Eva Vidal | Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya (original) (raw)

Papers by Eva Vidal

IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks, 2004

Students who enter university have been studying all their lives, but most of them have not been ... more Students who enter university have been studying all their lives, but most of them have not been taught how to do it. To study well, it is convenient to know how the human brain works. However, most teachers and students are unaware of the mechanisms used by the human brain to learn. This paper describes the main human brain learning-mechanisms, and provides some advice that students should follow to take advantage of these mechanisms. These tips include having healthy habits (appropriate eating, respecting sleep and circadian rhythms, and exercise), techniques to improve learning (Pomodoro, weekly planning, assessment training) and techniques to enhance mental abilities (Mindfulness, growth mindset and stoic techniques).

2000 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems. Emerging Technologies for the 21st Century. Proceedings (IEEE Cat No.00CH36353)

ABSTRACT The most significant sources of nonlinearity in the MOS resistive circuit behaviour are ... more ABSTRACT The most significant sources of nonlinearity in the MOS resistive circuit behaviour are identified and deeply analysed in this contribution. Their influence on the MRC performance and, therefore, in the circuits containing such structure is evidenced through some examples and evaluated. Some reasonable hints about the way to minimise their undesired effects are provided

In this communication, the authors propose a current-mode analog circuit solution for the defuzzi... more In this communication, the authors propose a current-mode analog circuit solution for the defuzzifying step required for the fuzzyknowledge-based control (FKBC) of switching DC-DC converters. Considering the modulation of pulse widths which is needed for the control of switched power plants, the division operation at the output layer of a fuzzy inference controller takes advantage of the implicit signal-to-time conversion in the PWM process. This theoretical aspect is complemented with the proposal of a high-speed current-mode division circuit, which allows a wide range of switching frequencies. The PWM division circuit is preceded by a switched-current integrator to obtain a full defuzzifier. HSPICE layout-extracted transistor-level simulations for a standard CMOS 0.8μm technology verify the functionality of both the proposed defuzzifying method and circuit.

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2004

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2004

IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems proceedings, 2004

ABSTRACT Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are feedback nonlinear systems with ... more ABSTRACT Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are feedback nonlinear systems with potential instability. If a stability study is to be carried out, even if it is at least local, the appropriate linear dynamical modelling of the filter should be obtained. This modelling is mandatory if an improved design of the loop controllers is to be carried out. This work presents the dynamic modelling of a CMOS continuous-time analog filter with automatic tuning capability. The analysis leads to an equivalent small-signal linearised incremental model from which transfer functions between output variables and control voltages are obtained. The dynamic modelling of both the phase-shift between input and output signals as well as the output amplitude, required to properly tune both frequency and quality factor parameters, is presented. The analysis leads to the design of a compensated loop with enhanced stability and dynamic performance.

This device is designed to cover and prevent a hypodermic needle in a syringe from possibly scrat... more This device is designed to cover and prevent a hypodermic needle in a syringe from possibly scratching a person after it has been used and discarded, which will help prevent spread of contagious diseases. Primarily, it consists of a transparent sleeve that receives the barrel of a hypodermic syringe, and after the needle has been used, the sleeve is pushed forward to cover the needle. The sleeve and the barrel of the syringe cooperate with each other to lock in the forward and needle covering position, by having a self-contained locking mechanism.

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing

1998 Midwest Symposium on Circuits and Systems (Cat. No. 98CB36268), 1999

2004 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems (IEEE Cat. No.04CH37512), 2004

... IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics, ISIE'99, pp. 601. 15. ... 25. S.... more ... IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics, ISIE'99, pp. 601. 15. ... 25. S. Ajram, G. Salmer, "Ultrahigh Frequency DC-to-DC Converters Using GaAs Power Switches", IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, pp. 594-602. September 2001. 26. ...

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2005

This letter describes the design and implementation of a synchronizable compact CMOS oscillator. ... more This letter describes the design and implementation of a synchronizable compact CMOS oscillator. By using a fully differential topology, a reduction in area occupancy together with an improved robustness in front of on-chip interferences is achieved. Post-layout simulation results and experimental results for a standard CMOS 0.35 µ m technology are presented to validate the functionality of the tunable oscillator.

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2009

Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are nonlinear feedback systems that are poten... more Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are nonlinear feedback systems that are potentially unstable. To ensure stability, particularly if the design of the loop controllers is to be improved, the appropriate linear dynamic modeling of the tunable filter, including control inputs, should be attained. This work aims to present a general dynamic modeling of continuous-time analog filters with automatic tuning

Sustainability

This paper presents three tools developed within the framework of the project EDINSOST2-SDG, aime... more This paper presents three tools developed within the framework of the project EDINSOST2-SDG, aimed at embedding and assessing the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Engineering curricula. ESD is promoted through the introduction into engineering curricula of learning outcomes related to sustainability and, specifically, to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The first tool, the “Engineering Sustainability Map”, contains ESD-related learning outcomes that any engineering student should have acquired upon completion of their studies. These learning outcomes are described according to four sustainability competencies: (1) Critical contextualization of knowledge, (2) Sustainable use of resources, (3) Participation in community processes, and (4) Application of ethical principles. The second tool, the “Sustainability Presence Map” of a degree, shows the percentage of the presence in the curriculum of each sustainability competency. The calculation of the presence of each...

2019 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference (FIE)

Interaction Design and Children

Sustainability

It is vital that subjects such as the circular economy, sustainable design, green computing or en... more It is vital that subjects such as the circular economy, sustainable design, green computing or environmental engineering be included in the engineering curriculum. Education for sustainable development will enable engineers to develop sustainable products and provide sustainable services, thereby leading to a beneficial result for society and making an indispensable contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals achievement. As the last stage for students in academia, Degree Theses (Bachelor’s and Master’s) provide a good tool for reviewing the sustainability competencies developed during the degree, as well as being an opportunity for applying these competencies in a holistic way. In their Degree Theses, students should be able to demonstrate that they are aware of the need to introduce and assess sustainability in their future engineering projects. This paper presents a guide aimed at helping engineering students to design and develop sustainable projects, and analyzes the firs...

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

2016 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference (FIE), 2016

IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks, 2004

Students who enter university have been studying all their lives, but most of them have not been ... more Students who enter university have been studying all their lives, but most of them have not been taught how to do it. To study well, it is convenient to know how the human brain works. However, most teachers and students are unaware of the mechanisms used by the human brain to learn. This paper describes the main human brain learning-mechanisms, and provides some advice that students should follow to take advantage of these mechanisms. These tips include having healthy habits (appropriate eating, respecting sleep and circadian rhythms, and exercise), techniques to improve learning (Pomodoro, weekly planning, assessment training) and techniques to enhance mental abilities (Mindfulness, growth mindset and stoic techniques).

2000 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems. Emerging Technologies for the 21st Century. Proceedings (IEEE Cat No.00CH36353)

ABSTRACT The most significant sources of nonlinearity in the MOS resistive circuit behaviour are ... more ABSTRACT The most significant sources of nonlinearity in the MOS resistive circuit behaviour are identified and deeply analysed in this contribution. Their influence on the MRC performance and, therefore, in the circuits containing such structure is evidenced through some examples and evaluated. Some reasonable hints about the way to minimise their undesired effects are provided

In this communication, the authors propose a current-mode analog circuit solution for the defuzzi... more In this communication, the authors propose a current-mode analog circuit solution for the defuzzifying step required for the fuzzyknowledge-based control (FKBC) of switching DC-DC converters. Considering the modulation of pulse widths which is needed for the control of switched power plants, the division operation at the output layer of a fuzzy inference controller takes advantage of the implicit signal-to-time conversion in the PWM process. This theoretical aspect is complemented with the proposal of a high-speed current-mode division circuit, which allows a wide range of switching frequencies. The PWM division circuit is preceded by a switched-current integrator to obtain a full defuzzifier. HSPICE layout-extracted transistor-level simulations for a standard CMOS 0.8μm technology verify the functionality of both the proposed defuzzifying method and circuit.

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2004

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2004

IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems proceedings, 2004

ABSTRACT Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are feedback nonlinear systems with ... more ABSTRACT Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are feedback nonlinear systems with potential instability. If a stability study is to be carried out, even if it is at least local, the appropriate linear dynamical modelling of the filter should be obtained. This modelling is mandatory if an improved design of the loop controllers is to be carried out. This work presents the dynamic modelling of a CMOS continuous-time analog filter with automatic tuning capability. The analysis leads to an equivalent small-signal linearised incremental model from which transfer functions between output variables and control voltages are obtained. The dynamic modelling of both the phase-shift between input and output signals as well as the output amplitude, required to properly tune both frequency and quality factor parameters, is presented. The analysis leads to the design of a compensated loop with enhanced stability and dynamic performance.

This device is designed to cover and prevent a hypodermic needle in a syringe from possibly scrat... more This device is designed to cover and prevent a hypodermic needle in a syringe from possibly scratching a person after it has been used and discarded, which will help prevent spread of contagious diseases. Primarily, it consists of a transparent sleeve that receives the barrel of a hypodermic syringe, and after the needle has been used, the sleeve is pushed forward to cover the needle. The sleeve and the barrel of the syringe cooperate with each other to lock in the forward and needle covering position, by having a self-contained locking mechanism.

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing

1998 Midwest Symposium on Circuits and Systems (Cat. No. 98CB36268), 1999

2004 IEEE International Symposium on Circuits and Systems (IEEE Cat. No.04CH37512), 2004

... IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics, ISIE'99, pp. 601. 15. ... 25. S.... more ... IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics, ISIE'99, pp. 601. 15. ... 25. S. Ajram, G. Salmer, "Ultrahigh Frequency DC-to-DC Converters Using GaAs Power Switches", IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, pp. 594-602. September 2001. 26. ...

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2005

This letter describes the design and implementation of a synchronizable compact CMOS oscillator. ... more This letter describes the design and implementation of a synchronizable compact CMOS oscillator. By using a fully differential topology, a reduction in area occupancy together with an improved robustness in front of on-chip interferences is achieved. Post-layout simulation results and experimental results for a standard CMOS 0.35 µ m technology are presented to validate the functionality of the tunable oscillator.

Analog Integrated Circuits and Signal Processing, 2009

Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are nonlinear feedback systems that are poten... more Continuous-time filters with automatic tuning loops are nonlinear feedback systems that are potentially unstable. To ensure stability, particularly if the design of the loop controllers is to be improved, the appropriate linear dynamic modeling of the tunable filter, including control inputs, should be attained. This work aims to present a general dynamic modeling of continuous-time analog filters with automatic tuning

Sustainability

This paper presents three tools developed within the framework of the project EDINSOST2-SDG, aime... more This paper presents three tools developed within the framework of the project EDINSOST2-SDG, aimed at embedding and assessing the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in Engineering curricula. ESD is promoted through the introduction into engineering curricula of learning outcomes related to sustainability and, specifically, to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The first tool, the “Engineering Sustainability Map”, contains ESD-related learning outcomes that any engineering student should have acquired upon completion of their studies. These learning outcomes are described according to four sustainability competencies: (1) Critical contextualization of knowledge, (2) Sustainable use of resources, (3) Participation in community processes, and (4) Application of ethical principles. The second tool, the “Sustainability Presence Map” of a degree, shows the percentage of the presence in the curriculum of each sustainability competency. The calculation of the presence of each...

2019 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference (FIE)

Interaction Design and Children

Sustainability

It is vital that subjects such as the circular economy, sustainable design, green computing or en... more It is vital that subjects such as the circular economy, sustainable design, green computing or environmental engineering be included in the engineering curriculum. Education for sustainable development will enable engineers to develop sustainable products and provide sustainable services, thereby leading to a beneficial result for society and making an indispensable contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals achievement. As the last stage for students in academia, Degree Theses (Bachelor’s and Master’s) provide a good tool for reviewing the sustainability competencies developed during the degree, as well as being an opportunity for applying these competencies in a holistic way. In their Degree Theses, students should be able to demonstrate that they are aware of the need to introduce and assess sustainability in their future engineering projects. This paper presents a guide aimed at helping engineering students to design and develop sustainable projects, and analyzes the firs...

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

2016 IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference (FIE), 2016