Abstract

Abstract
Multi-energy systems (MES) are considered various energy carriers and energy players in an integrated energy model. Vast amount of decision making data is gathered in these systems that cannot be processed by conventional methods. Cloud-based computing is an opportunity to develop these kinds of integrated and efficient approaches. Developing mathematical models that can be compatible with cloud-based engineering systems will help decision makers to enhance the system agendas in short to long term studies. In this paper, the energy hub approach is developed to consider electric reserve ancillary service in MES. The reserve is modeled as a virtual energy output that can be injected into the upstream network. The reserve service is defined for electric energy converters and storages, comprehensively. Therefore, the energy hub mathematical model is developed and new elements are added to the input and output vectors and system conversion matrix. For energy converters, reserve is defined as the capability of the converter to increase its output service to its maximum operational limits. Moreover, for electric storages this capability is also restricted by storages' state of charges. The numerical results demonstrate the importance of reserve considerations in MESs and allow assessing the proficiency of the proposed model.

Abstract
The Internet of Things can be seen has a growing number of things that inter-operate using an Internet-based infrastructure and that has evolved during the last years with little concern for the privacy of its users, especially regarding how the collected data is stored. Technological measures ensuring users privacy must be established. In this paper we will present a technological framework for the secure storage of data. Things can then interact with the framework's API much in the same way they now interact with its current servers, after which, the framework will performthe required operations in order to secure the data before storing it. Themethods adopted for the secure storage will maintain the sharing ability, conveniently allowing authorized access to other users, the initial user's terms (e.g. data anonymity) and the ability to revoke assigned privileges at all times. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2015.

Abstract
This paper describes the development of a multi-function control strategy for the stable operation of distributed generation (DG) units during the integration with the power grid. The proposed control model is based on direct Lyapunov control (DLC) theory and provides a stable region for the proper operation of DG units during the integration with the power grid. The compensation of instantaneous variations in the reference current components in ac-side and dc-voltage variations in the dc-side of the interfacing system are adequately considered in this control plan, which is the main contribution and novelty of this paper in comparison with previous control strategies. Utilization of the DLC technique in DG technology can confirm the continuous injection of maximum active power in fundamental frequency from the DG source to the power grid, compensating all the reactive power and harmonic current components of grid-connected loads through the integration of DG link into the grid. Application of this concept in smart grids system can guarantee to reduce the stress on the utility grid during the peak of energy demand. Simulation and experimental test results are presented to demonstrate the proficiency and performance of the proposed DLC technique in DG technology.

Abstract

Abstract
Promoting equity, equal opportunities to all and social inclusion of people with disabilities is a concern of modern societies at large and a key topic in the agenda of European Higher Education. Despite all the progress, we cannot ignore the fact that the conditions provided by the society for the deaf are still far from being perfect. The communication with deaf by means of written text is not as efficient as it might seem at first. In fact, there is a very deep gap between sign language and spoken/written language. The vocabulary, the sentence construction and the grammatical rules are quite different among these two worlds. These facts bring significant difficulties in reading and understanding the meaning of text for deaf people and, on the other hand, make it quite difficult for people with no hearing disabilities to understand sign language. The deployment of tools to assist the daily communication, in schools, in public services, in museums and other, between deaf people and the rest may be a significant contribution to the social inclusion of the deaf community. The work described in this paper addresses the development of a bidirectional translator between Portuguese Sign Language and Portuguese text. The translator from sign language to text resorts to two devices, namely the Microsoft Kinect and 5DT Sensor Gloves in order to gather data about the motion and shape of the hands. The hands configurations are classified using Support Vector Machines. The classification of the movement and orientation of the hands are achieved through the use of Dynamic Time Warping algorithm. The translator exhibits a precision higher than 90%. In the other direction, the translation of Portuguese text to Portuguese Sign Language is supported by a 3D avatar which interprets the entered text and performs the corresponding animations. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.