Engineering Service Bus

The common engineering client (CEC) gets its data and business logic from an engineering service bus ESP which builds the middle layer between CEC and the under laying legacy systems (Fig. 21.7). 

Heavy Construction Airport Operations Urban Sanitation Commuter Bus Rail Lines Logistics Services Real Estate Development Cement Manufacturing Engineering Services... 

The first methanol bus in the world was placed in revenue service in Auckland, New Zealand in June 1981. It was a Mercedes O 305 city bus using the M 407 hGO methanol engine. This vehicle operated in revenue service for several years with mixed results. Fuel economy on an equivalent energy basis ranged from 6 to 17% mote than diesel fuel economy. Power and torque matched the diesel engine and drivers could not detect a difference. ReHabiUty and durabihty of components was a problem. Additional demonstrations took place in Berlin, Germany and in Pretoria, South Africa, both in 1982. 

The Combustion Laboratory at Pennsylvania State University has successfully developed a project involving conversion of a faculty-staff campus shuttle bus to operate on DME. The conversion of the Penn State shuttle bus was a collaborative effort between the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Air Products, the Federal Energy Technology Center, Navistar International, Champion Motor Coach, Penn State s Combustion Lab, Fleet Services, and Pennsylvania Transportation Institute. The Combustion Laboratory will eventually convert the shuttle bus engine to operate on blends of DME, diesel fuel, and a lubricity agent. 

One method for extending the life of a school bus is to replace its engine when cost-effective. School system operated maintenance centers should be staffed with mechanics and service personnel skilled in preventive maintenance and vehicle repair. The staff of school system operated maintenance centers should include sufficient administrative, mechanic, and service personnel to maintain and service all the vehicles in the system. Technology is being reshaped to improve safety on and around school vehicles. 

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