Applied Technologies

The development of this proposal seeks to show what has been the impact of IoT-related technologies, focusing on IoT implementations in agriculture. A concise taxonomy of the devices and networks in use, as well as their vulnerabilities, is analyzed. It develops a methodology that seeks the implementation of good practices, the implementation of security elements in the development of IoT use. The conclusions have been adequate and show that it is possible to implement the proposed methodology.

This paper presents the development and pilot implementation of the methodological proposal for the improvement to the efficiency and cybersecurity of the SCADA communication network in EmelNorte substations. This is justified by the fact that the modern substations operation requires that the SCADA will become to an open system, which can be integrated with others systems related with administration and management of Energy Business. This situation, on the one hand, bring with it the need for a SCADA communication network that should be characterized by a high availability and efficiency, but on the other hand, as the SCADA becomes an open system, its cybersecurity could be compromised. In this regard, a design methodology for improving efficiency and cybersecurity of the SCADA communication network is developed by taking as references standards IEC-61850 and NERC-CIP-7. This methodology propose design guidelines for: (1) LAN architecture design in substations, (2) administration and management of SCADA communication network, and (3) cybersecurity of SCADA communication network. In order to validate the proposed guidelines, these were implemented in the communication network of substation “El Retorno”, and then efficiency and cybersecurity were evaluated and contrasted to that of network before the implementation. The results show significant performance improvements, and with it the potential benefits of the methodology implementation are evidenced.

This article presents the design and implementation of a wireless teleoperated mobile robot prototype, intended for the inspection of high risk locations where they could be developing criminal activities with the objective of safeguard the integrity and security of law enforcement officers. Robot design combines special geometry with posibility of high materials deformity and displacement, in order to withstand a free fall of up to 2 m, has an autonomy of up to 50 min, is manipulated by remote control with the possibility of real-time audio and video transmission at a distance of 250 m with sight line and 90 m when there are obstacles; this document is organized as follows: Sect. 1 presents a brief description of mobile robotics and commercial applications, Sect. 2 describes the methodology used for the design of the prototype, Sect. 3 presents the implementation of the prototype, Sect. 4 presents the results achieved and finally, in Sect. 5 the main conclusions of this document are presented.

In this work, we investigate and compare cooperative routing protocols for channel selection purposes. In specific, the following efficient protocols: Channel Selection Scheme for Cooperative Routing Protocols (CSCR) and Cooperative Multi-channel MAC Protocol (MC-MAC) applied to Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs). Cooperative protocol schemes allow Secondary Users (SUs) to detect the presence of Primary Users (PUs). SUs employ their spectrum sensing phase in a multi-channel architecture and, then, transmit this detection to the neighboring SUs cooperatively. The studied protocols are analyzed and evaluated through a CRN simulator, which consists of all stages of the cognitive cycle, namely spectrum sensing, decision, sharing, and mobility. The evaluation is carried out in terms of probability of detection of the PU, packet delivery ratio in terms of SUs, and end-to-end delay as a function of SUs.

The minimum-mean-square-error (MMSE) detector is widely used in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems, since it is considered as the best linear detector. However, obtaining a tight bit error rate (BER) expression is not a straightforward task. In massive MIMO (M-MIMO) systems, due to the asymptotically orthogonal channel matrix property, the BER evaluation is less complex by using the random matrix theory. In this article, two closed-form BER expressions are derived for the MMSE detector in M-MIMO systems. The first one is an asymptotic result by using the Marchenko-Pastur distribution, and the second one is an accurate result by using an approximation of the ZF detector performance.

In data networks, multipath algorithms use more than one path to transport information from one source to a destination node. Even though, there are many algorithms about multipath solutions, performance evaluation in simulators and testbeds still need to be widely analyzed. The present work analyzes the MPTCP protocol performance through its implementation in NS-3 network simulator. Besides, MPTCP is compared with the TCP protocol in order to evaluate the impact of the number of nodes in the performance of each protocol. The performance metrics considered in this work are window size, jitter, and throughput. The simulation results show that MPTCP improves the throughput compared with the TCP protocol. In addition, MPTCP windows size has a better behavior and the full delivery information is achieved in less time.

Due to the problems that radio-frequency technology presents in hostile environments, especially in mining environments, other forms of more robust as well as efficient communication have been explored in recent years. Among these, Visible Light Communication (VLC) can be highlighted. In this work, the analysis of a VLC system applied to underground mining (UM) environments is presented. This scheme supports communication and lighting at the same time. This VLC study is done based on the mathematical models of optical transmitters, optical receivers, channel model, and propagation model. In addition, two UM scenarios are exposed, which are tested by numerical simulations. In particular, characteristics of the VLC channel such as gain, impulse response, and reception power are obtained, together with the fulfillment of the necessary lighting parameters in the mining scenarios. As a consequence, we observe that VLC systems comply with the lighting standards in UM environments and have favorable characteristics for reliable communication within these noisy environments.

This paper develops a propagation model of electromagnetic signals emitted at frequencies of 20 and 40 MHz for the Ecuadorian jungle. The expected results of this research will be applied to produce a complete coverage map for wireless communications technologies, which will optimize the radio spectrum in operation carried out by the Armed Forces in Ecuadorian border jungle. The final expression found is an adjustment function that relates the Receiving Power (PRX) to factors that determine the geometry of the Fresnell Zone (Conectivity). The resulting model of the research improves the discrepancy between the simulated power (PRL) in commercial software and a sample of measured wireless transmissions in situ. The analysis was based on the results and methodology presented by Longley-Rice. It was determined the non-normality of the discrepancy between the losses (LlR) calculated by Longley Rice Model (LMR) and the data obtained in the field. To solve this point, correction coefficients were added on the expression of LMR. Subsequently, the mathematical expression was linearized to implement multivariate linear adjustment techniques. Alternative formulations to the Linear Regression model were sought and their goodness of fit was compared; all these techniques are introduced theatrically. To conclude, the study includes a Kolmogorov Test to grant normality and goodness of fit. Mathematical modelling software such as Matlab, R and SPSS were used for the formulation and numerical analysis. Finally, we found a model that have a R2 of 99.995%.

The following work implements a race timing system for running events using Radio Frequency Identification technology (RFID). We determined the best position to place the tags on athletes and antennas in the finish line. For this, several tests were made placing the antennas and tags in different configurations and heights. The results show that the hip tagging on athletes with antennas placed on the ground is the suitable configuration.

World communications are changing very fast due mainly for technology advances where new and all type of devices have been connected to present and future networks that requires low information amount transmission while increasing the time and periods when data is transmitted. The scenario is ideal for Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies that allows efficient communications, reliable and with low power consumption. This work proposes a technical review using simulation software to determine which LPWAN technology offers a realistic implementation solution for wireless sensor networks (WSN) to build smart cities that connects a diversity of mobile and fixed devices with an Internet of Things (IoT) architecture and reliable data transmission, protocol operation, data transfer rate configuration and frequency assignment. All these duties are results of network simulations modifying user interface parameters and simulation conditions, giving an accurate diagram network when it is possibly to configure protocol, network topology, data flow, frequency band, receiver sensibility, power transmission and others.

This paper proposes a protocol for obtaining surface myoelectric signals in muscles of the upper limb for characterization of hand movement patterns. To characterize the movement patterns, the magnitude of the signal from each muscle is compared, for eight movements: (i) flexion, (ii) extension, (iii) ulnar and (iv) radial deviation of the hand, (v) metacarpophalangeal flexion, (vi) metacarpophalangeal extension, (vii) opposition and (viii) adduction thumb. Specific points were considered to acquire the signals from muscles innervated by the radial, medial and ulnar nerve, following the recommendations of the SENIAM project, in six intact people, using a myoelectric signal acquisition system. Seven protocols with recommendations for the location of sensors in the muscles were obtained, intended to establish combinations to reduce the number of sensors for future designs of assistive technologies, such as active orthoses. The suitable characteristic patterns for the hand movements studied allows the identification of a reduced set of sensors, considering the same eight movements. In this way, the functionality and rehabilitation processes of hand injuries are improved, facilitating the execution of activities of daily living.

Introduction: The radiofrequency hyperthermia is a technique that by induction of the electromagnetic waves produces the heating in the biological tissues. The increase in body temperature in a range of 40 °C to 46 °C causing heat-induced necrosis, protein inactivity, and inhibition of DNA recovery mechanisms in the cancer cell. The application of this therapy depends on parameters like the frequency and power and physical properties of the tissue, which vary from person to person. One of the important properties is the electrical conductivity of the tissue, which varies depending on the tissue and frequency. In this paper, the electrical conductivity estimation is performed in hyperthermia therapy with different frequencies. Methodology: The estimation process of electrical conductivity is carried out through the Levenberg Marquardt method. The process is performed on simulated experimental data and mathematical model of the system with different frequencies. The geometry used is a copper coil that induces radiofrequency to a domain located in the center of the coil. Results: The estimation of electrical conductivity is obtained to different frequencies from radiofrequency hyperthermia therapy for cancer treatment by the Levenberg Marquardt method. Also, these results allow that by identifying the electrical conductivity of each patient. Conclusions: The estimation of physical properties in the application of cancer treatment is important, in this case with radiofrequency hyperthermia therapy, because it is possible to plan appropriate treatment, due to a better knowledge of the system.

Ecuador’s Transmission System (SNT) is integrated by 60 substations, 44 of them have a Substation Automation System (SAS) and 5 of these SAS are obsolete. When a failure of any protection/control device occurs in an obsolete SAS, the lack of spare parts drives the substation to a critical state that could compromise the service availability since a proper substation operation cannot be accomplished. In this regard, TRANSELECTRIC set up the plan to update around 20 substations which are within its field of action. To this end, retrofit engineering of a transmission line-bay under the IEC 61850 guidelines is developed and includes the standardization of signals, the reengineering of SAS components, and the standardization of the substation operator interfaces. This engineering is then applied to INGA 1 Bay (Pomasqui Substation) and its evaluation is accomplished in laboratory by the emulation of such bay with the designed automation system. To validate the proposed retrofit, the architecture and dataflow of Pomasqui Substation are emulated as well, to evaluate the automation system performance under practical operational scenarios. After the experiments, the results show the feasibility of the proposed retrofit.

The problems inherent to the intervention of animals in therapies are associated with risks that imply this interaction and the low capacity to carry out a quantitative assessment. This document aims to offer patients with motor, sensory and cognitive disabilities a different and safe treatment option. The approach to this problem uses a robotic platform divided into three systems, integrating elements for motor, cognitive and sensory rehabilitation: The first emulating the head and neck of the animal; the second emulating movements of rotation and translation of the horse’s back in the three axes (base); the third to calculate the force vector relating the distribution of the child’s weight, performing emulation of temperature ranging from 38 ºC to 42 ºC depending on the speed of work (seat), recording articular angles of the cervical region, thoracic cage, lumbar and hip; The patient is evaluated posturally, in-corporating a set of lights that make it easier to observe to which side the resulting force vector is directed, allowing him to modify his posture and improve his proprioception. The system comprises interaction of commands for the user so that he can develop new psychomotor skills and abilities. The data obtained can serve as indicators for the differential evaluation of each patient, as well as the possibility of monitoring variables such as Temperature, joint angles, and weight.

The need to find new alternative energy sources brings with it the use of unconventional power generation sources such as bicycles and the question arises as to how safe these sources are from the user’s perspective. The present work consists in the estimation of a parameter of easy evaluation, for the safe use of a conventional bicycle in the generation of electrical energy. The generation of energy is achieved by coupling a bicycle to an electric alternator and this to an inverter. The load used was a 100 W lamp. The measurement of non-physiological parameters such as vibration, ambient temperature and pedaling speed as well as certain physiological parameters such as heart rate (HR) and body temperature, were used to determine both physiological and electrical signals when the user is overexerting. A protocol oriented to two routines was defined to evaluate the use of the bicycle in conditions of maximum effort and conditions of safe operation. Eight people between the ages of 22 and 32, body weights from 56 kg to 80 kg and heights from 1.59 m to 1.84 m participated. Voltage and current readings were taken to estimate the power and energy generated by the participants. In the process of user-bike interaction it was found that when the participant over-exerted, he/she resorted to compensatory postural movements to maintain the pedaling speed. These compensatory movements made it possible to observe a relationship between the first derivative of vibration and HR.

This paper describes a platform for adaptation of myoelectric prostheses in people with upper limb amputation. The design of the platform is based on the anthropometry and biomechanics of human upper limb, servomotors are used to drive each degree of freedom, except in the articulation of the elbow, in which a gear motor is used. The myoelectric signal acquisition system includes Myoware myoelectric signal sensors from the company Advancer Technologies, an embedded system based on Arduino and a graphic interface to visualize myoelectric signals in real time. The implementation platform allows to replicate flexion/extension movements for the elbow, wrist, and each finger of the hand, pronation/supination of the wrist, and adduction/abduction of the thumb. The data acquisition system allows to visualize in real time, muscular activity concerning for 4 muscles, and was tested in people with upper limb amputation registering significant values for different movement intentions. The platform presented provides a feedback that could improve the adaptation of a superior limb amputee to a myoelectric prosthesis. The characterization of myoelectric signals generated by the residual limb of a person with upper limb amputation, allows to generate control signals according to a movement intention that would be replicated in the platform.

Diabetes is a disease that causes the death of one person every seven seconds worldwide and is also costly, in 2014 was invested 600 billion dollars to be treated worldwide, that is why there is a need to develop technological projects to analyze patterns determined in people who suffer from this disease, in order to detect the pathology in a non-invasive way and reduce costs. That is why an electrical bioimpedance analyzer was developed for the analysis of diabetes. For this purpose, the integrated AD5933 was used as an acquisition device for bioimpedance signals and a beaglebone black development platform to process such data. Electrical bioimpedance data were taken from healthy people and people with the pathology. The data were processed using mathematical methods that allowed parameters to be found to differentiate between the signals of people who have diabetes and people who do not. These methods and the performance measures of the device were evaluated through the Confusion Matrix which determined that the best ratio to decree people with and without diabetes was the quotient between the magnitude of bioimpedance at frequencies of 10 kHz with the magnitude of bioimpedance at frequencies of 100 kHz.

Excessive noise causes gradual hearing loss and interferes with sleep, reading and concentration. It can even cause physiological disturbances in the cardiovascular system. Noise quantification is usually performed using multiple static measurements with sound level meters. This article implements the technical feasibility analysis to perform mobile noise measurements using a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System-Drone. Initially the acoustic power emitted by a Drone Matrice 100 was estimated, for which a parallelepiped is defined taking as indications the ISO3744 standard and by means of an audio capture system. For the measurement a semi-anechoic chamber was established in a football field and the measurements were made in the early hours of the morning. The acoustic power of this type of drone was 84.6 dB, which determined that the signal-to-noise ratio had a very high value. An intervention in the design of the drone propellants is suggested to reduce the noise of the drones, so that previously the technical viability for applications of measurement of acoustic pollution is discarded.

For this research work, it was considered a renewable energy source that harness the energy of solar radiation to transform itself into electrical energy and supply the organic constructions and airplane type hostels located between the mountains in places of high tourist potential. In the present work of investigation also presents the constructive case of the hostel type airplane, its characteristics, design, simulations and relevant data of the construction, the feasibility of implementing these autonomous constructions was analyzed to give greater value to the Ecuadorian areas with high potential tourist. The research process consisted in the collection of data on solar radiation, temperature, through meteorological stations located in various sectors of the Cuenca-Ecuador Canton. The simulations were carried out in MATLAB/Simulink based on a mathematical model established for this case.In the end, we present the results of this successful experience from the technical point of view.

This project performs the optimization of the process for the manufacture of stems for the gas passage valves produced by the company INDUMETAL M&M, the problem is generated in the process of the elaboration of stems due to the lack of machinery for perform the machining of sufficient stems, the process had a working productivity of 59 units processed/hour of production of stems, which were not sufficient to meet the production requirement, so it was proposed to implement an automated system that solve the problem of production deficiency in the area of stems. The proposal was to reinvigorate the semi-automatic lathe Hardinge AHC (TH-05) existing in the area in very bad conditions, which occupied physical space and could fulfill the required work. For the implementation, a Programmable Logic Controller (SIEMENS S7 1200 PLC) and a Human Machine Interface (HMI DELTA) are used, increasing productivity to 89 units processed/hour of stems, fulfilling the objective set.

In this work a performance graphic analysis approach based on radar charts for an optimal-robust controller with different switching functions is presented. For purpose of taking an overall performance criteria of control algorithm, this graphic analysis is used. The stabilization of the Car-Pendulum System is performed through the optimal-robust controller based on the Variable Structure Control (VSC) and the Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) as sliding surface. Different chattering reduction methods are tuned by using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) methodology. The performance based on radar graphs are performed using ISE, IAE, $$\%M_p$$ and TV indexes through initial conditions, disturbances and uncertain parameter tests by simulations.

Context:Extension of battery lifetime on mobile devices is an aspect which is continuously studied by both manufacturers and applications developers. Problem: Most studies are focused on extending Li-Ion batteries lifetime (commonly used in mobile devices), on the premise that charge cycles in this kind of batteries do not reach 100% of their capacity. Aim: We have proposed an autonomous system to control the maximum charge level of a mobile device’s battery. The system also gathers/analyzes data regarding the battery charge cycles in real-time by using the open source FIWARE platform and the ESP8266 micro-controller. Methodology: We have performed a simulation of the battery charge cycle as a proof of concept. Results: The preliminary tests were performed on the prototype which allowed us (1) to maintain a relatively constant level of charge by automatically switching on and off the smart plug, (2) to send the charge and uncharge levels of the device in real-time through the an Android application, and (3) to display all information on a time series chart by using the grafana tool.

Heart data acquisition is actually common these days to prevent its atypical functioning. However, it presents some issues like noise or the overlapping of spectra of the rest of the human body signals. Consequently, the electrocardiogram (ECG) is the most common way of heart monitoring. However, ECG electronic systems have not a portability criterion. To do so, the present system shows filter hardware and software design to improve ECG data acquisition through signal processing. For the one hand, it presents the sensor design, signal coupling, and band-pass filter Sallen-key structure. For another hand, the system implements a function transfer with Triangular and Gaussian filter stages. As a remarkable result, the output signal is a significant noise reduction.

The development of DeviceNet communication drivers and their electronic data sheets (EDS) for configuring them in automation software applications are proposed. In this regard, Common Industrial Protocol (CIP) Standard established by ODVA is reviewed, and a commercial DeviceNet network is analyzed in order to define hardware and software requirements for implementing the proposed drivers. Then, prototypes for discrete as well as analog sensors are implemented; their EDS files are developed too. After, the implemented drivers are integrated in a commercial DeviceNet network for validating their performance by monitoring their operation through RSNetWorx for DeviceNet. The developed prototypes and their EDS files shown a proper operation according to proposed aims. Therefore, by this work, the basis for the development of DeviceNet communication drivers for sensors were established.

We report the design, manufacture, and testing of the Michell-Banki turbine by using the hydraulic data of the Ambato - Huachi - Pelileo water irrigation channel in the Tungurahua province in Ecuador. The turbine has the blade, impeller, flange and shaft that are purely plastic materials because they will be subject to the action of water and thus be able to extend the life of the components. For an optimal design it was considered an efficient alternative, which is the manipulation of the turbine, it should be portable and as light as possible. When performing the tests, it was determined that there is an error around 14% between speed and torque calculations, while the greater efficiency of the turbine is at the exit of each oval of the channel. The main contribution of the present work is to provide the required promise component in a Pico-Hydro that is expected to be implemented in the water irrigation channel. Also this work aims to provide several benefits to the society bordering the irrigation channel, such as generating energy for self-consumption as a contribution to the lighting of the channel at no cost to the people.

The proper management of resources available in FPGA’s is one of the main issues that designers must consider when implementing a high bandwidth communications system. For this reason, we report the hardware-efficient implementation, for mapping stages and pulse shaping, of broadband multi-level QAM signals, in Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) devices. The process for designing the system is based on the large capacity of analog-digital (ADC) converters that exist today, in this case the ADC has a sampling rate of 5 GSPS, which allows the transmission of signals with bandwidths of about 2.5 GHz. The model implements in the same polyphase FIR structure multiplier-less the mapping schemes Q-PSK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM y 256-QAM together with the RRC filter. As a result, this implementation shows that the proposed architecture eliminates the use of dedicated multipliers which would be around 3150 if conventional methods were used. The Error Vector Module is used as a figure of merit in the selection of the RRC filter and the digital quantization levels. We achieved the target frequency for hardware operation at 312.5 MHz con un factor de interpolation de 16 and an EVM < 2%. Also, Hardware Description Language (HDL) models are validates in test benches with reference to the finite precision models of Simulink.

This work shows the development and implementation of a centralized trajectory tracking system for multi-robot systems, which is based on a kinematic trajectory controller for unicycle robots and subsequently transforming it to differential kinematics, a wireless network is also created for the communication of the master with the slave robots, additionally a method of prevention and avoidance of collisions between the robots is implemented.

The importance that in the last decades have acquired the composite materials of metallic matrix with reinforcements of nano ceramic particles, not only for their extraordinary mechanical properties, finding applications in different branches of industrial technology such as automotive, naval, aerospace and others. This work aims to show how the hardening of this type of materials depends on: the type of reinforcement, the size and its characteristics, the interaction of the dislocations with the defects, the process of obtaining these materials and the grain size of the matrix for the materials obtained by fusion or the particle size for those obtained by sintered compacting.

The study of voice signals is an important issue, since a part of society has hearing impairments. This implementation aims to help people with hearing problems, through enhanced voice; using a microphone array with hemispherical methodology broadband beamforming, which can distinguish signals arriving from different directions. A semi-spherical microphone array adapts better to human anatomy because it captures finer sound field.

In educational institutions collaborative work is used as a strategy to enhance active learning. One of the organizational tasks that is in charge of the teacher is the assignment of groups. Hence the purpose of this article, which is to show how emerging algorithms with their self-organization characteristics, can be used in group formation to carry out a collaborative task. Showing that performance and small groups do not necessarily go hand in hand. The methodology used is a case study and the sample corresponds to 62 students of the subject of Artificial Intelligence of Distance Modality of the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, in the academic period April-August/2018, to whom a dichotomous 16-item survey was applied based on the three phases of the Zimmerman self-regulated learning cycle. Among the remarkable results, we can mention that the synergy of individual regulation known as socially shared regulation influenced the execution of the collaborative task. Likewise, the cohesion of a group is not a determining variable to achieve meaningful learning since the less cohesion the greater regulation of socially shared learning. The contribution of the present study is given in the field of Computer Supported Cooperative Learning (CSCL) to alleviate one of the administrative tasks of teachers “Group Assignment”, which can be replicated in classroom learning environments or in any of the variations of e-learning.

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) have play an important role in education which has given way to new lines of work and research such as Mobile Learning (M-Learning). Nowadays, more and more applications are designed and developed for the M-Learning. Experimentation with remote laboratories (RL) has become a technological achievement that improves student’s autonomous and experimental learning activities. This paper shows the aspects considered for the design of a mobile application using Ionic framework that allow the access to a remote physics laboratory aimed to the students enrolled of a distance programs to carry out experimental practices. The methodology was applied in phases: analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation. As a result, an optimized and cross-platform mobile application was obtained, with a graphical user interface (GUI) with a responsive design capable of adapting to any mobile device such as iOS and Android based on resolution ranges. The functional testing of the application accomplishes the requirements for which it was required.

Taking into account technology goes ahead quickly and the teaching-learning processes for each person are different and the way to carry out this process should be at vanguard, Information and communications technology (ICT) play a role very important because they allow to create virtual objects for learning through software platforms, where they make knowledge is captured in a way more interactive, also making investigative process more dynamic and efficient.By an autonomous learning, a building critical thinking and well-structured forming purposeful, creative and innovative professionals who contribute suitable solutions to their environment.Besides all above, the professor also takes technological knowledge and developing new strategies and group dynamics, not only inside the classroom, but outside too, thus building a strong string between knowledge and working in site.Regarding above, it is made a study with a focus group to watch how ITC contributes to develop knowledge and investigative processes, concluding the students use these artefacts as a complementary tool to make their knowledge stronger.

Nowadays open online courses have become a powerful alternative in the teaching-learning process worldwide. Also, the use of Virtual Learning Environments for delivery of these courses has generated information sources contain large data sets about student interactions (content, resources and learning activities) creating research opportunities about students’ behavior in online courses. However, these type of courses faces an important challenge: high dropout rates during the course. This is a problem has become generalized in the different initiatives of online courses. This work, it is describing a dynamical visualization tool based on Learning Analytics using interaction events discovered in tracking logs. This tool can be used as a support to identify students at risk of dropping the course and to help teachers or instructors to take the necessary and appropriate actions.

Online learning has grown in the last years, where educational institutions are offering courses or study programs in different knowledge areas. Online learning allows students to participate actively in cooperative learning activities, interacting without the preconceived notions of disability that other participants could have, which affects the relationship. However, these advantages have often not become a reality for most people with disabilities, especially in the educational context. For instance, courses’ web pages are not accessible for people with visual disabilities, which makes the experience of taking a course frustrating and tedious.This article proposes a Model-Driven Development approach for supporting the design and generation of accessible educational material, for example, accessible Learning Objects (LO). This approach provides a software infrastructure that includes: (i) A Domain-Specific Language and its corresponding graphic editor that supports accessible LO’s design. Helping teachers during the instructional design and allowing them to describe accessibility requirements for students with visual disabilities. (ii) A LO’s generation engine that takes as input design artifacts and generates the source code that implements accessible LO. Abstracting teachers from technological aspects (e.g., programming language instructions) necessary to construct LO with accessibility features. The applicability of this approach is illustrated by using the DSL and the generation engine to design and automatically implement an accessible LO according to the accessibility profile specified during design. Finally, the generated LO was published in the Learning Management System Moodle.

In the current global context, where competition is growing, it is necessary to change the ways how companies operate, eliminating waste through the implementation of optimization tools such as the ones included in the Lean Manufacturing (LM) philosophy. LM is defined as a systematic process of waste elimination, which achieves a sustained rate of improvement over time. This research describes an optimization proposal with LM tools, performing an analysis of the processes’ state of two companies focused on the assembly of televisions and Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) for televisions, respectively. Through Value Stream Mapping (VSM), it was possible to identify problems in the production processes within the two case studies. Regarding televisions, the use of various tools such as 5S and Workloads led to the elimination of one workstation, projecting an increase of almost 5% of the units produced in the assembly capacity of the plant. In the case of PCBs, the distances traveled by operators was reduced with the use of plant distribution strategies and the creation of a supermarket to supply post-assembly activities. These actions allowed the company to reduce 35% in traveled distances and increase 3.69% in the number of produced units. Validation of the optimization proposal was done through computer simulations using a process modeling software.

Currently, the highly competitive environment of the assembly industries has been an engine for them to seek differentiating factors for improving their efficiency. One of these factors is the study of times and methods (referred to the analysis and the critical and systematic examination of how a task is presently performed, facilitating to find more effective methods), which allows alleviating internal and external aspects that affect productivity and provides the basis for management decision-making. The present work has two primary objectives; firstly, the calculation of standard times within the enterprise operative area and, additionally, the development of a mathematical model for time prediction. For the fulfillment of these purposes, a referential conceptual framework was established about the study of time and the multiple linear regression model. This framework allowed elaborating a procedure for the development of the mathematical prediction model, together with its validation. The study concludes with a discussion on the importance of having models to estimate standard times in business decision making, and the establishment of relevant conclusions.

Institutions of Higher Education have been continually threatened by the lack of direction and control from the perspective of information security in the context of information technology governance. The ISO/IEC 27014:2013 standard represents an opportunity to govern information security; however, it suffers from a clear alignment that allows it to articulate its activities with the IT governance and provide visibility to the organizational government. This exploratory and document-level study has carried out a harmonization process between the ISO/IEC 27014:2013 and ISO/IEC 38500:2015 standards with the purpose of identifying overlapping problems and strongly related elements that contribute to a consistent model of information security governance at three levels: principles (responsibility, performance, strategy, risk analysis, compliance and human behavior), objectives and indicators. As a result, the components of the information security governance model have been defined as strongly related to information technology governance. This work contributes to the knowledge and collaboration of decision-makers in the strategic steering and information security control committees of Ecuador’s higher education institutions. Future work will focus in the relation of substantives components of law of higher education, the factorial analysis of components of the model with the participation of actors from the institutions, in order to consolidate it towards what the institutions cannot do without.