Search results

Filters

  • Journals
  • Authors
  • Keywords
  • Date
  • Type

Search results

Number of results: 4
items per page: 25 50 75
Sort by:
Download PDF Download RIS Download Bibtex

Abstract

Some areas intended for afforestation are characterised by a lack of moisture and mineral nutrients. One of the approaches to improve water retention capacity of soils is the use of hydrogels (polymer soil conditioners). The presented experiment was performed with 4 different methods of hydrogel applications and control in a post-industrial area – a dumping ground of the Brown Coal Mine Bełchatów (Forest District Administration Bełchatów). The Aquaterra product (pure hydrogel) and hydrogel with nutrients (TerraVit) produced by Terra-Gubin company were used in all experiments. From 292 to 306 one-year old seedlings of Pinus sylvestris L. of an average height of 80–101 mm were planted in each plot. The influence of hydrogel application method on successful afforestation and growth of seedling was analyzed after the first vegetation year. Maximum number of surviv seedlings (93.3%) was observed for hydrogel applied through roots coating, minimum (72.4%) for hydrogel with fertilizers applied under plants. Results obtained for pure hydrogel surface application (89.1%) and pure hydrogel applied under plants (85.3%) can be compared with results from control plot (89.7%). Mean heights of surviving seedlings were similar (128–130 mm) for root coating, and both methods of hydrogel application under plants, in contrast with surficial hydrogel application (117 mm) and control where they were minimal (111 mm). Mean height increments in surviving seedlings were minimum in control plot (31 mm), and similar (38–40 mm) for root coating and surface application. The best results of height increments (47 mm) were obtained when hydrogel mixed with fertiliser was applied under plants. To sum up, in view of plant survival the best method of polymer soil conditioner (hydrogel) application was root coating; this method gave also satisfactory increments of plant height.

Go to article

Authors and Affiliations

Wiesław Ptach
Andrzej Boczoń
Michał Wróbel
Download PDF Download RIS Download Bibtex

Abstract

This paper presents a solution that utilises ultrasonic technology to allow monitoring snow layer thickness or water level based on measurement from air. It describes the principle of operation of a measurement device using three methods of compensating for changing external factors affecting appliance’s precision. Block diagram of the device is also provided. In order to verify the proposed solutions, the research team tested the device in laboratory and operating conditions. The results obtained this way make it possible to select a configuration of device operation depending on the required measurement precision and limitations associated with installing the system for actual operation.
Go to article

Authors and Affiliations

Tadeusz Gudra
Dariusz Banasiak
Krzysztof Herman
Krzysztof Opieliński
Download PDF Download RIS Download Bibtex

Abstract

The research project “Railcab” designs a shuttle-based transportation system, which combines innovative mechatronic technologies with existing railway tracks. The traction and braking forces are generated by a linear electromagnetic drive while the tracking and guidance is performed using classical wheel/rail technology. By adopting different mechatronic modules, a modular structuring of the overall system, the driving safety, vehicle dynamics and the travelling comfort can be increased.

In the present paper, we concentrate on the development of the active tracking module which reduces the sensitivity of the system behaviour with respect to the friction in the wheel/rail contact. Basic ideas of the tracking module are self-optimizing active tracking, camber adjustment, and mechanical locking device. Based on a-priori identified risks, like e.g. strong cross-wind, frosted rails and crossing of switches, the safety concepts are described in detail together with the methodology that was used in the design process.

Go to article

Authors and Affiliations

Michael Walther
Thomas Muller
Jorg Wallaschek

This page uses 'cookies'. Learn more