the employees details in all individual stores accounts department sends the information to the head office HR department. The head office assesses the information and pays the employees every four weeks based on the information. Online shopping: Sainsbury’s is also become popular with their internet shopping facility.   Sainsbury’s online shopping is responsibility of each store online department. The online department in the Sainsbury’s is called STY(Sainsbury’s to you). Sainsbury’s supermarket online shopping efficiently works with the support of Sainsbury’s IT department. The information systems use of this department is more compare to other departments of this organisation. Sainsbury’s online shopping is easy way for customers to shop their needs by clicking on the computer instead of walking to store and taking the risk of delivery of the goods to their home. It provides the customers a way of easy shopping online, the company’s website provides the online shopping tool. All and every product that available in the individual store are available in the internet online shopping. The customers are expected to type in their postcode on the site, to find out which store is available nearly to their home. After typing in their postcode, clicking the access button the website tells the customer that the store is available to their home. The database of all postcodes and addresses are stored and processed by the information systems. Based on the customer information, the information system decides that which store is to be take care of the customer needs. When customer shops online and pays by card, the information first stored on the database of head office, then the assigned store. In the store, STY department automatically gets print out of the shopping list. The shopping lists are then stored in to the store database, and assigns the work to online shopping workers. The online shoppers in the STY department picks up all the items by the help of handset systems. The handheld systems are designed shortly for the use of wireless information exchange system. The manager of the STY department assigns the work into handheld systems, then the shoppers get order details one by one. The information about product details and in which aisle it is located is displayed on the handsets. So the shoppers are expected to scan the items and followed to delivery room. The information systems is more important in the department because of it is totally depended on the Information Technology. Decision making at three tiers of management in Sainsbury’s: There generally three tiers of management in any organisation. (1) top level management, (2) middle level management, (3) low level management. We can understand the management work at different levels by considering one example: When an organization is supposed to launch   a new product, various people’s involvement should be included in the project. For an example, Sainsbury’s supermarket wants to introduce a â€Å"ready to eat sandwich† into their stores. This is not a simple thing and cannot be introduced directly into their stores, but various issues should be considered about this product. The sandwich may be a two pieces of bread slices with a cheese and some ingredients on it, it should have different approach than where people can make it on their homes. This should be treated as a advantageous to consumers. Sainsbury’s is a chain of five hundred thirty five supermarkets and a kind of convenience stores included in it. When this big food retailer wants to add this new product to their stores, a detailed research should have made and should communicate with the different parties using the information systems. From it’s product design to sales, a unique code must be assigned to each sandwich to specify the details and allocate value to the product. It is clear that the product designer should specify the required ingredients for the product , and should include right percentage of nutrition values, diets, less fat ..etc. the sandwich design, manufacturer, suppliers through stores requires a shared information system to have a good communication between them. The Sainsbury’s management will create a brief description about the product which the information   shared by the manufacturer. Using of information systems in product life cycle management: product life cycle management is a process of managing a product from its conception   through its design, manufacturing, delivering out. Plc gives product details and specifications to companies. Product design: uses the information systems to assess the features of the product and the requirements for manufacturing of that product, needs of the customers. And it also usable by the product control unit to test the quality control and it again stores the details of the product in to database for further use. The stored data can be accessed by the manufacturing unit and companies to assess whether the design is desirable for company requirements. It gives an overview of the product details i.e the cost of the production, the range of products which can be manufactured and this information available to the all authorised required data bases of the company. Manufacturing of the product:   In recent years, the increasing of information technology in manufacturing increasing rapidly. Information is used to be at every level of an organization. In the competitive environment, there is need to understand the using of information systems and application of information technology in whole the process. In a process, from the raw material to the finished goods and shipping of the goods , information systems must be used to communicate at all levels. The information is important for money flow i.e payments can be paid out when delivery received to the recipient, information is usable by the manufacturer to buy and pay for the material, paying labour charges..etc. invoice can be issued by the manufacturer for right payments when he receives correct payments for the goods. A majority of manufacturing companies are using multiple computer network systems at their process. It is a challenge for the organizations to integrate the data bases in to their computer systems. Integrating the computer systems and data bases used to be the main priority for these organizations. By integrating these systems, the companies can know the required material, planning , directing and get the   knowledge of market position of their system. Sainsbury’s consists of nearly eight hundred supermarkets and a finance. The head office department is located in the Holborn, the heart of London. It operates the whole Sainsbury’s by the help of middle level management. We can clearly observe the role of decision making of three tiers of management by the above example. Conclusion: I conclude that the Managing information systems is important at organisational level, to stand in the corporate competitive environment. It is not an option but essential to run big organisation like Sainsbury’s. However there is no disadvantage of using information systems except system failure, but there is a need to maintain the information system by the effective efficient team of management. It is clear that the managing information systems give good decision making deal to the managers in any organisation. References 1) Management Information Systems 9e T. Lucey, bized.co.uk. 2)Bocij, P. Chaffey, D., (2005) Business Information Systems: Technology, Development and Management in the E-business, Prentice Hall. 3) Chen, S., (2004) Strategic Management of E-business, J Wiley Sons. 4) Laudon Laudon, (2007) Management Information Systems, 10th Edition, Prentice Hall. 5) Clarke Steve (2007); ‘Information Systems Strategic Management: an integrated approach’. ISBN 978-0-415-38187-1; Routledge Printing, Canada 6) Fattahi. R and Ebrahim Afshar (2006), ‘Added value of information and information systems: a conceptual approach’; Library Review Vol. 55 No. 2 7) www.sainsbury’s.co.uk 8) information age journal

Project Management #1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Project Management #1 - Essay Example The origin of Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) or modern version of it known as project life cycle can be traced back to the 1960's when project designers and developers initiated a series of steps in projects in order to track down the progress of a project. As early as in 1976 Archibald first wrote a comprehensive text book on project life cycle management (Archibald, 1976). He came closest to the modern sequence of phases given in SDLC. After Archibald a number of other scholars developed the concept of SDLC so that any project including engineering and IT can be represented. In 1981 Stuckenbruck developed a very formal sequence of phases to represent the project life cycle (Stuckenbruck, 1981). According to Stuckenbruck PLC is essential to adequately represent the various phases of a project from initiation to finish. Stuckenbruck was the first author to discuss budgeting and resource mapping for PLC. According to him there are just four phases in the life cycle of a project. They are Initiation, Growth, Production and Shutdown (Tinnirello, 1999). The figure he drew just represented a unimodal histogram. Writers tend to distinguish between government projects and private projects. However this paper would adopt a general approach avoiding specificities associated with government projects.The subsequent developments in the PLC literature were focused on modifying the above theoretical and conceptual models. In the process many new features were included though these changes did not substantially alter the original frameworks. Since 1980's a series of new developments took place and these developments went on till the traditional SDLC models were replaced with new ones (Westland, 2007). These new models are not only complex but also highly technical because many IT projects are designed and planned according to these models. Thus this paper would focus attention on three historical phases of SDLC development. Phase 1 Figure 1: Archibald's Project Life Span Start The Total Project Project Termination The above figure illustrates Archibald's visual representation of the sequence of phases in a project. According to Archibald the initiation phase of the project begins with its start and both the concept and definition continue with this phase. Assuming that the process of conceptualization of the project begins with designing the diverse parameters of the project, then it is possible that the subsequent definition will involve in outline of project outcomes.Next comes the design phase. Yet again Archibald did not elaborate how best to make use of diverse skills and tools to carry out the design phase of the project successfully. However he laid the foundation for a structural feasibility design framework that encompassed a range of issues such as the social dimension of the project and the corporate governance parameters (PMI, 2004).The phase of manufacture according to Archibald is identical to execution of a project. For instance there is a possibility that project