Abstract
This paper presents the development of a complete methodology for power systems scheduling with highly variable sources based on a risk assessment model. The methodology is tested in a real case study, namely an island with high penetration of renewable energy production. The uncertainty of renewable power production forecasts and load demand are defined by the probability distribution function, which can be a good alternative to the scenarios approach. The production mix chosen for each hour results from the costs associated to the operation risks, such as load shed and renewable production curtailment. The results to a seven days case study allow concluding about the difficulty to achieve a complete robust solution.

Abstract
Promoting equity, equal opportunities to all and social inclusion of people with disabilities is a concern of modern societies at large and a key topic in the agenda of European Higher Education. Despite all the progress, we cannot ignore the fact that the conditions provided by the society for the deaf are still far from being perfect. The communication with deaf by means of written text is not as efficient as it might seem at first. In fact, there is a very deep gap between sign language and spoken/written language. The vocabulary, the sentence construction and the grammatical rules are quite different among these two worlds. These facts bring significant difficulties in reading and understanding the meaning of text for deaf people and, on the other hand, make it quite difficult for people with no hearing disabilities to understand sign language. The deployment of tools to assist the daily communication, in schools, in public services, in museums and other, between deaf people and the rest may be a significant contribution to the social inclusion of the deaf community. The work described in this paper addresses the development of a bidirectional translator between Portuguese Sign Language and Portuguese text. The translator from sign language to text resorts to two devices, namely the Microsoft Kinect and 5DT Sensor Gloves in order to gather data about the motion and shape of the hands. The hands configurations are classified using Support Vector Machines. The classification of the movement and orientation of the hands are achieved through the use of Dynamic Time Warping algorithm. The translator exhibits a precision higher than 90%. In the other direction, the translation of Portuguese text to Portuguese Sign Language is supported by a 3D avatar which interprets the entered text and performs the corresponding animations. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Abstract
3D Virtual Labs are the support of learning, a tool of education in the future. Learning in a 3D environment allows greater interaction with contents in a unique way as students perceive it as being really there. Simulations are being designed, a combination of real-world environment with the information supplied by devices, where measurements can be replicated and data analyzed. This study presents a virtual scenario of a Measurements and Instrumentation laboratory. Electrical Engineering courses aim to train students to succeed in meeting the challenges within competitive and ever-changing professional contexts. In order to prepare undergraduate students for ongoing success, the courses must provide effective training in the application and development of practices, typically implemented in large projects and organizations. Developing high quality engineering course units is definitely a challenging task. Courses can be provided remotely, but careful planning is required to design quality course units because problems may occur in meeting quality targets. The developments in information and communication technologies (ICT), including multimedia and internet-based education platforms, facilitate the creation of reliable solutions to these challenges. Studies show that a smart application of multimedia technologies and web-based education platforms can provide great results towards better quality of engineering courses. Many challenges on how to suitably approach the educational process have already been put forward. Higher Education institutions use multiple approaches to teaching and learning, combining a range of methods, including e-learning, videoconferencing, face-to-face teaching and hard-copy resources in course delivery. The authors present a software model for engineering, which is based mainly on the Wirefusion (R) software, and a virtualreality platform called VEMA. The project intends to improve the quality of teaching and learning in higher education through effective application of information technologies and the sciences of learning. 3D virtual learning environments arise as solutions to the extent that, in addition to offering features associated with communication and information sharing, they promote flexible learning spaces and moments. At the level of higher education, and in accordance with the paradigm of Bologna, virtual environments acquire special importance to allow learning beyond the classroom time and space.

Abstract
3D worlds provide excellent platforms to achieve performance results when designed for the needs of students, helping them to improve acquisition and allowing greater interaction with contents in a unique way. © 2014 IEEE.

Abstract
This work aims at describing the added value of the skills acquired during a Master's degree in Building Services Engineering taught at the Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Coimbra in the departments of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. It is based on the training final report of the dissertation, and it is concerned with the integration in the world of work, describing the framework of the various activities carried out during the internship. The curricular internship led to the acquisition of professional experience in the area of project within the framework of special technical installations, including lighting design in its various aspects. Several lighting design studies were developed both of interiors and exteriors and were extended to designs of bunkering stations, hospitals, post offices, hotels and homes in general. It also led to the acquisition of professional experience in the fields of electrical installations, telecommunications, fire safety in buildings and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning). The trainee had to assume responsibilities, applying theoretical knowledge to practical contexts developing decision-making skills and overcoming the proposed challenges. The opportunity the trainee had to follow the work of the technical teams was also an asset, as he observed on site the deployment of projects as they were being carried out He was also able to check if the work was evolving according to plans, contacted the architects, the building owners as well as the staff of companies in charge of other specialties. He experienced the difference between analysing and studying a two dimensional blueprint or even photos, and observing the actual design details on site, sometimes not so noticeable on paper or on the computer. This allowed him to assimilate important information, and be actively involved as part of the team, one of the reasons why the trainee opted for an internship of this kind that contributed to a better understanding of certain concepts in these areas of engineering.

Abstract
New generations of turbines have lower repair and maintenance costs than the previous generation. This is justified by the development of new components and materials. As the power of newer turbines is usually substantially larger, it is possible to get an economy of scale and lower maintenance costs per kW of rated power. This is simply because it is not needed to service a large turbine more often than a small one. New methods of earlier detection of faults are needed. The use of all information from SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system can be useful, but it is necessary to develop tools to deal with bigger amount of information. Neural networks can help and turn possible new maintenance and operation schemes.