Secret Life Of Walter Mitty Essays - Cinema Of The United States

Secret Life Of Walter Mitty The outline of the secret life of Walter Mitty The story is about Walter Mitty, a henpecked and daydreaming urban man, who often depends on daydreaming to escape real life. As the story begins, Walter Mitty is driving his wife to town for an appointment at a beauty shop. Triggered by the wild storm, he begins to imagine himself as the commander of a Navy hydroplane. He dreams that the plane is in trouble but the members of the crew have complete faith in his ability. One member of the crew says, The Old Man'll get us through. Mitty is brought back from this daydream by his wife's voice, as she says, Not so fast! You're driving too fast! What are you driving so fast for? His second daydream is activated by his wifes suggestion to see Dr. Renshaw and put on gloves. In the second daydream, he fancies that he is helping several famous physicians save a millionaire by fixing a complicated machine that no one in the East can fix. He even envisages that he finally acts as operator. He is pulled back into reality by the shouting of a parking-lot attendant. Annoyed by the embarrassment at the parking lot and the failure of his memory and stimulated by the shouting of a newsboy about the Waterbury trial, Mitty sets off the third daydream in which he is on trial for murder. In the trial, he accurately recalls and valiantly admits that he has killed Gregory Fitzhurst despite the efforts of his attorney to prove his innocence. He was aroused to reality by his subconscious murmuring of puppy biscuit and the laughing of a passing woman. Sitting into a big leather chair in the lobby, he starts his fourth daydream by looking at the pictures of bombing planes and of ruined streets in an old copy of Liberty. He fancies that he heroically volunteers to undertake a risky task of bombing the ammunition dump. His wifes sudden appearance and scolding him like a mother terminate his fantasy. Mitty sinks deeper and deeper into his secret life until he faces the firing squad. Here it is hard to judge what is real and what isnt. What is clear is that he is no longer a hero, but a little, helpless boy. Education Essays

Riots in Vancouver Essay Example

Riots in Vancouver Essay Example Riots in Vancouver Paper Riots in Vancouver Paper Essay Topic: Citizen Kane The term riot is often used in tandem with events like protests, rallies or marches. We think of people with common goals and/or grievances coming together to have their opinions and voices heard. Common themes include injustice, freedom and human rights. We can watch riots on the news on a near daily basis. Egypt is rioting for the end of an autocratic government, Syria is protesting the dictatorship of their President, and Greece is rioting for economic reform. These protests often begin with peaceful intentions but can lead to emotional flare-ups and violent outbursts. This moment is when a rally becomes a riot. Those who engage in such behaviours like acting out towards law enforcement, or damaging personal or public property can be considered deviant. These so called-deviants are going against the natural social order of things and disrupting society. Sometimes such deviant acts are considered malicious or criminal in nature and other times these same acts are considered heroic and for the â€Å"greater good† of society. It may become difficult to distinguish what constitutes a deviant act. For example, two people may engage in burning police cars but if one of those people is doing so in protest of civil war, society sees merit in his/her actions. If the second person is burning the police car in an alcohol-fueled rage against the loss of a hockey game, that person is seen as deviant and their actions are seen as criminal. This paper will focus on the Vancouver riots of the 2011 Stanley Cup finals. The main objective will be to take a sociological perspective in regards to crowd behaviour; the deviant act of rioting and the role social media is playing in response to Vancouver riots themselves. On Wednesday, June 15th 2011 in the city of Vancouver, hockey fans turned against the city in response to the 4-0 victory of the Boston Bruins over the Vancouver Canucks. Some 100,000 people crowded the streets of the downtown area to watch the Stanley cup game 7 finals and when the outcome was determined, a few so-called fans took their anger and disappointment out on cars, windows and each other. Damage was estimated at approximately $1. 3 million dollars and over 140 people were reported as injured (â€Å"A Tale,†2011). In an article by The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver’s police chief Jim Chu was reported saying that the riot was a result of young men and women disguised as Canucks fans who were actually criminals and anarchists† (Kane, 2011). Although there has been some backlash for how the police handled the riot, the Vancouver Police department had the riot under control within 3 hours of its outbreak. Canada has a long history with respect to riots and hockey. Win or lose, Canadians have found a reason to riot in response to Canada’s national pastime. The Globe and Mail presents a timeline for hockey riots in Canada. Beginning in 1955, when Montreal rioted after Maurice â€Å"Rocket† Richard was suspended and unable to play for the rest of the season. Habs fans took to the streets to protest the NHL decision and caused an estimated $100,000 in damage. Of the 8 riots mentioned in the timeline, Montreal was host to 5 of them. In 1994, Vancouver rioted in response to the loss of game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals to the New York Rangers. Approximately $1. 1 million dollars in damage, and over 200 injuries were reported. Edmonton has also rioted in the name of hockey, this time for a win. Edmontonians took to the streets of Whyte Avenue in celebration of the western conference win over the Anaheim Mighty Ducks. The celebration quickly changed its tune as members of the crowd began starting fires and looting from near by businesses. Clearly the relationship between rioting and hockey can be seen as a recurrent theme in Canadian sports history. The Vancouver riots of 2011 are not a new phenomenon. If past behaviour predicts future behaviour, then these riots will probably not be the last (â€Å"Hockey riots,† 2011). All riots must be considered as isolated events. Throughout the entire 2011 playoff series crowds of fans gathered in the streets to watch the games and cheer on their team without incident. In fact, Vancouver hosted the 2010 winter Olympics which boasted huge amounts of people crowding the streets without riots or altercation. To point a finger at all Canadians and say that we are unable to assemble in a crowd without issue would be ludicrous. The only thing that this particular riots can tell us is that a few â€Å"bad people† can ruin it for the rest of us. A few people made some poor choices and the city of Vancouver and its residents have to pay. On a positive note, crowds of people joined together the next day to clean up after the mess that these few individuals made. That speaks volumes about the kind of crowd behaviour that exists in Canada. Most sociological perspectives offer an interpretation of deviance and its causes. The most common approach to explaining deviance is probably conflict theory, stemming from the industrial revolution and Karl Marx (Plath, 2008, p. 2). Conflict theory, in brief, describes the tension between the ruling class and the working class within a capitalist society. Conflict arises between these groups because of the unequal division of wealth and power. This theory would posit that the oppressed peoples would eventually become aware of their oppression and revolt against those who oppress them (Barkan p14). The concept of two groups vying for power over one another does not seem to characterize the underlying causes of the Vancouver riots. Luke Plath, author of Anatomy of a Riot (2008) discusses how labeling theory coupled with law enforcement presence can lead to violent, unplanned outbursts within a crowd (p. 2). First, labeling theory is the act of attaching a label to someone and then consequentially treating him/her according to that label. Often, people will internalize the labels they receive and begin to act in accordance with them (Bereska, 2011, p. 79). Plath (2008) mentions that the mere presence of police, even at a peaceful protest or gathering, can instigate the feelings of being treated like a criminal. If enough people in the crowd internalize this feeling of being seen as deviant by the eyes of the law, a peaceful gathering can soon escalate to a violent riot (p. ). The concept of collective behaviour can be incorporated into the discussion of deviant behaviour and its relation to rioting. Steve Barkan (2011) defines collective behaviour as â€Å"relatively spontaneous and relatively unstructured behaviour by large numbers of individuals acting with or being influenced by other individuals† (p. 458). Barkan (2011) discusses four main types of crowds: casual, conventional , expressive and acting. Casual and conventional crowds are more general and do not really detail collective behaviour or deviant acts by groups or individuals. Expressive crowds reflect a group of individuals who gather for a specific purpose and with emotionally expressive tendencies, like at a political rally. If an expressive crowd becomes too emotionally charged, it may progress into an acting crowd and engage in violent, destructive behaviour (p. 459). The word riot can stir up many negative connotations. One definition of a riot is a relatively spontaneous outburst of violence by a large group of people (Barkan, 2011, p. 460). According to the previously stated definitions and oncepts, it would appear that before a riot occurs, the right type of crowd must assemble, under the right type of condition and must include the right individuals who are influenced easily by others. Contagion and Convergence theories can also be used to posit on the cause of deviant behaviour resulting in acts of riot. Contagion theory, made popular by Gustave le Bon, states that individuals are rational on their own but in crowds, individuals can get carried away in the mob mentality and act irrationally and sometimes violent. As a result people engage in collective behaviour and are influenced by the others around them (Barkan, 2011, p. 64). Convergent theory, on the other hand, implies that crowds are not the cause of irrational behaviour but rather, the people within the crowd is what causes the behaviour. Basically, convergent theory says that people with like minds and attitudes will converge together and form a crowd that may act in deviant or destructive ways (Barkan, 2011, p. 464). Contagion and convergence theories provide a framework for analyzing what happens when people in groups become agitated and the snowball effect that can precipitate a full blown riot. However, these theories fail to address the tipping point that causes groups dynamic to shift from peaceful to violent. Through the process of deindividuation, people act out behaviours in a group setting that are not consistent with how they would act alone (Bhatia, 2011). The accountability of one individual is blurred by the crowd, which can encourage people to act impulsively and destructively (Handwerk, 2005). Combine anonymity, adrenaline fueled sports fans with alcohol and the outcome could be a disaster. Brian Handwerk describes the psychology behind being a sports fan as an identity and a social network for people to belong to (â€Å"Sports Riots,† 2005). This concept can easily apply to mob mentality as well, joining a group of rioters is a way to fit in and be apart of something larger then one’s self. Sometime the need to belong can blur our moral codes of right and wrong. A deviant act is only deviant as long as the power’s that be says it is. To avoid creating a riot culture without repercussion the Vancouver Police Department needs to find those responsible and make public examples of them fast. If not, The Vancouver Police have the tough job ahead of them to find and charge those involved in the riots. A task that at one time would have been nearly impossible is gaining some help from photos, videos and the Internet. Social media outlets like Facebook and twitter are being employed in an effort to identify the culprits. The Vancouver police have asked citizens to come forward and anonymously provide video footage and photos of the riot in hopes that it will lead to arrests (Bolan 2001). Facebook groups have been set up so that people can join and hopefully identify some of the people in the photos. In reality, those that participated in the riots will likely go unpunished. However, the social outcry by the public via the Internet and other media is new form of punishment. The Internet has become a forum for people to speak their minds indirectly to these rioting â€Å"hockey fans† and hopefully the guilt and shame will be lesson enough. As a native Vancouverite and a Canuck fan, it is embarrassing to watch history repeat itself and all for a hockey game. The riot was not in protest of a tyrannical dictator, or to bring public awareness to the needs of impoverished children, it was far less important then that. The Vancouver riots were an embarrassing moment, caught on camera and seen around the world. All the sociological theorizing in the world could not make sense of it, nor justify it. It was not due to strain or frustration between opposing classes, it was not due to a learned behaviour or a label placed upon these people. If you look at the pictures of those involved, you will see a handful of adolescents and young adults making poor decisions and demonstrating a lack of respect and pride in themselves, their hockey team and their country A Tale of two riots. (2011). Retrieved on July 31, 2011 from cbc. ca/news/canada/story/2011/06/16/f-vancouver-riot-1994-2011. html Kane, Laura and Kelly Sinoski. (2011) Vancouver top cop blames Stanley Cup riots on ‘anarchists’. Retrieved on July 31, 2011 from vancouversun. com/sports/Vancouver+blames+Stanley+riot+anarchists/4957678/story. html Brakan, Steve. (2001). Sociology: Understanding and changing the social world. Retrieved from flatworldknowledge. com/pub/1. 0/sociology-understanding-and-ch/364149#pdf-469 Retrieved on July 31, 2011 Bereska, Tami M. (2011). Deviance, Conformity and Social control in Canada. Toronto, ON: Pearson Canada Inc. Plath, Luke. (2008). Anatomy of a riot. Retrieved on July 31, 2011 from associatedcontent. com/article/701217/anatomy_of_a_riot_pg3. html? cat=17 Hockey riots throughout Canadian history. (2011). Retrieved from theglobeandmail. com/news/national/british-columbia/hockey-riots-throughout-canadian-history/article2064096. Retrieved on July 31, 2011. Handwerk, Brian. (2005). Sports riots: The Psychology of sports mayhem. Retrieved on July 31, 2011 from http://news. ationalgeographic. com/news/2005/06/0620_050620_sportsriots_2. html Bhatia, Maneet. (2011). Reflecting on Vancouver: Why do people riot?. Retrieved on July 31, 2011 from http://psychstateofmind. com/2011/06/17/reflecting-on-vancouver-why-do-people-riot/ Bolan, Kim. (2011). Vancouver Police want your riot video and photos. Retrieved on July 31, 2011 from http://communities. canada. com/vancouversun/blogs/realscoop/archive/2011/06/16/vancouver-p olice-want-your-riot-video-and-photos. aspx I Predict a Riot Jessi Evanoff Sociology 224 August 4th 2011

Beta Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Beta - Essay Example Company's (like Wal-Mart, Kmart, etc.,) security returns will also be affected. If oil price are increased in the market there will be considerable impact on other goods. Indirectly the price of other goods will rise. There is an overall risk of raising capital for firms. Whenever any entrepreneur wants to run a company/firm with low budget and high profit, entrepreneur would consider different terms of interest rate, production, long-run growth, and company debentures. A mix portfolio of 40% is invested in A + 40% of investment in B, which may earn only 7% in a good market but booms to 14% in a recession, and the other 20% in government investment G earning 4%. Portfolio Expected Return for Portfolio P: Suppose if the beta value of a company is = 1.2 the risks involved is 20% higher than the normal risk. If = 0.8 then the investment has 20% below market risk. Risks are involved in the investment market; if the potential returns are higher then potential risks involved in it are also higher. A clever investor wants his money to be doubled or at least the amount invested should return. The company that is having = 1.0 is mostly favored by the investors. More or less Wal-Mart value is just above normal market risk.

Management accounting concept Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Management accounting concept - Essay Example Moreover, the paper will also entail the affiliation between moral hazard and decision making along with relevant information. QUESTION 1 Moral hazard is an interesting area of research in management accounting as it deals with various significant aspects concerning the perception of the managers in making effective decisions, determining disciplinary aspects and mitigating ethical issues. The area of moral hazard forecasts that the activities of the managers are hard to monitor and the compensation along with the financial decisions are linked with the performance of individual managers. It can be affirmed that moral hazards differ from one person to other based on the mental attitudes and the intention of the individuals to perform various operational functions. The moral hazards mainly occur due to the unethical practices that perform by the individuals or the managers belonging to any organization in order to attain personal along with organizational benefits. In this similar con text, moral hazard can be explained from various aspects such as a company is running in loss. In order to recover such loss, the manager of the company arranges for fire to destroy the building and claim the money from the insurance sector. This denotes the conduct of unethical practices by the manager, resulting in causing moral hazard. The decision making with regard to moral hazard may lead towards the occurrence of several disciplinary actions and also data forgery. The decision concerning data forgery, at certain times may lead towards the conduct of unethical practices by the employers towards the employees. In management accounting, decision making mainly motivates the employees to perform their respective operational functions effectively (Sprinkle and Williamson 414-448). The area concerning moral hazard is evident particularly at the time when the managers belonging to any organization acquire valuable information from the accountants regarding financial data and misinter pret those for personal gain. This practice ultimately raises the conduct of moral hazard affecting the managerial compensation level of the organizations at large. It can be affirmed that the conduct of moral hazard in the management level hinders in forecasting true and real picture of organizational performance. The area of moral hazard within the context of management accounting research is quite interesting as it can be eliminated through making effective decisions and also through following ethical principles by the stakeholders and the employees ethically. It is worth mentioning that the judgment regarding the morality of business and management is quite crucial. The area concerning moral hazard delivers significant benefits to the managers and the organization as well. In the context of management accounting research, the intention of the managers is often to adopt effective decisions without forging valuable data, resulting in motivating the employees to perform better. Thi s behavior might certainly support an organization to increase its overall performance by a certain degree (Sprinkle and Williamson 414-448). QUESTION 2 In order to determine about how the area of moral hazard could benefit the managers, it can be affirmed that it depends on the perception and the mental thought process of the managers. A manager, who is honest might work in accordance with the information provided and formulate accurate data. Moral hazard is when, the manager for his/her personal benefit forges the data provided and capitalizes on it. The managers might not take proper disclosure of policies for availing personal benefit. In this regard, moral hazard benefits the managers in terms of implementing policies that would provide them personal benefits by not

Automated Power Pole Photography via Helicopters

Automated Power Pole Photography via Helicopters Fugro Roames aims to automate the process of acquiring high resolution pictures, to reduce the risk and cost associated with helicopter based pole top inspection. The project will focus on acquiring previously worked algorithms, as well as the introduction of model predictive control, to automate the overall process, while also presenting a working prototype to simulate the operation of the intended product. The following proposal will aim to describe the intended topic and scope, while also reviewing background information on aerial asset management and autonomous aerial photography related to the project. The report will also highlight all achievable milestones, and their respective tasks, within the project plan; as well as present a detailed OHS risk assessment of the projects practical and non-practical work. The work completed during the semester, will hope to provide sufficient groundwork for automated aerial asset management procedures, within the electrical distribution industry. Accurate and effective asset condition management is important to ensure the longevity of an electric distribution network, while maximising its performance and operational efficiency.[1] At present, an efficient and cost effective method to test the integrity of a network, requires the use of a human-piloted helicopter and a photographer to capture high resolution images of power poles and their subcomponents [2]. Fugro-Roames, a company which currently provides this to its customers, aims to reduce the risk and cost associated with helicopter based pole top inspection, by replacing the photographer with an automated camera gimbal to capture high resolution pictures of the network. Figure 1.1: Power Pole Photography [1] Automated aerial asset management in the context of this proposal refers to the use of aerial platforms, to asses specific assets in an easy and cost-efficient manner, without the need of manual involvement. Unfortunately, and as it will be discussed in Chapter 3, the project topic is a form of technology that has not been widely researched; however, various methods of aerial asset management, such as helicopters, UAVs or drones, do exist and are currently in use within the industry. 2.1 Project Outline It is the purpose of this project to develop a Receding Horizon Planner (RHP) in order to automate power pole photography using camera gimbal system. The RHP will based on the algorithms created by Dr. Michael Kearney, which provide a solution to the photograph feasibility, photograph scheduling, and gimbal trajectory planning problems [3]. For validation, the developed planner will be tested using simulation flight data provided by Fugro-Roames. Further testing will include the implementation of the RHP into a gimbal prototype, where sensitivity analyses and assessment of the initial assumptions will be completed to determine the projects limitations and outline recommendations for future work. A more defined project plan will be described in Chapter 4 below. 2.2 Motivation for Automated Aerial Asset Management In order to overcome the limitations associated with conventional asset management methods, a high resolution image capture system was developed and is now used to aid in the inspection, assessment and maintenance of electric distribution networks [4]. However, the overall cost associated with this method, outweights its improved efficiency, as it involves specialized labour (photographers) and the use of helicopters to complete the required task [5]. The motivation to introduce an automated aerial asset management system, requires for the reduction of risks and overall cost associated with the current model, as well as improving the quality and selection of photographs taken. 2.3 Project Aim, Objectives Intended Scope Since the project, and all information available, are sponsored and provided by FugroRoames, the aims and objectives have been defined by the companys desires for the finished product. Therefore, the aim and proposed purpose of the project is to reduce the cost and risk associated with helicopter based pole top inspection, with the use of a Receding Horizon Planner (RHP) that automates the movement and control of a camera gimbal system. Along with the proposed project aim, multiple objectives must also be met whilts completing the work required. These include improving the algorithms created by Dr. Kearney, obtaining accurate efficiency gains for the RHP, designing and building a working gimbal prototype to be used for testing, and providing sufficient ground work for actual on-site testing and implementation, with the use of a helicopter, of the RHP beyond the project. Similar to the projects aim and objectives, the intended scope has also been shaped by the companys desires for the final product. Therefore, the scope can be outlined as: Review of background information and related work Adaptation of algorithms created by Dr. Kearney Development of Receding Horizon Planner Design and build of a gimbal prototype Planner implementation and testing Analysis of results Sensitivity analysis Assesment of projects assumptions Evaluation of project and suggestion for future work Possible gimbal rig implementation and on-site testing Taking into account the scope described above, it seems logical to break the project into three specific sections; planner development and testing, prototype design and testing, and thorough result analysis. The development and testing of the Receding Horizon Planner involves the improvement of existing control algorithms, to implement and verify its overall efficiency, using available and provided data. The design and testing of the gimbal prototype, which should resemble the actual gimbal rig, involves the use of the developed Receding Horizon Planner to validate and improve previously obtained results. Finally, thorough result analysis requires the breakdown of the planner and obtained results, to find how assumptions, parameters and particular components were affetcted. Although automated aerial asset management is a form of technology that has not been widely researched, the following chapter will provide a complete review of background literature which would closely resemble the general subject matter. The review will be broken into two sections; aerial asset management, and autonomous aerial photography and gimbal control. Previous work related to these topics will be presented, reiterated and reviewed, focusing on sources related to asset management within the electric power distribution industry. 3.1 Aerial Asset Management Aerial asset management , within the electric power distribution industry, has been implemented to replace conventional asset management and inspection methods, and provide a fast and accurate way to determine any defects that could be present. Whitworth et al. [6], in a work sponsored by EA Tecnology, propose the use of a helicopter-mounted camera to capture and store visual information, in order to enhance the inspection of overhead power lines. In order to reduce camera shake and partially automate the inspection process, the authors recommend the use of an acquisition system, which finds and locks the camera to the location of the powerline, followed by a recursive algorithm that tracks the powerline smoothly, despite the translation of the helicopter. Similarly, Earp et al. [1][4] describe an aerial inspection technique, which was also developed by EA Technology, that uses high resoluion images to perform a detailed condition assessment on electrical towers within a distribution network. The authors break down the helicopter based condition assessment, which is considered an improvement from the video inspection method in [6], to include four different parts: Pre-flight Planning: Inspection requirements, photographic sequences, camera trajectories; as well as current wind and weather conditions, natural and man-made ground feature, and the locations of the electrical towers, are all taken into account during the pre-flight planning. Helicopter Inspection and Picture Acquisition: A high resolution digital camera is used to take a set number of images, per tower, to meet the inspection requirements. Satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS) and moving map displays are used to georeference each photograph taken, back to the tower. Image Processing, Analysis and Condition Assessment: Captured images are examined and given a Condition Rating (CR), typically on a scale of 1 to 4 (1 describing best condition, 4 describing worst condition). The uniformity of the assessment, determined by the individual DNOs requirements, is ensured by this critical step and therefore requires for a detailed condition assessment criteria, application-specific workstations, and accurate in-house training programme for assessors. Condition Based Risk Management (CBRM): A process developed by EA Technology, it combines practical and theoretical knowledge about a specific asset, along with maintenance experience, in order to define its current condition. Taking a different approach, N. Ellis [7] investigates the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to inspect power transition lines. The author investigated the cost, risks and overall efficiency that comes with the use of UAVs, searching for low budget automation strategies to be designed and tested. Unfortunately, due to government regulations and the high capital and operating cost of the UAV, lead the author to the conclusion that the technology is not feasible at the current time. As outlined by most of the sources presented, the introduction of aerial asset management techniques, has made a big improvement on the inspection, assessment and maintenance of an electrical distribution network. Whilst most models present techniques that far surpass conventional inspection methods, the cost that comes with the involvement of specialized labour and helicopters, leaves little room for errors and inconsistent results. However, although the implementation of an UAV was not possible due to the introduction of new risks, the automation techniques, presented in [7], can be applied to previously discussed aerial photography techniques, and mitigate/remove any currently involved risks. 3.2 Autonomous Aerial Photography and Gimbal Control Autonomous aerial photography and control, within the electric power distribution industry, is not a topic that has been widely researched or implemented. However, the use of a camera and aerial images to predict and control the movement of UAVs is something that is commonly discussed and will therefore, be the main focus for this section. E. Skjong et al. [8] investigate the recent commercial availability of UAVs within Search and Rescue (SAR) and Search and Tracking (SAT) applications. The authors then focus on the development of a SAT system, which is able to steer the UAV and focus the gimbal attitude on regions and objects of interest respectively, with the use of Model Predictive Control (MPC). The overall process is made autonomous by allowing computer vision to work directly with the UAV autopilot and MPC, so objects can be simultaneously detected and tracked in an efficient manner. Similarly, C.E. Lin and S. Yang [9] explore the use of UAVs to detect and track specific objects, with the help of aerial photography and camera gimbal control. The authors implement the use of an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which consist of a gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer, along with an Attitude and Heading Reference System (AHRS), to determine and ensure that the angles of the camera gimbal are in the correct reference frame. Both [8] and [9] use Global Positioning System (GPS) to determine the location of both the UAV and the target, using this relationship to implement a reliable autopilot flight control for target detection and photography. R.J. Rajesh and C.M. Ananda [10] move away from controlling the camera gimbal, attached to a UAV, and focus on stabilizing its movement to ensure that clear photograph and/or video footage is taken. The use of Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller is recommended by the authors, to compensate for the vibrations and gust, as well as control the position of the camera by stabilizing the movement of the gimbal. Manually tuning the controllers parameters is not recommended, as the process is considered time consuming and tedious, instead, the authors recommend the use of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) as the preferred algorithm to complete this task. Uncertainty and disturbances are mentioned, but not properly investigated in [9], [8] and [10]. A. Ashok et al. [11] investigate the external disturbances that affect the UAVs, as well as the dynamic and parametric uncertainties that arise in the mathematical autonomous model when subjected to a number of operating conditions. The authors reiterate previous approaches taken to design a robust control system, including the use of a PID controller for linear [12] and linearized [13] models, as well as the use of a Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) controller [14] in the presence of uncertainties, before the Uncertainty and Disturbance Estimation (UDE) method is chosen to synthesize the required controller. The control of a camera gimbal, as outlined by most of the sources above, is necessary in order to ensure the accuracy of photographs or video that is captured by the UAV. Although the use of conventional control methods is described above, only [8] focuses on the use of MPC, which is closely related to the project, to ensure that the UAV is able to detect and track objects efficiently and simultaneously. A clear representation of the projects tasks, has been outlined as a comprehensive project plan from the first to the final day of employment at Fugro-Roames. A visual representation and description of the plan is used to illustrate the timeline of the project, including all achievable milestones, which are related to the aims, objectives and intended scope of the project, discussed in section 1.2. 4.1 Visual Representation of Project Plan The use of a modified GANTT chart was implemented to showcase the proposed flow of the project, from the first to the last day of employment. The timeline is hence separated into 24 weeks that are broken into 5 days, in the same manner as the business week format, where the project milestones and their corresponding tasks are allocated a precise number of days in which work is scheduled to take place. Green solid bars represent the projects milestones, where red solid bars indicate their respective tasks. The progress of the overall project is tracked by the completion of every achievable milestone, which can only be completed by first completing their respective sub tasks. Completed milestones are shown with a blue line through the green bar, and completed tasks are shown with a yellow line through the red bar. Weeks 1 to 12, as shown in Figure 4.1, represent the core work to be completed, as Milestones 3-5 directly relate to the aims, objectives and intended scope of the project. Weeks 13 to 22, as shown in Figure 4.2, outline the analysis and completion of the final pieces of assessment, including the thesis report and demonstration, which require the content from previous milestones to be completed. Weeks 23 to 24, also shown in Figure 3.2, outline a possible Milestone that can be completed until the final day of employment at Fugro-Roames. This milestone does not affect the previous pieces of assessment; however, it will provide the company with important information that could prove vital to the future of the project. 4.2 Milestone Task Breakdown Milestone 1: Project Scope The project scope is necessary to determine the projects main objectives, and will therefore guide the work to be completed throughout the semester. To ensure all expectations are met, and the appropriate time is given to all project milestones, an agreement between academic and industry supervisors is necessary. Task ID Days Description Project evaluation 1.1 5 Evaluate the requirements of the project, including potential goals and outcomes. Collect all necessary information to present during the supervisor meeting. Supervisor meeting 1.2 1 Meet with the projects academic and industry supervisors to discuss the project scope, and agree on the due dates for all pieces of assessment. Scope confirmation agreement 1.3 2 Compile a detailed scope which highlights the projects objectives, as discussed during the supervisor meeting. Resources Workspace with an available computer Availability from both supervisors to organize a meeting Milestone Hazards and Risks Milestone 1 is essential to the project. Any delay could be considered a minor, but possible risk, as it affects the progress of the overall project. If this issue becomes bigger, and the project scope cannot be defined, then it can be classified as a major risk and mitigation strategies should be taken immediately. Clear communication between all parties involved, can reduce and remove the possibility of the identified risks from occurring. Milestone 2: Project Proposal The project proposal is the first piece of assessment, which must be completed as part of the responsibilities for completing the project placement. The report highlights the work from Milestone 1, as it expands on the agreed aims and objectives, outlines the background information related to the projects main topics, and presents a visual and a clear representation of the project plan. A detailed OHS risk assessment, which analyses the potential risk involved with the projects practical work, and any potential equipment used, will also be included in the proposal. Task ID Days Description Research of relevant material 2.1 5 Find background information and prior art related to the projects main topic. Project outline and intended scope 2.2 4 Expand on the projects scope decided in Task 1, expanding on the projects aims and objectives. Background and related work 2.3 3 Summarize and expand on the material obtained from Task 2.1. Project plan summary 2.4 3 Provide a detailed project plan, with logically ordered tasks and their respective milestones. OHS risk assessment 2.5 2 Compile an OHS risk assessment, which highlights the projects practical work and equipment used. Drafting and submission 2.5 5 Assemble the proposals individual sections, review the written report and submit via Turnitin. Resources Completion of Milestone 1 Confirmation of university assessment due dates OHS risk assessments, regarding the use and control of the gimbal rig Milestone Hazards and Risks The project proposal relies mostly on individual and previously completed work, however, certain sections require resources which are not readily available. The most significant obstacles, which would require mitigation, are the confirmation of all university assessment due dates and the risk assessments completed for the gimbal rig, which might be used during the project. Clear and constant communication with the universitys course coordinator, as well as the personnel in charge of the gimbal rig, is essential to mitigate and prevent any issues that could affect the completion of the project proposal. Milestone 3: Receding Horizon Planner Milestone 3 is the first milestone that uses the algorithms created by Dr. Kearney to develop an on-line planner that controls the photograph scheduling plan and the movement of the gimbal throughout the event horizon. The completed Receding Horizon Planner will involve the use of a low level controller, an upper level planner, and an event monitor, to be used in Milestones 4à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢7. Task ID Days Description Algorithm testing and improvement 3.1 5 Improve the current photograph feasibility algorithm, and test its efficiency. Model predictive control research 3.2 5 Find related material to be used when designing the Receding Horizon Controller. Lower level controller design implementation 3.3 5 The gimbal and camera are robustly controlled by the photograph scheduling algorithm chosen by the upper level planner. Upper level planner design implementation 3.4 5 Implemented the improved algorithm from Task 3.1 to generate a plan that the system will follow over a prediction horizon. Event monitor design implementation 3.5 4 Connect the results from Tasks 3.3 and 3.4 so that the plan is implemented and changed after certain events occur. Resources Programming and modelling software Access to the projects repository and previous work Milestone Hazards and Risks The progress of Milestone 3 could be significantly affected, if access to the necessary repositories and previous work is delayed. As previous algorithms are necessary to the development of the Receding Horizon Planner, the completion of the project would be significantly impacted. Clear communication with the right personnel can help mitigate this issue before it affect the timeline and progress of the project. Milestone 4: Planner Analysis and Improvement Rigorous testing of the developed Receding Horizon Planner is required to find the necessary efficiency gains, so the planner can be implemented on the projects physical equipment. Data obtained from Fugro Roames, as well as the analysis and reiteration of the testing completed, will be completed to improve the found controller gains. Task ID Days Description Test current and new scenarios 4.1 4 Implement the Receding Horizon Planner on several simulated scenarios, using data received from Fugro Roames. Reiteration of Receding Horizon Planner testing 4.2 3 Fix any errors found in Task 4.1 and repeat the tests. Determine accurate efficiency gains 4.3 3 Determine the required controller gains which provide the most accurate results. Resources Completion of Milestone 3 Sufficient testing data provided by Fugro Roames Milestone Hazards and Risks The lack of testing data used to complete this milestone, is a minor risk that could affect the project. Requesting said data ahead of time, would ensure that it is ready for when testing of the Receding Horizon Planner begins, leaving the project timeline unaffected. Milestone 5: Gimbal Prototype Milestone 5 marks a key point in the project, as the implementation of the Receding Horizon Planner on a working prototype is essential to the projects success. The design of the prototype will be based on the actual gimbal rig owned and created by FugroRoames, to facilitate the implementation of the planner for further testing, at the end of the project. Task ID Days Description Embedded system design and build 5.1 7 Design, build and combine the mechanical, electrical, and software components of the prototype. Implementation of Receding Horizon Planner 5.2 6 Test the Receding Horizon Planner using the gimbal prototype. Sensitivity Analysis 5.3 5 Identify and vary the dominant parameters, testing and improving the Receding Horizon Planner where possible. Resources Completion of Milestone 4 Mechanical, electrical and software design software Working space and necessary build equipment Development of testing scenarios Milestone Hazards and Risks Milestone 5 introduces the use of practical equipment to design, test and build each component of the gimbal prototype. The misuse of the practical equipment, and the lack of component testing, are immediate risks to the completion of the prototype. Following the risk assessment outlines on Chapter 4, as well as completing the required testing before the Receding Horizon Planner is implemented, can help mitigate the risks described and prevent possible delays. Milestone 6: Assessment of Projects Assumptions As previously shown by Dr. Kearney, on the initial report he completed for Fugr-Roames, the introduction of the Receding Horizon Planner required changes to the initial assumptions made when designing the projects photograph allocation and gimbal control algorithms. The change and/or the addition of assumptions, by analysing the projects missing parameters is, therefore, also essential when validating the results obtained in Milestone 5. Task ID Days Description Identify missing parameters 6.1 2 Determine the projects missing parameters based on the assumptions made by Dr. Kearney on his report. Evaluate the effects of missing parameters 6.2 3 Assess how the model is affected by each missing parameter. Update the projects assumptions 6.3 2 Compose a list of updated assumptions based on the results from tasks 6.1 and 6.2, to be used on further work. Resources Completion of the Sensitivity Analysis Task within Milestone 5 Milestone Hazards and Risks The risks to Milestone 6 are relatively small, where the largest possible problem involves the inability to identify the effects of the projects missing parameters. Keeping a record of all parameter changes/assumptions made during previous tests is the best solution to mitigate/prevent this issue. Milestone 7: Project Evaluation and Recommendation for Future Work Identifying the projects limitations is an important process, as it allows recommendations for future work to be made and included on the final thesis report. Task ID Days Description Identify projects limitations 7.1 3 List the projects limitations, based on the results from Task 6. Develop accurate recommendations 7.2 3 Expand on previous work and results from Tasks 6.1 to 6.3, including 7.1, to develop accurate recommendations for future work. Resources Development of the Receding Horizon Planner Sensitivity analysis of the gimbal prototype Completion of Milestone 6 Milestone Hazards and Risks The completion of Milestone 7 is only affected by the work done in previous milestones. If previous tasks are delayed, any future recommendations run the risk of not being completed. To prevent this from affecting the final stages of the project, the plan/timeline outlined should always be followed, noting wher

Euthanasia Essay -- Mercy Killing Papers

Euthanasia The term 'Euthanasia' comes from the Greek word for 'easy death'. It is the one of the most public policy issues being debated about today. Formally called 'mercy killing', euthanasia is the act of purposely making or helping someone die, instead of allowing nature to take it's course. Basically euthanasia means killing in the name of compassion. Euthanasia, can be either 'voluntary', 'passive', or 'positive', Voluntary involves a request by the dying patient or their legal representative. Passive involves, doing nothing to prevent death - allowing someone to die. Positive involves taking deliberate action to cause a death. Euthanasia, at the moment is illegal throughout the world apart from in the State of Oregon, where there is a law specifically allowing doctors to prescribe lethal drugs for the purpose of euthanasia. In the Netherlands it is practised widely, although, in fact, it remains illegal. I believe that everyone has the right to choose how they live and die. Everyone deserves respect, freedom and the power to control their own destiny. Not everybody will have an easy death. Some terminal pain cannot be controlled, even with the best of care and the strongest of drugs. Other distressing symptoms, which come with diseases, such as sickness, no mobility, incontinence, breathlessness and fever cannot always be relieved. Pain is not always the issue - quality of life is too. Most people want to die with dignity, but some people may spend the last moments of their life, in a way which to them, is undignified. Having the right to control over their own life and death helps people keep human dignity in the face ... ...nimal is put to sleep. The owner is upset over the loss but they feel that they have done the right thing, by putting the pet out it's misery. I do not think we can look at human life in the same way however, as humans' are treated better than animals and have more respect. But what is better, letting someone suffer a prolonged and very painful life, or allowing him or her to die with dignity, in peace and without pain? This issue needs a lot of thought. Many people agree with voluntary euthanasia, many disagree but there is also a large amount of people undecided on the matter. The time will come when the Government and medical services will have to open their eyes to euthanasia, and there will be a lot of debate on the subject. Until then the euthanasia debate will continue to linger, like a terminal disease.

Abuse Of Power And A Desire To Intimidate Education Essay

â€Å" Bullying is a signifier of aggressive behavior which is normally hurtful and deliberate † and involves â€Å" an maltreatment of power and a desire to intimidate and rule † ( Undertaking: 1 ) . However there are many variables that can protect and assist kids survive experiences of intimidation. Children possess many single features which protect and guarantee endurance of strong-arming. A kid should hold a deep consciousness of self-concept â€Å" the set of properties, abilities, attitudes and values that an single believes defines who he or she is † ( pg446 ) , as this allows for grasp of their alone individualism, assurance in their abilities and moral values and reject bullying or isolation for non corroborating with stereotypes or peer force per unit area. They will gain their possible as persons. An of import property of self-concept is Self-esteem, â€Å" the opinions we make about our ain worth and feelings associated with those opinions † . Victims of strong-arming normally â€Å" are diffident or have a weak character † ( Elliot 59 ) therefore a high degree of self-esteem came protect and aid kids survive intimidation and experiences of isolation or bullying as it develops an â€Å" attitude of self-acceptance and self-respect † ( pg449 ) Autonomy Fosters high self-esteem as the kid has a â€Å" sense of one ‘s ain individuality and an ability to move independently and to exercise some control over one ‘s environment, including internal venue of control, and self-efficacy † ( web site ) . Therefore the kid will believe in their individualism and self-respect. As Bernard notes if a kid develops a sense of resiliency and opposition â€Å" declining to accept negative messages about oneself † and of withdrawal â€Å" distancing oneself from disfunction † , the kid will last Acts of the Apostless of intimidation as the kid will recognize that these actions are morally incorrect and discrimative. ( Website ) . In order for the kid to last intimidation and protect themselves they should react â€Å" assertively to a state of affairs, make â€Å" self-asserting statements † and defy use and menaces † Bandura states that a kid ‘s personality features and societal behaviors are reinforced by behaviors environing them, hence an environment where intimidation is non tolerated by grownups must be established as â€Å" Victims demand to be reassured that they are non entirely and that it could go on to anyone † ( Elliot Bullying: 58 ) . Relationships within the household contribute significantly. Parents are universally of import and provide emotional support for their kids to last experiences of isolation, important in protecting kids from effects of intimidation. A strong degree of fond regard would be critical in protecting kids as fond regard behaviors are â€Å" evoked when the person has need of attention or support or comfort â€Å" back up a kid would necessitate if victimised. Parents who adapt an important child-rearing manner will assist protect their kids as it incorporates â€Å" high credence and engagement, adaptative control techniques and appropriate liberty allowing † ( pg564 ) which would further autonomy and individuality in the kid ( Barber & A ; Olsen 1997, Gray & A ; Steinburg 1999, Hart, Newell & A ; Olsen 2002 ) .Ref: This child-rearing manner allows for the development of strong communicating, it encourages the kid to show her ideas feelings and desires hence non to be intimidated by a bully if non conforming with stereotypes. Victims of strong-arming with this secure fond regard and environing environment would experience comfy to inform their parents and seek support if bullied. This type of child-rearing manner has fostered competency such as â€Å" high degrees of self-pride, societal and moral adulthood and favorable school public presentation † ( Amato & A ; Fowler,2002, Anuola, Stattin & A ; Nurmi, 2000, Herman et al, 1997, luster & A ; McAdoo 1996 ; Mackey, Arnold & A ; Pratt, 2001 ; Steinberg, Darling & A ; Fletcher 1995 pg564 ) . A kid who has dignity and self- worth will last and protect themselves from strong-arming as they will non yield to intimadation but gain and esteem their individuality. It can take the kid to a mature underatnding their alone features are valued in community and should non be a factor in their isolation. Besides relationships with siblings can be seen as an country for emotional support. Older siblings frequently â €Å" aided younger siblings with academic and equal challenges † ( pg576 ) and may help development of resiliency to effects of intimidation. Teachers can work collaboratively with parents as â€Å" There are many advantages in parents and instructors working in partnership † ( Besag, 1989, 1992, 1999, Randall, 1996: Bullying Michael Elliot ) . Relationships in school in peculiar instructor patterns can protect kids from experiences of intimidation. The personality and values that a instructor brings to the schoolroom can act upon the degree of protection available to kids from. The instructor should make a positive acquisition environment where intimidation is frowned upon but friendly relationship and value of persons are to the bow. A stating ambiance should be established where the kids feel confident to seek support or study strong-arming behavior. Merely as the issues outlined in â€Å" Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour in Primary and Post Primary Schools † ( 1993 ) the instructors must be argus-eyed for strong-arming behavior, maintain clear records of incidents, and be alert of any academic or physical marks of intimidation. The instructor â€Å" through course of study work on intimidation, can raise awareness amongst students about strong-arming behavior and they can dispute attitudes about strong-arming behavior, addition apprehension for bullied students and assist construct an anti-bullying ethos in the school † . ( undertaking bulling LAN ) . Drama is a powerful convention that can be used to research intimidation and for kids to discourse their feelings and understanding about intimidation. However the instructor must be careful non to promote free function drama of intimidation, but use play to raise consciousness of strong-arming through a fictional lens. Teacher can besides utilize literacy to research intimidation as there are many novels that deal with intimidation in a sensitive mode such as â€Å" The Diddakoi † by Rumer Godden. ( undertaking strong-arming local area network ) . The instructor can advance high ego esteem through topics such as SPHE by prosecuting the kids in games depicting themselves to their equals, raising their self-respect and assurance. It must be noted that positive relationships with friends in school can assist protect kids from strong-arming as they excessively provide a secure base supplying comfort and support to get the better of bullying and isolation. Besides a individual they can confide in or look to for support in stating a parent or instructor. Teachers â€Å" have small opportunity of successfully assisting victims unless a school has a clear, well-developed, anti-bullying scheme † ( Elliot:58 ) The school must develop an appropriate anti-bullying ethos and policy â€Å" which establishes a clear set of agreed purposes which provide students, staff and parents with a sense of way and an apprehension of the committedness of the school to cover with strong-arming behavior which provides a â€Å" model for intercession and bar † ( undertaking LAN ) .The policy gives staff an apprehension and to be â€Å" consistent in their attack to strong-arm behavior and to advance anti-bullying values within the school. â€Å" ( Tacking LAN ) . Culture affects the construct of intimidation, in this manner a policy associating to strong-arming must see the societal economic and spiritual values of a society. Different civilizations reflect different values which influence the policy as a school with values is cognizant of the importance of incorporating with the community ( DEB omoore ) . Besides the cultural group that a kid is from influences their protection and endurance as different cultural groups use assorted raising manners which result in different features in the kid. Different cultural groupings in societies reflect different attitudes ethical motives and in bend usage different raising manners hence kids. The community should work in partnership with the school. Parents ‘ councils could be established in the school where the community involved in â€Å" outlining new or revised school policy/codes † and besides these councils should â€Å" guarantee that their local communities are bully-free † to guarantee a comprehensive attack to strong-arming in all facets of the kid ‘s life: at place, in school and in the community. It is apparent that through a comprehensive inclusive attack to strong-arming those kids can be protected and survive experiences of intimidation.