Abstract
This paper describes the methods and experiences of developing of an information system in an industrial innovation context. The case analysed respects to a system supporting quality management tasks of working teams in industrial companies, developed within a research & development EU funded project. The initial concept of the system is described first, followed by the way how requirements where elicited and structured and the system specified. Next, design and prototyping are analysed , detailing the end-users evaluation approach. Conclusions are drawn on the opportunities and difficulties od R&D involving industrial enterprises.

Abstract
This paper presents a conceptual foundation for enterprise modelling from the social and organisational viewpoints. First, a method for the qualitative evaluation of enterprise modelling methods according to those viewpoints is presented. Next, the proposed approach of methodological mediation through a social and organisational conceptual core is outlined, and its implementation using the so called ontological engineering explained. Copyright (C) 2000 IFAC.

Abstract
The wastewater plumes show to be very difficult to observed in detail. The several studies already conducted exhibit very complex and patchy structures both in vertical and horizontal sections. It is not clear if this plume patchiness is due to physical processes or measurement limitations. Rapid tow-yo sampling is expected to reduce the time variability during and between transects. The AUVs may be a useful instrument to map and detect wastewater plumes. This paper presents several prediction studies using time series files of actual in-situ measurements integrated in a near field model. The model predictions of the plume characteristics at the end of near field support the definition of the best sampling strategy for an AUV monitoring mission in a Portuguese west coast outfall.

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Abstract
In this paper we present a new constructive algorithm for nesting problems. The layout is built by successively adding a new piece to a partial solution, i.e. to the set of pieces previously nested. Several criteria to choose the next piece Co place and its orientation are proposed and tested. Different objective functions are also proposed to evaluate and compare partial solutions. A total of 126 variants of the algorithm, generated by the complete set of combinations of criteria and objective functions, are computationally tested. The computational experiments are based on data sets published in the literature or provided by other authors. In some cases this new algorithm generates better solutions than the best known (published) solutions.

Abstract
This paper describes the requirements analysis and system specification of an Order Promise module to be used as part of a broader Decision Support System for production and operations planning of a Virtual Enterprise. This work is part of a broader project with a particular focus on the microelectronics industry which is a good example of Virtual Enterprise, and where a quick response to the customers needs and to unpredictable changes in production conditions is considered a major factor for success. First, the analysis and specification are presented within a development framework that involves the study of organizational issues of semiconductor enterprises. The use of ontological engineering for supporting the communication and shared understanding of the system concepts is explained and a virtual enterprise ontology is outlined. Following the clarification of the concept of virtual enterprise, the generic techno-organizational requirements for the information system are derived. Finally, a specification of the global planning module and a more detailed one regarding the order promise module is presented.