This paper introduces a tool for the optimization of CMOS integrated spiral inductors. Its aim is to offer designers a first approach on designing inductors without the need for fabrication. The core of the tool is an optimization procedure where technology constraints on the inductor layout parameters are considered by applying user-defined discretization on the design variables. User-defined constraints between layout parameters may also be accounted for, as a way of taking into account design heuristics. For those cases where the device area is a major concern area minimization may be considered. On the other hand, if a major design goal is the inductor quality factor the tool may yield the layout parameters which maximize the quality factor. The trade-off between quality factor and device area is evaluated through the generation of a graphical representation of quality factor versus output diameter for a given inductance. For the sake of simplicity the pi-model has been used for characterising the inductor. The application was developed in Matlab and the optimization toolbox is used. The validity of the design results obtained is checked against circuit simulation with ASITIC.

In this paper will be discussed different types of scenarios and the aims for using scenarios. Normaly they are being used by organisations due to the need to anticipate processes, to support policy-making and to understand the complexities of relations. Such organisations can be private companies, R&D organisations and networks of organisations, or even by some public administration institutions. Some cases will be discussed as the methods for ongoing scenario-building process (Shell Internacional). Scenarios should anticipate possible relations among social actors as in the Triple Helix Model, and is possible to develop strategic intelligence in the innovation process that would enable the construction of scenarios. Such processes can be assessed. The focus will be made in relation to the steps chosen for the WORKS scenarios. In this case is there a model of work changes that can be used for foresight? Differences according to sectors were found, as well on other dimensions. Problems of assessment are analysed with specific application to the scenario construction methods.

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The Portuguese directive 230/2004 established December 2006 as the dead-line for the legal targets of EEE recovery to be achieved. The EEE producers working in Portugal set up an organization whose mission is to design and manage this recovery network. A MILP model was previously developed to optimize the network design where, by considering EEE sources and recycling facilities locations as known, sorting centre locations were determined together with the planning of collection and sorting activities. In the present paper, the network planned by the Portuguese EEE organization is compared with the results provided by this early model. In addition, and taking into account new organizational objectives, where collecting and sorting entities should independently perform the associated activities, the developed model is further extended, in order to account for a new network level related to the collection and sorting activities, and the previous network is retrofitted.

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