Charles Hilton Hacker

Interactive teaching of elementary digital logic design with WinLogiLab

This paper presents an interactive computerized teaching suite developed for the design of combinatorial and sequential logic circuits. This suite fills a perceived gap in the currently available computer-based teaching software, with the purpose of providing alternative-mode subject delivery. The authors were, therefore, prompted to develop a Microsoft-Windows tutorial suite, WinLogiLab, comprising a set of interactive tutorials that show the link between Boolean algebra and digital combinatorial and sequential circuits. The combinatorial tutorials follow the initial design steps: from Boolean algebra, to truth tables, to minimization techniques, to production of the combinatorial circuit in a seamless way. Similarly, the sequential tutorials can design simple finite-state counters and can model more complex finite-state automata.

An autonomous decision support system for manganese forecasting in subtropical water reservoirs

Manganese monitoring and removal is essential for water utilities in order to avoid supplying discoloured water to consumers. Traditional manganese monitoring in water reservoirs consists of costly and time-consuming manual lake samplings and laboratory analysis. However, vertical profiling systems can automatically collect and remotely transfer a range of physical parameters that affect the manganese cycle. In this study, a manganese prediction model was developed, based on the profilers historical data and weather forecasts. The model effectively forecasted seven-day ahead manganese concentrations in the epilimnion of Advancetown Lake (Queensland, Australia). The manganese forecasting model was then operationalised into an automatically updated decision support system with a user-friendly graphical interface that is easily accessible and interpretable by water treatment plant operators. The developed tool resulted in a reduction in traditional expensive monitoring while ensuring proactive water treatment management. DSS developed for Mn forecasting and proactive treatment in water reservoirs.DSS enabled significant reduction in Mn sampling and laboratory testing costs.Graphical user interface enabled proactive Mn water treatment by operators.

Implementing finite state machines in a computer based teaching system

Finite State Machines (FSM) are models for functions commonly implemented in digital circuits such as timers, remote controls, and vending machines. Teaching FSM is core in the curriculum of many university digital electronic or discrete mathematics subjects. Students often have difficulties grasping the theoretical concepts in the design and analysis of FSM. This has prompted the author to develop an MS-WindowsTM compatible software, WinState, that provides a tutorial style teaching aid for understanding the mechanisms of FSM. The animated computer screen is ideal for visually conveying the required design and analysis procedures. WinState complements other software for combinatorial logic previously developed by the author, and enhances the existing teaching package by adding sequential logic circuits. WinState enables the construction of a students own FSM, which can be simulated, to test the design for functionality and possible errors.