Low-cost TDRSS communications for NASA's long duration balloon project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Israel, David J.

1993-01-01

A new transponder and RF ground support equipment for the NASA Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) intended to support long duration scientific balloon flights in Antarctica are described. The new balloon class transponder features a highly integrated spread spectrum receiver design based on programmable charge coupled device (CCD) correlators and digital signal processing chips. The correlator chip is a Lincoln Labs 4ABC with four CCD channels. The balloon transponder is capable of reporting an estimate of its input bit error rate using digital signal processing. The TDRSS user RF test set is based on a set of RF ground support equipment capable of providing both the RF communications and direct control and monitoring necessary for transponder testing and a two-way RF link for preflight testing.

Quantification of in vitro produced wear sites on composite resins using contact profilometry and CCD microscopy: a methodological investigation.

PubMed

Koottathape, Natthavoot; Takahashi, Hidekazu; Finger, Wernerj; Kanehira, Masafumi; Iwasaki, Naohiko; Aoyagi, Yujin

2012-06-01

Although attritive and abrasive wear of recent composite resins has been substantially reduced, in vitro wear testing with reasonably simulating devices and quantitative determination of resulting wear is still needed. Three-dimensional scanning methods are frequently used for this purpose. The aim of this trial was to compare maximum depth of wear and volume loss of composite samples, evaluated with a contact profilometer and a non-contact CCD camera imaging system, respectively. Twenty-three random composite specimens with wear traces produced in a ball-on-disc sliding device, using poppy seed slurry and PMMA suspension as third-body media, were evaluated with the contact profilometer (TalyScan 150, Taylor Hobson LTD, Leicester, UK) and with the digital CCD microscope (VHX1000, KEYENCE, Osaka, Japan). The target parameters were maximum depth of the wear and volume loss.Results - The individual time of measurement needed with the non-contact CCD method was almost three hours less than that with the contact method. Both, maximum depth of wear and volume loss data, recorded with the two methods were linearly correlated (r(2) > 0.97; p < 0.01). The contact scanning method and the non-contact CCD method are equally suitable for determination of maximum depth of wear and volume loss of abraded composite resins.

Attenuation characteristics of fiberoptic plates for digital mammography and other X-ray imaging applications.

PubMed

Vedantham, S; Karellas, A; Suryanarayanan, S

2003-01-01

Spatially coherent fiberoptic plates are important components of some charge-coupled device (CCD)-based x-ray imaging systems. These plates efficiently transmit scintillations from the phosphor, and also filter out x-rays not absorbed by the phosphor, thus protecting the CCD from direct x-ray interaction. The thickness of the fiberoptic plate and the CCD package present a significant challenge in the design of a digital x-ray cassette capable of insertion into the existing film-screen cassette holders of digital mammography systems. This study was performed with an aim to optimize fiberoptic plate thickness. Attenuation measurements were performed on nine fiberoptic plates varying in material composition that exhibit desirable optical characteristics such as good coupling efficiency. Mammographic spectra from a clinical mammographic system and an Americium-241 (Am-241) source (59.54 KeV) were used. The spectra were recorded with a high-resolution cadmium zinc telluride (CZT)-based spectrometer and corrected for dead time and pile-up. The linear attenuation coefficients varied by a factor of 3 in the set of tested fiberoptic plates at both mammographic energies and 59.54 keV. Our results suggest that a 3-mm thick high-absorption plate might provide adequate for shielding at mammographic energies. A thickness of 2-mm is feasible for mammographic applications with further optimization of the fiberoptic plate composition by incorporating non-scintillating, high-atomic number material. This would allow more space for cooling components of the cassette and for a more compact device, which is critical for clinical implementation of the technology.

Radar image processing module development program, phase 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

The feasibility of using charge coupled devices in an IPM for processing synthetic aperture radar signals onboard the NASA Convair 990 (CV990) aircraft was demonstrated. Radar data onboard the aircraft was recorded and processed using a CCD sampler and digital tape recorder. A description of equipment and testing was provided. The derivation of the digital presum filter was documented. Photographs of the sampler/tape recorder, real time display and circuit boards in the IPM were also included.

Digital X-ray camera for quality evaluation three-dimensional topographic reconstruction of single crystals of biological macromolecules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Borgstahl, Gloria (Inventor); Lovelace, Jeff (Inventor); Snell, Edward Holmes (Inventor); Bellamy, Henry (Inventor)

2008-01-01

The present invention provides a digital topography imaging system for determining the crystalline structure of a biological macromolecule, wherein the system employs a charge coupled device (CCD) camera with antiblooming circuitry to directly convert x-ray signals to electrical signals without the use of phosphor and measures reflection profiles from the x-ray emitting source after x-rays are passed through a sample. Methods for using said system are also provided.

IR Hiding: A Method to Prevent Video Re-shooting by Exploiting Differences between Human Perceptions and Recording Device Characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Takayuki; Gohshi, Seiichi; Echizen, Isao

A method is described to prevent video images and videos displayed on screens from being re-shot by digital cameras and camcorders. Conventional methods using digital watermarking for re-shooting prevention embed content IDs into images and videos, and they help to identify the place and time where the actual content was shot. However, these methods do not actually prevent digital content from being re-shot by camcorders. We developed countermeasures to stop re-shooting by exploiting the differences between the sensory characteristics of humans and devices. The countermeasures require no additional functions to use-side devices. It uses infrared light (IR) to corrupt the content recorded by CCD or CMOS devices. In this way, re-shot content will be unusable. To validate the method, we developed a prototype system and implemented it on a 100-inch cinema screen. Experimental evaluations showed that the method effectively prevents re-shooting.

Digital Mammography with a Mosaic of CCD Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jalink, Antony, Jr. (Inventor); McAdoo, James A. (Inventor)

1998-01-01

A digital mammography device uses a mosaic of electronic digital imaging arrays to scan an x-ray image is discussed. The mosaic of arrays is repositioned several times to expose different portions of the image, until the entire image is scanned. The data generated by the arrays during each exposure is stored in a computer. After the final exposure, the computer combines data of the several partial images to produce a composite of the original x-ray image. An aperture plate is used to reduce scatter and the overall exposure of the patient to x-rays.

Optimal CCD readout by digital correlated double sampling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alessandri, C.; Abusleme, A.; Guzman, D.; Passalacqua, I.; Alvarez-Fontecilla, E.; Guarini, M.

2016-01-01

Digital correlated double sampling (DCDS), a readout technique for charge-coupled devices (CCD), is gaining popularity in astronomical applications. By using an oversampling ADC and a digital filter, a DCDS system can achieve a better performance than traditional analogue readout techniques at the expense of a more complex system analysis. Several attempts to analyse and optimize a DCDS system have been reported, but most of the work presented in the literature has been experimental. Some approximate analytical tools have been presented for independent parameters of the system, but the overall performance and trade-offs have not been yet modelled. Furthermore, there is disagreement among experimental results that cannot be explained by the analytical tools available. In this work, a theoretical analysis of a generic DCDS readout system is presented, including key aspects such as the signal conditioning stage, the ADC resolution, the sampling frequency and the digital filter implementation. By using a time-domain noise model, the effect of the digital filter is properly modelled as a discrete-time process, thus avoiding the imprecision of continuous-time approximations that have been used so far. As a result, an accurate, closed-form expression for the signal-to-noise ratio at the output of the readout system is reached. This expression can be easily optimized in order to meet a set of specifications for a given CCD, thus providing a systematic design methodology for an optimal readout system. Simulated results are presented to validate the theory, obtained with both time- and frequency-domain noise generation models for completeness.

Accuracy of Conventional and Digital Radiography in Detecting External Root Resorption

PubMed Central

Mesgarani, Abbas; Haghanifar, Sina; Ehsani, Maryam; Yaghub, Samereh Dokhte; Bijani, Ali

2014-01-01

Introduction: External root resorption (ERR) is associated with physiological and pathological dissolution of mineralized tissues by clastic cells and radiography is one of the most important methods in its diagnosis. The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the accuracy of conventional intraoral radiography (CR) in comparison with digital radiographic techniques, i.e. charge-coupled device (CCD) and photo-stimulable phosphor (PSP) sensors, in detection of ERR. Methods and Materials: This study was performed on 80 extracted human mandibular premolars. After taking separate initial periapical radiographs with CR technique, CCD and PSP sensors, the artificial defects resembling ERR with variable sizes were created in apical half of the mesial, distal and buccal surfaces of the teeth. Ten teeth were used as control samples without any resorption. The radiographs were then repeated with 2 different exposure times and the images were observed by 3 observers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 17 and chi-squared and Cohen’s Kappa tests with 95% confidence interval (CI=95%). Result: The CCD had the highest percentage of correct assessment compared to the CR and PSP sensors, although the difference was not significant (P=0.39). It was shown that the higher dosage of radiation increases the accuracy of diagnosis; however, it was only significant for CCD sensor (P=0.02). Also, the accuracy of diagnosis increased with the increase in the size of lesion (P=0.001). Conclusion: Statistically significant difference was not observed for accurate detection of ERR by conventional and digital radiographic techniques. PMID:25386202

Differential high-speed digital micromirror device based fluorescence speckle confocal microscopy.

PubMed

Jiang, Shihong; Walker, John

2010-01-20

We report a differential fluorescence speckle confocal microscope that acquires an image in a fraction of a second by exploiting the very high frame rate of modern digital micromirror devices (DMDs). The DMD projects a sequence of predefined binary speckle patterns to the sample and modulates the intensity of the returning fluorescent light simultaneously. The fluorescent light reflecting from the DMD's "on" and "off" pixels is modulated by correlated speckle and anticorrelated speckle, respectively, to form two images on two CCD cameras in parallel. The sum of the two images recovers a widefield image, but their difference gives a near-confocal image in real time. Experimental results for both low and high numerical apertures are shown.

Speech Envelope Normalization, a Method to Improve SNR and Suppress Noise in Present and Future Radio Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-12-01

GRA&IT--4 I DTIC TAB U:.r.nnoincee Distr±iatic !/ KAvnilr,1.llty Codes AvRUJ and/or Dist S pecial 1 AN 𔄃 . .. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The success of the...evaluated. Two different approaches emerged, one employing cascaded active all-pass networks, and the other using a charged coupled device sampled data delay...Wideband 900 Phase-Shifters 38 * 5.2 Samples Data Direct Hilbert Transforms 43 5.3 Charge Coupled Device (CCD) Implementation 45 5.4 Digital

Analysis of fractal dimensions of rat bones from film and digital images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pornprasertsuk, S.; Ludlow, J. B.; Webber, R. L.; Tyndall, D. A.; Yamauchi, M.

2001-01-01

OBJECTIVES: (1) To compare the effect of two different intra-oral image receptors on estimates of fractal dimension; and (2) to determine the variations in fractal dimensions between the femur, tibia and humerus of the rat and between their proximal, middle and distal regions. METHODS: The left femur, tibia and humerus from 24 4-6-month-old Sprague-Dawley rats were radiographed using intra-oral film and a charge-coupled device (CCD). Films were digitized at a pixel density comparable to the CCD using a flat-bed scanner. Square regions of interest were selected from proximal, middle, and distal regions of each bone. Fractal dimensions were estimated from the slope of regression lines fitted to plots of log power against log spatial frequency. RESULTS: The fractal dimensions estimates from digitized films were significantly greater than those produced from the CCD (P=0.0008). Estimated fractal dimensions of three types of bone were not significantly different (P=0.0544); however, the three regions of bones were significantly different (P=0.0239). The fractal dimensions estimated from radiographs of the proximal and distal regions of the bones were lower than comparable estimates obtained from the middle region. CONCLUSIONS: Different types of image receptors significantly affect estimates of fractal dimension. There was no difference in the fractal dimensions of the different bones but the three regions differed significantly.

Composite x-ray image assembly for large-field digital mammography with one- and two-dimensional positioning of a focal plane array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halama, G.; McAdoo, J.; Liu, H.

1998-01-01

To demonstrate the feasibility of a novel large-field digital mammography technique, a 1024 x 1024 pixel Loral charge-coupled device (CCD) focal plane array (FPA) was positioned in a mammographic field with one- and two-dimensional scan sequences to obtain 950 x 1800 pixel and 3600 x 3600 pixel composite images, respectively. These experiments verify that precise positioning of FPAs produced seamless composites and that the CCD mosaic concept has potential for high-resolution, large-field imaging. The proposed CCD mosaic concept resembles a checkerboard pattern with spacing left between the CCDs for the driver and readout electronics. To obtain a complete x-ray image, the mosaic must be repositioned four times, with an x-ray exposure at each position. To reduce the patient dose, a lead shield with appropriately patterned holes is placed between the x-ray source and the patient. The high-precision motorized translation stages and the fiber-coupled-scintillating-screen-CCD sensor assembly were placed in the position usually occupied by the film cassette. Because of the high mechanical precision, seamless composites were constructed from the subimages. This paper discusses the positioning, image alignment procedure, and composite image results. The paper only addresses the formation of a seamless composite image from subimages and will not consider the effects of the lead shield, multiple CCDs, or the speed of motion.

Determination of the resolution of a digital system for panoramic radiography based on CCD technology.

PubMed

Mastoris, Mihalis; Li, Gang; Welander, Ulf; McDavid, W D

2004-03-01

To determine Line Spread Functions (LSFs) and Modulation Transfer Functions (MTFs) for a digital system for panoramic radiography: the Dimax I (Planmeca Oy, Helsinki, Finland) based on Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) technology. A test object was specially designed having a gold foil positioned vertically. Images of the gold foil created edge functions that were used to determine LSFs and MTFs. The design of the test object made it possible to move the gold foil forward and backward relative to the central plane of the image layer by means of a micrometer screw. The experiment was carried out for different object depths in 5 different regions: the anterior, the canine, the premolar, the molar, and the TMJ regions. LSFs and MTFs were calculated using specially designed software. The results are presented graphically. LSFs and MTFs for the central plane were essentially the same for all regions. The MTFs for different object depths in the 5 investigated regions exhibited typical characteristics of MTFs for panoramic radiography with the exception for the functions for the molar region. The present findings indicate that the resolution of the Dimax I CCD system is comparable to that of film-based panoramic radiography.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Conder, A.; Mummolo, F. J.

The goal of the project was to develop a compact, large active area, high spatial resolution, high dynamic range, charge-coupled device (CCD) camera to replace film for digital imaging of visible light, ultraviolet radiation, and soft to penetrating X-rays. The camera head and controller needed to be capable of operation within a vacuum environment and small enough to be fielded within the small vacuum target chambers at LLNL.

Optimized algorithm for the spatial nonuniformity correction of an imaging system based on a charge-coupled device color camera.

PubMed

de Lasarte, Marta; Pujol, Jaume; Arjona, Montserrat; Vilaseca, Meritxell

2007-01-10

We present an optimized linear algorithm for the spatial nonuniformity correction of a CCD color camera's imaging system and the experimental methodology developed for its implementation. We assess the influence of the algorithm's variables on the quality of the correction, that is, the dark image, the base correction image, and the reference level, and the range of application of the correction using a uniform radiance field provided by an integrator cube. The best spatial nonuniformity correction is achieved by having a nonzero dark image, by using an image with a mean digital level placed in the linear response range of the camera as the base correction image and taking the mean digital level of the image as the reference digital level. The response of the CCD color camera's imaging system to the uniform radiance field shows a high level of spatial uniformity after the optimized algorithm has been applied, which also allows us to achieve a high-quality spatial nonuniformity correction of captured images under different exposure conditions.

High-frame rate multiport CCD imager and camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levine, Peter A.; Patterson, David R.; Esposito, Benjamin J.; Tower, John R.; Lawler, William B.

1993-01-01

A high frame rate visible CCD camera capable of operation up to 200 frames per second is described. The camera produces a 256 X 256 pixel image by using one quadrant of a 512 X 512 16-port, back illuminated CCD imager. Four contiguous outputs are digitally reformatted into a correct, 256 X 256 image. This paper details the architecture and timing used for the CCD drive circuits, analog processing, and the digital reformatter.

Low power, compact charge coupled device signal processing system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bosshart, P. W.; Buss, D. D.; Eversole, W. L.; Hewes, C. R.; Mayer, D. J.

1980-01-01

A variety of charged coupled devices (CCDs) for performing programmable correlation for preprocessing environmental sensor data preparatory to its transmission to the ground were developed. A total of two separate ICs were developed and a third was evaluated. The first IC was a CCD chirp z transform IC capable of performing a 32 point DFT at frequencies to 1 MHz. All on chip circuitry operated as designed with the exception of the limited dynamic range caused by a fixed pattern noise due to interactions between the digital and analog circuits. The second IC developed was a 64 stage CCD analog/analog correlator for performing time domain correlation. Multiplier errors were found to be less than 1 percent at designed signal levels and less than 0.3 percent at the measured smaller levels. A prototype IC for performing time domain correlation was also evaluated.

A high-resolution multimode digital microscope system.

PubMed

Salmon, Edward D; Shaw, Sidney L; Waters, Jennifer C; Waterman-Storer, Clare M; Maddox, Paul S; Yeh, Elaine; Bloom, Kerry

2013-01-01

This chapter describes the development of a high-resolution, multimode digital imaging system based on a wide-field epifluorescent and transmitted light microscope, and a cooled charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. The three main parts of this imaging system are Nikon FXA microscope, Hamamatsu C4880 cooled CCD camera, and MetaMorph digital imaging system. This chapter presents various design criteria for the instrument and describes the major features of the microscope components-the cooled CCD camera and the MetaMorph digital imaging system. The Nikon FXA upright microscope can produce high resolution images for both epifluorescent and transmitted light illumination without switching the objective or moving the specimen. The functional aspects of the microscope set-up can be considered in terms of the imaging optics, the epi-illumination optics, the transillumination optics, the focus control, and the vibration isolation table. This instrument is somewhat specialized for microtubule and mitosis studies, and it is also applicable to a variety of problems in cellular imaging, including tracking proteins fused to the green fluorescent protein in live cells. The instrument is also valuable for correlating the assembly dynamics of individual cytoplasmic microtubules (labeled by conjugating X-rhodamine to tubulin) with the dynamics of membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum (labeled with DiOC6) and the dynamics of the cell cortex (by differential interference contrast) in migrating vertebrate epithelial cells. This imaging system also plays an important role in the analysis of mitotic mutants in the powerful yeast genetic system Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Copyright © 1998 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Event-driven charge-coupled device design and applications therefor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doty, John P. (Inventor); Ricker, Jr., George R. (Inventor); Burke, Barry E. (Inventor); Prigozhin, Gregory Y. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

An event-driven X-ray CCD imager device uses a floating-gate amplifier or other non-destructive readout device to non-destructively sense a charge level in a charge packet associated with a pixel. The output of the floating-gate amplifier is used to identify each pixel that has a charge level above a predetermined threshold. If the charge level is above a predetermined threshold the charge in the triggering charge packet and in the charge packets from neighboring pixels need to be measured accurately. A charge delay register is included in the event-driven X-ray CCD imager device to enable recovery of the charge packets from neighboring pixels for accurate measurement. When a charge packet reaches the end of the charge delay register, control logic either dumps the charge packet, or steers the charge packet to a charge FIFO to preserve it if the charge packet is determined to be a packet that needs accurate measurement. A floating-diffusion amplifier or other low-noise output stage device, which converts charge level to a voltage level with high precision, provides final measurement of the charge packets. The voltage level is eventually digitized by a high linearity ADC.

Cameras for digital microscopy.

PubMed

Spring, Kenneth R

2013-01-01

This chapter reviews the fundamental characteristics of charge-coupled devices (CCDs) and related detectors, outlines the relevant parameters for their use in microscopy, and considers promising recent developments in the technology of detectors. Electronic imaging with a CCD involves three stages--interaction of a photon with the photosensitive surface, storage of the liberated charge, and readout or measurement of the stored charge. The most demanding applications in fluorescence microscopy may require as much as four orders of greater magnitude sensitivity. The image in the present-day light microscope is usually acquired with a CCD camera. The CCD is composed of a large matrix of photosensitive elements (often referred to as "pixels" shorthand for picture elements, which simultaneously capture an image over the entire detector surface. The light-intensity information for each pixel is stored as electronic charge and is converted to an analog voltage by a readout amplifier. This analog voltage is subsequently converted to a numerical value by a digitizer situated on the CCD chip, or very close to it. Several (three to six) amplifiers are required for each pixel, and to date, uniform images with a homogeneous background have been a problem because of the inherent difficulties of balancing the gain in all of the amplifiers. Complementary metal oxide semiconductor sensors also exhibit relatively high noise associated with the requisite high-speed switching. Both of these deficiencies are being addressed, and sensor performance is nearing that required for scientific imaging. Copyright © 1998 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Technical note: Signal resolution increase and noise reduction in a CCD digitizer.

PubMed

González, A; Martínez, J A; Tobarra, B

2004-03-01

Increasing output resolution is assumed to improve noise characteristics of a CCD digitizer. In this work, however, we have found that as the quantization step becomes lower than the analog noise (present in the signal before its conversion to digital) the noise reduction becomes significantly lower than expected. That is the case for values of sigma(an)/delta larger than 0.6, where sigma(an) is the standard deviation of the analog noise and delta is the quantization step. The procedure is applied to a commercially available CCD digitizer, and noise reduction by means of signal resolution increase is compared to that obtained by low pass filtering.

X-Ray Computed Tomography Monitors Damage in Composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baaklini, George Y.

1997-01-01

The NASA Lewis Research Center recently codeveloped a state-of-the-art x-ray CT facility (designated SMS SMARTSCAN model 100-112 CITA by Scientific Measurement Systems, Inc., Austin, Texas). This multipurpose, modularized, digital x-ray facility includes an imaging system for digital radiography, CT, and computed laminography. The system consists of a 160-kV microfocus x-ray source, a solid-state charge-coupled device (CCD) area detector, a five-axis object-positioning subassembly, and a Sun SPARCstation-based computer system that controls data acquisition and image processing. The x-ray source provides a beam spot size down to 3 microns. The area detector system consists of a 50- by 50- by 3-mm-thick terbium-doped glass fiber-optic scintillation screen, a right-angle mirror, and a scientific-grade, digital CCD camera with a resolution of 1000 by 1018 pixels and 10-bit digitization at ambient cooling. The digital output is recorded with a high-speed, 16-bit frame grabber that allows data to be binned. The detector can be configured to provide a small field-of-view, approximately 45 by 45 mm in cross section, or a larger field-of-view, approximately 60 by 60 mm in cross section. Whenever the highest spatial resolution is desired, the small field-of-view is used, and for larger samples with some reduction in spatial resolution, the larger field-of-view is used.

Client/server approach to image capturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tuijn, Chris; Stokes, Earle

1998-01-01

The diversity of the digital image capturing devices on the market today is quite astonishing and ranges from low-cost CCD scanners to digital cameras (for both action and stand-still scenes), mid-end CCD scanners for desktop publishing and pre- press applications and high-end CCD flatbed scanners and drum- scanners with photo multiplier technology. Each device and market segment has its own specific needs which explains the diversity of the associated scanner applications. What all those applications have in common is the need to communicate with a particular device to import the digital images; after the import, additional image processing might be needed as well as color management operations. Although the specific requirements for all of these applications might differ considerably, a number of image capturing and color management facilities as well as other services are needed which can be shared. In this paper, we propose a client/server architecture for scanning and image editing applications which can be used as a common component for all these applications. One of the principal components of the scan server is the input capturing module. The specification of the input jobs is based on a generic input device model. Through this model we make abstraction of the specific scanner parameters and define the scan job definitions by a number of absolute parameters. As a result, scan job definitions will be less dependent on a particular scanner and have a more universal meaning. In this context, we also elaborate on the interaction of the generic parameters and the color characterization (i.e., the ICC profile). Other topics that are covered are the scheduling and parallel processing capabilities of the server, the image processing facilities, the interaction with the ICC engine, the communication facilities (both in-memory and over the network) and the different client architectures (stand-alone applications, TWAIN servers, plug-ins, OLE or Apple-event driven applications). This paper is structured as follows. In the introduction, we further motive the need for a scan server-based architecture. In the second section, we give a brief architectural overview of the scan server and the other components it is connected to. The third chapter exposes the generic model for input devices as well as the image processing model; the fourth chapter reveals the different shapes the scanning applications (or modules) can have. In the last section, we briefly summarize the presented material and point out trends for future development.

Line scanning system for direct digital chemiluminescence imaging of DNA sequencing blots

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Karger, A.E.; Weiss, R.; Gesteland, R.F.

A cryogenically cooled charge-coupled device (CCD) camera equipped with an area CCD array is used in a line scanning system for low-light-level imaging of chemiluminescent DNA sequencing blots. Operating the CCD camera in time-delayed integration (TDI) mode results in continuous data acquisition independent of the length of the CCD array. Scanning is possible with a resolution of 1.4 line pairs/mm at the 50% level of the modulation transfer function. High-sensitivity, low-light-level scanning of chemiluminescent direct-transfer electrophoresis (DTE) DNA sequencing blots is shown. The detection of DNA fragments on the blot involves DNA-DNA hybridization with oligonucleotide-alkaline phosphatase conjugate and 1,2-dioxetane-based chemiluminescence.more » The width of the scan allows the recording of up to four sequencing reactions (16 lanes) on one scan. The scan speed of 52 cm/h used for the sequencing blots corresponds to a data acquisition rate of 384 pixels/s. The chemiluminescence detection limit on the scanned images is 3.9 [times] 10[sup [minus]18] mol of plasmid DNA. A conditional median filter is described to remove spikes caused by cosmic ray events from the CCD images. 39 refs., 9 refs.« less

Automatic calibration system for analog instruments based on DSP and CCD sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lan, Jinhui; Wei, Xiangqin; Bai, Zhenlong

2008-12-01

Currently, the calibration work of analog measurement instruments is mainly completed by manual and there are many problems waiting for being solved. In this paper, an automatic calibration system (ACS) based on Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and Charge Coupled Device (CCD) sensor is developed and a real-time calibration algorithm is presented. In the ACS, TI DM643 DSP processes the data received by CCD sensor and the outcome is displayed on Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen. For the algorithm, pointer region is firstly extracted for improving calibration speed. And then a math model of the pointer is built to thin the pointer and determine the instrument's reading. Through numbers of experiments, the time of once reading is no more than 20 milliseconds while it needs several seconds if it is done manually. At the same time, the error of the instrument's reading satisfies the request of the instruments. It is proven that the automatic calibration system can effectively accomplish the calibration work of the analog measurement instruments.

The design and development of low- and high-voltage ASICs for space-borne CCD cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waltham, N.; Morrissey, Q.; Clapp, M.; Bell, S.; Jones, L.; Torbet, M.

2017-12-01

The CCD remains the pre-eminent visible and UV wavelength image sensor in space science, Earth and planetary remote sensing. However, the design of space-qualified CCD readout electronics is a significant challenge with requirements for low-volume, low-mass, low-power, high-reliability and tolerance to space radiation. Space-qualified components are frequently unavailable and up-screened commercial components seldom meet project or international space agency requirements. In this paper, we describe an alternative approach of designing and space-qualifying a series of low- and high-voltage mixed-signal application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), the ongoing development of two low-voltage ASICs with successful flight heritage, and two new high-voltage designs. A challenging sub-system of any CCD camera is the video processing and digitisation electronics. We describe recent developments to improve performance and tolerance to radiation-induced single event latchup of a CCD video processing ASIC originally developed for NASA's Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory and Solar Dynamics Observatory. We also describe a programme to develop two high-voltage ASICs to address the challenges presented with generating a CCD's bias voltages and drive clocks. A 0.35 μm, 50 V tolerant, CMOS process has been used to combine standard low-voltage 3.3 V transistors with high-voltage 50 V diffused MOSFET transistors that enable output buffers to drive CCD bias drains, gates and clock electrodes directly. We describe a CCD bias voltage generator ASIC that provides 24 independent and programmable 0-32 V outputs. Each channel incorporates a 10-bit digital-to-analogue converter, provides current drive of up to 20 mA into loads of 10 μF, and includes current-limiting and short-circuit protection. An on-chip telemetry system with a 12-bit analogue-to-digital converter enables the outputs and multiple off-chip camera voltages to be monitored. The ASIC can drive one or more CCDs and replaces the many discrete components required in current cameras. We also describe a CCD clock driver ASIC that provides six independent and programmable drivers with high-current capacity. The device enables various CCD clock parameters to be programmed independently, for example the clock-low and clock-high voltage levels, and the clock-rise and clock-fall times, allowing configuration for serial clock frequencies in the range 0.1-2 MHz and image clock frequencies in the range 10-100 kHz. Finally, we demonstrate the impact and importance of this technology for the development of compact, high-performance and low-power integrated focal plane electronics.

A Compact Imaging Detector of Polarization and Spectral Content

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rust, D. M.; Kumar, A.; Thompson, K. E.

1993-01-01

A new type of image detector will simultaneously analyze the polarization of light at all picture elements in a scene. The integrated Dual Imaging Detector (IDID) consists of a polarizing beam splitter bonded to a charge-coupled device (CCD), with signal-analysis circuitry and analog-to-digital converters, all integrated on a silicon chip. The polarizing beam splitter can be either a Ronchi ruling, or an array of cylindrical lenslets, bonded to a birefringent wafer. The wafer, in turn, is bonded to the CCD so that light in the two orthogonal planes of polarization falls on adjacent pairs of pixels. The use of a high-index birefringent material, e.g., rutile, allows the IDID to operate at f-numbers as high as f/3.5. Other aspects of the detector are discussed.

Per-Pixel Coded Exposure for High-Speed and High-Resolution Imaging Using a Digital Micromirror Device Camera

PubMed Central

Feng, Wei; Zhang, Fumin; Qu, Xinghua; Zheng, Shiwei

2016-01-01

High-speed photography is an important tool for studying rapid physical phenomena. However, low-frame-rate CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera cannot effectively capture the rapid phenomena with high-speed and high-resolution. In this paper, we incorporate the hardware restrictions of existing image sensors, design the sampling functions, and implement a hardware prototype with a digital micromirror device (DMD) camera in which spatial and temporal information can be flexibly modulated. Combined with the optical model of DMD camera, we theoretically analyze the per-pixel coded exposure and propose a three-element median quicksort method to increase the temporal resolution of the imaging system. Theoretically, this approach can rapidly increase the temporal resolution several, or even hundreds, of times without increasing bandwidth requirements of the camera. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method via extensive examples and achieve 100 fps (frames per second) gain in temporal resolution by using a 25 fps camera. PMID:26959023

Per-Pixel Coded Exposure for High-Speed and High-Resolution Imaging Using a Digital Micromirror Device Camera.

PubMed

Feng, Wei; Zhang, Fumin; Qu, Xinghua; Zheng, Shiwei

2016-03-04

High-speed photography is an important tool for studying rapid physical phenomena. However, low-frame-rate CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera cannot effectively capture the rapid phenomena with high-speed and high-resolution. In this paper, we incorporate the hardware restrictions of existing image sensors, design the sampling functions, and implement a hardware prototype with a digital micromirror device (DMD) camera in which spatial and temporal information can be flexibly modulated. Combined with the optical model of DMD camera, we theoretically analyze the per-pixel coded exposure and propose a three-element median quicksort method to increase the temporal resolution of the imaging system. Theoretically, this approach can rapidly increase the temporal resolution several, or even hundreds, of times without increasing bandwidth requirements of the camera. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method via extensive examples and achieve 100 fps (frames per second) gain in temporal resolution by using a 25 fps camera.

Very-large-area CCD image sensors: concept and cost-effective research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogaart, E. W.; Peters, I. M.; Kleimann, A. C.; Manoury, E. J. P.; Klaassens, W.; de Laat, W. T. F. M.; Draijer, C.; Frost, R.; Bosiers, J. T.

2009-01-01

A new-generation full-frame 36x48 mm2 48Mp CCD image sensor with vertical anti-blooming for professional digital still camera applications is developed by means of the so-called building block concept. The 48Mp devices are formed by stitching 1kx1k building blocks with 6.0 µm pixel pitch in 6x8 (hxv) format. This concept allows us to design four large-area (48Mp) and sixty-two basic (1Mp) devices per 6" wafer. The basic image sensor is relatively small in order to obtain data from many devices. Evaluation of the basic parameters such as the image pixel and on-chip amplifier provides us statistical data using a limited number of wafers. Whereas the large-area devices are evaluated for aspects typical to large-sensor operation and performance, such as the charge transport efficiency. Combined with the usability of multi-layer reticles, the sensor development is cost effective for prototyping. Optimisation of the sensor design and technology has resulted in a pixel charge capacity of 58 ke- and significantly reduced readout noise (12 electrons at 25 MHz pixel rate, after CDS). Hence, a dynamic range of 73 dB is obtained. Microlens and stack optimisation resulted in an excellent angular response that meets with the wide-angle photography demands.

[Digital thoracic radiology: devices, image processing, limits].

PubMed

Frija, J; de Géry, S; Lallouet, F; Guermazi, A; Zagdanski, A M; De Kerviler, E

2001-09-01

In a first part, the different techniques of digital thoracic radiography are described. Since computed radiography with phosphore plates are the most commercialized it is more emphasized. But the other detectors are also described, as the drum coated with selenium and the direct digital radiography with selenium detectors. The other detectors are also studied in particular indirect flat panels detectors and the system with four high resolution CCD cameras. In a second step the most important image processing are discussed: the gradation curves, the unsharp mask processing, the system MUSICA, the dynamic range compression or reduction, the soustraction with dual energy. In the last part the advantages and the drawbacks of computed thoracic radiography are emphasized. The most important are the almost constant good quality of the pictures and the possibilities of image processing.

Compression of CCD raw images for digital still cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sriram, Parthasarathy; Sudharsanan, Subramania

2005-03-01

Lossless compression of raw CCD images captured using color filter arrays has several benefits. The benefits include improved storage capacity, reduced memory bandwidth, and lower power consumption for digital still camera processors. The paper discusses the benefits in detail and proposes the use of a computationally efficient block adaptive scheme for lossless compression. Experimental results are provided that indicate that the scheme performs well for CCD raw images attaining compression factors of more than two. The block adaptive method also compares favorably with JPEG-LS. A discussion is provided indicating how the proposed lossless coding scheme can be incorporated into digital still camera processors enabling lower memory bandwidth and storage requirements.

Isolation Mounting for Charge-Coupled Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goss, W. C.; Salomon, P. M.

1985-01-01

CCD's suspended by wires under tension. Remote thermoelectric cooling of charge coupled device allows vibration isolating mounting of CCD assembly alone, without having to suspend entire mass and bulk of thermoelectric module. Mounting hardware simple and light. Developed for charge-coupled devices (CCD's) in infrared telescope support adaptable to sensors in variety of environments, e.g., sensors in nuclear reactors, engine exhausts and plasma chambers.

Advances in CCD detector technology for x-ray diffraction applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thorson, Timothy A.; Durst, Roger D.; Frankel, Dan; Bordwell, Rex L.; Camara, Jose R.; Leon-Guerrero, Edward; Onishi, Steven K.; Pang, Francis; Vu, Paul; Westbrook, Edwin M.

2004-01-01

Phosphor-coupled CCDs are established as one of the most successful technologies for x-ray diffraction. This application demands that the CCD simultaneously achieve both the highest possible sensitivity and high readout speeds. Recently, wafer-scale, back illuminated devices have become available which offer significantly higher quantum efficiency than conventional devices (the Fairchild Imaging CCD 486 BI). However, since back thinning significantly changes the electrical properties of the CCD the high speed operation of wafer-scale, back-illuminated devices is not well understood. Here we describe the operating characteristics (including noise, linearity, full well capacity and CTE) of the back-illuminated CCD 486 at readout speeds up to 4 MHz.

Electronic still camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holland, S. Douglas

1992-09-01

A handheld, programmable, digital camera is disclosed that supports a variety of sensors and has program control over the system components to provide versatility. The camera uses a high performance design which produces near film quality images from an electronic system. The optical system of the camera incorporates a conventional camera body that was slightly modified, thus permitting the use of conventional camera accessories, such as telephoto lenses, wide-angle lenses, auto-focusing circuitry, auto-exposure circuitry, flash units, and the like. An image sensor, such as a charge coupled device ('CCD') collects the photons that pass through the camera aperture when the shutter is opened, and produces an analog electrical signal indicative of the image. The analog image signal is read out of the CCD and is processed by preamplifier circuitry, a correlated double sampler, and a sample and hold circuit before it is converted to a digital signal. The analog-to-digital converter has an accuracy of eight bits to insure accuracy during the conversion. Two types of data ports are included for two different data transfer needs. One data port comprises a general purpose industrial standard port and the other a high speed/high performance application specific port. The system uses removable hard disks as its permanent storage media. The hard disk receives the digital image signal from the memory buffer and correlates the image signal with other sensed parameters, such as longitudinal or other information. When the storage capacity of the hard disk has been filled, the disk can be replaced with a new disk.

Electronic Still Camera

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holland, S. Douglas (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A handheld, programmable, digital camera is disclosed that supports a variety of sensors and has program control over the system components to provide versatility. The camera uses a high performance design which produces near film quality images from an electronic system. The optical system of the camera incorporates a conventional camera body that was slightly modified, thus permitting the use of conventional camera accessories, such as telephoto lenses, wide-angle lenses, auto-focusing circuitry, auto-exposure circuitry, flash units, and the like. An image sensor, such as a charge coupled device ('CCD') collects the photons that pass through the camera aperture when the shutter is opened, and produces an analog electrical signal indicative of the image. The analog image signal is read out of the CCD and is processed by preamplifier circuitry, a correlated double sampler, and a sample and hold circuit before it is converted to a digital signal. The analog-to-digital converter has an accuracy of eight bits to insure accuracy during the conversion. Two types of data ports are included for two different data transfer needs. One data port comprises a general purpose industrial standard port and the other a high speed/high performance application specific port. The system uses removable hard disks as its permanent storage media. The hard disk receives the digital image signal from the memory buffer and correlates the image signal with other sensed parameters, such as longitudinal or other information. When the storage capacity of the hard disk has been filled, the disk can be replaced with a new disk.

Signal processing applications of massively parallel charge domain computing devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fijany, Amir (Inventor); Barhen, Jacob (Inventor); Toomarian, Nikzad (Inventor)

1999-01-01

The present invention is embodied in a charge coupled device (CCD)/charge injection device (CID) architecture capable of performing a Fourier transform by simultaneous matrix vector multiplication (MVM) operations in respective plural CCD/CID arrays in parallel in O(1) steps. For example, in one embodiment, a first CCD/CID array stores charge packets representing a first matrix operator based upon permutations of a Hartley transform and computes the Fourier transform of an incoming vector. A second CCD/CID array stores charge packets representing a second matrix operator based upon different permutations of a Hartley transform and computes the Fourier transform of an incoming vector. The incoming vector is applied to the inputs of the two CCD/CID arrays simultaneously, and the real and imaginary parts of the Fourier transform are produced simultaneously in the time required to perform a single MVM operation in a CCD/CID array.

Design on the x-ray oral digital image display card

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Liping; Gu, Guohua; Chen, Qian

2009-10-01

According to the main characteristics of X-ray imaging, the X-ray display card is successfully designed and debugged using the basic principle of correlated double sampling (CDS) and combined with embedded computer technology. CCD sensor drive circuit and the corresponding procedures have been designed. Filtering and sampling hold circuit have been designed. The data exchange with PC104 bus has been implemented. Using complex programmable logic device as a device to provide gating and timing logic, the functions which counting, reading CPU control instructions, corresponding exposure and controlling sample-and-hold have been completed. According to the image effect and noise analysis, the circuit components have been adjusted. And high-quality images have been obtained.

Using a trichromatic CCD camera for spectral skylight estimation.

PubMed

López-Alvarez, Miguel A; Hernández-Andrés, Javier; Romero, Javier; Olmo, F J; Cazorla, A; Alados-Arboledas, L

2008-12-01

In a previous work [J. Opt. Soc. Am. A 24, 942-956 (2007)] we showed how to design an optimum multispectral system aimed at spectral recovery of skylight. Since high-resolution multispectral images of skylight could be interesting for many scientific disciplines, here we also propose a nonoptimum but much cheaper and faster approach to achieve this goal by using a trichromatic RGB charge-coupled device (CCD) digital camera. The camera is attached to a fish-eye lens, hence permitting us to obtain a spectrum of every point of the skydome corresponding to each pixel of the image. In this work we show how to apply multispectral techniques to the sensors' responses of a common trichromatic camera in order to obtain skylight spectra from them. This spectral information is accurate enough to estimate experimental values of some climate parameters or to be used in algorithms for automatic cloud detection, among many other possible scientific applications.

Proton radiation damage experiment on P-Channel CCD for an X-ray CCD camera onboard the ASTRO-H satellite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mori, Koji; Nishioka, Yusuke; Ohura, Satoshi; Koura, Yoshiaki; Yamauchi, Makoto; Nakajima, Hiroshi; Ueda, Shutaro; Kan, Hiroaki; Anabuki, Naohisa; Nagino, Ryo; Hayashida, Kiyoshi; Tsunemi, Hiroshi; Kohmura, Takayoshi; Ikeda, Shoma; Murakami, Hiroshi; Ozaki, Masanobu; Dotani, Tadayasu; Maeda, Yukie; Sagara, Kenshi

2013-12-01

We report on a proton radiation damage experiment on P-channel CCD newly developed for an X-ray CCD camera onboard the ASTRO-H satellite. The device was exposed up to 109 protons cm-2 at 6.7 MeV. The charge transfer inefficiency (CTI) was measured as a function of radiation dose. In comparison with the CTI currently measured in the CCD camera onboard the Suzaku satellite for 6 years, we confirmed that the new type of P-channel CCD is radiation tolerant enough for space use. We also confirmed that a charge-injection technique and lowering the operating temperature efficiently work to reduce the CTI for our device. A comparison with other P-channel CCD experiments is also discussed. We performed a proton radiation damage experiment on a new P-channel CCD. The device was exposed up to 109 protons cm-2 at 6.7 MeV. We confirmed that it is radiation tolerant enough for space use. We confirmed that a charge-injection technique reduces the CTI. We confirmed that lowering the operating temperature also reduces the CTI.

Eliminating Bias In Acousto-Optical Spectrum Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansari, Homayoon; Lesh, James R.

1992-01-01

Scheme for digital processing of video signals in acousto-optical spectrum analyzer provides real-time correction for signal-dependent spectral bias. Spectrum analyzer described in "Two-Dimensional Acousto-Optical Spectrum Analyzer" (NPO-18092), related apparatus described in "Three-Dimensional Acousto-Optical Spectrum Analyzer" (NPO-18122). Essence of correction is to average over digitized outputs of pixels in each CCD row and to subtract this from the digitized output of each pixel in row. Signal processed electro-optically with reference-function signals to form two-dimensional spectral image in CCD camera.

Characterization of multiport solid state imagers at megahertz data rates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yates, G.J.; Pena, C.R.; Turko, B.T.

1994-08-01

Test results obtained from two recently developed multiport Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs) operated at pixel rates in the 10-to-100 MHz range will be presented . The CCDs were evaluated in Los Alamos National Laboratory`s High Speed Solid State Imager Test Station (HSTS) which features PC-based programmable clock waveform generation (Tektronix DAS 9200) and synchronously clocked Digital Sampling Oscilloscopes (DSOs) (LeCroy 9424/9314 series) for CCD pixel data acquisition, analysis and storage. The HSTS also provided special designed optical pinhole array test patterns in the 5-to-50 micron diameter range for use with Xenon Strobe and pulsed laser light sources to simultaneously provide multiplemore » single-pixel illumination patterns to study CCD point-spread-function (PSF) and pixel smear characteristics. The two CCDs tested, EEV model CCD-13 and EG&G Reticon model HSO512J, are both 512 {times} 512 pixel arrays with eight (8) and sixteen (16) video output ports respectively. Both devices are generically Frame Transfer CCDs (FT CCDs) designed for parallel bi-directional vertical readout to augment their multiport design for increased pixel rates over common single port serial readout architecture. Although both CCDs were tested similarly, differences in their designs precluded normalization or any direct comparisons of test results. Rate dependent parameters investigated include S/N, PSF, and MTF. The performance observed for the two imagers at various pixel rates from selected typical output ports is discussed.« less

The study of surface acoustic wave charge transfer device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Papanicolaou, N.; Lin, H. C.

1978-01-01

A surface acoustic wave-charge transfer device, consisting of an n-type silicon substrate, a thermally grown silicon dioxide layer, and a sputtered film of piezoelectric zinc oxide is proposed as a means of circumventing problems associated with charge-coupled device (CCD) applications in memory, signal processing, and imaging. The proposed device creates traveling longitudinal electric fields in the silicon and replaces the multiphase clocks in CCD's. The traveling electric fields create potential wells which carry along charges stored there. These charges may be injected into the wells by light or by using a p-n junction as in conventional CCD's.

Front-end multiplexing—applied to SQUID multiplexing: Athena X-IFU and QUBIC experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prele, D.

2015-08-01

As we have seen for digital camera market and a sensor resolution increasing to "megapixels", all the scientific and high-tech imagers (whatever the wave length - from radio to X-ray range) tends also to always increases the pixels number. So the constraints on front-end signals transmission increase too. An almost unavoidable solution to simplify integration of large arrays of pixels is front-end multiplexing. Moreover, "simple" and "efficient" techniques allow integration of read-out multiplexers in the focal plane itself. For instance, CCD (Charge Coupled Device) technology has boost number of pixels in digital camera. Indeed, this is exactly a planar technology which integrates both the sensors and a front-end multiplexed readout. In this context, front-end multiplexing techniques will be discussed for a better understanding of their advantages and their limits. Finally, the cases of astronomical instruments in the millimeter and in the X-ray ranges using SQUID (Superconducting QUantum Interference Device) will be described.

Pattern-Recognition Processor Using Holographic Photopolymer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chao, Tien-Hsin; Cammack, Kevin

2006-01-01

proposed joint-transform optical correlator (JTOC) would be capable of operating as a real-time pattern-recognition processor. The key correlation-filter reading/writing medium of this JTOC would be an updateable holographic photopolymer. The high-resolution, high-speed characteristics of this photopolymer would enable pattern-recognition processing to occur at a speed three orders of magnitude greater than that of state-of-the-art digital pattern-recognition processors. There are many potential applications in biometric personal identification (e.g., using images of fingerprints and faces) and nondestructive industrial inspection. In order to appreciate the advantages of the proposed JTOC, it is necessary to understand the principle of operation of a conventional JTOC. In a conventional JTOC (shown in the upper part of the figure), a collimated laser beam passes through two side-by-side spatial light modulators (SLMs). One SLM displays a real-time input image to be recognized. The other SLM displays a reference image from a digital memory. A Fourier-transform lens is placed at its focal distance from the SLM plane, and a charge-coupled device (CCD) image detector is placed at the back focal plane of the lens for use as a square-law recorder. Processing takes place in two stages. In the first stage, the CCD records the interference pattern between the Fourier transforms of the input and reference images, and the pattern is then digitized and saved in a buffer memory. In the second stage, the reference SLM is turned off and the interference pattern is fed back to the input SLM. The interference pattern thus becomes Fourier-transformed, yielding at the CCD an image representing the joint-transform correlation between the input and reference images. This image contains a sharp correlation peak when the input and reference images are matched. The drawbacks of a conventional JTOC are the following: The CCD has low spatial resolution and is not an ideal square-law detector for the purpose of holographic recording of interference fringes. A typical state-of-the-art CCD has a pixel-pitch limited resolution of about 100 lines/mm. In contrast, the holographic photopolymer to be used in the proposed JTOC offers a resolution > 2,000 lines/mm. In addition to being disadvantageous in itself, the low resolution of the CCD causes overlap of a DC term and the desired correlation term in the output image. This overlap severely limits the correlation signal-to-noise ratio. The two-stage nature of the process limits the achievable throughput rate. A further limit is imposed by the low frame rate (typical video rates) of low- and medium-cost commercial CCDs.

Development of an imaging method for quantifying a large digital PCR droplet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Jen-Yu; Lee, Shu-Sheng; Hsu, Yu-Hsiang

2017-02-01

Portable devices have been recognized as the future linkage between end-users and lab-on-a-chip devices. It has a user friendly interface and provides apps to interface headphones, cameras, and communication duct, etc. In particular, the digital resolution of cameras installed in smartphones or pads already has a high imaging resolution with a high number of pixels. This unique feature has triggered researches to integrate optical fixtures with smartphone to provide microscopic imaging capabilities. In this paper, we report our study on developing a portable diagnostic tool based on the imaging system of a smartphone and a digital PCR biochip. A computational algorithm is developed to processing optical images taken from a digital PCR biochip with a smartphone in a black box. Each reaction droplet is recorded in pixels and is analyzed in a sRGB (red, green, and blue) color space. Multistep filtering algorithm and auto-threshold algorithm are adopted to minimize background noise contributed from ccd cameras and rule out false positive droplets, respectively. Finally, a size-filtering method is applied to identify the number of positive droplets to quantify target's concentration. Statistical analysis is then performed for diagnostic purpose. This process can be integrated in an app and can provide a user friendly interface without professional training.

Color management in textile application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Lucia, Maurizio; Vannucci, Massimiliano; Buonopane, Massimo; Fabroni, Cosimo; Fabrini, Francesco

2002-03-01

The aim of this research was to study a system of acquisition and processing of images capable of confronting colored wool with a reference specimen, in order to define the conformity using objective parameters. The first step of the research was to comprise and to analyze in depth the problem: there has been numerous implications of technical, physical, cultural, biological and also psychological character, that come down from the attempt of giving a quantitative appraisal to the color. In the scene of the national and international scientific and technological research, little has been made as regards measurement of color through digital processing of the images through linear CCD. The reason is fundamentally of technological nature: only during the last years we found the presence on the market of low cost equipment capable of acquiring and processing images with adequate performances and qualities. The job described has permitted to create a first prototype of system for the color measuring with use of CCD linear devices. -Hardware identification to carry out a series of tests and experiments in laboratory. -Verification of such device in a textile facility. -Statistics analysis of the collected data and of the employed models.

High resolution biomedical imaging system with direct detection of x-rays via a charge coupled device

DOEpatents

Atac, M.; McKay, T.A.

1998-04-21

An imaging system is provided for direct detection of x-rays from an irradiated biological tissue. The imaging system includes an energy source for emitting x-rays toward the biological tissue and a charge coupled device (CCD) located immediately adjacent the biological tissue and arranged transverse to the direction of irradiation along which the x-rays travel. The CCD directly receives and detects the x-rays after passing through the biological tissue. The CCD is divided into a matrix of cells, each of which individually stores a count of x-rays directly detected by the cell. The imaging system further includes a pattern generator electrically coupled to the CCD for reading a count from each cell. A display device is provided for displaying an image representative of the count read by the pattern generator from the cells of the CCD. 13 figs.

High resolution biomedical imaging system with direct detection of x-rays via a charge coupled device

DOEpatents

Atac, Muzaffer; McKay, Timothy A.

1998-01-01

An imaging system is provided for direct detection of x-rays from an irradiated biological tissue. The imaging system includes an energy source for emitting x-rays toward the biological tissue and a charge coupled device (CCD) located immediately adjacent the biological tissue and arranged transverse to the direction of irradiation along which the x-rays travel. The CCD directly receives and detects the x-rays after passing through the biological tissue. The CCD is divided into a matrix of cells, each of which individually stores a count of x-rays directly detected by the cell. The imaging system further includes a pattern generator electrically coupled to the CCD for reading a count from each cell. A display device is provided for displaying an image representative of the count read by the pattern generator from the cells of the CCD.

Camera-on-a-Chip

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

Jet Propulsion Laboratory's research on a second generation, solid-state image sensor technology has resulted in the Complementary Metal- Oxide Semiconductor Active Pixel Sensor (CMOS), establishing an alternative to the Charged Coupled Device (CCD). Photobit Corporation, the leading supplier of CMOS image sensors, has commercialized two products of their own based on this technology: the PB-100 and PB-300. These devices are cameras on a chip, combining all camera functions. CMOS "active-pixel" digital image sensors offer several advantages over CCDs, a technology used in video and still-camera applications for 30 years. The CMOS sensors draw less energy, they use the same manufacturing platform as most microprocessors and memory chips, and they allow on-chip programming of frame size, exposure, and other parameters.

Real-time tricolor phase measuring profilometry based on CCD sensitivity calibration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Lin; Cao, Yiping; He, Dawu; Chen, Cheng

2017-02-01

A real-time tricolor phase measuring profilometry (RTPMP) based on charge coupled device (CCD) sensitivity calibration is proposed. Only one colour fringe pattern whose red (R), green (G) and blue (B) components are, respectively, coded as three sinusoidal phase-shifting gratings with an equivalent shifting phase of 2π/3 is needed and sent to an appointed flash memory on a specialized digital light projector (SDLP). A specialized time-division multiplexing timing sequence actively controls the SDLP to project the fringe patterns in R, G and B channels sequentially onto the measured object in one over seventy-two of a second and meanwhile actively controls a high frame rate monochrome CCD camera to capture the corresponding deformed patterns synchronously with the SDLP. So the sufficient information for reconstructing the three-dimensional (3D) shape in one over twenty-four of a second is obtained. Due to the different spectral sensitivity of the CCD camera to RGB lights, the captured deformed patterns from R, G and B channels cannot share the same peak and valley, which will lead to lower accuracy or even failing to reconstruct the 3D shape. So a deformed pattern amending method based on CCD sensitivity calibration is developed to guarantee the accurate 3D reconstruction. The experimental results verify the feasibility of the proposed RTPMP method. The proposed RTPMP method can obtain the 3D shape at over the video frame rate of 24 frames per second, avoid the colour crosstalk completely and be effective for measuring real-time changing object.

The future scientific CCD

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janesick, J. R.; Elliott, T.; Collins, S.; Marsh, H.; Blouke, M. M.

1984-01-01

Since the first introduction of charge-coupled devices (CCDs) in 1970, CCDs have been considered for applications related to memories, logic circuits, and the detection of visible radiation. It is pointed out, however, that the mass market orientation of CCD development has left largely untapped the enormous potential of these devices for advanced scientific instrumentation. The present paper has, therefore, the objective to introduce the CCD characteristics to the scientific community, taking into account prospects for further improvement. Attention is given to evaluation criteria, a summary of current CCDs, CCD performance characteristics, absolute calibration tools, quantum efficiency, aspects of charge collection, charge transfer efficiency, read noise, and predictions regarding the characteristics of the next generation of silicon scientific CCD imagers.

Characterization of a 512x512-pixel 8-output full-frame CCD for high-speed imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graeve, Thorsten; Dereniak, Eustace L.

1993-01-01

The characterization of a 512 by 512 pixel, eight-output full frame CCD manufactured by English Electric Valve under part number CCD13 is discussed. This device is a high- resolution Silicon-based array designed for visible imaging applications at readout periods as low as two milliseconds. The characterization of the device includes mean-variance analysis to determine read noise and dynamic range, as well as charge transfer efficiency, MTF, and quantum efficiency measurements. Dark current and non-uniformity issues on a pixel-to-pixel basis and between individual outputs are also examined. The characterization of the device is restricted by hardware limitations to a one MHz pixel rate, corresponding to a 40 ms readout time. However, subsections of the device have been operated at up to an equivalent 100 frames per second. To maximize the frame rate, the CCD is illuminated by a synchronized strobe flash in between frame readouts. The effects of the strobe illumination on the imagery obtained from the device is discussed.

OPTOTRAK: at last a system with resolution of 10 μm (Abstract Only)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crouch, David G.; Kehl, L.; Krist, J. R.

1990-08-01

Northern Digital's first active marker point measurement system, the WATSMART, was begun in 1983. Development ended in 1985 with the manufacture of a highly accurate system, which achieved .15 to .25 mm accuracies in three dimensions within a .75-meter cube. Further improvements in accuracy were rendered meaningless, and a great obstacle to usability was presented by a surplus light problem somewhat incorrectly known as "the reflection problem". In 1985, development of a new system to overcome "the reflection problem" was begun. The advantages and disadvantages involved in the use of active versus passive markers were considered. The implications of using a CCD device as the imaging element in a precision measurement device were analyzed, as were device characteristics such as dynamic range, peak readout noise and charge transfer efficiency. A new type of lens was also designed The end result, in 1988, was the first OPTOTRAK system. This system produces three-dimensional data in real-time and is not at all affected by reflections. Accuracies of 30 microns have been achieved in a 1-meter volume. Each two-dimensional camera actually has two separate, one-dimensional, CCD elements and two separate anamorphic lenses. It can locate a point from 1-8 meters away with a resolution of 1 part in 64,000 and an accuracy of 1 part in 20,000 over the field of view.

Jig Aligns Shadow Mask On CCD

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Matus, Carlos V.

1989-01-01

Alignment viewed through microscope. Alignment jig positions shadow mask on charge-coupled device (CCD) so metal film deposited on it precisely. Allows CCD package to be inserted and removed without disturbing alignment of mask. Holds CCD packages securely and isolates it electrostatically while providing electrical contact to each of its pins. When alignment jig assembled with CCD, used to move mask under micrometer control.

An improved three-dimensional non-scanning laser imaging system based on digital micromirror device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Wenze; Han, Shaokun; Lei, Jieyu; Zhai, Yu; Timofeev, Alexander N.

2018-01-01

Nowadays, there are two main methods to realize three-dimensional non-scanning laser imaging detection, which are detection method based on APD and detection method based on Streak Tube. However, the detection method based on APD possesses some disadvantages, such as small number of pixels, big pixel interval and complex supporting circuit. The detection method based on Streak Tube possesses some disadvantages, such as big volume, bad reliability and high cost. In order to resolve the above questions, this paper proposes an improved three-dimensional non-scanning laser imaging system based on Digital Micromirror Device. In this imaging system, accurate control of laser beams and compact design of imaging structure are realized by several quarter-wave plates and a polarizing beam splitter. The remapping fiber optics is used to sample the image plane of receiving optical lens, and transform the image into line light resource, which can realize the non-scanning imaging principle. The Digital Micromirror Device is used to convert laser pulses from temporal domain to spatial domain. The CCD with strong sensitivity is used to detect the final reflected laser pulses. In this paper, we also use an algorithm which is used to simulate this improved laser imaging system. In the last, the simulated imaging experiment demonstrates that this improved laser imaging system can realize three-dimensional non-scanning laser imaging detection.

A two-dimensional location method based on digital micromirror device used in interactive projection systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Liangjun; Ni, Kai; Zhou, Qian; Cheng, Xuemin; Ma, Jianshe; Gao, Yuan; Sun, Peng; Li, Yi; Liu, Minxia

2010-11-01

Interactive projection systems based on CCD/CMOS have been greatly developed in recent years. They can locate and trace the movement of a pen equipped with an infrared LED, and displays the user's handwriting or react to the user's operation in real time. However, a major shortcoming is that the location device and the projector are independent with each other, including both the optical system and the control system. This requires construction of two optical systems, calibration of the differences between the projector view and the camera view, and also synchronization between two control systems, etc. In this paper, we introduced a two-dimensional location method based on digital micro-mirror device (DMD). The DMD is used as the display device and the position detector in turn. By serially flipping the micro-mirrors on the DMD according to a specially designed scheme and monitoring the reflected light energy, the image spot of the infrared LED can be quickly located. By using this method, the same optical system as well as the DMD can be multiplexed for projection and location, which will reduce the complexity and cost of the whole system. Furthermore, this method can also achieve high positioning accuracy and sampling rates. The results of location experiments are given.

Applications of charge-coupled device transversal filters to communication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buss, D. D.; Bailey, W. H.; Brodersen, R. W.; Hewes, C. R.; Tasch, A. F., Jr.

1975-01-01

The paper discusses the computational power of state-of-the-art charged-coupled device (CCD) transversal filters in communications applications. Some of the performance limitations of CCD transversal filters are discussed, with attention given to time delay and bandwidth, imperfect charge transfer efficiency, weighting coefficient error, noise, and linearity. The application of CCD transversal filters to matched filtering, spectral filtering, and Fourier analysis is examined. Techniques for making programmable transversal filters are briefly outlined.

Development of CMOS Active Pixel Image Sensors for Low Cost Commercial Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gee, R.; Kemeny, S.; Kim, Q.; Mendis, S.; Nakamura, J.; Nixon, R.; Ortiz, M.; Pain, B.; Staller, C.; Zhou, Z;

Optics pioneers scoop Nobel prize

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banks, Michael

2009-11-01

Three physicists who carried out pioneering work in former industrial research labs have picked up this year's Nobel Prize for Physics. One half of the SEK 10m prize has been awarded to Charles Kao, 75, for his work at the UK-based Standard Telephones and Cables (STC) on the transmission of light in optical fibres, which underpinned the telecommunications revolution. The other half of the prize is shared between Willard Boyle, 85, and George Smith, 79, of Bell Laboratories in New Jersey, US, for inventing the charge-coupled device (CCD) - an imaging semiconductor circuit that forms the basis of most digital cameras.

Development of a Portable 3CCD Camera System for Multispectral Imaging of Biological Samples

PubMed Central

Lee, Hoyoung; Park, Soo Hyun; Noh, Sang Ha; Lim, Jongguk; Kim, Moon S.

2014-01-01

Recent studies have suggested the need for imaging devices capable of multispectral imaging beyond the visible region, to allow for quality and safety evaluations of agricultural commodities. Conventional multispectral imaging devices lack flexibility in spectral waveband selectivity for such applications. In this paper, a recently developed portable 3CCD camera with significant improvements over existing imaging devices is presented. A beam-splitter prism assembly for 3CCD was designed to accommodate three interference filters that can be easily changed for application-specific multispectral waveband selection in the 400 to 1000 nm region. We also designed and integrated electronic components on printed circuit boards with firmware programming, enabling parallel processing, synchronization, and independent control of the three CCD sensors, to ensure the transfer of data without significant delay or data loss due to buffering. The system can stream 30 frames (3-waveband images in each frame) per second. The potential utility of the 3CCD camera system was demonstrated in the laboratory for detecting defect spots on apples. PMID:25350510

First Results of Digital Topography Applied to Macromolecular Crystals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lovelace, J.; Soares, A. S.; Bellamy, H.; Sweet, R. M.; Snell, E. H.; Borgstahl, G.

2004-01-01

An inexpensive digital CCD camera was used to record X-ray topographs directly from large imperfect crystals of cubic insulin. The topographs recorded were not as detailed as those which can be measured with film or emulsion plates but do show great promise. Six reflections were recorded using a set of finely spaced stills encompassing the rocking curve of each reflection. A complete topographic reflection profile could be digitally imaged in minutes. Interesting and complex internal structure was observed by this technique.The CCD chip used in the camera has anti-blooming circuitry and produced good data quality even when pixels became overloaded.

Explosive Transient Camera (ETC) Program

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-10-01

VOLTAGES 4.- VIDEO OUT CCD CLOCKING UNIT UUPSTAIRS" ELECTRONICS AND ANALOG TO DIGITAL IPR OCECSSER I COMMANDS TO DATA AND STATUS INSTRUMENT INFORMATION I...and transmits digital video and status information to the "downstairs" system. The clocking unit and regulator/driver board are the only CCD dependent...A. 1001, " Video Cam-era’CC’" tandari Piells" (1(P’ll m-norartlum, unpublished). Condon,, J.J., Puckpan, M.A., and Vachalski, J. 1970, A. J., 9U, 1149

The CAOS camera platform: ushering in a paradigm change in extreme dynamic range imager design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riza, Nabeel A.

2017-02-01

Multi-pixel imaging devices such as CCD, CMOS and Focal Plane Array (FPA) photo-sensors dominate the imaging world. These Photo-Detector Array (PDA) devices certainly have their merits including increasingly high pixel counts and shrinking pixel sizes, nevertheless, they are also being hampered by limitations in instantaneous dynamic range, inter-pixel crosstalk, quantum full well capacity, signal-to-noise ratio, sensitivity, spectral flexibility, and in some cases, imager response time. Recently invented is the Coded Access Optical Sensor (CAOS) Camera platform that works in unison with current Photo-Detector Array (PDA) technology to counter fundamental limitations of PDA-based imagers while providing high enough imaging spatial resolution and pixel counts. Using for example the Texas Instruments (TI) Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) to engineer the CAOS camera platform, ushered in is a paradigm change in advanced imager design, particularly for extreme dynamic range applications.

Characterization and Processing of Non-Uniformities in Back-Illuminated CCDs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemm, Alia D.; Della-Rose, Devin J.; Maddocks, Sally

2018-01-01

In astronomical photometry, Charged Coupled Device (CCD) detectors are used to achieve high precision photometry and must be properly calibrated to correct for noise and pixel non-uniformities. Uncalibrated images may contain bias offset, dark current, bias structure and uneven illumination. In addition, standard data reduction is often not sufficient to “normalize” imagery to single-digit millimagnitude (mmag) precision. We are investigating an apparent non-uniformity, or interference pattern, in a back-illuminated sensor, the Alta U-47, attached to a DFM Engineering 41-cm Ritchey-Chrétien f/8 telescope. Based on the amplitude of this effect, we estimate that instrument magnitude peak-to-valley deviations of 50 mmag or more may result. Our initial testing strongly suggests that reflected skylight from high pressure sodium city lights may be the cause of this interference pattern. Our research goals are twofold: to fully characterize this non-uniformity and to determine the best method to remove this interference pattern from our reduced CCD images.

Radioactive Quality Evaluation and Cross Validation of Data from the HJ-1A/B Satellites' CCD Sensors

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xin; Zhao, Xiang; Liu, Guodong; Kang, Qian; Wu, Donghai

2013-01-01

Data from multiple sensors are frequently used in Earth science to gain a more complete understanding of spatial information changes. Higher quality and mutual consistency are prerequisites when multiple sensors are jointly used. The HJ-1A/B satellites successfully launched on 6 September 2008. There are four charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors with uniform spatial resolutions and spectral range onboard the HJ-A/B satellites. Whether these data are keeping consistency is a major issue before they are used. This research aims to evaluate the data consistency and radioactive quality from the four CCDs. First, images of urban, desert, lake and ocean are chosen as the objects of evaluation. Second, objective evaluation variables, such as mean, variance and angular second moment, are used to identify image performance. Finally, a cross validation method are used to ensure the correlation of the data from the four HJ-1A/B CCDs and that which is gathered from the moderate resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS). The results show that the image quality of HJ-1A/B CCDs is stable, and the digital number distribution of CCD data is relatively low. In cross validation with MODIS, the root mean square errors of bands 1, 2 and 3 range from 0.055 to 0.065, and for band 4 it is 0.101. The data from HJ-1A/B CCD have better consistency. PMID:23881127

Radioactive quality evaluation and cross validation of data from the HJ-1A/B satellites' CCD sensors.

PubMed

Zhang, Xin; Zhao, Xiang; Liu, Guodong; Kang, Qian; Wu, Donghai

2013-07-05

Data from multiple sensors are frequently used in Earth science to gain a more complete understanding of spatial information changes. Higher quality and mutual consistency are prerequisites when multiple sensors are jointly used. The HJ-1A/B satellites successfully launched on 6 September 2008. There are four charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors with uniform spatial resolutions and spectral range onboard the HJ-A/B satellites. Whether these data are keeping consistency is a major issue before they are used. This research aims to evaluate the data consistency and radioactive quality from the four CCDs. First, images of urban, desert, lake and ocean are chosen as the objects of evaluation. Second, objective evaluation variables, such as mean, variance and angular second moment, are used to identify image performance. Finally, a cross validation method are used to ensure the correlation of the data from the four HJ-1A/B CCDs and that which is gathered from the moderate resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS). The results show that the image quality of HJ-1A/B CCDs is stable, and the digital number distribution of CCD data is relatively low. In cross validation with MODIS, the root mean square errors of bands 1, 2 and 3 range from 0.055 to 0.065, and for band 4 it is 0.101. The data from HJ-1A/B CCD have better consistency.

CCD charge collection efficiency and the photon transfer technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janesick, J.; Klaasen, K.; Elliott, T.

1985-01-01

The charge-coupled device (CCD) has shown unprecendented performance as a photon detector in the areas of spectral response, charge transfer, and readout noise. Recent experience indicates, however, that the full potential for the CCD's charge collection efficiency (CCE) lies well beyond that which is realized in currently available devices. A definition of CCE performance is presented and a standard test tool (the photon transfer technique) for measuring and optimizing this important CCD parameter is introduced. CCE characteristics for different types of CCDs are compared; the primary limitations in achieving high CCE performance are discussed, and the prospects for future improvement are outlined.

Software design of control system of CCD side-scatter lidar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuang, Zhiqiang; Liu, Dong; Deng, Qian; Zhang, Zhanye; Wang, Zhenzhu; Yu, Siqi; Tao, Zongming; Xie, Chenbo; Wang, Yingjian

2018-03-01

Because of the existence of blind zone and transition zone, the application of backscattering lidar in near-ground is limited. The side-scatter lidar equipped with the Charge Coupled Devices (CCD) can separate the transmitting and receiving devices to avoid the impact of the geometric factors which is exited in the backscattering lidar and, detect the more precise near-ground aerosol signals continuously. Theories of CCD side-scatter lidar and the design of control system are introduced. The visible control of laser and CCD and automatic data processing method of the side-scatter lidar are developed by using the software of Visual C #. The results which are compared with the calibration of the atmospheric aerosol lidar data show that signals from the CCD side- scatter lidar are convincible.

3D digital image correlation using single color camera pseudo-stereo system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Junrui; Dan, Xizuo; Xu, Wan; Wang, Yonghong; Yang, Guobiao; Yang, Lianxiang

2017-10-01

Three dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) has been widely used by industry to measure the 3D contour and whole-field displacement/strain. In this paper, a novel single color camera 3D-DIC setup, using a reflection-based pseudo-stereo system, is proposed. Compared to the conventional single camera pseudo-stereo system, which splits the CCD sensor into two halves to capture the stereo views, the proposed system achieves both views using the whole CCD chip and without reducing the spatial resolution. In addition, similarly to the conventional 3D-DIC system, the center of the two views stands in the center of the CCD chip, which minimizes the image distortion relative to the conventional pseudo-stereo system. The two overlapped views in the CCD are separated by the color domain, and the standard 3D-DIC algorithm can be utilized directly to perform the evaluation. The system's principle and experimental setup are described in detail, and multiple tests are performed to validate the system.

A novel imaging method for photonic crystal fiber fusion splicer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bi, Weihong; Fu, Guangwei; Guo, Xuan

2007-01-01

Because the structure of Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF) is very complex, and it is very difficult that traditional fiber fusion splice obtains optical axial information of PCF. Therefore, we must search for a bran-new optical imaging method to get section information of Photonic Crystal Fiber. Based on complex trait of PCF, a novel high-precision optics imaging system is presented in this article. The system uses a thinned electron-bombarded CCD (EBCCD) which is a kind of image sensor as imaging element, the thinned electron-bombarded CCD can offer low light level performance superior to conventional image intensifier coupled CCD approaches, this high-performance device can provide high contrast high resolution in low light level surveillance imaging; in order to realize precision focusing of image, we use a ultra-highprecision pace motor to adjust position of imaging lens. In this way, we can obtain legible section information of PCF. We may realize further concrete analysis for section information of PCF by digital image processing technology. Using this section information may distinguish different sorts of PCF, compute some parameters such as the size of PCF ventage, cladding structure of PCF and so on, and provide necessary analysis data for PCF fixation, adjustment, regulation, fusion and cutting system.

Development of Residual Gas Profile Monitors at GSI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giacomini, T.; Barabin, S.; Forck, P.; Liakin, D.; Skachkov, V.

2004-11-01

Beam profile measurements at modern ion synchrotrons and storage rings require high timing performances on a turn-by-turn basis. High spatial resolutions are essential for cold beams and beamwidth measurings. The currently used RGM supported very interesting measurements and applications. Due to the readout technology the spatial and time resolution is limited. To meet the expanded demands a more comprehensive device is under development. It will be an all-purpose residual gas monitor to cover the wide range of beam currents and transversal particle distributions. Due to the fast profile detection it will operate on primary electrons after residual gas ionization. A magnetic field of 100 mT binds them to the ionization point inside 0.1-mm orbits. The high-resolution mode will be read out by a digital CCD camera with an upstream MCP-phosphor screen assembly. It is planned to read out the fast turn-by-turn mode by an array of 100 photodiodes with a resolution of 1 mm. Every photodiode is equipped with an amplifier-digitizer device providing a frame rate of ˜ 10 MSamples/s.

Research of optical coherence tomography microscope based on CCD detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hua; Xu, Zhongbao; Zhang, Shuomo

2008-12-01

The reference wave phase was modulated with a sinusoidal vibrating mirror attached to a Piezoelectric Transducer (PZT), the integration was performed by a CCD, and the charge storage period of the CCD image sensor was one-quarter period of the sinusoidal phase modulation. With the frequency- synchronous detection technique, four images (four frames of interference pattern) were recorded during one period of the phase modulation. In order to obtain the optimum modulation parameter, the values of amplitude and phase of the sinusoidal phase modulation were determined by considering the measurement error caused by the additive noise contained in the detected values. The PZT oscillation was controlled by a closed loop control system based on PID controller. An ideal discrete digital sine function at 50Hz with adjustable amplitude was used to adjust the vibrating of PZT, and a digital phase shift techniques was used to adjust vibrating phase of PZT so that the phase of the modulation could reach their optimum values. The CCD detector was triggered with software at 200Hz. Based on work above a small coherent signal masked by the preponderant incoherent background with a CCD detector was obtained.

Undersampled digital holographic interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halaq, H.; Demoli, N.; Sović, I.; Šariri, K.; Torzynski, M.; Vukičević, D.

2008-04-01

In digital holography, primary holographic fringes are recorded using a matricial CCD sensor. Because of the low spatial resolution of currently available CCD arrays, the angle between the reference and object beams must be limited to a few degrees. Namely, due to the digitization involved, the Shannon's criterion imposes that the Nyquist sampling frequency be at least twice the highest signal frequency. This means that, in the case of the recording of an interference fringe pattern by a CCD sensor, the inter-fringe distance must be larger than twice the pixel period. This in turn limits the angle between the object and the reference beams. If this angle, in a practical holographic interferometry measuring setup, cannot be limited to the required value, aliasing will occur in the reconstructed image. In this work, we demonstrate that the low spatial frequency metrology data could nevertheless be efficiently extracted by careful choice of twofold, and even threefold, undersampling of the object field. By combining the time-averaged recording with subtraction digital holography method, we present results for a loudspeaker membrane interferometric study obtained under strong aliasing conditions. High-contrast fringes, as a consequence of the vibration modes of the membrane, are obtained.

Spectral analysis using the CCD Chirp Z-transform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eversole, W. L.; Mayer, D. J.; Bosshart, P. W.; Dewit, M.; Howes, C. R.; Buss, D. D.

1978-01-01

The charge coupled device (CCD) Chirp Z transformation (CZT) spectral analysis techniques were reviewed and results on state-of-the-art CCD CZT technology are presented. The CZT algorithm was examined and the advantages of CCD implementation are discussed. The sliding CZT which is useful in many spectral analysis applications is described, and the performance limitations of the CZT are studied.

A portable detection instrument based on DSP for beef marbling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Tong; Peng, Yankun

2014-05-01

Beef marbling is one of the most important indices to assess beef quality. Beef marbling is graded by the measurement of the fat distribution density in the rib-eye region. However quality grades of beef in most of the beef slaughtering houses and businesses depend on trainees using their visual senses or comparing the beef slice to the Chinese standard sample cards. Manual grading demands not only great labor but it also lacks objectivity and accuracy. Aiming at the necessity of beef slaughtering houses and businesses, a beef marbling detection instrument was designed. The instrument employs Charge-coupled Device (CCD) imaging techniques, digital image processing, Digital Signal Processor (DSP) control and processing techniques and Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen display techniques. The TMS320DM642 digital signal processor of Texas Instruments (TI) is the core that combines high-speed data processing capabilities and real-time processing features. All processes such as image acquisition, data transmission, image processing algorithms and display were implemented on this instrument for a quick, efficient, and non-invasive detection of beef marbling. Structure of the system, working principle, hardware and software are introduced in detail. The device is compact and easy to transport. The instrument can determine the grade of beef marbling reliably and correctly.

Suitability of digital camcorders for virtual reality image data capture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

D'Apuzzo, Nicola; Maas, Hans-Gerd

1998-12-01

Today's consumer market digital camcorders offer features which make them appear quite interesting devices for virtual reality data capture. The paper compares a digital camcorder with an analogue camcorder and a machine vision type CCD camera and discusses the suitability of these three cameras for virtual reality applications. Besides the discussion of technical features of the cameras, this includes a detailed accuracy test in order to define the range of applications. In combination with the cameras, three different framegrabbers are tested. The geometric accuracy potential of all three cameras turned out to be surprisingly large, and no problems were noticed in the radiometric performance. On the other hand, some disadvantages have to be reported: from the photogrammetrists point of view, the major disadvantage of most camcorders is the missing possibility to synchronize multiple devices, limiting the suitability for 3-D motion data capture. Moreover, the standard video format contains interlacing, which is also undesirable for all applications dealing with moving objects or moving cameras. Further disadvantages are computer interfaces with functionality, which is still suboptimal. While custom-made solutions to these problems are probably rather expensive (and will make potential users turn back to machine vision like equipment), this functionality could probably be included by the manufacturers at almost zero cost.

Three-dimensional charge coupled device

DOEpatents

Conder, Alan D.; Young, Bruce K. F.

1999-01-01

A monolithic three dimensional charged coupled device (3D-CCD) which utilizes the entire bulk of the semiconductor for charge generation, storage, and transfer. The 3D-CCD provides a vast improvement of current CCD architectures that use only the surface of the semiconductor substrate. The 3D-CCD is capable of developing a strong E-field throughout the depth of the semiconductor by using deep (buried) parallel (bulk) electrodes in the substrate material. Using backside illumination, the 3D-CCD architecture enables a single device to image photon energies from the visible, to the ultra-violet and soft x-ray, and out to higher energy x-rays of 30 keV and beyond. The buried or bulk electrodes are electrically connected to the surface electrodes, and an E-field parallel to the surface is established with the pixel in which the bulk electrodes are located. This E-field attracts charge to the bulk electrodes independent of depth and confines it within the pixel in which it is generated. Charge diffusion is greatly reduced because the E-field is strong due to the proximity of the bulk electrodes.

Process for fabricating a charge coupled device

DOEpatents

Conder, Alan D.; Young, Bruce K. F.

2002-01-01

A monolithic three dimensional charged coupled device (3D-CCD) which utilizes the entire bulk of the semiconductor for charge generation, storage, and transfer. The 3D-CCD provides a vast improvement of current CCD architectures that use only the surface of the semiconductor substrate. The 3D-CCD is capable of developing a strong E-field throughout the depth of the semiconductor by using deep (buried) parallel (bulk) electrodes in the substrate material. Using backside illumination, the 3D-CCD architecture enables a single device to image photon energies from the visible, to the ultra-violet and soft x-ray, and out to higher energy x-rays of 30 keV and beyond. The buried or bulk electrodes are electrically connected to the surface electrodes, and an E-field parallel to the surface is established with the pixel in which the bulk electrodes are located. This E-field attracts charge to the bulk electrodes independent of depth and confines it within the pixel in which it is generated. Charge diffusion is greatly reduced because the E-field is strong due to the proximity of the bulk electrodes.

Using a delta-doped CCD to determine the energy of a low-energy particle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nikzad, Shouleh (Inventor); Croley, Donald R. (Inventor); Murphy, Gerald B. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

The back surface of a thinned charged-coupled device (CCD) is treated to eliminate the backside potential well that appears in a conventional thinned CCD during backside illumination. The backside of the CCD includes a delta layer of high-concentration dopant confined to less than one monolayer of the crystal semiconductor. The thinned, delta-doped CCD is used to determine the energy of a very low-energy particle that penetrates less than 1.0 nm into the CCD, such as a proton having energy less than 10 keV.

Delta-doped CCD's as low-energy particle detectors and imagers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nikzad, Shouleh (Inventor); Hoenk, Michael E. (Inventor); Hecht, Michael H. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

The back surface of a thinned charged-coupled device (CCD) is treated to eliminate the backside potential well that appears in a conventional thinned CCD during backside illumination. The backside of the CCD includes a delta layer of high-concentration dopant confined to less than one monolayer of the crystal semiconductor. The thinned, delta-doped CCD is used to detect very low-energy particles that penetrate less than 1.0 nm into the CCD, including electrons having energies less than 1000 eV and protons having energies less than 10 keV.

Silicide Schottky Barrier For Back-Surface-Illuminated CCD

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hecht, Michael H.

1990-01-01

Quantum efficiency of back-surface-illuminated charge-coupled device (CCD) increased by coating back surface with thin layer of PtSi or IrSi on thin layer of SiO2. In its interaction with positively-doped bulk Si of CCD, silicide/oxide layer forms Schottky barrier that repels electrons, promoting accumulation of photogenerated charge carriers in front-side CCD potential wells. Physical principle responsible for improvement explained in "Metal Film Increases CCD Output" (NPO-16815).

Astronomical Archive at Tartu Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Annuk, K.

2007-10-01

Archiving astronomical data is important task not only at large observatories but also at small observatories. Here we describe the astronomical archive at Tartu Observatory. The archive consists of old photographic plate images, photographic spectrograms, CCD direct--images and CCD spectroscopic data. The photographic plate digitizing project was started in 2005. An on-line database (based on MySQL) was created. The database includes CCD data as well photographic data. A PHP-MySQL interface was written for access to all data.

Performance evaluation of integrating detectors for near-infrared fluorescence molecular imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Banghe; Rasmussen, John C.; Sevick-Muraca, Eva M.

2014-05-01

Although there has been a plethora of devices advanced for clinical translation, there has been no standards to compare and determine the optical device for fluorescence molecular imaging. In this work, we compare different CCD configurations using a solid phantom developed to mimic pM - fM concentrations of near-infrared fluorescent dyes in tissues. Our results show that intensified CCD systems (ICCDs) offer greater contrast at larger signal-tonoise ratios (SNRs) in comparison to their un-intensified CCD systems operated at clinically reasonable, sub-second acquisition times. Furthermore, we compared our investigational ICCD device to the commercial NOVADAQ SPY system, demonstrating different performance in both SNR and contrast.

Use and validation of mirrorless digital single light reflex camera for recording of vitreoretinal surgeries in high definition

PubMed Central

Khanduja, Sumeet; Sampangi, Raju; Hemlatha, B C; Singh, Satvir; Lall, Ashish

2018-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe the use of commercial digital single light reflex (DSLR) for vitreoretinal surgery recording and compare it to standard 3-chip charged coupling device (CCD) camera. Methods: Simultaneous recording was done using Sony A7s2 camera and Sony high-definition 3-chip camera attached to each side of the microscope. The videos recorded from both the camera systems were edited and sequences of similar time frames were selected. Three sequences that selected for evaluation were (a) anterior segment surgery, (b) surgery under direct viewing system, and (c) surgery under indirect wide-angle viewing system. The videos of each sequence were evaluated and rated on a scale of 0-10 for color, contrast, and overall quality Results: Most results were rated either 8/10 or 9/10 for both the cameras. A noninferiority analysis by comparing mean scores of DSLR camera versus CCD camera was performed and P values were obtained. The mean scores of the two cameras were comparable for each other on all parameters assessed in the different videos except of color and contrast in posterior pole view and color on wide-angle view, which were rated significantly higher (better) in DSLR camera. Conclusion: Commercial DSLRs are an affordable low-cost alternative for vitreoretinal surgery recording and may be used for documentation and teaching. PMID:29283133

Use and validation of mirrorless digital single light reflex camera for recording of vitreoretinal surgeries in high definition.

PubMed

Khanduja, Sumeet; Sampangi, Raju; Hemlatha, B C; Singh, Satvir; Lall, Ashish

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study is to describe the use of commercial digital single light reflex (DSLR) for vitreoretinal surgery recording and compare it to standard 3-chip charged coupling device (CCD) camera. Simultaneous recording was done using Sony A7s2 camera and Sony high-definition 3-chip camera attached to each side of the microscope. The videos recorded from both the camera systems were edited and sequences of similar time frames were selected. Three sequences that selected for evaluation were (a) anterior segment surgery, (b) surgery under direct viewing system, and (c) surgery under indirect wide-angle viewing system. The videos of each sequence were evaluated and rated on a scale of 0-10 for color, contrast, and overall quality Results: Most results were rated either 8/10 or 9/10 for both the cameras. A noninferiority analysis by comparing mean scores of DSLR camera versus CCD camera was performed and P values were obtained. The mean scores of the two cameras were comparable for each other on all parameters assessed in the different videos except of color and contrast in posterior pole view and color on wide-angle view, which were rated significantly higher (better) in DSLR camera. Commercial DSLRs are an affordable low-cost alternative for vitreoretinal surgery recording and may be used for documentation and teaching.

CCD research. [design, fabrication, and applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gassaway, J. D.

1976-01-01

The fundamental problems encountered in designing, fabricating, and applying CCD's are reviewed. Investigations are described and results and conclusions are given for the following: (1) the development of design analyses employing computer aided techniques and their application to the design of a grapped structure; (2) the role of CCD's in applications to electronic functions, in particular, signal processing; (3) extending the CCD to silicon films on sapphire (SOS); and (4) all aluminum transfer structure with low noise input-output circuits. Related work on CCD imaging devices is summarized.

Method for implementation of back-illuminated CMOS or CCD imagers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pain, Bedabrata (Inventor)

2008-01-01

A method for implementation of back-illuminated CMOS or CCD imagers. An oxide layer buried between silicon wafer and device silicon is provided. The oxide layer forms a passivation layer in the imaging structure. A device layer and interlayer dielectric are formed, and the silicon wafer is removed to expose the oxide layer.

Enhancement of sun-tracking with optoelectronic devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jiunn-Chi

2015-09-01

Sun-tracking is one of the most challenging tasks in implementing CPV. In order to justify the additional complexity of sun-tracking, careful assessment of performance of CPV by monitoring the performance of sun-tracking is vital. Measurement of accuracy of sun-tracking is one of the important tasks in an outdoor test. This study examines techniques with three optoelectronic devices (i.e. position sensitive device (PSD), CCD and webcam). Outdoor measurements indicated that during sunny days (global horizontal insolation (GHI) > 700 W/m2), three devices recorded comparable tracking accuracy of 0.16˜0.3°. The method using a PSD has fastest sampling rate and is able to detect the sun's position without additional image processing. Yet, it cannot identify the sunlight effectively during low insolation. The techniques with a CCD and a webcam enhance the accuracy of centroid of sunlight via the optical lens and image processing. The image quality acquired using a webcam and a CCD is comparable but the webcam is more affordable than that of CCD because it can be assembled with consumer-graded products.

CCD Detects Two Images In Quick Succession

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janesick, James R.; Collins, Andy

1996-01-01

Prototype special-purpose charge-coupled device (CCD) designed to detect two 1,024 x 1,024-pixel images in rapid succession. Readout performed slowly to minimize noise. CCD operated in synchronism with pulsed laser, stroboscope, or other pulsed source of light to form pairs of images of rapidly moving objects.

Measurement precision and noise analysis of CCD cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, ZhenSen; Li, Zhiyang; Zhang, Ping

1993-09-01

CHINA The lirait precision of CCD camera with 1O. bit analogue to digital conversion is estimated in this paper . The noise effect on ineasurenent precision and the noise characteristics are analyzed in details. The noise process means are also discussed and the diagram of noise properties is given in this paper.

Taking the Observatory to the Astronomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisque, T. M.

1997-05-01

Since 1992, Software Bisque's Remote Astronomy Software has been used by the Mt. Wilson Institute to allow interactive control of a 24" telescope and digital camera via modem. Software Bisque now introduces a comparable, relatively low-cost observatory system that allows powerful, yet "user-friendly" telescope and CCD camera control via the Internet. Utilizing software developed for the Windows 95/NT operating systems, the system offers point-and-click access to comprehensive celestial databases, extremely accurate telescope pointing, rapid download of digital CCD images by one or many users and flexible image processing software for data reduction and analysis. Our presentation will describe how the power of the personal computer has been leveraged to provide professional-level tools to the amateur astronomer, and include a description of this system's software and hardware components. The system software includes TheSky Astronomy Software?, CCDSoft CCD Astronomy Software?, TPoint Telescope Pointing Analysis System? software, Orchestrate? and, optionally, the RealSky CDs. The system hardware includes the Paramount GT-1100? Robotic Telescope Mount, as well as third party CCD cameras, focusers and optical tube assemblies.

High-speed high-resolution epifluorescence imaging system using CCD sensor and digital storage for neurobiological research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takashima, Ichiro; Kajiwara, Riichi; Murano, Kiyo; Iijima, Toshio; Morinaka, Yasuhiro; Komobuchi, Hiroyoshi

2001-04-01

We have designed and built a high-speed CCD imaging system for monitoring neural activity in an exposed animal cortex stained with a voltage-sensitive dye. Two types of custom-made CCD sensors were developed for this system. The type I chip has a resolution of 2664 (H) X 1200 (V) pixels and a wide imaging area of 28.1 X 13.8 mm, while the type II chip has 1776 X 1626 pixels and an active imaging area of 20.4 X 18.7 mm. The CCD arrays were constructed with multiple output amplifiers in order to accelerate the readout rate. The two chips were divided into either 24 (I) or 16 (II) distinct areas that were driven in parallel. The parallel CCD outputs were digitized by 12-bit A/D converters and then stored in the frame memory. The frame memory was constructed with synchronous DRAM modules, which provided a capacity of 128 MB per channel. On-chip and on-memory binning methods were incorporated into the system, e.g., this enabled us to capture 444 X 200 pixel-images for periods of 36 seconds at a rate of 500 frames/second. This system was successfully used to visualize neural activity in the cortices of rats, guinea pigs, and monkeys.

High-performance dual-speed CCD camera system for scientific imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simpson, Raymond W.

1996-03-01

Traditionally, scientific camera systems were partitioned with a `camera head' containing the CCD and its support circuitry and a camera controller, which provided analog to digital conversion, timing, control, computer interfacing, and power. A new, unitized high performance scientific CCD camera with dual speed readout at 1 X 106 or 5 X 106 pixels per second, 12 bit digital gray scale, high performance thermoelectric cooling, and built in composite video output is described. This camera provides all digital, analog, and cooling functions in a single compact unit. The new system incorporates the A/C converter, timing, control and computer interfacing in the camera, with the power supply remaining a separate remote unit. A 100 Mbyte/second serial link transfers data over copper or fiber media to a variety of host computers, including Sun, SGI, SCSI, PCI, EISA, and Apple Macintosh. Having all the digital and analog functions in the camera made it possible to modify this system for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution for use on a remote controlled submersible vehicle. The oceanographic version achieves 16 bit dynamic range at 1.5 X 105 pixels/second, can be operated at depths of 3 kilometers, and transfers data to the surface via a real time fiber optic link.

Experimental research of digital holographic microscopic measuring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Xueliang; Chen, Feifei; Li, Jicheng

2013-06-01

Digital holography is a new imaging technique, which is developed on the base of optical holography, Digital processing, and Computer techniques. It is using CCD instead of the conventional silver to record hologram, and then reproducing the 3D contour of the object by the way of computer simulation. Compared with the traditional optical holographic, the whole process is of simple measuring, lower production cost, faster the imaging speed, and with the advantages of non-contact real-time measurement. At present, it can be used in the fields of the morphology detection of tiny objects, micro deformation analysis, and biological cells shape measurement. It is one of the research hot spot at home and abroad. This paper introduced the basic principles and relevant theories about the optical holography and Digital holography, and researched the basic questions which influence the reproduce images in the process of recording and reconstructing of the digital holographic microcopy. In order to get a clear digital hologram, by analyzing the optical system structure, we discussed the recording distance and of the hologram. On the base of the theoretical studies, we established a measurement and analyzed the experimental conditions, then adjusted them to the system. To achieve a precise measurement of tiny object in three-dimension, we measured MEMS micro device for example, and obtained the reproduction three-dimensional contour, realized the three dimensional profile measurement of tiny object. According to the experiment results consider: analysis the reference factors between the zero-order term and a pair of twin-images by the choice of the object light and the reference light and the distance of the recording and reconstructing and the characteristics of reconstruction light on the measurement, the measurement errors were analyzed. The research result shows that the device owns certain reliability.

High-performance visible/UV CCD focal plane technology for spacebased applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burke, B. E.; Mountain, R. W.; Gregory, J. A.; Huang, J. C. M.; Cooper, M. J.; Savoye, E. D.; Kosicki, B. B.

1993-01-01

We describe recent technology developments aimed at large CCD imagers for space based applications in the visible and UV. Some of the principal areas of effort include work on reducing device degradation in the natural space-radiation environment, improvements in quantum efficiency in the visible and UV, and larger-device formats. One of the most serious hazards for space based CCD's operating at low signal levels is the displacement damage resulting from bombardment by energetic protons. Such damage degrades charge-transfer efficiency and increases dark current. We have achieved improved hardness to proton-induced displacement damage by selective ion implants into the CCD channel and by reduced temperature of operation. To attain high quantum efficiency across the visible and UV we have developed a technology for back-illuminated CCD's. With suitable antireflection (AR) coatings such devices have quantum efficiencies near 90 percent in the 500-700-nm band. In the UV band from 200 to 400 nm, where it is difficult to find coatings that are sufficiently transparent and can provide good matching to the high refractive index of silicon, we have been able to substantially increase the quantum efficiency using a thin film of HfO2 as an AR coating. These technology efforts were applied to a 420 x 420-pixel frame-transfer imager, and future work will be extended to a 1024 x 1024-pixel device now under development.

Model-based frequency response characterization of a digital-image analysis system for epifluorescence microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hazra, Rajeeb; Viles, Charles L.; Park, Stephen K.; Reichenbach, Stephen E.; Sieracki, Michael E.

1992-01-01

Consideration is given to a model-based method for estimating the spatial frequency response of a digital-imaging system (e.g., a CCD camera) that is modeled as a linear, shift-invariant image acquisition subsystem that is cascaded with a linear, shift-variant sampling subsystem. The method characterizes the 2D frequency response of the image acquisition subsystem to beyond the Nyquist frequency by accounting explicitly for insufficient sampling and the sample-scene phase. Results for simulated systems and a real CCD-based epifluorescence microscopy system are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the method.

Remote media vision-based computer input device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arabnia, Hamid R.; Chen, Ching-Yi

1991-11-01

In this paper, we introduce a vision-based computer input device which has been built at the University of Georgia. The user of this system gives commands to the computer without touching any physical device. The system receives input through a CCD camera; it is PC- based and is built on top of the DOS operating system. The major components of the input device are: a monitor, an image capturing board, a CCD camera, and some software (developed by use). These are interfaced with a standard PC running under the DOS operating system.

Clinical applications of commercially available video recording and monitoring systems: inexpensive, high-quality video recording and monitoring systems for endoscopy and microsurgery.

PubMed

Tsunoda, Koichi; Tsunoda, Atsunobu; Ishimoto, ShinnIchi; Kimura, Satoko

2006-01-01

The exclusive charge-coupled device (CCD) camera system for the endoscope and electronic fiberscopes are in widespread use. However, both are usually stationary in an office or examination room, and a wheeled cart is needed for mobility. The total costs of the CCD camera system and electronic fiberscopy system are at least US Dollars 10,000 and US Dollars 30,000, respectively. Recently, the performance of audio and visual instruments has improved dramatically, with a concomitant reduction in their cost. Commercially available CCD video cameras with small monitors have become common. They provide excellent image quality and are much smaller and less expensive than previous models. The authors have developed adaptors for the popular mini-digital video (mini-DV) camera. The camera also provides video and acoustic output signals; therefore, the endoscopic images can be viewed on a large monitor simultaneously. The new system (a mini-DV video camera and an adaptor) costs only US Dollars 1,000. Therefore, the system is both cost-effective and useful for the outpatient clinic or casualty setting, or on house calls for the purpose of patient education. In the future, the authors plan to introduce the clinical application of a high-vision camera and an infrared camera as medical instruments for clinical and research situations.

Fourier transform digital holographic adaptive optics imaging system

PubMed Central

Liu, Changgeng; Yu, Xiao; Kim, Myung K.

2013-01-01

A Fourier transform digital holographic adaptive optics imaging system and its basic principles are proposed. The CCD is put at the exact Fourier transform plane of the pupil of the eye lens. The spherical curvature introduced by the optics except the eye lens itself is eliminated. The CCD is also at image plane of the target. The point-spread function of the system is directly recorded, making it easier to determine the correct guide-star hologram. Also, the light signal will be stronger at the CCD, especially for phase-aberration sensing. Numerical propagation is avoided. The sensor aperture has nothing to do with the resolution and the possibility of using low coherence or incoherent illumination is opened. The system becomes more efficient and flexible. Although it is intended for ophthalmic use, it also shows potential application in microscopy. The robustness and feasibility of this compact system are demonstrated by simulations and experiments using scattering objects. PMID:23262541

The elimination of zero-order diffraction of 10.6 μm infrared digital holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ning; Yang, Chao

2017-05-01

A new method of eliminating the zero-order diffraction in infrared digital holography has been raised in this paper. Usually in the reconstruction of digital holography, the spatial frequency of the infrared thermal imager, such as microbolometer, cannot be compared to the common visible CCD or CMOS devices. The infrared imager suffers the problems of large pixel size and low spatial resolution, which cause the zero-order diffraction a severe influence of the reconstruction process of digital holograms. The zero-order diffraction has very large energy and occupies the central region in the spectrum domain. In this paper, we design a new filtering strategy to overcome this problem. This filtering strategy contains two kinds of filtering process which are the Gaussian low-frequency filter and the high-pass phase averaging filter. With the correct set of the calculating parameters, these filtering strategies can work effectively on the holograms and fully eliminate the zero-order diffraction, as well as the two crossover bars shown in the spectrum domain. Detailed explanation and discussion about the new method have been proposed in this paper, and the experiment results are also demonstrated to prove the performance of this method.

Low-cost digital dynamic visualization system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asundi, Anand K.; Sajan, M. R.

1995-05-01

High speed photographic systems like the image rotation camera, the Cranz Schardin camera and the drum camera are typically used for recording and visualization of dynamic events in stress analysis, fluid mechanics, etc. All these systems are fairly expensive and generally not simple to use. Furthermore they are all based on photographic film recording systems requiring time consuming and tedious wet processing of the films. Currently digital cameras are replacing to certain extent the conventional cameras for static experiments. Recently, there is lot of interest in developing and modifying CCD architectures and recording arrangements for dynamic scene analysis. Herein we report the use of a CCD camera operating in the Time Delay and Integration (TDI) mode for digitally recording dynamic scenes. Applications in solid as well as fluid impact problems are presented.

Tracking a Head-Mounted Display in a Room-Sized Environment with Head-Mounted Cameras

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-01

poor resolution and a very limited working volume [Wan90]. 4 OPTOTRAK [Nor88] uses one camera with two dual-axis CCD infrared position sensors. Each...Nor88] Northern Digital. Trade literature on Optotrak - Northern Digital’s Three Dimensional Optical Motion Tracking and Analysis System. Northern Digital

Global analysis of microscopic fluorescence lifetime images using spectral segmentation and a digital micromirror spatial illuminator.

PubMed

Bednarkiewicz, Artur; Whelan, Maurice P

2008-01-01

Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) is very demanding from a technical and computational perspective, and the output is usually a compromise between acquisition/processing time and data accuracy and precision. We present a new approach to acquisition, analysis, and reconstruction of microscopic FLIM images by employing a digital micromirror device (DMD) as a spatial illuminator. In the first step, the whole field fluorescence image is collected by a color charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. Further qualitative spectral analysis and sample segmentation are performed to spatially distinguish between spectrally different regions on the sample. Next, the fluorescence of the sample is excited segment by segment, and fluorescence lifetimes are acquired with a photon counting technique. FLIM image reconstruction is performed by either raster scanning the sample or by directly accessing specific regions of interest. The unique features of the DMD illuminator allow the rapid on-line measurement of global good initial parameters (GIP), which are supplied to the first iteration of the fitting algorithm. As a consequence, a decrease of the computation time required to obtain a satisfactory quality-of-fit is achieved without compromising the accuracy and precision of the lifetime measurements.

Failure Analysis of CCD Image Sensors Using SQUID and GMR Magnetic Current Imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Felt, Frederick S.

2005-01-01

During electrical testing of a Full Field CCD Image Senor, electrical shorts were detected on three of six devices. These failures occurred after the parts were soldered to the PCB. Failure analysis was performed to determine the cause and locations of these failures on the devices. After removing the fiber optic faceplate, optical inspection was performed on the CCDs to understand the design and package layout. Optical inspection revealed that the device had a light shield ringing the CCD array. This structure complicated the failure analysis. Alternate methods of analysis were considered, including liquid crystal, light and thermal emission, LT/A, TT/A SQUID, and MP. Of these, SQUID and MP techniques were pursued for further analysis. Also magnetoresistive current imaging technology is discussed and compared to SQUID.

Feasibility Study for a Dual Field of View-Single Detector Array Infrared System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-06-01

for 525 TV. Per Channelt C. DC. Ainlog& Dgitl Tretrs b~ td ~Secial multipleaed. Organ- 500 li1 cani be organized CAC nlg Dgia eprtr.Untdt 80 lioal...coupled transport phenomenon: charge coupled device (CCD) and bucket brigade device U ( BBD ). These devices are basically dynamic shift registers that...can be connected to form the serial in-serial uut memory. Both the CCD and BBD function by wanipulating char-e along a series of electrodes without

Fiber optic, Fabry-Perot high temperature sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

James, K.; Quick, B.

1984-01-01

A digital, fiber optic temperature sensor using a variable Fabry-Perot cavity as the sensor element was analyzed, designed, fabricated, and tested. The fiber transmitted cavity reflection spectra is dispersed then converted from an optical signal to electrical information by a charged coupled device (CCD). A microprocessor-based color demodulation system converts the wavelength information to temperature. This general sensor concept not only utilizes an all-optical means of parameter sensing and transmitting, but also exploits microprocessor technology for automated control, calibration, and enhanced performance. The complete temperature sensor system was evaluated in the laboratory. Results show that the Fabry-Perot temperature sensor has good resolution (0.5% of full seale), high accuracy, and potential high temperature ( 1000 C) applications.

Investigating the Binary Offset Effect in the STIS CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Debes, John H.; Lockwood, Sean A.

2018-05-01

Recently, Boone et al., (2018) presented the "Binary Offset Effect" for the SNIFS instrument, which uses a CCD detector. The source of this uncertainty is related to the analog-to-digital readout process, which converts the analog electronic signal of the detector into a digital number as represented by binary bits. The Binary Offset Effect is due to cross-talk between the digital conversion process for a source or driver pixel and pixels read out after the driver. In the course of Boone et al.'s experimentation with this effect they identified a similar effect with the STIS CCD. The STIS team has independently investigated the Binary Offset Effect for a range of bias images currently used for scientific observations, broadly confirming that the effect exists. However, our preliminary investigation suggests that the impact is smaller than reported in Boone et al. (2018) for biases taken with Amplifier=D and GAIN=1, and a lesser effect exists for Amplifier=D and GAIN=4. There is a hint that the effect is time variable for the detector. We broadly assess the potential impact of this effect and make recommendations both for users and future directions of investigation.

Optimum color filters for CCD digital cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Engelhardt, Kai; Kunz, Rino E.; Seitz, Peter; Brunner, Harald; Knop, Karl

1993-12-01

As part of the ESPRIT II project No. 2103 (MASCOT) a high performance prototype color CCD still video camera was developed. Intended for professional usage such as in the graphic arts, the camera provides a maximum resolution of 3k X 3k full color pixels. A high colorimetric performance was achieved through specially designed dielectric filters and optimized matrixing. The color transformation was obtained by computer simulation of the camera system and non-linear optimization which minimized the perceivable color errors as measured in the 1976 CIELUV uniform color space for a set of about 200 carefully selected test colors. The color filters were designed to allow perfect colorimetric reproduction in principle and at the same time with imperceptible color noise and with special attention to fabrication tolerances. The camera system includes a special real-time digital color processor which carries out the color transformation. The transformation can be selected from a set of sixteen matrices optimized for different illuminants and output devices. Because the actual filter design was based on slightly incorrect data the prototype camera showed a mean colorimetric error of 2.7 j.n.d. (CIELUV) in experiments. Using correct input data in the redesign of the filters, a mean colorimetric error of only 1 j.n.d. (CIELUV) seems to be feasible, implying that it is possible with such an optimized color camera to achieve such a high colorimetric performance that the reproduced colors in an image cannot be distinguished from the original colors in a scene, even in direct comparison.

Establishing Information Security Systems via Optical Imaging

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-11

SLM, spatial light modulator; BSC, non - polarizing beam splitter cube; CCD, charge-coupled device. In computational ghost imaging, a series of...Laser Object Computer Fig. 5. A schematic setup for the proposed method using holography: BSC, Beam splitter cube; CCD, Charge-coupled device. The...interference between reference and object beams . (a) (e) (d) (c) (b) Distribution Code A: Approved for public release, distribution is unlimited

Sinusoidal modulation analysis for optical system MTF measurements.

PubMed

Boone, J M; Yu, T; Seibert, J A

1996-12-01

The modulation transfer function (MTF) is a commonly used metric for defining the spatial resolution characteristics of imaging systems. While the MTF is defined in terms of how an imaging system demodulates the amplitude of a sinusoidal input, this approach has not been in general use to measure MTFs in the medical imaging community because producing sinusoidal x-ray patterns is technically difficult. However, for optical systems such as charge coupled devices (CCD), which are rapidly becoming a part of many medical digital imaging systems, the direct measurement of modulation at discrete spatial frequencies using a sinusoidal test pattern is practical. A commercially available optical test pattern containing spatial frequencies ranging from 0.375 cycles/mm to 80 cycles/mm was sued to determine the MRF of a CCD-based optical system. These results were compared with the angulated slit method of Fujita [H. Fujita, D. Tsia, T. Itoh, K. Doi, J. Morishita, K. Ueda, and A. Ohtsuka, "A simple method for determining the modulation transfer function in digital radiography," IEEE Trans. Medical Imaging 11, 34-39 (1992)]. The use of a semiautomated profiled iterated reconstruction technique (PIRT) is introduced, where the shift factor between successive pixel rows (due to angulation) is optimized iteratively by least-squares error analysis rather than by hand measurement of the slit angle. PIRT was used to find the slit angle for the Fujita technique and to find the sine-pattern angle for the sine-pattern technique. Computer simulation of PIRT for the case of the slit image (a line spread function) demonstrated that it produced a more accurate angle determination than "hand" measurement, and there is a significant difference between the errors in the two techniques (Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, p < 0.001). The sine-pattern method and the Fujita slit method produced comparable MTF curves for the CCD camera evaluated.

Nonlinear time dependence of dark current in charge-coupled devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunlap, Justin C.; Bodegom, Erik; Widenhorn, Ralf

2011-03-01

It is generally assumed that charge-coupled device (CCD) imagers produce a linear response of dark current versus exposure time except near saturation. We found a large number of pixels with nonlinear dark current response to exposure time to be present in two scientific CCD imagers. These pixels are found to exhibit distinguishable behavior with other analogous pixels and therefore can be characterized in groupings. Data from two Kodak CCD sensors are presented for exposure times from a few seconds up to two hours. Linear behavior is traditionally taken for granted when carrying out dark current correction and as a result, pixels with nonlinear behavior will be corrected inaccurately.

New low noise CCD cameras for Pi-of-the-Sky project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kasprowicz, G.; Czyrkowski, H.; Dabrowski, R.; Dominik, W.; Mankiewicz, L.; Pozniak, K.; Romaniuk, R.; Sitek, P.; Sokolowski, M.; Sulej, R.; Uzycki, J.; Wrochna, G.

2006-10-01

Modern research trends require observation of fainter and fainter astronomical objects on large areas of the sky. This implies usage of systems with high temporal and optical resolution with computer based data acquisition and processing. Therefore Charge Coupled Devices (CCD) became so popular. They offer quick picture conversion with much better quality than film based technologies. This work is theoretical and practical study of the CCD based picture acquisition system. The system was optimized for "Pi of The Sky" project. But it can be adapted to another professional astronomical researches. The work includes issue of picture conversion, signal acquisition, data transfer and mechanical construction of the device.

CCDiode: an optimal detector for laser confocal microscopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pawley, James B.; Blouke, Morley M.; Janesick, James R.

1996-04-01

The laser confocal microscope (LCM) is now an established research tool in biology and materials science. In biological applications, it is usually employed to detect the location of fluorescent market molecules and, under these conditions, signal levels from bright areas are often < 20 photons/pixel (from the specimen, assuming a standard 512 X 768, 1 sec. scan). Although this data rate limits the speed at which information can be derived from the specimen, saturation of the fluorophor, photobleaching of the dye, and phototoxicity prevent it being increased. Currently, most LCMs use photomultiplier tubes (PMT, QE equals 1 - 30% 400 - 900 nm). By contrast, rear-illuminated, scientific charge-coupled devices (CCD) now routinely readout the signal from square sensors approximately 30 micrometers on a side with a QE of 80 - 90%, a noise of only +/- 3 e-/pix and with no multiplicative noise. For this reason, in 1989, one of us (JJ) developed a rear-illuminated, single-channel Si sensor, called the Turbodiode, employing some of the sophisticated readout techniques used to measure charge in a scientific CCD. We are now extending this work to a device in which a single 36 X 36 micrometers sensor is read out through a low-noise FET charge amplifier with a reset circuit and then passed to a correlated, double-sampling digitizer. To maintain the desired +/- 3 e noise level at the relatively high data rate of 1 MHz, our new device utilizes 64 separate readout amplifier/digitizer systems, operating in sequence. The resulting detector is more compact, efficient and reliable than the PMT it replaces but as its sensitive area is smaller than that of a PMT, it will require auxiliary optics when used with any LCM having a large (mm) pinhole. As the signal light is parallel, a simple lens mounted axially and with the CCDiode at its focus would suffice. Future versions may use 3 X 3 or 5 X 5 arrays of sensors to `track' the confocal spot as it is deflected by inhomogeneities of the specimen, change its effective size or shape or detect system misalignment.

Performance of 4x5120 Element Visible and 2x2560 Element Shortwave Infrared Multispectral Focal Planes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tower, J. R.; Cope, A. D.; Pellion, L. E.; McCarthy, B. M.; Strong, R. T.; Kinnard, K. F.; Moldovan, A. G.; Levine, P. A.; Elabd, H.; Hoffman, D. M.

1985-12-01

Performance measurements of two Multispectral Linear Array focal planes are presented. Both pushbroom sensors have been developed for application in remote sensing instruments. A buttable, four-spectral-band, linear-format charge coupled device (CCD) and a but-table, two-spectral-band, linear-format, shortwave infrared charge coupled device (IRCCD) have been developed under NASA funding. These silicon integrated circuits may be butted end to end to provide very-high-resolution multispectral focal planes. The visible CCD is organized as four sensor lines of 1024 pixels each. Each line views the scene in a different spectral window defined by integral optical bandpass filters. A prototype focal plane with five devices, providing 4x5120-pixel resolution has been demonstrated. The high quantum efficiency of the backside-illuminated CCD technology provides excellent signal-to-noise performance and unusually high MTF across the entire visible and near-IR spectrum. The shortwave infrared (SWIR) sensor is organized as two line sensors of 512 detectors each. The SWIR (1-2.5 μm) spectral windows may be defined by bandpass filters placed in close proximity to the devices. The dual-band sensor consists of Schottky barrier detectors read out by CCD multiplexers. This monolithic sensor operates at 125°K with radiometric performance. A prototype five-device focal plane providing 2x2560 detectors has been demonstrated. The devices provide very high uniformity, and excellent MTF across the SWIR band.

A computational approach to real-time image processing for serial time-encoded amplified microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oikawa, Minoru; Hiyama, Daisuke; Hirayama, Ryuji; Hasegawa, Satoki; Endo, Yutaka; Sugie, Takahisa; Tsumura, Norimichi; Kuroshima, Mai; Maki, Masanori; Okada, Genki; Lei, Cheng; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke; Shimobaba, Tomoyoshi

2016-03-01

High-speed imaging is an indispensable technique, particularly for identifying or analyzing fast-moving objects. The serial time-encoded amplified microscopy (STEAM) technique was proposed to enable us to capture images with a frame rate 1,000 times faster than using conventional methods such as CCD (charge-coupled device) cameras. The application of this high-speed STEAM imaging technique to a real-time system, such as flow cytometry for a cell-sorting system, requires successively processing a large number of captured images with high throughput in real time. We are now developing a high-speed flow cytometer system including a STEAM camera. In this paper, we describe our approach to processing these large amounts of image data in real time. We use an analog-to-digital converter that has up to 7.0G samples/s and 8-bit resolution for capturing the output voltage signal that involves grayscale images from the STEAM camera. Therefore the direct data output from the STEAM camera generates 7.0G byte/s continuously. We provided a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) device as a digital signal pre-processor for image reconstruction and finding objects in a microfluidic channel with high data rates in real time. We also utilized graphics processing unit (GPU) devices for accelerating the calculation speed of identification of the reconstructed images. We built our prototype system, which including a STEAM camera, a FPGA device and a GPU device, and evaluated its performance in real-time identification of small particles (beads), as virtual biological cells, owing through a microfluidic channel.

Angular sensitivity of modeled scientific silicon charge-coupled devices to initial electron direction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plimley, Brian; Coffer, Amy; Zhang, Yigong; Vetter, Kai

2016-08-01

Previously, scientific silicon charge-coupled devices (CCDs) with 10.5-μm pixel pitch and a thick (650 μm), fully depleted bulk have been used to measure gamma-ray-induced fast electrons and demonstrate electron track Compton imaging. A model of the response of this CCD was also developed and benchmarked to experiment using Monte Carlo electron tracks. We now examine the trade-off in pixel pitch and electronic noise. We extend our CCD response model to different pixel pitch and readout noise per pixel, including pixel pitch of 2.5 μm, 5 μm, 10.5 μm, 20 μm, and 40 μm, and readout noise from 0 eV/pixel to 2 keV/pixel for 10.5 μm pixel pitch. The CCD images generated by this model using simulated electron tracks are processed by our trajectory reconstruction algorithm. The performance of the reconstruction algorithm defines the expected angular sensitivity as a function of electron energy, CCD pixel pitch, and readout noise per pixel. Results show that our existing pixel pitch of 10.5 μm is near optimal for our approach, because smaller pixels add little new information but are subject to greater statistical noise. In addition, we measured the readout noise per pixel for two different device temperatures in order to estimate the effect of temperature on the reconstruction algorithm performance, although the readout is not optimized for higher temperatures. The noise in our device at 240 K increases the FWHM of angular measurement error by no more than a factor of 2, from 26° to 49° FWHM for electrons between 425 keV and 480 keV. Therefore, a CCD could be used for electron-track-based imaging in a Peltier-cooled device.

Measured and calculated K-fluorescence effects on the MTF of an amorphous-selenium based CCD x-ray detector.

PubMed

Hunter, David M; Belev, George; Kasap, Safa; Yaffe, Martin J

2012-02-01

Theoretical reasoning suggests that direct conversion digital x-ray detectors based upon photoconductive amorphous-selenium (a-Se) could attain very high values of the MTF (modulation transfer function) at spatial frequencies well beyond 20 cycles mm(-1). One of the fundamental factors affecting resolution loss, particularly at x-ray energies just above the K-edge of selenium (12.66 keV), is the K-fluorescence reabsorption mechanism, wherein energy can be deposited in the detector at locations laterally displaced from the initial x-ray interaction site. This paper compares measured MTF changes above and below the Se K-edge of a CCD based a-Se x-ray detector with theoretical expectations. A prototype 25 μm sampling pitch (Nyquist frequency = 20 cycles mm(-1), 200 μm thick a-Se layer based x-ray detector, utilizing a specialized CCD readout device (200 × 400 area array), was used to make edge images with monochromatic x-rays above and below the K-edge of Se. A vacuum double crystal monochromator, exposed to polychromatic x-rays from a synchrotron, formed the monochromatic x-ray source. The monochromaticity of the x-rays was 99% or better. The presampling MTF was determined using the slanted edge method. The theory modeling the MTF performance of the detector includes the basic x-ray interaction physics in the a-Se layer as well as effects related to the operation of the CCD and charge trapping at a blocking layer present at the CCD/a-Se interface. The MTF performance of the prototype a-Se CCD was reduced from the theoretical value prescribed by the basic Se x-ray interaction physics, principally by the presence of a blocking layer. Nevertheless, the K-fluorescence reduction in the MTF was observed, approximately as predicted by theory. For the CCD prototype detector, at five cycles mm(-1), there was a 14% reduction of the MTF, from a value of 0.7 below the K-edge of Se, to 0.6 just above the K-edge. The MTF of an a-Se x-ray detector has been measured using monochromatic x-rays above and below the K-edge of selenium. The MTF is poorer above the K-edge by an amount consistent with theoretical expectations.

Digital image measurement of specimen deformation based on CCD cameras and Image J software: an application to human pelvic biomechanics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Yongwei; Cheng, Liming; Yu, Guangrong; Lou, Yongjian; Yu, Yan; Chen, Bo; Ding, Zuquan

2008-03-01

A method of digital image measurement of specimen deformation based on CCD cameras and Image J software was developed. This method was used to measure the biomechanics behavior of human pelvis. Six cadaveric specimens from the third lumbar vertebra to the proximal 1/3 part of femur were tested. The specimens without any structural abnormalities were dissected of all soft tissue, sparing the hip joint capsules and the ligaments of the pelvic ring and floor. Markers with black dot on white background were affixed to the key regions of the pelvis. Axial loading from the proximal lumbar was applied by MTS in the gradient of 0N to 500N, which simulated the double feet standing stance. The anterior and lateral images of the specimen were obtained through two CCD cameras. Based on Image J software, digital image processing software, which can be freely downloaded from the National Institutes of Health, digital 8-bit images were processed. The procedure includes the recognition of digital marker, image invert, sub-pixel reconstruction, image segmentation, center of mass algorithm based on weighted average of pixel gray values. Vertical displacements of S1 (the first sacral vertebrae) in front view and micro-angular rotation of sacroiliac joint in lateral view were calculated according to the marker movement. The results of digital image measurement showed as following: marker image correlation before and after deformation was excellent. The average correlation coefficient was about 0.983. According to the 768 × 576 pixels image (pixel size 0.68mm × 0.68mm), the precision of the displacement detected in our experiment was about 0.018 pixels and the comparatively error could achieve 1.11\\perthou. The average vertical displacement of S1 of the pelvis was 0.8356+/-0.2830mm under vertical load of 500 Newtons and the average micro-angular rotation of sacroiliac joint in lateral view was 0.584+/-0.221°. The load-displacement curves obtained from our optical measure system matched the clinical results. Digital image measurement of specimen deformation based on CCD cameras and Image J software has good perspective for application in biomechanical research, which has the advantage of simple optical setup, no-contact, high precision, and no special requirement of test environment.

Qualification process of CR system and quantification of digital image quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garnier, P.; Hun, L.; Klein, J.; Lemerle, C.

2013-01-01

CEA Valduc uses several X-Ray generators to carry out many inspections: void search, welding expertise, gap measurements, etc. Most of these inspections are carried out on silver based plates. For several years, the CEA/Valduc has decided to qualify new devices such as digital plates or CCD/flat panel plates. On one hand, the choice of this technological orientation is to forecast the assumed and eventual disappearance of silver based plates; on the other hand, it is also to keep our skills mastering up-to-date. The main improvement brought by numerical plates is the continuous progress of the measurement accuracy, especially with image data processing. It is now common to measure defects thickness or depth position within a part. In such applications, data image processing is used to obtain complementary information compared to scanned silver based plates. This scanning procedure is harmful for measurements which imply a data corruption of the resolution, the adding of numerical noise and is time expensive. Digital plates enable to suppress the scanning procedure and to increase resolution. It is nonetheless difficult to define, for digital images, single criteria for the image quality. A procedure has to be defined in order to estimate quality of the digital data itself; the impact of the scanning device and the configuration parameters are also to be taken into account. This presentation deals with the qualification process developed by CEA/Valduc for digital plates (DUR-NDT) based on the study of quantitative criteria chosen to define a direct numerical image quality that could be compared with scanned silver based pictures and the classical optical density. The versatility of the X-Ray parameters is also discussed (X-ray tension, intensity, time exposure). The aim is to be able to transfer the year long experience of CEA/Valduc with silver-based plates inspection to these new digital plates supports. This is an industrial stake.

A CCD experimental platform for large telescope in Antarctica based on FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yuhua; Qi, Yongjun

2014-07-01

The CCD , as a detector , is one of the important components of astronomical telescopes. For a large telescope in Antarctica, a set of CCD detector system with large size, high sensitivity and low noise is indispensable. Because of the extremely low temperatures and unattended, system maintenance and software and hardware upgrade become hard problems. This paper introduces a general CCD controller experiment platform, using Field programmable gate array FPGA, which is, in fact, a large-scale field reconfigurable array. Taking the advantage of convenience to modify the system, construction of driving circuit, digital signal processing module, network communication interface, control algorithm validation, and remote reconfigurable module may realize. With the concept of integrated hardware and software, the paper discusses the key technology of building scientific CCD system suitable for the special work environment in Antarctica, focusing on the method of remote reconfiguration for controller via network and then offering a feasible hardware and software solution.

Degradation of optical components in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blue, M. D.

1993-01-01

This report concerns two types of optical components: multilayer filters and mirrors, and self-scanned imaging arrays using charge coupled device (CCD) readouts. For the filters and mirrors, contamination produces a strong reduction in transmittance in the ultraviolet spectral region, but has little or no effect in the visible and infrared spectral regions. Soft substrates containing halides are unsatisfactory as windows or substrates. Materials choice for dielectric layers should also reflect such considerations. Best performance is also found for the harder materials. Compaction of the layers and interlayer diffusion causes a blue shift in center wavelength and loss of throughput. For sensors using CCD's, shifts in gate voltage and reductions in transfer efficiency occur. Such effects in CCD's are in accord with expectations of the effects of the radiation dose on the device. Except for optical fiber, degradation of CCD's represents the only ionizing-radiation induced effect on the Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) optical systems components that has been observed.

CCD radiation damage in ESA Cosmic Visions missions: assessment and mitigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lumb, David H.

2009-08-01

Charge Coupled Device (CCD) imagers have been widely used in space-borne astronomical instruments. A frequent concern has been the radiation damage effects on the CCD charge transfer properties. We review some methods for assessing the Charge Transfer Inefficiency (CTI) in CCDs. Techniques to minimise degradation using background charge injection and p-channel CCD architectures are discussed. A critical review of the claims for p-channel architectures is presented. The performance advantage for p-channel CCD performance is shown to be lower than claimed previously. Finally we present some projections for the performance in the context of some future ESA missions.

Final Report, January 1991 - July 1992

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferrara, Jon

1992-07-01

This report covers final schedules, expenses and billings, monthly reports, testing, and deliveries for this contract. The goal of the detector development program for the Solar and Heliospheric Spacecraft (SOHO) EUV Imaging Telescope (EIT) is an Extreme UltraViolet (EUV) CCD (Change Collecting Device) camera. As a part of the CCD screening effort, the quantum efficiency (QE) of a prototype CCD has been measured in the NRL EUV laboratory over the wavelength range of 256 to 735 Angstroms. A simplified model has been applied to these QE measurements to illustrate the relevant physical processes that determine the performance of the detector. The charge transfer efficiency (CTE) characteristics of the Tektronix 1024 X 1024 CCD being developed for STIS/SOHO space imaging applications have been characterized at different signal levels, operating conditions, and temperatures using a variety of test methods. A number of CCD's have been manufactured using processing techniques developed to improve CTE, and test results on these devices will be used in determining the final chip design. In this paper, we discuss the CTE test methods used and present the results and conclusions of these tests.

Imagers for digital still photography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosiers, Jan; Dillen, Bart; Draijer, Cees; Manoury, Erik-Jan; Meessen, Louis; Peters, Inge

2006-04-01

This paper gives an overview of the requirements for, and current state-of-the-art of, CCD and CMOS imagers for use in digital still photography. Four market segments will be reviewed: mobile imaging, consumer "point-and-shoot cameras", consumer digital SLR cameras and high-end professional camera systems. The paper will also present some challenges and innovations with respect to packaging, testing, and system integration.

Next generation of pnCCDs for X-ray spectroscopy and imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meidinger, Norbert; Andritschke, Robert; Hälker, Olaf; Hartmann, Robert; Herrmann, Sven; Holl, Peter; Lutz, Gerhard; Kimmel, Nils; Schaller, Gerhard; Schnecke, Martina; Schopper, Florian; Soltau, Heike; Strüder, Lothar

2006-11-01

A special type of charge-coupled device, the pnCCD, has been developed in the nineties as focal-plane detector for the X-ray astronomy mission XMM-Newton of the European Space Agency. The pnCCD detector has been in operation since the satellite launch in 1999. It is performing up to date spectroscopy of X-rays in combination with imaging and high time resolution. The excellent performance of the flight camera is still maintained; in particular, the energy resolution has been nearly constant since launch. In order to satisfy the requirements of future X-ray astronomy missions as well as those of ground-based experiments, a new type of pnCCD has been developed. The ‘frame store pnCCD’ shows various optimizations in device design and fabrication process. Devices with up to 256×512 pixels have been fabricated in 2004 and recently tested. Simultaneously, a programmable analog signal processor for the readout of the CCD signals, the DUO CAMEX, has been developed. The readout noise of the new detector has a value of 2 electrons ENC which is less than half of the figure of the XMM-Newton pnCCD. We measured an energy resolution that is close to the theoretical limit given by the Fano noise. In particular the low-energy response of the new devices was substantially improved. The quantum efficiency for X-rays is at least 90% in the entire energy band from 0.3 keV up to 11 keV. This is due to the ultra-thin photon entrance window as well as the full depletion of the 450 μm thick back-illuminated pnCCD. The position resolution is better than the pixel sizes of 75 μm×75 μm or 51 μm×51 μm because the signal charge is spread over up to four pixels which allows a more accurate event position determination. ‘Out of time’ events are substantially reduced to the order of 0.1% by operating the pnCCD in frame store mode. Higher operating temperatures, e.g. -20 °C, are possible due to the smaller thermally generated dark-current level of the new devices and the operation at higher frame rates. Low power consumption applications like for the ROSITA X-ray astronomy mission with low frame rates of, e.g. 20 images/s, as well as high frame rate applications, e.g. 200 images/s, are possible with the same device.

Wireless networking for the dental office: current wireless standards and security protocols.

PubMed

Mupparapu, Muralidhar; Arora, Sarika

2004-11-15

Digital radiography has gained immense popularity in dentistry today in spite of the early difficulty for the profession to embrace the technology. The transition from film to digital has been happening at a faster pace in the fields of Orthodontics, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Periodontics, and other specialties where the radiographic images (periapical, bitewing, panoramic, cephalometric, and skull radiographs) are being acquired digitally, stored within a server locally, and eventually accessed for diagnostic purposes, along with the rest of the patient data via the patient management software (PMS). A review of the literature shows the diagnostic performance of digital radiography is at least comparable to or even better than that of conventional radiography. Similarly, other digital diagnostic tools like caries detectors, cephalometric analysis software, and digital scanners were used for many years for the diagnosis and treatment planning purposes. The introduction of wireless charged-coupled device (CCD) sensors in early 2004 (Schick Technologies, Long Island City, NY) has moved digital radiography a step further into the wireless era. As with any emerging technology, there are concerns that should be looked into before adapting to the wireless environment. Foremost is the network security involved in the installation and usage of these wireless networks. This article deals with the existing standards and choices in wireless technologies that are available for implementation within a contemporary dental office. The network security protocols that protect the patient data and boost the efficiency of modern day dental clinics are enumerated.

Radiation-hardened backside-illuminated 512 x 512 charge-coupled device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bates, Philip A.; Levine, Peter A.; Sauer, Donald J.; Hsueh, Fu-Lung; Shallcross, Frank V.; Smeltzer, Ronald K.; Meray, Grazyna M.; Taylor, Gordon C.; Tower, John R.

1995-04-01

A four-port 512 X 512 charge coupled device (CCD) imager hardened against proton displacement damage and total dose degradation has been fabricated and tested. The device is based upon an established thinned, backside illuminated, triple polysilicon, buried channel CCD process technology. The technology includes buried blooming drains. A three step approach has been taken to hardening the device. The first phase addressed hardening against proton displacement damage. The second phase addressed hardening against both proton displacement damage and total dose degradation. The third phase addresses final optimization of the design. Test results from the first and second phase efforts are presented. Plans for the third phase are discussed.

SCP -- A Simple CCD Processing Package

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, J. R.

This note describes a small set of programs, written at RGO, which deal with basic CCD frame processing (e.g. bias subtraction, flat fielding, trimming etc.). The need to process large numbers of CCD frames from devices such as FOS or ISIS in order to extract spectra has prompted the writing of routines which will do the basic hack-work with a minimal amount of interaction from the user. Although they were written with spectral data in mind, there are no ``spectrum-specific'' features in the software which means they can be applied to any CCD data.

Development of a real-time digital radiography system using a scintillator-type flat-panel detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikeda, Shigeyuki; Suzuki, Katsumi; Ishikawa, Ken; Okajima, Kenichi

2001-06-01

In order to study the advantage and remaining problems of FPD (flat panel detector) for clinical use by the real-time DR (digital radiography) system, we developed a prototype system using a scintillator type FPD and which was compared with previous I.I.-CCD type real-time DR. We replaced the X- ray detector of DR-2000X from I.I.-4M (4 million pixels)-CCD camera to the scintillator type dynamic FPD(7' X 9', 127 micrometers ), which can take both radiographic and fluoroscopic images. We obtained the images of head and stomach phantoms, and discussed about the image quality with medical doctors.

Video camera system for locating bullet holes in targets at a ballistics tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burner, A. W.; Rummler, D. R.; Goad, W. K.

1990-01-01

A system consisting of a single charge coupled device (CCD) video camera, computer controlled video digitizer, and software to automate the measurement was developed to measure the location of bullet holes in targets at the International Shooters Development Fund (ISDF)/NASA Ballistics Tunnel. The camera/digitizer system is a crucial component of a highly instrumented indoor 50 meter rifle range which is being constructed to support development of wind resistant, ultra match ammunition. The system was designed to take data rapidly (10 sec between shoots) and automatically with little operator intervention. The system description, measurement concept, and procedure are presented along with laboratory tests of repeatability and bias error. The long term (1 hour) repeatability of the system was found to be 4 microns (one standard deviation) at the target and the bias error was found to be less than 50 microns. An analysis of potential errors and a technique for calibration of the system are presented.

Development of an Integrated Countermeasure Device for Long Duration Space Flight and Exploration Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, S. M. C.; Streeper, T.; Spiering, B. A.; Loehr, J. A.; Guilliams, M. E.; Bloomberg, J. J.; Mulavara, A. P.; Cavanagh, P. R.; Lang, T.

2010-01-01

Musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and sensorimotor deconditioning have been observed consistently in astronauts and cosmonauts following long-duration spaceflight. Studies in bed rest, a spaceflight analog, have shown that high intensity resistive or aerobic exercise attenuates or prevents musculoskeletal and cardiovascular deconditioning, respectively, but complete protection has not been achieved during spaceflight. Exercise countermeasure hardware used during earlier International Space Station (ISS) missions included a cycle ergometer, a treadmill, and the interim resistive exercise device (iRED). Effectiveness of the countermeasures may have been diminished by limited loading characteristics of the iRED as well as speed restrictions and subject harness discomfort during treadmill exercise. The Advanced Resistive Exercise Device (ARED) and the second generation treadmill were designed to address many of the limitations of their predecessors, and anecdotal reports from ISS crews suggest that their conditioning is better preserved since the new hardware was delivered in 2009. However, several countermeasure devices to protect different physiologic systems will not be practical during exploration missions when the available volume and mass will be severely restricted. The combined countermeasure device (CCD) integrates a suite of hardware into one device intended to prevent spaceflight-induced musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and sensorimotor deconditioning. The CCD includes pneumatic loading devices with attached cables for resistive exercise, a cycle for aerobic exercise, and a 6 degree of freedom motion platform for balance training. In a proof of concept test, ambulatory untrained subjects increased muscle strength (58%) as well as aerobic capacity (26%) after 12-weeks of exercise training with the CCD (without balance training), improvements comparable to those observed with traditional exercise training. These preliminary results suggest that this CCD can concurrently improve musculoskeletal and cardiovascular conditioning in ambulatory subjects, but further work is required to validate its use as countermeasure to spaceflight-induced deconditioning.

Optical and dark characterization of the PLATO CCD at ESA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verhoeve, Peter; Prod'homme, Thibaut; Oosterbroek, Tim; Duvet, Ludovic; Beaufort, Thierry; Blommaert, Sander; Butler, Bart; Heijnen, Jerko; Lemmel, Frederic; van der Luijt, Cornelis; Smit, Hans; Visser, Ivo

2016-07-01

PLATO - PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars - is the third medium-class mission (M3) to be selected in the European Space Agency (ESA) Science and Robotic Exploration Cosmic Vision programme. It is due for launch in 2025 with the main objective to find and study terrestrial planets in the habitable zone around solar-like stars. The payload consists of >20 cameras; with each camera comprising 4 Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs), a large number of flight model devices procured by ESA shall ultimately be integrated on the spacecraft. The CCD270 - specially designed and manufactured by e2v for the PLATO mission - is a large format (8 cm x 8 cm) back-illuminated device operating at 4 MHz pixel rate and coming in two variants: full frame and frame transfer. In order to de-risk the PLATO CCD procurement and aid the mission definition process, ESA's Payload Technology Validation section is currently validating the PLATO CCD270. This validation consists in demonstrating that the device achieves its specified electrooptical performance in the relevant environment: operated at 4 MHz, at cold and before and after proton irradiation. As part of this validation, CCD270 devices have been characterized in the dark as well as optically with respect to performance parameters directly relevant for the photometric application of the CCDs. Dark tests comprise the measurement of gain sensitivity to bias voltages, charge injection tests, and measurement of hot and variable pixels after irradiation. In addition, the results of measurements of Quantum Efficiency for a range of angles of incidence, intra- pixel response (non-)uniformity, and response to spot illumination, before and after proton irradiation. In particular, the effect of radiation induced degradation of the charge transfer efficiency on the measured charge in a star-like spot has been studied as a function of signal level and of position on the pixel grid, Also, the effect of various levels of background light on the amount of charge lost from a star image are described. These results can serve as a direct input to the PLATO consortium to study the mission performance and as a basis for further optimization of the CCD operation.

Design and Specification of Optical Bandpass Filters for Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leviton, Douglas B.; Tsevetanov, Zlatan; Woodruff, Bob; Mooney, Thomas A.

1998-01-01

Advanced optical bandpass filters for the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) have been developed on a filter-by-filter basis through detailed studies which take into account the instrument's science goals, available optical filter fabrication technology, and developments in ACS's charge-coupled-device (CCD) detector technology. These filters include a subset of filters for the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) which are optimized for astronomical photometry using today's charge-coupled-devices (CCD's). In order for ACS to be truly advanced, these filters must push the state-of-the-art in performance in a number of key areas at the same time. Important requirements for these filters include outstanding transmitted wavefront, high transmittance, uniform transmittance across each filter, spectrally structure-free bandpasses, exceptionally high out of band rejection, a high degree of parfocality, and immunity to environmental degradation. These constitute a very stringent set of requirements indeed, especially for filters which are up to 90 mm in diameter. The highly successful paradigm in which final specifications for flight filters were derived through interaction amongst the ACS Science Team, the instrument designer, the lead optical engineer, and the filter designer and vendor is described. Examples of iterative design trade studies carried out in the context of science needs and budgetary and schedule constraints are presented. An overview of the final design specifications for the ACS bandpass and ramp filters is also presented.

Mars Exploration Rover Navigation Camera in-flight calibration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soderblom, Jason M.; Bell, James F.; Johnson, Jeffrey R.; Joseph, Jonathan; Wolff, Michael J.

2008-06-01

The Navigation Camera (Navcam) instruments on the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) spacecraft provide support for both tactical operations as well as scientific observations where color information is not necessary: large-scale morphology, atmospheric monitoring including cloud observations and dust devil movies, and context imaging for both the thermal emission spectrometer and the in situ instruments on the Instrument Deployment Device. The Navcams are a panchromatic stereoscopic imaging system built using identical charge-coupled device (CCD) detectors and nearly identical electronics boards as the other cameras on the MER spacecraft. Previous calibration efforts were primarily focused on providing a detailed geometric calibration in line with the principal function of the Navcams, to provide data for the MER navigation team. This paper provides a detailed description of a new Navcam calibration pipeline developed to provide an absolute radiometric calibration that we estimate to have an absolute accuracy of 10% and a relative precision of 2.5%. Our calibration pipeline includes steps to model and remove the bias offset, the dark current charge that accumulates in both the active and readout regions of the CCD, and the shutter smear. It also corrects pixel-to-pixel responsivity variations using flat-field images, and converts from raw instrument-corrected digital number values per second to units of radiance (W m-2 nm-1 sr-1), or to radiance factor (I/F). We also describe here the initial results of two applications where radiance-calibrated Navcam data provide unique information for surface photometric and atmospheric aerosol studies.

Tests of commercial colour CMOS cameras for astronomical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pokhvala, S. M.; Reshetnyk, V. M.; Zhilyaev, B. E.

2013-12-01

We present some results of testing commercial colour CMOS cameras for astronomical applications. Colour CMOS sensors allow to perform photometry in three filters simultaneously that gives a great advantage compared with monochrome CCD detectors. The Bayer BGR colour system realized in colour CMOS sensors is close to the astronomical Johnson BVR system. The basic camera characteristics: read noise (e^{-}/pix), thermal noise (e^{-}/pix/sec) and electronic gain (e^{-}/ADU) for the commercial digital camera Canon 5D MarkIII are presented. We give the same characteristics for the scientific high performance cooled CCD camera system ALTA E47. Comparing results for tests of Canon 5D MarkIII and CCD ALTA E47 show that present-day commercial colour CMOS cameras can seriously compete with the scientific CCD cameras in deep astronomical imaging.

Nonlinear feedback model attitude control using CCD in magnetic suspension system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, CHIN-E.; Hou, Ann-San

1994-01-01

A model attitude control system for a CCD camera magnetic suspension system is studied in this paper. In a recent work, a position and attitude sensing method was proposed. From this result, model position and attitude of a magnetic suspension system can be detected by generating digital outputs. Based on this achievement, a control system design using nonlinear feedback techniques for magnetic suspended model attitude control is proposed.

A CCD Monolithic LMS Adaptive Analog Signal Processor Integrated Circuit.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-03-01

adaptive filter with electrically- reprogrammable MOS analog conductance weights. I The analog and digital peripheral MOS on-chip circuits are provided with...electrically reprogrammable analog weights at tap positions along a CCD analog delay line in order to form a basic linear combiner for adaptive filtering...electrically reprogrammable analog conductance weights was introduced with the use of non-volatile MNOS memory 6-7 transistors biased in their triode

Digital holographic interferometry applied to the investigation of ignition process.

PubMed

Pérez-Huerta, J S; Saucedo-Anaya, Tonatiuh; Moreno, I; Ariza-Flores, D; Saucedo-Orozco, B

2017-06-12

We use the digital holographic interferometry (DHI) technique to display the early ignition process for a butane-air mixture flame. Because such an event occurs in a short time (few milliseconds), a fast CCD camera is used to study the event. As more detail is required for monitoring the temporal evolution of the process, less light coming from the combustion is captured by the CCD camera, resulting in a deficient and underexposed image. Therefore, the CCD's direct observation of the combustion process is limited (down to 1000 frames per second). To overcome this drawback, we propose the use of DHI along with a high power laser in order to supply enough light to increase the speed capture, thus improving the visualization of the phenomenon in the initial moments. An experimental optical setup based on DHI is used to obtain a large sequence of phase maps that allows us to observe two transitory stages in the ignition process: a first explosion which slightly emits visible light, and a second stage induced by variations in temperature when the flame is emerging. While the last stage can be directly monitored by the CCD camera, the first stage is hardly detected by direct observation, and DHI clearly evidences this process. Furthermore, our method can be easily adapted for visualizing other types of fast processes.

A computer-aided telescope pointing system utilizing a video star tracker

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murphy, J. P.; Lorell, K. R.; Swift, C. D.

1975-01-01

The Video Inertial Pointing (VIP) System developed to satisfy the acquisition and pointing requirements of astronomical telescopes is described. A unique feature of the system is the use of a single sensor to provide information for the generation of three axis pointing error signals and for a cathode ray tube (CRT) display of the star field. The pointing error signals are used to update the telescope's gyro stabilization and the CRT display is used by an operator to facilitate target acquisition and to aid in manual positioning of the telescope optical axis. A model of the system using a low light level vidicon built and flown on a balloon-borne infrared telescope is briefly described from a state of the art charge coupled device (CCD) sensor. The advanced system hardware is described and an analysis of the multi-star tracking and three axis error signal generation, along with an analysis and design of the gyro update filter, are presented. Results of a hybrid simulation are described in which the advanced VIP system hardware is driven by a digital simulation of the star field/CCD sensor and an analog simulation of the telescope and gyro stabilization dynamics.

Advanced microlens and color filter process technology for the high-efficiency CMOS and CCD image sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Yang-Tung; Peng, Chiou-Shian; Chu, Cheng-Yu

2000-12-01

New markets are emerging for digital electronic image device, especially in visual communications, PC camera, mobile/cell phone, security system, toys, vehicle image system and computer peripherals for document capture. To enable one-chip image system that image sensor is with a full digital interface, can make image capture devices in our daily lives. Adding a color filter to such image sensor in a pattern of mosaics pixel or wide stripes can make image more real and colorful. We can say 'color filter makes the life more colorful color filter is? Color filter means can filter image light source except the color with specific wavelength and transmittance that is same as color filter itself. Color filter process is coating and patterning green, red and blue (or cyan, magenta and yellow) mosaic resists onto matched pixel in image sensing array pixels. According to the signal caught from each pixel, we can figure out the environment image picture. Widely use of digital electronic camera and multimedia applications today makes the feature of color filter becoming bright. Although it has challenge but it is very worthy to develop the process of color filter. We provide the best service on shorter cycle time, excellent color quality, high and stable yield. The key issues of advanced color process have to be solved and implemented are planarization and micro-lens technology. Lost of key points of color filter process technology have to consider will also be described in this paper.

Enhanced performance CCD output amplifier

DOEpatents

Dunham, Mark E.; Morley, David W.

1996-01-01

A low-noise FET amplifier is connected to amplify output charge from a che coupled device (CCD). The FET has its gate connected to the CCD in common source configuration for receiving the output charge signal from the CCD and output an intermediate signal at a drain of the FET. An intermediate amplifier is connected to the drain of the FET for receiving the intermediate signal and outputting a low-noise signal functionally related to the output charge signal from the CCD. The amplifier is preferably connected as a virtual ground to the FET drain. The inherent shunt capacitance of the FET is selected to be at least equal to the sum of the remaining capacitances.

Scientific CCD technology at JPL

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janesick, J.; Collins, S. A.; Fossum, E. R.

1991-01-01

Charge-coupled devices (CCD's) were recognized for their potential as an imaging technology almost immediately following their conception in 1970. Twenty years later, they are firmly established as the technology of choice for visible imaging. While consumer applications of CCD's, especially the emerging home video camera market, dominated manufacturing activity, the scientific market for CCD imagers has become significant. Activity of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and its industrial partners in the area of CCD imagers for space scientific instruments is described. Requirements for scientific imagers are significantly different from those needed for home video cameras, and are described. An imager for an instrument on the CRAF/Cassini mission is described in detail to highlight achieved levels of performance.

Total ionizing dose effect and damage mechanism on saturation output voltage of charge coupled device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Lin; Li, Yu-dong; Guo, Qi; Wang, Chao-min

2018-02-01

Total ionizing dose effect is a major threat to space applications of CCD, which leads to the decrease of CCD saturation output voltage and the increase of dark signal. This paper investigated CCD and its readout circuit for experimental samples of different channel width to length ratio of MOSFET, and readout circuit amplifier, and CCD. The irradiation source was 60Co- gamma ray. through testing the parameters degradation of MOSFET and amplifier degradation, the generation and annealing law of irradiation induced defects in MOS single tube are analyzed. Combined with the radiation effect of amplifier and CCD, The correlation of radiation damage of the MOSFET and the readout circuit amplifier and CCD parameter degradation is established. Finally, this paper reveals the physical mechanism of ionizing radiation damage of the readout circuit. The research results provide a scientific basis for the selection of anti-radiation technology and structure optimization of domestic CCD.

Development of Measurement Device of Working Radius of Crane Based on Single CCD Camera and Laser Range Finder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nara, Shunsuke; Takahashi, Satoru

In this paper, what we want to do is to develop an observation device to measure the working radius of a crane truck. The device has a single CCD camera, a laser range finder and two AC servo motors. First, in order to measure the working radius, we need to consider algorithm of a crane hook recognition. Then, we attach the cross mark on the crane hook. Namely, instead of the crane hook, we try to recognize the cross mark. Further, for the observation device, we construct PI control system with an extended Kalman filter to track the moving cross mark. Through experiments, we show the usefulness of our device including new control system of mark tracking.

A merged pipe organ binary-analog correlator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, R. S.; Berry, M. B.

1982-02-01

The design of a 96-stage, programmable binary-analog correlator is described. An array of charge coupled device (CCD) delay lines of differing lengths perform the delay and sum functions. Merging of several CCD channels is employed to reduce the active area. This device architecture allows simplified output detection while maintaining good device performance at higher speeds (5-10 MHz). Experimental results indicate a 50 dB broadband dynamic range and excellent agreement with the theoretical processing gain (19.8 dB) when operated at a 6 MHz sampling frequency as a p-n sequence matched filter.

Soft X-ray and XUV imaging with a charge-coupled device /CCD/-based detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loter, N. G.; Burstein, P.; Krieger, A.; Ross, D.; Harrison, D.; Michels, D. J.

1981-01-01

A soft X-ray/XUV imaging camera which uses a thinned, back-illuminated, all-buried channel RCA CCD for radiation sensing has been built and tested. The camera is a slow-scan device which makes possible frame integration if necessary. The detection characteristics of the device have been tested over the 15-1500 eV range. The response was linear with exposure up to 0.2-0.4 erg/sq cm; saturation occurred at greater exposures. Attention is given to attempts to resolve single photons with energies of 1.5 keV.

The application of charge-coupled device processors in automatic-control systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcvey, E. S.; Parrish, E. A., Jr.

1977-01-01

The application of charge-coupled device (CCD) processors to automatic-control systems is suggested. CCD processors are a new form of semiconductor component with the unique ability to process sampled signals on an analog basis. Specific implementations of controllers are suggested for linear time-invariant, time-varying, and nonlinear systems. Typical processing time should be only a few microseconds. This form of technology may become competitive with microprocessors and minicomputers in addition to supplementing them.

High-resolution CCD imaging alternatives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, D. L.; Acker, D. E.

1992-08-01

High resolution CCD color cameras have recently stimulated the interest of a large number of potential end-users for a wide range of practical applications. Real-time High Definition Television (HDTV) systems are now being used or considered for use in applications ranging from entertainment program origination through digital image storage to medical and scientific research. HDTV generation of electronic images offers significant cost and time-saving advantages over the use of film in such applications. Further in still image systems electronic image capture is faster and more efficient than conventional image scanners. The CCD still camera can capture 3-dimensional objects into the computing environment directly without having to shoot a picture on film develop it and then scan the image into a computer. 2. EXTENDING CCD TECHNOLOGY BEYOND BROADCAST Most standard production CCD sensor chips are made for broadcast-compatible systems. One popular CCD and the basis for this discussion offers arrays of roughly 750 x 580 picture elements (pixels) or a total array of approximately 435 pixels (see Fig. 1). FOR. A has developed a technique to increase the number of available pixels for a given image compared to that produced by the standard CCD itself. Using an inter-lined CCD with an overall spatial structure several times larger than the photo-sensitive sensor areas each of the CCD sensors is shifted in two dimensions in order to fill in spatial gaps between adjacent sensors.

Comparison of two methods of digital imaging technology for small diameter K-file length determination.

PubMed

Maryam, Ehsani; Farida, Abesi; Farhad, Akbarzade; Soraya, Khafri

2013-11-01

Obtaining the proper working length in endodontic treatment is essential. The aim of this study was to compare the working length (WL) assessment of small diameter K-files using the two different digital imaging methods. The samples for this in-vitro experimental study consisted of 40 extracted single-rooted premolars. After access cavity preparation, the ISO files no. 6, 8, and 10 stainless steel K-files were inserted in the canals in the three different lengths to evaluate the results in a blinded manner: At the level of apical foramen(actual)1 mm short of apical foramen2 mm short of apical foramen A digital caliper was used to measure the length of the files which was considered as the Gold Standard. Five observers (two oral and maxillofacial radiologists and three endodontists) observed the digital radiographs which were obtained using PSP and CCD digital imaging sensors. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS 17 and Repeated Measures Paired T-test. In WL assessment of small diameter K-files, a significant statistical relationship was seen among the observers of two digital imaging techniques (P<0.001). However, no significant difference was observed between the two digital techniques in WL assessment of small diameter K-files (P<0.05). PSP and CCD digital imaging techniques were similar in WL assessment of canals using no. 6, 8, and 10 K-files.

Soft x-ray imager (SXI) onboard the NeXT satellite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsuru, Takeshi Go; Takagi, Shin-Ichiro; Matsumoto, Hironori; Inui, Tatsuya; Ozawa, Midori; Koyama, Katsuji; Tsunemi, Hiroshi; Hayashida, Kiyoshi; Miyata, Emi; Ozawa, Hideki; Touhiguchi, Masakuni; Matsuura, Daisuke; Dotani, Tadayasu; Ozaki, Masanobu; Murakami, Hiroshi; Kohmura, Takayoshi; Kitamoto, Shunji; Awaki, Hisamitsu

2006-06-01

We give overview and the current status of the development of the Soft X-ray Imager (SXI) onboard the NeXT satellite. SXI is an X-ray CCD camera placed at the focal plane detector of the Soft X-ray Telescopes for Imaging (SXT-I) onboard NeXT. The pixel size and the format of the CCD is 24 x 24μm (IA) and 2048 x 2048 x 2 (IA+FS). Currently, we have been developing two types of CCD as candidates for SXI, in parallel. The one is front illumination type CCD with moderate thickness of the depletion layer (70 ~ 100μm) as a baseline plan. The other one is the goal plan, in which we develop back illumination type CCD with a thick depletion layer (200 ~ 300μm). For the baseline plan, we successfully developed the proto model 'CCD-NeXT1' with the pixel size of 12μm x 12μm and the CCD size of 24mm x 48mm. The depletion layer of the CCD has reached 75 ~ 85μm. The goal plan is realized by introduction of a new type of CCD 'P-channel CCD', which collects holes in stead of electrons in the common 'N-channel CCD'. By processing a test model of P-channel CCD we have confirmed high quantum efficiency above 10 keV with an equivalent depletion layer of 300μm. A back illumination type of P-channel CCD with a depletion layer of 200μm with aluminum coating for optical blocking has been also successfully developed. We have been also developing a thermo-electric cooler (TEC) with the function of the mechanically support of the CCD wafer without standoff insulators, for the purpose of the reduction of thermal input to the CCD through the standoff insulators. We have been considering the sensor housing and the onboard electronics for the CCD clocking, readout and digital processing of the frame date.

Compact whole-body fluorescent imaging of nude mice bearing EGFP expressing tumor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yanping; Xiong, Tao; Chu, Jun; Yu, Li; Zeng, Shaoqun; Luo, Qingming

2005-01-01

Issue of tumor has been a hotspot of current medicine. It is important for tumor research to detect tumors bearing in animal models easily, fast, repetitively and noninvasivly. Many researchers have paid their increasing interests on the detecting. Some contrast agents, such as green fluorescent protein (GFP) and Discosoma red fluorescent protein (Dsred) were applied to enhance image quality. Three main kinds of imaging scheme were adopted to visualize fluorescent protein expressing tumors in vivo. These schemes based on fluorescence stereo microscope, cooled charge-coupled-device (CCD) or camera as imaging set, and laser or mercury lamp as excitation light source. Fluorescence stereo microscope, laser and cooled CCD are expensive to many institutes. The authors set up an inexpensive compact whole-body fluorescent imaging tool, which consisted of a Kodak digital camera (model DC290), fluorescence filters(B and G2;HB Optical, Shenyang, Liaoning, P.R. China) and a mercury 50-W lamp power supply (U-LH50HG;Olympus Optical, Japan) as excitation light source. The EGFP was excited directly by mercury lamp with D455/70 nm band-pass filter and fluorescence was recorded by digital camera with 520nm long-pass filter. By this easy operation tool, the authors imaged, in real time, fluorescent tumors growing in live mice. The imaging system is external and noninvasive. For half a year our experiments suggested the imaging scheme was feasible. Whole-body fluorescence optical imaging for fluorescent expressing tumors in nude mouse is an ideal tool for antitumor, antimetastatic, and antiangiogenesis drug screening.

Wavefront holoscopy: application of digital in-line holography for the inspection of engraved marks in progressive addition lenses.

PubMed

Perucho, Beatriz; Micó, Vicente

2014-01-01

Progressive addition lenses (PALs) are engraved with permanent marks at standardized locations in order to guarantee correct centering and alignment throughout the manufacturing and mounting processes. Out of the production line, engraved marks provide useful information about the PAL as well as act as locator marks to re-ink again the removable marks. Even though those marks should be visible by simple visual inspection with the naked eye, engraving marks are often faint and weak, obscured by scratches, and partially occluded and difficult to recognize on tinted or antireflection-coated lenses. Here, we present an extremely simple optical device (named as wavefront holoscope) for visualization and characterization of permanent marks in PAL based on digital in-line holography. Essentially, a point source of coherent light illuminates the engraved mark placed just before a CCD camera that records a classical Gabor in-line hologram. The recorded hologram is then digitally processed to provide a set of high-contrast images of the engraved marks. Experimental results are presented showing the applicability of the proposed method as a new ophthalmic instrument for visualization and characterization of engraved marks in PALs.

Development of a CCD array as an imaging detector for advanced X-ray astrophysics facilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwartz, D. A.

1981-01-01

The development of a charge coupled device (CCD) X-ray imager for a large aperture, high angular resolution X-ray telescope is discussed. Existing CCDs were surveyed and three candidate concepts were identified. An electronic camera control and computer interface, including software to drive a Fairchild 211 CCD, is described. In addition a vacuum mounting and cooling system is discussed. Performance data for the various components are given.

Initial results from a cryogenic proton irradiation of a p-channel CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gow, J. P. D.; Wood, D.; Burt, D.; Hall, D. J.; Dryer, B.; Holland, A. D.; Murray, N. J.

2015-08-01

The displacement damage hardness that can be achieved using p-channel charge coupled devices (CCD) was originally demonstrated in 1997 and since then a number of other studies have demonstrated an improved tolerance to radiationinduced CTI when compared to n-channel CCDs. A number of recent studies have also shown that the temperature history of the device after the irradiation impacts the performance of the detector, linked to the mobility of defects at different temperatures. This study describes the initial results from an e2v technologies p-channel CCD204 irradiated at 153 K with a 10 MeV equivalent proton fluences of 1.24×109 and 1.24×1011 protons.cm-2. The number of defects identified using trap pumping, dark current and cosmetic quality immediately after irradiation and over a period of 150 hours after the irradiation with the device held at 153 K and then after different periods of time at room temperature are described. The device also exhibited a flatband voltage shift of around 30 mV per krad, determined by the reduction in full well capacity.

Colostomy, management and quality of life for the patient.

PubMed

Swan, Elaine

The aim of this article is to describe the development and use of a new and unique continence control device (CCD). The Vitala TM CCD is a pouchless ostomy device that seals against the stoma and prevents the passage of stool, while allowing the release and deodorization of flatus. This will enable many end-colostomates to control their effluent. It is the first non-invasive product to temporarily meet the colostomate's need of faecal continence. The reasons why people receive stomas and the different products available for their management will be explored in this article. Issues with regard to quality of life and the patient experience are discussed in the context of results from a VitalaTM CCD phase III 12-hour study. Two short case studies are also presented to illustrate how VitalaTM CCD can be used by ostomates experiencing functional and/or psychological problems to improve quality of life by allowing them to regain continence for up to 12 hours.

Digital holographic microscopy combined with optical tweezers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardenas, Nelson; Yu, Lingfeng; Mohanty, Samarendra K.

2011-02-01

While optical tweezers have been widely used for the manipulation and organization of microscopic objects in three dimensions, observing the manipulated objects along axial direction has been quite challenging. In order to visualize organization and orientation of objects along axial direction, we report development of a Digital holographic microscopy combined with optical tweezers. Digital holography is achieved by use of a modified Mach-Zehnder interferometer with digital recording of interference pattern of the reference and sample laser beams by use of a single CCD camera. In this method, quantitative phase information is retrieved dynamically with high temporal resolution, only limited by frame rate of the CCD. Digital focusing, phase-unwrapping as well as online analysis and display of the quantitative phase images was performed on a software developed on LabView platform. Since phase changes observed in DHOT is very sensitive to optical thickness of trapped volume, estimation of number of particles trapped in the axial direction as well as orientation of non-spherical objects could be achieved with high precision. Since in diseases such as malaria and diabetics, change in refractive index of red blood cells occurs, this system can be employed to map such disease-specific changes in biological samples upon immobilization with optical tweezers.

Development of small and inexpensive digital data acquisition systems using a microcontroller-based approach†

PubMed Central

Naivar, Mark A.; Wilder, Mark E.; Habbersett, Robert C.; Woods, Travis A.; Sebba, David S.; Nolan, John P.; Graves, Steven W.

2014-01-01

Fully digital data acquisition systems for use in flow cytometry provide excellent flexibility and precision. Here, we demonstrate the development of a low cost, small, and low power digital flow cytometry data acquisition system using a single microcontroller chip with an integrated analog to digital converter (ADC). Our demonstration system uses a commercially available evaluation board making the system simple to integrate into a flow cytometer. We have evaluated this system using calibration microspheres analyzed on commercial, slow-flow, and CCD based flow cytometers. In our evaluations, our demonstration data system clearly resolves all eight peaks of a Rainbow microsphere set on both a slow-flow flow cytometer and a retrofitted BD FACScalibur, which indicates it has the sensitivity and resolution required for most flow cytometry applications. It is also capable of millisecond time resolution, full waveform collection, and selective triggering of data collection from a CCD camera. The capability of our demonstration system suggests that the use of microcontrollers for flow cytometry digital data-acquisition will be increasingly valuable for extending the life of older cytometers and provides a compelling data-system design approach for low-cost, portable flow cytometers. PMID:19852060

Development of small and inexpensive digital data acquisition systems using a microcontroller-based approach.

PubMed

Naivar, Mark A; Wilder, Mark E; Habbersett, Robert C; Woods, Travis A; Sebba, David S; Nolan, John P; Graves, Steven W

2009-12-01

Fully digital data acquisition systems for use in flow cytometry provide excellent flexibility and precision. Here, we demonstrate the development of a low cost, small, and low power digital flow cytometry data acquisition system using a single microcontroller chip with an integrated analog to digital converter (ADC). Our demonstration system uses a commercially available evaluation board making the system simple to integrate into a flow cytometer. We have evaluated this system using calibration microspheres analyzed on commercial, slow-flow, and CCD-based flow cytometers. In our evaluations, our demonstration data system clearly resolves all eight peaks of a Rainbow microsphere set on both a slow-flow flow cytometer and a retrofitted BD FACScalibur, which indicates it has the sensitivity and resolution required for most flow cytometry applications. It is also capable of millisecond time resolution, full waveform collection, and selective triggering of data collection from a CCD camera. The capability of our demonstration system suggests that the use of microcontrollers for flow cytometry digital data-acquisition will be increasingly valuable for extending the life of older cytometers and provides a compelling data-system design approach for low-cost, portable flow cytometers.

Electrical interface characteristics (I-V), optical time of flight measurements, and the x-ray (20 keV) signal response of amorphous-selenium/crystalline-silicon heterojunction structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunter, David M.; Ho, Chu An; Belev, George; De Crescenzo, Giovanni; Kasap, Safa O.; Yaffe, Martin J.

2011-03-01

We have investigated the dark current, optical TOF (time of flight) properties, and the X-ray response of amorphousselenium (a-Se)/crystalline-silicon (c-Si) heterostructures for application in digital radiography. The structures have been studied to determine if an x-ray generated electron signal, created in an a-Se layer, could be directly transferred to a c-Si based readout device such as a back-thinned CCD (charge coupled device). A simple first order band-theory of the structure indicates that x-ray generated electrons should transfer from the a-Se to the c-Si, while hole transfer from p-doped c-Si to the a-Se should be blocked, permitting a low dark signal as required. The structures we have tested have a thin metal bias electrode on the x-ray facing side of the a-Se which is deposited on the c-Si substrate. The heterostructures made with pure a-Se deposited on epitaxial p-doped (5×10 14 cm-3) c-Si exhibited very low dark current of 15 pA cm-2 at a negative bias field of 10 V μm-1 applied to the a-Se. The optical TOF (time of flight) measurements show that the applied bias drops almost entirely across the a-Se layer and that the a-Se hole and electron mobilities are within the range of commonly accepted values. The x-ray signal measurements demonstrate the structure has the expected x-ray quantum efficiency. We have made a back-thinned CCD coated with a-Se and although most areas of the device show a poor x-ray response, it does contain small regions which do work properly with the expected x-ray sensitivity. Improved understanding of the a-Se/c-Si interface and preparation methods should lead to properly functioning devices.

Smart image sensors: an emerging key technology for advanced optical measurement and microsystems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seitz, Peter

1996-08-01

Optical microsystems typically include photosensitive devices, analog preprocessing circuitry and digital signal processing electronics. The advances in semiconductor technology have made it possible today to integrate all photosensitive and electronical devices on one 'smart image sensor' or photo-ASIC (application-specific integrated circuits containing photosensitive elements). It is even possible to provide each 'smart pixel' with additional photoelectronic functionality, without compromising the fill factor substantially. This technological capability is the basis for advanced cameras and optical microsystems showing novel on-chip functionality: Single-chip cameras with on- chip analog-to-digital converters for less than $10 are advertised; image sensors have been developed including novel functionality such as real-time selectable pixel size and shape, the capability of performing arbitrary convolutions simultaneously with the exposure, as well as variable, programmable offset and sensitivity of the pixels leading to image sensors with a dynamic range exceeding 150 dB. Smart image sensors have been demonstrated offering synchronous detection and demodulation capabilities in each pixel (lock-in CCD), and conventional image sensors are combined with an on-chip digital processor for complete, single-chip image acquisition and processing systems. Technological problems of the monolithic integration of smart image sensors include offset non-uniformities, temperature variations of electronic properties, imperfect matching of circuit parameters, etc. These problems can often be overcome either by designing additional compensation circuitry or by providing digital correction routines. Where necessary for technological or economic reasons, smart image sensors can also be combined with or realized as hybrids, making use of commercially available electronic components. It is concluded that the possibilities offered by custom smart image sensors will influence the design and the performance of future electronic imaging systems in many disciplines, reaching from optical metrology to machine vision on the factory floor and in robotics applications.

Digital imaging with solid state x-ray image intensifiers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Damento, Michael A.; Radspinner, Rachel; Roehrig, Hans

1999-10-01

X-ray cameras in which a CCD is lens coupled to a large phosphor screen are known to suffer from a loss of x-ray signal due to poor light collection from conventional phosphors, making them unsuitable for most medical imaging applications. By replacing the standard phosphor with a solid-state image intensifier, it may be possible to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the images produced with these cameras. The solid-state x-ray image intensifier is a multi- layer device in which a photoconductor layer controls the light output from an electroluminescent phosphor layer. While prototype devices have been used for direct viewing and video imaging, they are only now being evaluated in a digital imaging system. In the present work, the preparation and evaluation of intensifiers with a 65 mm square format are described. The intensifiers are prepared by screen- printing or doctor blading the following layers onto an ITO coated glass substrate: ZnS phosphor, opaque layer, CdS photoconductor, and carbon conductor. The total thickness of the layers is approximately 350 micrometers , 350 VAC at 400 Hz is applied to the device for operation. For a given x-ray dose, the intensifiers produce up to three times the intensity (after background subtracting) of Lanex Fast Front screens. X-ray images produced with the present intensifiers are somewhat noisy and their resolution is about half that of Lanex screens. Modifications are suggested which could improve the resolution and noise of the intensifiers.

A Real-Time Optical 3D Tracker for Head-Mounted Display Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-03-01

paper. OPTOTRAK [Nor88] uses one camera with two dual-axis CCD infrared position sensors. Each position sen- sor has a dedicated processor board to...enhance the use- [Nor88] Northern Digital. Trade literature on Optotrak fulness of head-mounted display systems. - Northern Digital’s Three Dimensional

CCDs in the Mechanics Lab--A Competitive Alternative? (Part I).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinto, Fabrizio

1995-01-01

Reports on the implementation of a relatively low-cost, versatile, and intuitive system to teach basic mechanics based on the use of a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) camera and inexpensive image-processing and analysis software. Discusses strengths and limitations of CCD imaging technologies. (JRH)

A system design of data acquisition and processing for side-scatter lidar

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, ZhanYe; Xie, ChenBo; Wang, ZhenZhu; Kuang, ZhiQiang; Deng, Qian; Tao, ZongMing; Liu, Dong; Wang, Yingjian

2018-03-01

A system for collecting data of Side-Scatter lidar based on Charge Coupled Device (CCD),is designed and implemented. The system of data acquisition is based on Microsoft. Net structure and the language of C# is used to call dynamic link library (DLL) of CCD for realization of the real-time data acquisition and processing. The software stores data as txt file for post data acquisition and analysis. The system has ability to operate CCD device in all-day, automatic, continuous and high frequency data acquisition and processing conditions, which will catch 24-hour information of the atmospheric scatter's light intensity and retrieve the spatial and temporal properties of aerosol particles. The experimental result shows that the system is convenient to observe the aerosol optical characteristics near surface.

A matter of collection and detection for intraoperative and noninvasive near-infrared fluorescence molecular imaging: To see or not to see?

PubMed Central

Zhu, Banghe; Rasmussen, John C.; Sevick-Muraca, Eva M.

2014-01-01

Purpose: Although fluorescence molecular imaging is rapidly evolving as a new combinational drug/device technology platform for molecularly guided surgery and noninvasive imaging, there remains no performance standards for efficient translation of “first-in-humans” fluorescent imaging agents using these devices. Methods: The authors employed a stable, solid phantom designed to exaggerate the confounding effects of tissue light scattering and to mimic low concentrations (nM–pM) of near-infrared fluorescent dyes expected clinically for molecular imaging in order to evaluate and compare the commonly used charge coupled device (CCD) camera systems employed in preclinical studies and in human investigational studies. Results: The results show that intensified CCD systems offer greater contrast with larger signal-to-noise ratios in comparison to their unintensified CCD systems operated at clinically reasonable, subsecond acquisition times. Conclusions: Camera imaging performance could impact the success of future “first-in-humans” near-infrared fluorescence imaging agent studies. PMID:24506637

A matter of collection and detection for intraoperative and noninvasive near-infrared fluorescence molecular imaging: To see or not to see?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Banghe; Rasmussen, John C.; Sevick-Muraca, Eva M., E-mail: Eva.Sevick@uth.tmc.edu

2014-02-15

Purpose: Although fluorescence molecular imaging is rapidly evolving as a new combinational drug/device technology platform for molecularly guided surgery and noninvasive imaging, there remains no performance standards for efficient translation of “first-in-humans” fluorescent imaging agents using these devices. Methods: The authors employed a stable, solid phantom designed to exaggerate the confounding effects of tissue light scattering and to mimic low concentrations (nM–pM) of near-infrared fluorescent dyes expected clinically for molecular imaging in order to evaluate and compare the commonly used charge coupled device (CCD) camera systems employed in preclinical studies and in human investigational studies. Results: The results show thatmore » intensified CCD systems offer greater contrast with larger signal-to-noise ratios in comparison to their unintensified CCD systems operated at clinically reasonable, subsecond acquisition times. Conclusions: Camera imaging performance could impact the success of future “first-in-humans” near-infrared fluorescence imaging agent studies.« less

Development of a Robust star identification technique for use in attitude determination of the ACE spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodard, Mark; Rohrbaugh, Dave

1995-01-01

The Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) spacecraft is designed to fly in a spin-stabilized attitude. The spacecraft will carry two attitude sensors - a digital fine Sun sensor and a charge coupled device (CCD) star tracker - to allow ground-based determination of the spacecraft attitude and spin rate. Part of the processing that must be performed on the CCD star tracker data is the star identification. Star data received from the spacecraft must be matched with star information in the SKYMAP catalog to determine exactly which stars the sensor is tracking. This information, along with the Sun vector measured by the Sun sensor, is used to determine the spacecraft attitude. Several existing star identification (star ID) systems were examined to determine whether they could be modified for use on the ACE mission. Star ID systems which exist for three-axis stabilized spacecraft tend to be complex in nature and many require fairly good knowledge of the spacecraft attitude, making their use for ACE excessive. Star ID systems used for spinners carrying traditional slit star sensors would have to be modified to model the CCD star tracker. The ACE star ID algorithm must also be robust, in that it will be able to correctly identify stars even though the attitude is not known to a high degree of accuracy, and must be very efficient to allow real-time star identification. The paper presents the star ID algorithm that was developed for ACE. Results from prototype testing are also presented to demonstrate the efficiency, accuracy, and robustness of the algorithm.

Analysis of confidence level scores from an ROC study: comparison of three mammographic systems for detection of simulated calcifications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Chao-Jen; Shaw, Chris C.; Whitman, Gary J.; Yang, Wei T.; Dempsey, Peter J.

2005-04-01

The purpose of this study is to compare the detection performance of three different mammography systems: screen/film (SF) combination, a-Si/CsI flat-panel (FP-), and charge-coupled device (CCD-) based systems. A 5-cm thick 50% adipose/50% glandular breast tissue equivalent slab phantom was used to provide an uniform background. Calcium carbonate grains of three different size groups were used to simulate microcalcifications (MCs): 112-125, 125-140, and 140-150 μm overlapping with the uniform background. Calcification images were acquired with the three mammography systems. Digital images were printed on hardcopy films. All film images were displayed on a mammographic viewer and reviewed by 5 mammographers. The visibility of the MC was rated with a 5-point confidence rating scale for each detection task, including the negative controls. Scores were averaged over all readers for various detectors and size groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed and the areas under the ROC curves (Az"s) were computed for various imaging conditions. The results shows that (1) the FP-based system performed significantly better than the SF and CCD-based systems for individual size groups using ROC analysis (2) the FP-based system also performed significantly better than the SF and CCD-based systems for individual size groups using averaged confidence scale, and (3) the results obtained from the Az"s were largely correlated with these from confidence level scores. However, the correlation varied slightly among different imaging conditions.

A real-time monitoring system for night glare protection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Jun; Ni, Xuxiang

2010-11-01

When capturing a dark scene with a high bright object, the monitoring camera will be saturated in some regions and the details will be lost in and near these saturated regions because of the glare vision. This work aims at developing a real-time night monitoring system. The system can decrease the influence of the glare vision and gain more details from the ordinary camera when exposing a high-contrast scene like a car with its headlight on during night. The system is made up of spatial light modulator (The liquid crystal on silicon: LCoS), image sensor (CCD), imaging lens and DSP. LCoS, a reflective liquid crystal, can modular the intensity of reflective light at every pixel as a digital device. Through modulation function of LCoS, CCD is exposed with sub-region. With the control of DSP, the light intensity is decreased to minimum in the glare regions, and the light intensity is negative feedback modulated based on PID theory in other regions. So that more details of the object will be imaging on CCD and the glare protection of monitoring system is achieved. In experiments, the feedback is controlled by the embedded system based on TI DM642. Experiments shows: this feedback modulation method not only reduces the glare vision to improve image quality, but also enhances the dynamic range of image. The high-quality and high dynamic range image is real-time captured at 30hz. The modulation depth of LCoS determines how strong the glare can be removed.

Heat dissipation schemes in QCLs monitored by CCD thermoreflectance (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierscinski, Kamil; Pierścińska, Dorota; Morawiec, Magdalena; Gutowski, Piotr; Karbownik, Piotr; Serebrennikova, Olga; Bugajski, Maciej

2017-02-01

In this paper we present the development of the instrumentation for accurate evaluation of the thermal characteristics of quantum cascade lasers based on CCD thermoreflectance (CCD TR). This method allows rapid thermal characterization of QCLs, as the registration of high-resolution map of the whole device facet lasts only several seconds. The capabilities of the CCD TR are used to study temperature dissipation schemes in different designs of QCLs. We report on the investigation of thermal performance of QCLs developed at the Institute of Electron Technology, with an emphasis on the influence of different material system, processing technology and device designs. We investigate and compare AlInAs/InGaAs/InP QCLs (lattice matched and strain compensated) of different architectures, i.e., double trench and buried heterostructure (BH) in terms of thermal management. Experimental results are in very good agreement with numerical predictions of heat dissipation in various device constructions. Numerical model is based on FEM model solved by commercial software package. The model assumes anisotropic thermal conductivity in the AR layers as well as the temperature dependence of thermal conductivities of all materials in the project. We have observed experimentally improvement of thermal properties of devices based on InP materials, especially for buried heterostructure type. The use of buried heterostructure enhanced the lateral heat dissipation from the active region of QCLs. The BH structure and epilayer-down bonding help dissipate the heat generated from active core of the QCL.

CMOS Imaging Sensor Technology for Aerial Mapping Cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neumann, Klaus; Welzenbach, Martin; Timm, Martin

2016-06-01

In June 2015 Leica Geosystems launched the first large format aerial mapping camera using CMOS sensor technology, the Leica DMC III. This paper describes the motivation to change from CCD sensor technology to CMOS for the development of this new aerial mapping camera. In 2002 the DMC first generation was developed by Z/I Imaging. It was the first large format digital frame sensor designed for mapping applications. In 2009 Z/I Imaging designed the DMC II which was the first digital aerial mapping camera using a single ultra large CCD sensor to avoid stitching of smaller CCDs. The DMC III is now the third generation of large format frame sensor developed by Z/I Imaging and Leica Geosystems for the DMC camera family. It is an evolution of the DMC II using the same system design with one large monolithic PAN sensor and four multi spectral camera heads for R,G, B and NIR. For the first time a 391 Megapixel large CMOS sensor had been used as PAN chromatic sensor, which is an industry record. Along with CMOS technology goes a range of technical benefits. The dynamic range of the CMOS sensor is approx. twice the range of a comparable CCD sensor and the signal to noise ratio is significantly better than with CCDs. Finally results from the first DMC III customer installations and test flights will be presented and compared with other CCD based aerial sensors.

Fully depleted back illuminated CCD

DOEpatents

Holland, Stephen Edward

2001-01-01

A backside illuminated charge coupled device (CCD) is formed of a relatively thick high resistivity photon sensitive silicon substrate, with frontside electronic circuitry, and an optically transparent backside ohmic contact for applying a backside voltage which is at least sufficient to substantially fully deplete the substrate. A greater bias voltage which overdepletes the substrate may also be applied. One way of applying the bias voltage to the substrate is by physically connecting the voltage source to the ohmic contact. An alternate way of applying the bias voltage to the substrate is to physically connect the voltage source to the frontside of the substrate, at a point outside the depletion region. Thus both frontside and backside contacts can be used for backside biasing to fully deplete the substrate. Also, high resistivity gaps around the CCD channels and electrically floating channel stop regions can be provided in the CCD array around the CCD channels. The CCD array forms an imaging sensor useful in astronomy.

High-Voltage Clock Driver for Photon-Counting CCD Characterization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baker, Robert

2013-01-01

A document discusses the CCD97 from e2v technologies as it is being evaluated at Goddard Space Flight Center's Detector Characterization Laboratory (DCL) for possible use in ultra-low background noise space astronomy applications, such as Terrestrial Planet Finder Coronagraph (TPF-C). The CCD97 includes a photoncounting mode where the equivalent output noise is less than one electron. Use of this mode requires a clock signal at a voltage level greater than the level achievable by the existing CCD (charge-coupled-device) electronics. A high-voltage waveform generator has been developed in code 660/601 to support the CCD97 evaluation. The unit generates required clock waveforms at voltage levels from -20 to +50 V. It deals with standard and arbitrary waveforms and supports pixel rates from 50 to 500 kHz. The system is designed to interface with existing Leach CCD electronics.

Design of a CCD Camera for Space Surveillance

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-05

Laboratory fabricated CCID-51M, a 2048x1024 pixel Charge Couple Device (CCD) imager. [1] The mission objective is to observe and detect satellites in...phased to transfer the charge to the outputs. An electronic shutter is created by having an equal area of pixels covered by an opaque metal mask. The...Figure 4 CDS Timing Diagram By design the CCD readout rate is 400 KHz. This rate was chosen so reading the 2E6 pixels from one output is less than

Development of CCD imaging sensors for space applications, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Antcliffe, G. A.

1975-01-01

The results of an experimental investigation to develop a large area charge coupled device (CCD) imager for space photography applications are described. Details of the design and processing required to achieve 400 X 400 imagers are presented together with a discussion of the optical characterization techniques developed for this program. A discussion of several aspects of large CCD performance is given with detailed test reports. The areas covered include dark current, uniformity of optical response, square wave amplitude response, spectral responsivity and dynamic range.

Evaluation of a novel laparoscopic camera for characterization of renal ischemia in a porcine model using digital light processing (DLP) hyperspectral imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olweny, Ephrem O.; Tan, Yung K.; Faddegon, Stephen; Jackson, Neil; Wehner, Eleanor F.; Best, Sara L.; Park, Samuel K.; Thapa, Abhas; Cadeddu, Jeffrey A.; Zuzak, Karel J.

2012-03-01

Digital light processing hyperspectral imaging (DLP® HSI) was adapted for use during laparoscopic surgery by coupling a conventional laparoscopic light guide with a DLP-based Agile Light source (OL 490, Optronic Laboratories, Orlando, FL), incorporating a 0° laparoscope, and a customized digital CCD camera (DVC, Austin, TX). The system was used to characterize renal ischemia in a porcine model.

Advanced ground station architecture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zillig, David; Benjamin, Ted

1994-01-01

This paper describes a new station architecture for NASA's Ground Network (GN). The architecture makes efficient use of emerging technologies to provide dramatic reductions in size, operational complexity, and operational and maintenance costs. The architecture, which is based on recent receiver work sponsored by the Office of Space Communications Advanced Systems Program, allows integration of both GN and Space Network (SN) modes of operation in the same electronics system. It is highly configurable through software and the use of charged coupled device (CCD) technology to provide a wide range of operating modes. Moreover, it affords modularity of features which are optional depending on the application. The resulting system incorporates advanced RF, digital, and remote control technology capable of introducing significant operational, performance, and cost benefits to a variety of NASA communications and tracking applications.

Design considerations for imaging charge-coupled device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1981-04-01

The image dissector tube, which was formerly used as detector in star trackers, will be replaced by solid state imaging devices. The technology advances of charge transfer devices, like the charge-coupled device (CCD) and the charge-injection device (CID) have made their application to star trackers an immediate reality. The Air Force in 1979 funded an American Aerospace company to develop an imaging CCD (ICCD) star sensor for the Multimission Attitude Determination and Autonomous Navigation (MADAN) system. The MADAN system is a technology development for a strapdown attitude and navigation system which can be used on all Air Force 3-axis stabilized satellites. The system will be autonomous and will provide real-time satellite attitude and position information. The star sensor accuracy provides an overall MADAN attitude accuracy of 2 arcsec for star rates up to 300 arcsec/sec. The ICCD is basically an integrating device. Its pixel resolution in not yet satisfactory for precision applications.

A wide bandwidth CCD buffer memory system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siemens, K.; Wallace, R. W.; Robinson, C. R.

1978-01-01

A prototype system was implemented to demonstrate that CCD's can be applied advantageously to the problem of low power digital storage and particularly to the problem of interfacing widely varying data rates. CCD shift register memories (8K bit) were used to construct a feasibility model 128 K-bit buffer memory system. Serial data that can have rates between 150 kHz and 4.0 MHz can be stored in 4K-bit, randomly-accessible memory blocks. Peak power dissipation during a data transfer is less than 7 W, while idle power is approximately 5.4 W. The system features automatic data input synchronization with the recirculating CCD memory block start address. System expansion to accommodate parallel inputs or a greater number of memory blocks can be performed in a modular fashion. Since the control logic does not increase proportionally to increase in memory capacity, the power requirements per bit of storage can be reduced significantly in a larger system.

Systems approach to the design of the CCD sensors and camera electronics for the AIA and HMI instruments on solar dynamics observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waltham, N.; Beardsley, S.; Clapp, M.; Lang, J.; Jerram, P.; Pool, P.; Auker, G.; Morris, D.; Duncan, D.

2017-11-01

Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) is imaging the Sun in many wavelengths near simultaneously and with a resolution ten times higher than the average high-definition television. In this paper we describe our innovative systems approach to the design of the CCD cameras for two of SDO's remote sensing instruments, the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) and the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager (HMI). Both instruments share use of a custom-designed 16 million pixel science-grade CCD and common camera readout electronics. A prime requirement was for the CCD to operate with significantly lower drive voltages than before, motivated by our wish to simplify the design of the camera readout electronics. Here, the challenge lies in the design of circuitry to drive the CCD's highly capacitive electrodes and to digitize its analogue video output signal with low noise and to high precision. The challenge is greatly exacerbated when forced to work with only fully space-qualified, radiation-tolerant components. We describe our systems approach to the design of the AIA and HMI CCD and camera electronics, and the engineering solutions that enabled us to comply with both mission and instrument science requirements.

Optical cell monitoring system for underwater targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moon, SangJun; Manzur, Fahim; Manzur, Tariq; Demirci, Utkan

2008-10-01

We demonstrate a cell based detection system that could be used for monitoring an underwater target volume and environment using a microfluidic chip and charge-coupled-device (CCD). This technique allows us to capture specific cells and enumerate these cells on a large area on a microchip. The microfluidic chip and a lens-less imaging platform were then merged to monitor cell populations and morphologies as a system that may find use in distributed sensor networks. The chip, featuring surface chemistry and automatic cell imaging, was fabricated from a cover glass slide, double sided adhesive film and a transparent Polymethlymetacrylate (PMMA) slab. The optically clear chip allows detecting cells with a CCD sensor. These chips were fabricated with a laser cutter without the use of photolithography. We utilized CD4+ cells that are captured on the floor of a microfluidic chip due to the ability to address specific target cells using antibody-antigen binding. Captured CD4+ cells were imaged with a fluorescence microscope to verify the chip specificity and efficiency. We achieved 70.2 +/- 6.5% capturing efficiency and 88.8 +/- 5.4% specificity for CD4+ T lymphocytes (n = 9 devices). Bright field images of the captured cells in the 24 mm × 4 mm × 50 μm microfluidic chip were obtained with the CCD sensor in one second. We achieved an inexpensive system that rapidly captures cells and images them using a lens-less CCD system. This microfluidic device can be modified for use in single cell detection utilizing a cheap light-emitting diode (LED) chip instead of a wide range CCD system.

Mars Exploration Rover Navigation Camera in-flight calibration

USGS Publications Warehouse

Soderblom, J.M.; Bell, J.F.; Johnson, J. R.; Joseph, J.; Wolff, M.J.

2008-01-01

The Navigation Camera (Navcam) instruments on the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) spacecraft provide support for both tactical operations as well as scientific observations where color information is not necessary: large-scale morphology, atmospheric monitoring including cloud observations and dust devil movies, and context imaging for both the thermal emission spectrometer and the in situ instruments on the Instrument Deployment Device. The Navcams are a panchromatic stereoscopic imaging system built using identical charge-coupled device (CCD) detectors and nearly identical electronics boards as the other cameras on the MER spacecraft. Previous calibration efforts were primarily focused on providing a detailed geometric calibration in line with the principal function of the Navcams, to provide data for the MER navigation team. This paper provides a detailed description of a new Navcam calibration pipeline developed to provide an absolute radiometric calibration that we estimate to have an absolute accuracy of 10% and a relative precision of 2.5%. Our calibration pipeline includes steps to model and remove the bias offset, the dark current charge that accumulates in both the active and readout regions of the CCD, and the shutter smear. It also corrects pixel-to-pixel responsivity variations using flat-field images, and converts from raw instrument-corrected digital number values per second to units of radiance (W m-2 nm-1 sr-1), or to radiance factor (I/F). We also describe here the initial results of two applications where radiance-calibrated Navcam data provide unique information for surface photometric and atmospheric aerosol studies. Copyright 2008 by the American Geophysical Union.

Automated hybridization/imaging device for fluorescent multiplex DNA sequencing

DOEpatents

Weiss, R.B.; Kimball, A.W.; Gesteland, R.F.; Ferguson, F.M.; Dunn, D.M.; Di Sera, L.J.; Cherry, J.L.

1995-11-28

A method is disclosed for automated multiplex sequencing of DNA with an integrated automated imaging hybridization chamber system. This system comprises an hybridization chamber device for mounting a membrane containing size-fractionated multiplex sequencing reaction products, apparatus for fluid delivery to the chamber device, imaging apparatus for light delivery to the membrane and image recording of fluorescence emanating from the membrane while in the chamber device, and programmable controller apparatus for controlling operation of the system. The multiplex reaction products are hybridized with a probe, the enzyme (such as alkaline phosphatase) is bound to a binding moiety on the probe, and a fluorogenic substrate (such as a benzothiazole derivative) is introduced into the chamber device by the fluid delivery apparatus. The enzyme converts the fluorogenic substrate into a fluorescent product which, when illuminated in the chamber device with a beam of light from the imaging apparatus, excites fluorescence of the fluorescent product to produce a pattern of hybridization. The pattern of hybridization is imaged by a CCD camera component of the imaging apparatus to obtain a series of digital signals. These signals are converted by the controller apparatus into a string of nucleotides corresponding to the nucleotide sequence an automated sequence reader. The method and apparatus are also applicable to other membrane-based applications such as colony and plaque hybridization and Southern, Northern, and Western blots. 9 figs.

Automated hybridization/imaging device for fluorescent multiplex DNA sequencing

DOEpatents

Weiss, Robert B.; Kimball, Alvin W.; Gesteland, Raymond F.; Ferguson, F. Mark; Dunn, Diane M.; Di Sera, Leonard J.; Cherry, Joshua L.

1995-01-01

A method is disclosed for automated multiplex sequencing of DNA with an integrated automated imaging hybridization chamber system. This system comprises an hybridization chamber device for mounting a membrane containing size-fractionated multiplex sequencing reaction products, apparatus for fluid delivery to the chamber device, imaging apparatus for light delivery to the membrane and image recording of fluorescence emanating from the membrane while in the chamber device, and programmable controller apparatus for controlling operation of the system. The multiplex reaction products are hybridized with a probe, then an enzyme (such as alkaline phosphatase) is bound to a binding moiety on the probe, and a fluorogenic substrate (such as a benzothiazole derivative) is introduced into the chamber device by the fluid delivery apparatus. The enzyme converts the fluorogenic substrate into a fluorescent product which, when illuminated in the chamber device with a beam of light from the imaging apparatus, excites fluorescence of the fluorescent product to produce a pattern of hybridization. The pattern of hybridization is imaged by a CCD camera component of the imaging apparatus to obtain a series of digital signals. These signals are converted by the controller apparatus into a string of nucleotides corresponding to the nucleotide sequence an automated sequence reader. The method and apparatus are also applicable to other membrane-based applications such as colony and plaque hybridization and Southern, Northern, and Western blots.

Accurate measurement of chest compression depth using impulse-radio ultra-wideband sensor on a mattress

PubMed Central

Kim, Yeomyung

2017-01-01

Objective We developed a new chest compression depth (CCD) measuring technology using radar and impulse-radio ultra-wideband (IR-UWB) sensor. This study was performed to determine its accuracy on a soft surface. Methods Four trials, trial 1: chest compressions on the floor using an accelerometer device; trial 2: chest compressions on the floor using an IR-UWB sensor; trial 3: chest compressions on a foam mattress using an accelerometer device; trial 4: chest compressions on a foam mattress using an IR-UWB sensor, were performed in a random order. In all the trials, a cardiopulmonary resuscitation provider delivered 50 uninterrupted chest compressions to a manikin. Results The CCD measured by the manikin and the device were as follows: 57.42 ± 2.23 and 53.92 ± 2.92 mm, respectively in trial 1 (p < 0.001); 56.29 ± 1.96 and 54.16 ± 3.90 mm, respectively in trial 2 (p < 0.001); 55.61 ± 1.57 and 103.48 ± 10.48 mm, respectively in trial 3 (p < 0.001); 57.14 ± 3.99 and 55.51 ± 3.39 mm, respectively in trial 4 (p = 0.012). The gaps between the CCD measured by the manikin and the devices (accelerometer device vs. IR-UWB sensor) on the floor were not different (3.50 ± 2.08 mm vs. 3.15 ± 2.27 mm, respectively, p = 0.136). However, the gaps were significantly different on the foam mattress (48.53 ± 5.65 mm vs. 4.10 ± 2.47 mm, p < 0.001). Conclusion The IR-UWB sensor could measure the CCD accurately both on the floor and on the foam mattress. PMID:28854262

Accurate measurement of chest compression depth using impulse-radio ultra-wideband sensor on a mattress.

PubMed

Yu, Byung Gyu; Oh, Je Hyeok; Kim, Yeomyung; Kim, Tae Wook

2017-01-01

We developed a new chest compression depth (CCD) measuring technology using radar and impulse-radio ultra-wideband (IR-UWB) sensor. This study was performed to determine its accuracy on a soft surface. Four trials, trial 1: chest compressions on the floor using an accelerometer device; trial 2: chest compressions on the floor using an IR-UWB sensor; trial 3: chest compressions on a foam mattress using an accelerometer device; trial 4: chest compressions on a foam mattress using an IR-UWB sensor, were performed in a random order. In all the trials, a cardiopulmonary resuscitation provider delivered 50 uninterrupted chest compressions to a manikin. The CCD measured by the manikin and the device were as follows: 57.42 ± 2.23 and 53.92 ± 2.92 mm, respectively in trial 1 (p < 0.001); 56.29 ± 1.96 and 54.16 ± 3.90 mm, respectively in trial 2 (p < 0.001); 55.61 ± 1.57 and 103.48 ± 10.48 mm, respectively in trial 3 (p < 0.001); 57.14 ± 3.99 and 55.51 ± 3.39 mm, respectively in trial 4 (p = 0.012). The gaps between the CCD measured by the manikin and the devices (accelerometer device vs. IR-UWB sensor) on the floor were not different (3.50 ± 2.08 mm vs. 3.15 ± 2.27 mm, respectively, p = 0.136). However, the gaps were significantly different on the foam mattress (48.53 ± 5.65 mm vs. 4.10 ± 2.47 mm, p < 0.001). The IR-UWB sensor could measure the CCD accurately both on the floor and on the foam mattress.

Fabrication of Robust, Flat, Thinned, UV-Imaging CCDs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grunthaner, Paula; Elliott, Stythe; Jones, Todd; Nikzad, Shouleh

2004-01-01

An improved process that includes a high-temperature bonding subprocess has been developed to enable the fabrication of robust, flat, silicon-based charge-coupled devices (CCDs) for imaging in ultraviolet (UV) light and/or for detecting low-energy charged particles. The CCDs in question are devices on which CCD circuitry has already been formed and have been thinned for backsurface illumination. These CCDs may be delta doped, and aspects of this type of CCD have been described in several prior articles in NASA Tech Briefs. Unlike prior low-temperature bonding subprocesses based on the use of epoxies or waxes, the high-temperature bonding subprocess is compatible with the deltadoping process as well as with other CCD-fabrication processes. The present improved process and its bonding, thinning, and delta-doping subprocesses, are characterized as postfabrication processes because they are undertaken after the fabrication of CCD circuitry on the front side of a full-thickness silicon substrate. In a typical case, it is necessary to reduce the thickness of the CCD to between 10 and 20 m in order to take advantage of back-side illumination and in order to perform delta doping and/or other back-side treatment to enhance the quantum efficiency. In the prior approach to the fabrication of back-side-illuminated CCDs, the thinning subprocess turned each CCD into a free-standing membrane that was fragile and tended to become wrinkled. In the present improved process, prior to thinning and delta doping, a CCD is bonded on its front side to a silicon substrate that has been prefabricated to include cutouts to accommodate subsequent electrical connections to bonding pads on the CCD circuitry. The substrate provides structural support to increase ruggedness and maintain flatness. At the beginning of this process, the back side of a CCD as fabricated on a full-thickness substrate is polished. Silicon nitride is deposited on the back side, opposite the bonding pads on the front side, in order to define a relatively thick frame. The portion of the CCD not covered by the frame is the portion to be thinned by etching.

Charge-coupled-device X-ray detector performance model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bautz, M. W.; Berman, G. E.; Doty, J. P.; Ricker, G. R.

1987-01-01

A model that predicts the performance characteristics of CCD detectors being developed for use in X-ray imaging is presented. The model accounts for the interactions of both X-rays and charged particles with the CCD and simulates the transport and loss of charge in the detector. Predicted performance parameters include detective and net quantum efficiencies, split-event probability, and a parameter characterizing the effective thickness presented by the detector to cosmic-ray protons. The predicted performance of two CCDs of different epitaxial layer thicknesses is compared. The model predicts that in each device incomplete recovery of the charge liberated by a photon of energy between 0.1 and 10 keV is very likely to be accompanied by charge splitting between adjacent pixels. The implications of the model predictions for CCD data processing algorithms are briefly discussed.

Development of Multiple-Element Flame Emission Spectrometer Using CCD Detection

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Seney, Caryn S.; Sinclair, Karen V.; Bright, Robin M.; Momoh, Paul O.; Bozeman, Amelia D.

2005-01-01

The full wavelength coverage of charge coupled device (CCD) detector when coupled with an echelle spectrography, the system allows for simultaneously multiple element spectroscopy to be performed. The multiple-element flame spectrometer was built and characterized through the analysis of environmentally significant elements such as Ca, K, Na, Cu,…

Insect Wing Displacement Measurement Using Digital Holography

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Aguayo, Daniel D.; Mendoza Santoyo, Fernando; Torre I, Manuel H. de la

2008-04-15

Insects in flight have been studied with optical non destructive techniques with the purpose of using meaningful results in aerodynamics. With the availability of high resolution and large dynamic range CCD sensors the so called interferometric digital holographic technique was used to measure the surface displacement of in flight insect wings, such as butterflies. The wings were illuminated with a continuous wave Verdi laser at 532 nm, and observed with a CCD Pixelfly camera that acquire images at a rate of 11.5 frames per second at a resolution of 1392x1024 pixels and 12 Bit dynamic range. At this frame ratemore » digital holograms of the wings were captured and processed in the usual manner, namely, each individual hologram is Fourier processed in order to find the amplitude and phase corresponding to the digital hologram. The wings displacement is obtained when subtraction between two digital holograms is performed for two different wings position, a feature applied to all consecutive frames recorded. The result of subtracting is seen as a wrapped phase fringe pattern directly related to the wing displacement. The experimental data for different butterfly flying conditions and exposure times are shown as wire mesh plots in a movie of the wings displacement.« less

Research on coding and decoding method for digital levels.

PubMed

Tu, Li-fen; Zhong, Si-dong

2011-01-20

A new coding and decoding method for digital levels is proposed. It is based on an area-array CCD sensor and adopts mixed coding technology. By taking advantage of redundant information in a digital image signal, the contradiction that the field of view and image resolution restrict each other in a digital level measurement is overcome, and the geodetic leveling becomes easier. The experimental results demonstrate that the uncertainty of measurement is 1 mm when the measuring range is between 2 m and 100 m, which can meet practical needs.

IDSAC-IUCAA digital sampler array controller

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chattopadhyay, Sabyasachi; Chordia, Pravin; Ramaprakash, A. N.; Burse, Mahesh P.; Joshi, Bhushan; Chillal, Kalpesh

2016-07-01

In order to run the large format detector arrays and mosaics that are required by most astronomical instruments, readout electronic controllers are required which can process multiple CCD outputs simultaneously at high speeds and low noise levels. These CCD controllers need to be modular and configurable, should be able to run multiple detector types to cater to a wide variety of requirements. IUCAA Digital Sampler Array Controller (IDSAC), is a generic CCD Controller based on a fully scalable architecture which is adequately flexible and powerful enough to control a wide variety of detectors used in ground based astronomy. The controller has a modular backplane architecture that consists of Single Board Controller Cards (SBCs) and can control up to 5 CCDs (mosaic or independent). Each Single Board Controller (SBC) has all the resources to a run Single large format CCD having up to four outputs. All SBCs are identical and are easily interchangeable without needing any reconfiguration. A four channel video processor on each SBC can process up to four output CCDs with or without dummy outputs at 0.5 Megapixels/Sec/Channel with 16 bit resolution. Each SBC has a USB 2.0 interface which can be connected to a host computer via optional USB to Fibre converters. The SBC uses a reconfigurable hardware (FPGA) as a Master Controller. IDSAC offers Digital Correlated Double Sampling (DCDS) to eliminate thermal kTC noise. CDS performed in Digital domain (DCDS) has several advantages over its analog counterpart, such as - less electronics, faster readout and easier post processing. It is also flexible with sampling rate and pixel throughput while maintaining the core circuit topology intact. Noise characterization of the IDSAC CDS signal chain has been performed by analytical modelling and practical measurements. Various types of noise such as white, pink, power supply, bias etc. has been considered while creating an analytical noise model tool to predict noise of a controller system like IDSAC. Several tests are performed to measure the actual noise of IDSAC. The theoretical calculation matches very well with practical measurements within 10% accuracy.

High-speed digital imaging of cytosolic Ca2+ and contraction in single cardiomyocytes.

PubMed

O'Rourke, B; Reibel, D K; Thomas, A P

1990-07-01

A charge-coupled device (CCD) camera, with the capacity for simultaneous spatially resolved photon counting and rapid frame transfer, was utilized for high-speed digital image collection from an inverted epifluorescence microscope. The unique properties of the CCD detector were applied to an analysis of cell shortening and the Ca2+ transient from fluorescence images of fura-2-loaded [corrected] cardiomyocytes. On electrical stimulation of the cell, a series of sequential subimages was collected and used to create images of Ca2+ within the cell during contraction. The high photosensitivity of the camera, combined with a detector-based frame storage technique, permitted collection of fluorescence images 10 ms apart. This rate of image collection was sufficient to resolve the rapid events of contraction, e.g., the upstroke of the Ca2+ transient (less than 40 ms) and the time to peak shortening (less than 80 ms). The technique was used to examine the effects of beta-adrenoceptor activation, fura-2 load, and stimulus frequency on cytosolic Ca2+ transients and contractions of single cardiomyocytes. beta-Adrenoceptor stimulation resulted in pronounced increases in peak Ca2+, maximal rates of rise and decay of Ca2+, extent of shortening, and maximal velocities of shortening and relaxation. Raising the intracellular load of fura-2 had little effect on the rising phase of Ca2+ or the extent of shortening but extended the duration of the Ca2+ transient and contraction. In related experiments utilizing differential-interference contrast microscopy, the same technique was applied to visualize sarcomere dynamics in contracting cells. This newly developed technique is a versatile tool for analyzing the Ca2+ transient and mechanical events in studies of excitation-contraction coupling in cardiomyocytes.

Phase extraction based on iterative algorithm using five-frame crossed fringes in phase measuring deflectometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Chengying; Li, Dahai; Kewei, E.; Li, Mengyang; Chen, Pengyu; Wang, Ruiyang; Xiong, Zhao

2018-06-01

In phase measuring deflectometry, two orthogonal sinusoidal fringe patterns are separately projected on the test surface and the distorted fringes reflected by the surface are recorded, each with a sequential phase shift. Then the two components of the local surface gradients are obtained by triangulation. It usually involves some complicated and time-consuming procedures (fringe projection in the orthogonal directions). In addition, the digital light devices (e.g. LCD screen and CCD camera) are not error free. There are quantization errors for each pixel of both LCD and CCD. Therefore, to avoid the complex process and improve the reliability of the phase distribution, a phase extraction algorithm with five-frame crossed fringes is presented in this paper. It is based on a least-squares iterative process. Using the proposed algorithm, phase distributions and phase shift amounts in two orthogonal directions can be simultaneously and successfully determined through an iterative procedure. Both a numerical simulation and a preliminary experiment are conducted to verify the validity and performance of this algorithm. Experimental results obtained by our method are shown, and comparisons between our experimental results and those obtained by the traditional 16-step phase-shifting algorithm and between our experimental results and those measured by the Fizeau interferometer are made.

Development of a high spatial resolution neutron imaging system and performance evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Lei

The combination of a scintillation screen and a charged coupled device (CCD) camera is a digitized neutron imaging technology that has been widely employed for research and industry application. The maximum of spatial resolution of scintillation screens is in the range of 100 mum and creates a bottleneck for the further improvement of the overall system resolution. In this investigation, a neutron sensitive micro-channel plate (MCP) detector with pore pitch of 11.4 mum is combined with a cooled CCD camera with a pixel size of 6.8 mum to provide a high spatial resolution neutron imaging system. The optical path includes a high reflection front surface mirror for keeping the camera out of neutron beam and a macro lens for achieving the maximum magnification that could be achieved. All components are assembled into an aluminum light tight box with heavy radiation shielding to protect the camera as well as to provide a dark working condition. Particularly, a remote controlled stepper motor is also integrated into the system to provide on-line focusing ability. The best focus is guaranteed through use of an algorithm instead of perceptual observation. An evaluation routine not previously utilized in the field of neutron radiography is developed in this study. Routines like this were never previously required due to the lower resolution of other systems. Use of the augulation technique to obtain presampled MTF addresses the problem of aliasing associated with digital sampling. The determined MTF agrees well with the visual inspection of imaging a testing target. Other detector/camera combinations may be integrated into the system and their performances are also compared. The best resolution achieved by the system at the TRIGA Mark II reactor at the University of Texas at Austin is 16.2 lp/mm, which is equivalent to a minimum resolvable spacing of 30 mum. The noise performance of the device is evaluated in terms of the noise power spectrum (NPS) and the detective quantum efficiency (DQE) is calculated with above determined MTF and NPS.

Large Format CMOS-based Detectors for Diffraction Studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, A. C.; Nix, J. C.; Achterkirchen, T. G.; Westbrook, E. M.

2013-03-01

Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) devices are rapidly replacing CCD devices in many commercial and medical applications. Recent developments in CMOS fabrication have improved their radiation hardness, device linearity, readout noise and thermal noise, making them suitable for x-ray crystallography detectors. Large-format (e.g. 10 cm × 15 cm) CMOS devices with a pixel size of 100 μm × 100 μm are now becoming available that can be butted together on three sides so that very large area detector can be made with no dead regions. Like CCD systems our CMOS systems use a GdOS:Tb scintillator plate to convert stopping x-rays into visible light which is then transferred with a fiber-optic plate to the sensitive surface of the CMOS sensor. The amount of light per x-ray on the sensor is much higher in the CMOS system than a CCD system because the fiber optic plate is only 3 mm thick while on a CCD system it is highly tapered and much longer. A CMOS sensor is an active pixel matrix such that every pixel is controlled and readout independently of all other pixels. This allows these devices to be readout while the sensor is collecting charge in all the other pixels. For x-ray diffraction detectors this is a major advantage since image frames can be collected continuously at up 20 Hz while the crystal is rotated. A complete diffraction dataset can be collected over five times faster than with CCD systems with lower radiation exposure to the crystal. In addition, since the data is taken fine-phi slice mode the 3D angular position of diffraction peaks is improved. We have developed a cooled 6 sensor CMOS detector with an active area of 28.2 × 29.5 cm with 100 μm × 100 μm pixels and a readout rate of 20 Hz. The detective quantum efficiency exceeds 60% over the range 8-12 keV. One, two and twelve sensor systems are also being developed for a variety of scientific applications. Since the sensors are butt able on three sides, even larger systems could be built at reasonable cost.

OSIRIS-REx OCAMS detector assembly characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hancock, J.; Crowther, B.; Whiteley, M.; Burt, R.; Watson, M.; Nelson, J.; Fellows, C.; Rizk, B.; Kinney-Spano, E.; Perry, M.; Hunten, M.

2013-09-01

The OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return mission carries a suite of three cameras referred to as OCAMS. The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) at Utah State University is providing the CCD-based detector assemblies for OCAMS to the Lunar Planetary Lab (LPL) at the University of Arizona. Working with the LPL, SDL has designed the electronics to operate a 1K by 1K frame transfer Teledyne DALSA Multi-Pinned Phase (MPP) CCD. The detector assembly electronics provides the CCD clocking, biasing, and digital interface with the OCAMS payload Command Control Module (CCM). A prototype system was built to verify the functionality of the detector assembly design and to characterize the detector system performance at the intended operating temperatures. The characterization results are described in this paper.

Modular Scanning Confocal Microscope with Digital Image Processing.

PubMed

Ye, Xianjun; McCluskey, Matthew D

2016-01-01

In conventional confocal microscopy, a physical pinhole is placed at the image plane prior to the detector to limit the observation volume. In this work, we present a modular design of a scanning confocal microscope which uses a CCD camera to replace the physical pinhole for materials science applications. Experimental scans were performed on a microscope resolution target, a semiconductor chip carrier, and a piece of etched silicon wafer. The data collected by the CCD were processed to yield images of the specimen. By selecting effective pixels in the recorded CCD images, a virtual pinhole is created. By analyzing the image moments of the imaging data, a lateral resolution enhancement is achieved by using a 20 × / NA = 0.4 microscope objective at 532 nm laser wavelength.

High-speed femtosecond laser beam shaping based on binary holography using a digital micromirror device.

PubMed

Cheng, Jiyi; Gu, Chenglin; Zhang, Dapeng; Chen, Shih-Chi

2015-11-01

In this Letter, we present a digital micromirror device (DMD)-based ultrafast beam shaper, i.e., DUBS. To our knowledge, the DUBS is the first binary laser beam shaper that can generate high-resolution (1140×912 pixels) arbitrary beam modes for femtosecond lasers at a rate of 4.2 kHz; the resolution and pattern rate are limited by the DMD. In the DUBS, the spectrum of the input pulsed laser is first angularly dispersed by a transmission grating and subsequently imaged to a DMD with beam modulation patterns; the transmission grating and a high-reflectivity mirror together compensate the angular dispersion introduced by the DMD. The mode of the output beam is monitored by a CCD camera. In the experiments, the DUBS is programmed to generate four different beam modes, including an Airy beam, Bessel beam, Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) beam, and a custom-designed "peace-dove" beam via the principle of binary holography. To verify the high shaping rate, the Airy beam and LG beam are generated alternately at 4.2 kHz, i.e., the maximum pattern rate of our DMD. The overall efficiency of the DUBS is measured to be 4.7%. With the high-speed and high-resolution beam-shaping capability, the DUBS may find important applications in nonlinear microscopy, optical manipulation, and microscale/nanoscale laser machining, etc.

A novel reflectometer for relative reflectance measurements of CCDs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hart, Murdock; Barkhouser, Robert H.; Gunn, James E.; Smee, Stephen A.

2016-07-01

The high quantum efficiencies (QE) of backside illuminated charge coupled devices (CCD) has ushered in the age of the large scale astronomical survey. The QE of these devices can be greater than 90%, and is dependent upon the operating temperature, device thickness, backside charging mechanisms, and anti-reflection (AR) coatings. But at optical wavelengths the QE is well approximated as one minus the reflectance, thus the measurement of the backside reflectivity of these devices provides a second independent measure of their QE. We have designed and constructed a novel instrument to measure the relative specular reflectance of CCD detectors, with a significant portion of this device being constructed using a 3D fused deposition model (FDM) printer. This device implements both a monitor and measurement photodiode to simultaneously collect in- cident and reflected measurements reducing errors introduced by the relative reflectance calibration process. While most relative reflectometers are highly dependent upon a precisely repeatable target distance for accurate measurements, we have implemented a method of measurement which minimizes these errors. Using the reflectometer we have measured the reflectance of two types of Hamamatsu CCD detectors. The first device is a Hamamatsu 2k x 4k backside illuminated high resistivity p-type silicon detector which has been optimized to operate in the blue from 380 nm - 650 nm. The second detector being a 2k x 4k backside illuminated high resistivity p-type silicon detector optimized for use in the red from 640 nm - 960 nm. We have not only been able to measure the reflectance of these devices as a function of wavelength we have also sampled the reflectance as a function of position on the device, and found a reflection gradient across these devices.

Three-dimensional device characterization by high-speed cinematography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maier, Claus; Hofer, Eberhard P.

2001-10-01

Testing of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) for optimization purposes or reliability checks can be supported by device visualization whenever an optical access is available. The difficulty in such an investigation is the short time duration of dynamical phenomena in micro devices. This paper presents a test setup to visualize movements within MEMS in real-time and in two perpendicular directions. A three-dimensional view is achieved by the combination of a commercial high-speed camera system, which allows to take up to 8 images of the same process with a minimum interframe time of 10 ns for the first direction, with a second visualization system consisting of a highly sensitive CCD camera working with a multiple exposure LED illumination in the perpendicular direction. Well synchronized this provides 3-D information which is treated by digital image processing to correct image distortions and to perform the detection of object contours. Symmetric and asymmetric binary collisions of micro drops are chosen as test experiments, featuring coalescence and surface rupture. Another application shown here is the investigation of sprays produced by an atomizer. The second direction of view is a prerequisite for this measurement to select an intended plane of focus.

Characterization of Custom-Designed Charge-Coupled Devices for Applications to Gas and Aerosol Monitoring Sensorcraft Instrument

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Refaat, Tamer F.; Abedin, M. Nurul; Farnsworth, Glenn R.; Garcia, Christopher S.; Zawodny, Joseph M.

2005-01-01

Custom-designed charge-coupled devices (CCD) for Gas and Aerosols Monitoring Sensorcraft instrument were developed. These custom-designed CCD devices are linear arrays with pixel format of 512x1 elements and pixel size of 10x200 sq m. These devices were characterized at NASA Langley Research Center to achieve a full well capacity as high as 6,000,000 e-. This met the aircraft flight mission requirements in terms of signal-to-noise performance and maximum dynamic range. Characterization and analysis of the electrical and optical properties of the CCDs were carried out at room temperature. This includes measurements of photon transfer curves, gain coefficient histograms, read noise, and spectral response. Test results obtained on these devices successfully demonstrated the objectives of the aircraft flight mission. In this paper, we describe the characterization results and also discuss their applications to future mission.

Optical synthesizer for a large quadrant-array CCD camera: Center director's discretionary fund

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagyard, Mona J.

1992-01-01

The objective of this program was to design and develop an optical device, an optical synthesizer, that focuses four contiguous quadrants of a solar image on four spatially separated CCD arrays that are part of a unique CCD camera system. This camera and the optical synthesizer will be part of the new NASA-Marshall Experimental Vector Magnetograph, and instrument developed to measure the Sun's magnetic field as accurately as present technology allows. The tasks undertaken in the program are outlined and the final detailed optical design is presented.

Construction of a photochemical reactor combining a CCD spectrophotometer and a LED radiation source.

PubMed

Gombár, Melinda; Józsa, Éva; Braun, Mihály; Ősz, Katalin

2012-10-01

An inexpensive photoreactor using LED light sources and a fibre-optic CCD spectrophotometer as a detector was built by designing a special cell holder for standard 1.000 cm cuvettes. The use of this device was demonstrated by studying the aqueous photochemical reaction of 2,5-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone. The developed method combines the highly quantitative data collection of CCD spectrophotometers with the possibility of illuminating the sample independently of the detecting light beam, which is a substantial improvement of the method using diode array spectrophotometers as photoreactors.

NEUTRON RADIATION DAMAGE IN CCD CAMERAS AT JOINT EUROPEAN TORUS (JET).

PubMed

Milocco, Alberto; Conroy, Sean; Popovichev, Sergey; Sergienko, Gennady; Huber, Alexander

2017-10-26

The neutron and gamma radiations in large fusion reactors are responsible for damage to charged couple device (CCD) cameras deployed for applied diagnostics. Based on the ASTM guide E722-09, the 'equivalent 1 MeV neutron fluence in silicon' was calculated for a set of CCD cameras at the Joint European Torus. Such evaluations would be useful to good practice in the operation of the video systems. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Optical method and apparatus for detection of surface and near-subsurface defects in dense ceramics

DOEpatents

Ellingson, William A.; Brada, Mark P.

1995-01-01

A laser is used in a non-destructive manner to detect surface and near-subsurface defects in dense ceramics and particularly in ceramic bodies with complex shapes such as ceramic bearings, turbine blades, races, and the like. The laser's wavelength is selected based upon the composition of the ceramic sample and the laser can be directed on the sample while the sample is static or in dynamic rotate or translate motion. Light is scattered off surface and subsurface defects using a preselected polarization. The change in polarization angle is used to select the depth and characteristics of surface/subsurface defects. The scattered light is detected by an optical train consisting of a charge coupled device (CCD), or vidicon, television camera which, in turn, is coupled to a video monitor and a computer for digitizing the image. An analyzing polarizer in the optical train allows scattered light at a given polarization angle to be observed for enhancing sensitivity to either surface or near-subsurface defects. Application of digital image processing allows subtraction of digitized images in near real-time providing enhanced sensitivity to subsurface defects. Storing known "feature masks" of identified defects in the computer and comparing the detected scatter pattern (Fourier images) with the stored feature masks allows for automatic classification of detected defects.

Dynamic photoelasticity by TDI imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asundi, Anand K.; Sajan, M. R.

2001-06-01

High speed photographic system like the image rotation camera, the Cranz Schardin camera and the drum camera are typically used for the recording and visualization of dynamic events in stress analysis, fluid mechanics, etc. All these systems are fairly expensive and generally not simple to use. Furthermore they are all based on photographic film recording system requiring time consuming and tedious wet processing of the films. Digital cameras are replacing the conventional cameras, to certain extent in static experiments. Recently, there is lots of interest in development and modifying CCD architectures and recording arrangements for dynamic scenes analysis. Herein we report the use of a CCD camera operating in the Time Delay and Integration mode for digitally recording dynamic photoelastic stress patterns. Applications in strobe and streak photoelastic pattern recording and system limitations will be explained in the paper.

Detection of cavitated or non-cavitated approximal enamel caries lesions using CMOS and CCD digital X-ray sensors and conventional D and F-speed films at different exposure conditions.

PubMed

Bottenberg, Peter; Jacquet, Wolfgang; Stachniss, Vitus; Wellnitz, Johann; Schulte, Andreas G

2011-04-01

To determine the ability of digital sensors (CMOS and CCD sensors) and D and F-speed films to detect cavitated and non-cavitated enamel caries lesions at different exposure conditions compared to a gold standard. 100 extracted human molars and premolars were selected and mounted in a block between two neighboring teeth. Sensors or films were exposed with voltages of 60 or 70 kVp at varying times. Three observers assessed each approximal site independently. Lesion depth was rated according to an anatomical five-point scale (0 = no lesion to 4 = lesion reaching inner half of dentin). Serial sections of resin-embedded teeth were prepared. Gold-standard scores were established by consensus based on histological sectioning. A carious lesion was present at scores of 1 and higher. Statistical evaluation (sensitivity, specificity and receiver-operating curves) was based on caries-free surfaces and those presenting enamel caries (n=116). The ROC curves had "area under the curve" values (Az) from 0.50 (F-speed, 70 kVp, 0.20 seconds) to 0.58 (CCD 60 kVp, 0.08 seconds). The detection percentage of cavitated lesions was generally higher (0-52%, depending on technique and observer) than that of non-cavitated lesions (3-32%). The CMOS sensor showed Az values comparable to the CCD sensors but required higher exposure times. There was no significant difference between 60 and 70 kVp.

A programmable CCD driver circuit for multiphase CCD operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewin, Audrey J.; Reed, Kenneth V.

1989-01-01

A programmable CCD (charge-coupled device) driver circuit was designed to drive CCDs in multiphased modes. The purpose of the drive electronics is to operate developmental CCD imaging arrays for NASA's tiltable moderate resolution imaging spectrometer (MODIS-T). Five objectives for the driver were considered during its design: (1) the circuit drives CCD electrode voltages between 0 V and +30 V to produce reasonable potential wells, (2) the driving sequence is started with one input signal, (3) the driving sequence is started with one input signal, (4) the circuit allows programming of frame sequences required by arrays of any size, (5) it produces interfacing signals for the CCD and the DTF (detector test facility). Simulation of the driver verified its function with the master clock running up to 10 MHz. This suggests a maximum rate of 400,000 pixels/s. Timing and packaging parameters were verified. The design uses 54 TTL (transistor-transistor logic) chips. Two versions of hardware were fabricated: wirewrap and printed circuit board. Both were verified functionally with a logic analyzer.

Adjustment of multi-CCD-chip-color-camera heads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guyenot, Volker; Tittelbach, Guenther; Palme, Martin

1999-09-01

The principle of beam-splitter-multi-chip cameras consists in splitting an image into differential multiple images of different spectral ranges and in distributing these onto separate black and white CCD-sensors. The resulting electrical signals from the chips are recombined to produce a high quality color picture on the monitor. Because this principle guarantees higher resolution and sensitivity in comparison to conventional single-chip camera heads, the greater effort is acceptable. Furthermore, multi-chip cameras obtain the compete spectral information for each individual object point while single-chip system must rely on interpolation. In a joint project, Fraunhofer IOF and STRACON GmbH and in future COBRA electronic GmbH develop methods for designing the optics and dichroitic mirror system of such prism color beam splitter devices. Additionally, techniques and equipment for the alignment and assembly of color beam splitter-multi-CCD-devices on the basis of gluing with UV-curable adhesives have been developed, too.

Charged Coupled Device Debris Telescope Observations of the Geosynchronous Orbital Debris Environment - Observing Year: 1998

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jarvis, K. S.; Thumm, T. L.; Matney, M. J.; Jorgensen, K.; Stansbery, E. G.; Africano, J. L.; Sydney, P. F.; Mulrooney, M. K.

2002-01-01

NASA has been using the charged coupled device (CCD) debris telescope (CDT)--a transportable 32-cm Schmidt telescope located near Cloudcroft, New Mexico-to help characterize the debris environment in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO). The CDT is equipped with a SITe 512 x 512 CCD camera whose 24 m2 (12.5 arc sec) pixels produce a 1.7 x 1.7-deg field of view. The CDT system can therefore detect l7th-magnitude objects in a 20-sec integration corresponding to an approx. 0.6-m diameter, 0.20 albedo object at 36,000 km. The telescope pointing and CCD operation are computer controlled to collect data automatically for an entire night. The CDT has collected more than 1500 hrs of data since November 1997. This report describes the collection and analysis of 58 nights (approx. 420 hrs) of data acquired in 1998.

CCD developments for particle colliders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stefanov, Konstantin D.

2006-09-01

Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) have been successfully used in several high-energy physics experiments over the last 20 years. Their small pixel size and excellent precision provide superb tool for studying of short-lived particles and understanding the nature at fundamental level. Over the last years the Linear Collider Flavour Identification (LCFI) collaboration has developed Column-Parallel CCDs (CPCCD) and CMOS readout chips to be used for the vertex detector at the International Linear Collider (ILC). The CPCCDs are very fast devices capable of satisfying the challenging requirements imposed by the beam structure of the superconducting accelerator. First set of prototype devices have been designed, manufactured and successfully tested, with second-generation chips on the way. Another idea for CCD-based device, the In-situ Storage Image Sensor (ISIS) is also under development and the first prototype is in production.

CCD-based vertex detector for ILC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stefanov, Konstantin D.

2006-12-01

Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs) have been successfully used in several high-energy physics experiments over the last 20 years. Their small pixel size and excellent precision provide a superb tool for studying of short-lived particles and understanding the nature at fundamental level. Over the last few years the Linear Collider Flavour Identification (LCFI) collaboration has developed Column-Parallel CCDs (CPCCD) and CMOS readout chips, to be used for the vertex detector at the International Linear Collider (ILC). The CPCCDs are very fast devices capable of satisfying the challenging requirements imposed by the beam structure of the superconducting accelerator. The first set of prototype devices have been successfully designed, manufactured and tested, with second generation chips on the way. Another idea for CCD-based device, the In-situ Storage Image Sensor (ISIS) is also under development and the first prototype has been manufactured.

A webcam in Bayer-mode as a light beam profiler for the near infra-red

PubMed Central

Langer, Gregor; Hochreiner, Armin; Burgholzer, Peter; Berer, Thomas

2013-01-01

Beam profiles are commonly measured with complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS) or charge coupled devices (CCD). The devices are fast and reliable but expensive. By making use of the fact that the Bayer-filter in commercial webcams is transparent in the near infra-red (>800 nm) and their CCD chips are sensitive up to about 1100 nm, we demonstrate a cheap and simple way to measure laser beam profiles with a resolution down to around ±1 μm, which is close to the resolution of the knife-edge technique. PMID:23645943

A webcam in Bayer-mode as a light beam profiler for the near infra-red.

PubMed

Langer, Gregor; Hochreiner, Armin; Burgholzer, Peter; Berer, Thomas

2013-05-01

Beam profiles are commonly measured with complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS) or charge coupled devices (CCD). The devices are fast and reliable but expensive. By making use of the fact that the Bayer-filter in commercial webcams is transparent in the near infra-red (>800 nm) and their CCD chips are sensitive up to about 1100 nm, we demonstrate a cheap and simple way to measure laser beam profiles with a resolution down to around ±1 μm, which is close to the resolution of the knife-edge technique.

Digital Charge Coupled Device (CCD) Camera System Architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babey, S. K.; Anger, C. D.; Green, B. D.

1987-03-01

We propose a modeling system for generic objects in order to recognize different objects from the same category with only one generic model. The representation consists of a prototype, represented by parts and their configuration. Parts are modeled by superquadric volumetric primitives which are combined via Boolean operations to form objects. Variations between objects within a category are described by allowable changes in structure and shape deformations of prototypical parts. Each prototypical part and relation has a set of associated features that can be recognized in the images. These features are used for selecting models from the model data base. The selected hypothetical models are then verified on the geometric level by deforming the prototype in allowable ways to match the data. We base our design of the modeling system upon the current psychological theories of categorization and of human visual perception.

Maturing CCD Photon-Counting Technology for Space Flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mallik, Udayan; Lyon, Richard; Petrone, Peter; McElwain, Michael; Benford, Dominic; Clampin, Mark; Hicks, Brian

2015-01-01

This paper discusses charge blooming and starlight saturation - two potential technical problems - when using an Electron Multiplying Charge Coupled Device (EMCCD) type detector in a high-contrast instrument for imaging exoplanets. These problems especially affect an interferometric type coronagraph - coronagraphs that do not use a mask to physically block starlight in the science channel of the instrument. These problems are presented using images taken with a commercial Princeton Instrument EMCCD camera in the Goddard Space Flight Center's (GSFC), Interferometric Coronagraph facility. In addition, this paper discusses techniques to overcome such problems. This paper also discusses the development and architecture of a Field Programmable Gate Array and Digital-to-Analog Converter based shaped clock controller for a photon-counting EMCCD camera. The discussion contained here will inform high-contrast imaging groups in their work with EMCCD detectors.

[Techniques for pixel response nonuniformity correction of CCD in interferential imaging spectrometer].

PubMed

Yao, Tao; Yin, Shi-Min; Xiangli, Bin; Lü, Qun-Bo

2010-06-01

Based on in-depth analysis of the relative radiation scaling theorem and acquired scaling data of pixel response nonuniformity correction of CCD (charge-coupled device) in spaceborne visible interferential imaging spectrometer, a pixel response nonuniformity correction method of CCD adapted to visible and infrared interferential imaging spectrometer system was studied out, and it availably resolved the engineering technical problem of nonuniformity correction in detector arrays for interferential imaging spectrometer system. The quantitative impact of CCD nonuniformity on interferogram correction and recovery spectrum accuracy was given simultaneously. Furthermore, an improved method with calibration and nonuniformity correction done after the instrument is successfully assembled was proposed. The method can save time and manpower. It can correct nonuniformity caused by other reasons in spectrometer system besides CCD itself's nonuniformity, can acquire recalibration data when working environment is changed, and can also more effectively improve the nonuniformity calibration accuracy of interferential imaging

Radiation-tolerant imaging device

DOEpatents

Colella, N.J.; Kimbrough, J.R.

1996-11-19

A barrier at a uniform depth for an entire wafer is used to produce imaging devices less susceptible to noise pulses produced by the passage of ionizing radiation. The barrier prevents charge created in the bulk silicon of a CCD detector or a semiconductor logic or memory device from entering the collection volume of each pixel in the imaging device. The charge barrier is a physical barrier, a potential barrier, or a combination of both. The physical barrier is formed by an SiO{sub 2} insulator. The potential barrier is formed by increasing the concentration of majority carriers (holes) to combine with the electron`s generated by the ionizing radiation. A manufacturer of CCD imaging devices can produce radiation-tolerant devices by merely changing the wafer type fed into his process stream from a standard wafer to one possessing a barrier beneath its surface, thus introducing a very small added cost to his production cost. An effective barrier type is an SiO{sub 2} layer. 7 figs.

Radiation-tolerant imaging device

DOEpatents

Colella, Nicholas J.; Kimbrough, Joseph R.

1996-01-01

A barrier at a uniform depth for an entire wafer is used to produce imaging devices less susceptible to noise pulses produced by the passage of ionizing radiation. The barrier prevents charge created in the bulk silicon of a CCD detector or a semiconductor logic or memory device from entering the collection volume of each pixel in the imaging device. The charge barrier is a physical barrier, a potential barrier, or a combination of both. The physical barrier is formed by an SiO.sub.2 insulator. The potential barrier is formed by increasing the concentration of majority carriers (holes) to combine with the electron's generated by the ionizing radiation. A manufacturer of CCD imaging devices can produce radiation-tolerant devices by merely changing the wafer type fed into his process stream from a standard wafer to one possessing a barrier beneath its surface, thus introducing a very small added cost to his production cost. An effective barrier type is an SiO.sub.2 layer.

DDC Systems for Searching for Near-Earth Asteroids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, A.

1994-01-01

Large format CCD systems are superior to photographic systems in terms of quantum efficiency and that they yield digital output directly, which can be computer analyzed to detect moving objects and to obtain astrometric measurements.

A 5- μ m pitch charge-coupled device optimized for resonant inelastic soft X-ray scattering

DOE PAGES

Andresen, N. C.; Denes, P.; Goldschmidt, A.; ...

2017-08-08

Here, we have developed a charge-coupled device (CCD) with 5 μm × 45 μm pixels on high-resistivity silicon. The fully depleted 200 μm-thick silicon detector is back-illuminated through a 10 nm-thick in situ doped polysilicon window and is thus highly efficient for soft through > 8 keV hard X-rays. The device described here is a 1.5 megapixel CCD with 2496 × 620 pixels. The pixel and camera geometry was optimized for Resonant Inelastic X-ray Scattering (RIXS) and is particularly advantageous for spectrometers with limited arm lengths. In this article, we describe the device architecture, construction and operation, and its performancemore » during tests at the Advance Light Source (ALS) 8.0.1 RIXS beamline. The improved spectroscopic performance, when compared with a current standard commercial camera, is demonstrated with a ~280 eV (C K) X-ray beam on a graphite sample. Readout noise is typically 3-6 electrons and the point spread function for soft C K X-rays in the 5 μm direction is 4.0 μm ± 0.2 μm. Finally, the measured quantum efficiency of the CCD is greater than 75% in the range from 200 eV to 1 keV.« less

A 5-μm pitch charge-coupled device optimized for resonant inelastic soft X-ray scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andresen, N. C.; Denes, P.; Goldschmidt, A.; Joseph, J.; Karcher, A.; Tindall, C. S.

2017-08-01

We have developed a charge-coupled device (CCD) with 5 μm × 45 μm pixels on high-resistivity silicon. The fully depleted 200 μm-thick silicon detector is back-illuminated through a 10 nm-thick in situ doped polysilicon window and is thus highly efficient for soft through >8 keV hard X-rays. The device described here is a 1.5 megapixel CCD with 2496 × 620 pixels. The pixel and camera geometry was optimized for Resonant Inelastic X-ray Scattering (RIXS) and is particularly advantageous for spectrometers with limited arm lengths. In this article, we describe the device architecture, construction and operation, and its performance during tests at the Advance Light Source (ALS) 8.0.1 RIXS beamline. The improved spectroscopic performance, when compared with a current standard commercial camera, is demonstrated with a ˜280 eV (CK) X-ray beam on a graphite sample. Readout noise is typically 3-6 electrons and the point spread function for soft CK X-rays in the 5 μm direction is 4.0 μm ± 0.2 μm. The measured quantum efficiency of the CCD is greater than 75% in the range from 200 eV to 1 keV.

A 5-μm pitch charge-coupled device optimized for resonant inelastic soft X-ray scattering.

PubMed

Andresen, N C; Denes, P; Goldschmidt, A; Joseph, J; Karcher, A; Tindall, C S

2017-08-01

We have developed a charge-coupled device (CCD) with 5 μm × 45 μm pixels on high-resistivity silicon. The fully depleted 200 μm-thick silicon detector is back-illuminated through a 10 nm-thick in situ doped polysilicon window and is thus highly efficient for soft through >8 keV hard X-rays. The device described here is a 1.5 megapixel CCD with 2496 × 620 pixels. The pixel and camera geometry was optimized for Resonant Inelastic X-ray Scattering (RIXS) and is particularly advantageous for spectrometers with limited arm lengths. In this article, we describe the device architecture, construction and operation, and its performance during tests at the Advance Light Source (ALS) 8.0.1 RIXS beamline. The improved spectroscopic performance, when compared with a current standard commercial camera, is demonstrated with a ∼280 eV (C K ) X-ray beam on a graphite sample. Readout noise is typically 3-6 electrons and the point spread function for soft C K X-rays in the 5 μm direction is 4.0 μm ± 0.2 μm. The measured quantum efficiency of the CCD is greater than 75% in the range from 200 eV to 1 keV.

Development of an integrated countermeasure device for use in long-duration spaceflight

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Streeper, T.; Cavanagh, P. R.; Hanson, A. M.; Carpenter, R. D.; Saeed, I.; Kornak, J.; Frassetto, L.; Grodsinsky, C.; Funk, J.; Lee, S. M. C.; Spiering, B. A.; Bloomberg, J.; Mulavara, A.; Sibonga, J.; Lang, T.

2011-06-01

Prolonged weightlessness is associated with declines in musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and sensorimotor health. Consequently, in-flight countermeasures are required to preserve astronaut health. We developed and tested a novel exercise countermeasure device (CCD) for use in spaceflight with the aim of preserving musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health along with an incorporated balance training component. Additionally, the CCD features a compact footprint, and a low power requirement. Methods: After design and development of the CCD, we carried out a training study to test its ability to improve cardiovascular and muscular fitness in healthy volunteers. Fourteen male and female subjects (41.4±9.0 years, 69.5±15.4 kg) completed 12 weeks (3 sessions per week) of concurrent strength and endurance training on the CCD. All training was conducted with the subject in orthostasis. When configured for spaceflight, subjects will be fixed to the device via a vest with loop attachments secured to subject load devices. Subjects were tested at baseline and after 12 weeks for 1-repetition max leg press strength (1RM), peak oxygen consumption (VO 2peak), and isokinetic joint torque (ISO) at the hip, knee, and ankle. Additionally, we evaluated subjects after 6 weeks of training for changes in VO 2peak and 1RM. Results: VO 2peak and 1RM improved after 6 weeks, with additional improvements after 12 weeks (1.95±0.5, 2.28±0.5, 2.47±0.6 L min -1, and 131.2±63.9,182.8±75.0, 207.0±75.0 kg) for baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, respectively. ISO for hip adduction, adduction, and ankle plantar flexion improved after 12 weeks of training (70.3±39.5, 76.8±39.2, and 55.7±21.7 N m vs. 86.1±37.3, 85.1±34.3, and 62.1±26.4 N m, respectively). No changes were observed for ISO during hip flexion, knee extension, or knee flexion. Conclusions: The CCD is effective at improving cardiovascular fitness and isotonic leg strength in healthy adults. Further, the improvement in hip adductor and abductor torque provides support that the CCD may provide additional protection for the preservation of bone health at the hip.

Modular Scanning Confocal Microscope with Digital Image Processing

PubMed Central

McCluskey, Matthew D.

2016-01-01

In conventional confocal microscopy, a physical pinhole is placed at the image plane prior to the detector to limit the observation volume. In this work, we present a modular design of a scanning confocal microscope which uses a CCD camera to replace the physical pinhole for materials science applications. Experimental scans were performed on a microscope resolution target, a semiconductor chip carrier, and a piece of etched silicon wafer. The data collected by the CCD were processed to yield images of the specimen. By selecting effective pixels in the recorded CCD images, a virtual pinhole is created. By analyzing the image moments of the imaging data, a lateral resolution enhancement is achieved by using a 20 × / NA = 0.4 microscope objective at 532 nm laser wavelength. PMID:27829052

Spectral analysis using CCDs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hewes, C. R.; Brodersen, R. W.; De Wit, M.; Buss, D. D.

1976-01-01

Charge-coupled devices (CCDs) are ideally suited for performing sampled-data transversal filtering operations in the analog domain. Two algorithms have been identified for performing spectral analysis in which the bulk of the computation can be performed in a CCD transversal filter; the chirp z-transform and the prime transform. CCD implementation of both these transform algorithms is presented together with performance data and applications.

pnCCD for photon detection from near-infrared to X-rays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meidinger, Norbert; Andritschke, Robert; Hartmann, Robert; Herrmann, Sven; Holl, Peter; Lutz, Gerhard; Strüder, Lothar

2006-09-01

A pnCCD is a special type of charge-coupled device developed for spectroscopy and imaging of X-rays with high time resolution and quantum efficiency. Its most famous application is the operation on the XMM-Newton satellite, an X-ray astronomy mission that was launched by the European space agency in 1999. The excellent performance of the focal plane camera has been maintained for more than 6 years in orbit. The energy resolution in particular has shown hardly any degradation since launch. In order to satisfy the requirements of future X-ray astronomy missions as well as those of ground-based experiments, a new type of pnCCD has been developed. This ‘frame-store pnCCD’ shows an enhanced performance compared to the XMM-Newton type of pnCCD. Now, more options in device design and operation are available to tailor the detector to its respective application. Part of this concept is a programmable analog signal processor, which has been developed for the readout of the CCD signals. The electronic noise of the new detector has a value of only 2 electrons equivalent noise charge (ENC), which is less than half of the figure achieved for the XMM-Newton-type pnCCD. The energy resolution for the Mn-Kα line at 5.9 keV is approximately 130 eV FWHM. We have close to 100% quantum efficiency for both low- and high-energy photon detection (e.g. the C-K line at 277 eV, and the Ge-Kα line at 10 keV, respectively). Very high frame rates of 1000 images/s have been achieved due to the ultra-fast readout accomplished by the parallel architecture of the pnCCD and the analog signal processor. Excellent spectroscopic performance is shown even at the relatively high operating temperature of -25 °C that can be achieved by a Peltier cooler. The applications of the low-noise and fast pnCCD detector are not limited to the detection of X-rays. With an anti-reflective coating deposited on the photon entrance window, we achieve high quantum efficiency also for near-infrared and optical photons. A novel type of pnCCD is in preparation, which allows single optical photon counting. This feature is accomplished by implementation of an avalanche-type amplifier in the pnCCD concept.

Visualization of permanent marks in progressive addition lenses by digital in-line holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perucho, Beatriz; Micó, Vicente

2013-04-01

A critical issue in the production of ophthalmic lenses is to guarantee the correct centering and alignment throughout the manufacturing and mounting processes. Aimed to that, progressive addition lenses (PALs) incorporate permanent marks at standardized locations at the lens. Those marks are engraved upon the surface and provide the model identification and addition power of the PAL, as well as to serve as locator marks to re-ink the removable marks again if necessary. Although the permanent marks should be visible by simple visual inspection, those marks are often faint and weak on new lenses providing low contrast, obscured by scratches on older lenses, and partially occluded and difficult to recognize on tinted or anti-reflection coated lenses. In this contribution, we present an extremely simple visualization system for permanent marks in PALs based on digital in-line holography. Light emitted by a superluminescent diode (SLD) is used to illuminate the PAL which is placed just before a digital (CCD) sensor. Thus, the CCD records an in-line hologram incoming from the diffracted wavefront provided by the PAL. As a result, it is possible to recover an in-focus image of the PAL inspected region by means of classical holographic tools applied in the digital domain. This numerical process involves digital recording of the in-line hologram, numerical back propagation to the PAL plane, and some digital processing to reduce noise and present a high quality final image. Preliminary experimental results are provided showing the applicability of the proposed method.

Scientific and technical collaboration between Russian and Ukranian researchers and manufacturers on the development of astronomical instruments equipped with advanced detection services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vishnevsky, G. I.; Galyatkin, I. A.; Zhuk, A. A.; Iblyaminova, A. F.; Kossov, V. G.; Levko, G. V.; Nesterov, V. K.; Rivkind, V. L.; Rogalev, Yu. N.; Smirnov, A. V.; Gumerov, R. I.; Bikmaev, I. F.; Pinigin, G. I.; Shulga, A. V.; Kovalchyk, A. V.; Protsyuk, Yu. I.; Malevinsky, S. V.; Abrosimov, V. M.; Mironenko, V. N.; Savchenko, V. V.; Ivaschenko, Yu. N.; Andruk, V. M.; Dalinenko, I. N.; Vydrevich, M. G.

2003-01-01

The paper presents the possibilities and a list of tasks that are solved by collaboration between research and production companies, and astronomical observatories of Russia and Ukraine in the field of development, modernization and equipping of various telescopes (the AMC, RTT-150, Zeiss-600 and quantum-optical system Sazhen-S types) with advanced charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras. CCD imagers and ditital CCD cameras designed and manufactured by the "Electron-Optronic" Research & Production Company, St Petersburg, to equip astronomical telescopes and scientific instruments are described.

ESA's CCD test bench for the PLATO mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beaufort, Thierry; Duvet, Ludovic; Bloemmaert, Sander; Lemmel, Frederic; Prod'homme, Thibaut; Verhoeve, Peter; Smit, Hans; Butler, Bart; van der Luijt, Cornelis; Heijnen, Jerko; Visser, Ivo

2016-08-01

PLATO { PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars { is the third medium-class mission to be selected in the European Space Agency (ESA) Science and Robotic Exploration Cosmic Vision programme. Due for launch in 2025, the payload makes use of a large format (8 cm x 8 cm) Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs), the e2v CCD270 operated at 4 MHz and at -70 C. To de-risk the PLATO CCD qualification programme initiated in 2014 and support the mission definition process, ESA's Payload Technology Validation section from the Future Missions Office has developed a dedicated test bench.

Trap pumping schemes for the Euclid CCD273 detector: characterisation of electrodes and defects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skottfelt, J.; Hall, D. J.; Dryer, B.; Bush, N.; Campa, J.; Gow, J. P. D.; Holland, A. D.; Jordan, D.; Burt, D.

2017-12-01

The VISible imager instrument (VIS) on board the Euclid mission will deliver high resolution shape measurements of galaxies down to very faint limits (R ~ 25 at 10σ) in a large part of the sky, in order to infer the distribution of dark matter in the Universe. To help mitigate radiation damage effects that will accumulate in the detectors over the mission lifetime, the properties of the radiation induced traps needs to be known with as high precision as possible. For this purpose the trap pumping method will be employed as part of the in-orbit calibration routines. Using trap pumping it is possible to identify and characterise single traps in a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD), thus providing information such as the density, emission time constants and sub-pixel positions of the traps in the detectors. This paper presents the trap pumping algorithms used for the radiation testing campaign of the CCD273 detectors, performed by the Centre for Electronic Imaging (CEI) at the Open University, that will be used for the VIS instrument. The CCD273 is a four-phase device with uneven phase widths, which complicates the trap pumping analysis. However, we find that by optimising the trap pumping algorithms and analysis routines, it is possible to obtain sub-pixel and even sub-phase positional information about the traps. Further, by comparing trap pumping data with simulations, it is possible to gain more information about the effective electrode widths of the device.

Characterization of a fully depleted CCD on high-resistivity silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stover, Richard J.; Wei, Mingzhi; Lee, Y.; Gilmore, David K.; Holland, S. E.; Groom, D. E.; Moses, William W.; Perlmutter, Saul; Goldhaber, G.; Pennypacker, C.; Wang, N. W.; Palaio, N.

1997-04-01

Most scientific CCD imagers are fabricated on 30-50 (Omega) - cm epitaxial silicon. When illuminated form the front side of the device they generally have low quantum efficiency in the blue region of the visible spectrum because of strong absorption in the polycrystalline silicon gates as well as poor quantum efficiency in the far red and near infrared region of the spectrum because of the shallow depletion depth of the low-resistivity silicon. To enhance the blue response of scientific CCDs they are often thinned and illuminated from the back side. While blue response is greatly enhanced by this process, it is expensive and it introduces additional problems for the red end of the spectrum. A typical thinned CCD is 15 to 25 micrometers thick, and at wavelengths beyond about 800 nm the absorption depth becomes comparable to the thickness of the device, leading to interference fringes from reflected light. Because these interference fringes are of high order, the spatial pattern of the fringes is extremely sensitive to small changes in the optical illumination of the detector. Calibration and removal of the effects of the fringes is one of the primary limitations on the performance of astronomical images taken at wavelengths of 800 nm or more. In this paper we present results from the characterization of a CCD which promises to address many of the problems of typical thinned CCDs. The CCD reported on here was fabricated at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) on a 10-12 K$OMega-cm n-type silicon substrate.THe CCD is a 200 by 200 15-micrometers square pixel array, and due to the very high resistivity of the starting material, the entire 300 micrometers substrate is depleted. Full depletion works because of the gettering technology developed at LBNL which keeps leakage current down. Both front-side illuminated and backside illuminated devices have been tested. We have measured quantum efficiency, read-noise, full-well, charge-transfer efficiency, and leakage current. We have also observed the effects of clocking waveform shapes on spurious charge generation. While these new CCDs promise to be a major advance in CD technology, they too have limitations such as charge spreading and cosmic-ray effects. These limitations have been characterized and are presented. Examples of astronomical observations obtained with the backside CCD on the 1-meter reflector at Lick Observatory are presented.

The x-ray light valve: a low-cost, digital radiographic imaging system-spatial resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacDougall, Robert D.; Koprinarov, Ivaylo; Webster, Christie A.; Rowlands, J. A.

2007-03-01

In recent years, new x-ray radiographic systems based on large area flat panel technology have revolutionized our capability to produce digital x-ray radiographic images. However, these active matrix flat panel imagers (AMFPIs) are extraordinarily expensive compared to the systems they are replacing. Thus there is a need for a low cost digital imaging system for general applications in radiology. Different approaches have been considered to make lower cost, integrated x-ray imaging devices for digital radiography, including: scanned projection x-ray, an integrated approach based on computed radiography technology and optically demagnified x-ray screen/CCD systems. These approaches suffer from either high cost or high mechanical complexity and do not have the image quality of AMFPIs. We have identified a new approach - the X-ray Light Valve (XLV). The XLV has the potential to achieve the immediate readout in an integrated system with image quality comparable to AMFPIs. The XLV concept combines three well-established and hence lowcost technologies: an amorphous selenium (a-Se) layer to convert x-rays to image charge, a liquid crystal (LC) cell as an analog display, and an optical scanner for image digitization. Here we investigate the spatial resolution possible with XLV systems. Both a-Se and LC cells have both been shown separately to have inherently very high spatial resolution. Due to the close electrostatic coupling in the XLV, it can be expected that the spatial resolution of this system will also be very high. A prototype XLV was made and a typical office scanner was used for image digitization. The Modulation Transfer Function was measured and the limiting factor was seen to be the optical scanner. However, even with this limitation the XLV system is able to meet or exceed the resolution requirements for chest radiography.

Solid state television camera (CCD-buried channel)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

The development of an all solid state television camera, which uses a buried channel charge coupled device (CCD) as the image sensor, was undertaken. A 380 x 488 element CCD array is utilized to ensure compatibility with 525 line transmission and display monitor equipment. Specific camera design approaches selected for study and analysis included (a) optional clocking modes for either fast (1/60 second) or normal (1/30 second) frame readout, (b) techniques for the elimination or suppression of CCD blemish effects, and (c) automatic light control and video gain control (i.e., ALC and AGC) techniques to eliminate or minimize sensor overload due to bright objects in the scene. Preferred approaches were determined and integrated into a deliverable solid state TV camera which addressed the program requirements for a prototype qualifiable to space environment conditions.

Solid state television camera (CCD-buried channel), revision 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

An all solid state television camera was designed which uses a buried channel charge coupled device (CCD) as the image sensor. A 380 x 488 element CCD array is utilized to ensure compatibility with 525-line transmission and display monitor equipment. Specific camera design approaches selected for study and analysis included (1) optional clocking modes for either fast (1/60 second) or normal (1/30 second) frame readout, (2) techniques for the elimination or suppression of CCD blemish effects, and (3) automatic light control and video gain control techniques to eliminate or minimize sensor overload due to bright objects in the scene. Preferred approaches were determined and integrated into a deliverable solid state TV camera which addressed the program requirements for a prototype qualifiable to space environment conditions.

Solid state, CCD-buried channel, television camera study and design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoagland, K. A.; Balopole, H.

1976-01-01

An investigation of an all solid state television camera design, which uses a buried channel charge-coupled device (CCD) as the image sensor, was undertaken. A 380 x 488 element CCD array was utilized to ensure compatibility with 525 line transmission and display monitor equipment. Specific camera design approaches selected for study and analysis included (a) optional clocking modes for either fast (1/60 second) or normal (1/30 second) frame readout, (b) techniques for the elimination or suppression of CCD blemish effects, and (c) automatic light control and video gain control techniques to eliminate or minimize sensor overload due to bright objects in the scene. Preferred approaches were determined and integrated into a design which addresses the program requirements for a deliverable solid state TV camera.

Measurements of 42 Wide CPM Pairs with a CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harshaw, Richard

2015-11-01

This paper addresses the use of a Skyris 618C color CCD camera as a means of obtaining data for analysis in the measurement of wide common proper motion stars. The equipment setup is described and data collection procedure outlined. Results of the measures of 42 CPM stars are presented, showing the Skyris is a reliable device for the measurement of double stars.

Integrative Multi-Spectral Sensor Device for Far-Infrared and Visible Light Fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiao, Tiezhu; Chen, Lulu; Pang, Yusong; Yan, Gaowei

2018-06-01

Infrared and visible light image fusion technology is a hot spot in the research of multi-sensor fusion technology in recent years. Existing infrared and visible light fusion technologies need to register before fusion because of using two cameras. However, the application effect of the registration technology has yet to be improved. Hence, a novel integrative multi-spectral sensor device is proposed for infrared and visible light fusion, and by using the beam splitter prism, the coaxial light incident from the same lens is projected to the infrared charge coupled device (CCD) and visible light CCD, respectively. In this paper, the imaging mechanism of the proposed sensor device is studied with the process of the signals acquisition and fusion. The simulation experiment, which involves the entire process of the optic system, signal acquisition, and signal fusion, is constructed based on imaging effect model. Additionally, the quality evaluation index is adopted to analyze the simulation result. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed sensor device is effective and feasible.

Digital holographic diagnostics of near-injector region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jaiho

Study of primary breakup of liquid jets is important because it is motivated by the application to gas turbine fuel injectors, diesel fuel injectors, industrial cleaning and washing machine, medical spray, and inkjet printers, among others. When it comes to good injectors, a liquid jet has to be disintegrated into a fine spray near injector region during primary breakup. However the dense spray region near the injectors is optically obscure for Phase Doppler Interferometer like Phase Doppler Particle Analyzers (PDPA). Holography can provide three dimensional image of the dense spray and eliminate the problem of the small depth of focus associated with shadowgraphs. Traditional film-based holographic technique has long been used for three dimensional measurements in particle fields, but it is time consuming, expensive, chemically hazardous. With the development of the CCD sensor, holograms were recorded and reconstructed digitally. Digital microscopic holography (DMH) is similar to digital inline holography (DIH) except that no lens is used to collimate the object beam. The laser beams are expanded with an objective lens and a spatial filter. This eliminates two lenses from the typical optical path used for in-line holography, which results in a much cleaner hologram recording. The DMH was used for drop size and velocity measurements of the breakup of aerated liquid jets because it is unaffected by the non-spherical droplets that are encountered very close to the injector exit, which would cause problems for techniques such as Phase Doppler Particle Analyzer, otherwise. Large field of view was obtained by patching several high resolution holograms. Droplet velocities in three dimensions were measured by tracking their displacements in the streamwise and cross-stream direction and by tracking the change in the plane of focus in the spanwise direction. The uncertainty in spanwise droplet location and velocity measurements using single view DMH was large at least 33%. This large uncertainty in the spanwise direction, however, can be reduced to 2% by employing double view DMH. Double view DMH successfully tracked the three dimensional bending trajectories of polymer jets during electrospinning. The uncertainty in the spatial growth measurements of the bending instability was reduced using orthogonal double view DMH. Moreover, a commercial grade CCD was successfully used for single- and double-pulsed DMH of micro liquid jet breakup. Using a commercial grade CCD for the DMH, the cost of CCD sensor needed for recording holograms can be reduced.

Electronic pictures from charged-coupled devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccann, D. H.; Turly, A. P.; White, M.

1979-01-01

Imaging system uses charge-coupled devices (CCD's) to generate TV-like pictures with high resolution, sensitivity, and signal-to-noise ratio. It combines detectors for five spectral bands as well as processing and control circuitry all on single silicon chip.

Low-cost, high-performance and efficiency computational photometer design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siewert, Sam B.; Shihadeh, Jeries; Myers, Randall; Khandhar, Jay; Ivanov, Vitaly

2014-05-01

Researchers at the University of Alaska Anchorage and University of Colorado Boulder have built a low cost high performance and efficiency drop-in-place Computational Photometer (CP) to test in field applications ranging from port security and safety monitoring to environmental compliance monitoring and surveying. The CP integrates off-the-shelf visible spectrum cameras with near to long wavelength infrared detectors and high resolution digital snapshots in a single device. The proof of concept combines three or more detectors into a single multichannel imaging system that can time correlate read-out, capture, and image process all of the channels concurrently with high performance and energy efficiency. The dual-channel continuous read-out is combined with a third high definition digital snapshot capability and has been designed using an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) to capture, decimate, down-convert, re-encode, and transform images from two standard definition CCD (Charge Coupled Device) cameras at 30Hz. The continuous stereo vision can be time correlated to megapixel high definition snapshots. This proof of concept has been fabricated as a fourlayer PCB (Printed Circuit Board) suitable for use in education and research for low cost high efficiency field monitoring applications that need multispectral and three dimensional imaging capabilities. Initial testing is in progress and includes field testing in ports, potential test flights in un-manned aerial systems, and future planned missions to image harsh environments in the arctic including volcanic plumes, ice formation, and arctic marine life.

High dynamic spectroscopy using a digital micromirror device and periodic shadowing.

PubMed

Kristensson, Elias; Ehn, Andreas; Berrocal, Edouard

2017-01-09

We present an optical solution called DMD-PS to boost the dynamic range of 2D imaging spectroscopic measurements up to 22 bits by incorporating a digital micromirror device (DMD) prior to detection in combination with the periodic shadowing (PS) approach. In contrast to high dynamic range (HDR), where the dynamic range is increased by recording several images at different exposure times, the current approach has the potential of improving the dynamic range from a single exposure and without saturation of the CCD sensor. In the procedure, the spectrum is imaged onto the DMD that selectively reduces the reflection from the intense spectral lines, allowing the signal from the weaker lines to be increased by a factor of 2⁸ via longer exposure times, higher camera gains or increased laser power. This manipulation of the spectrum can either be based on a priori knowledge of the spectrum or by first performing a calibration measurement to sense the intensity distribution. The resulting benefits in detection sensitivity come, however, at the cost of strong generation of interfering stray light. To solve this issue the Periodic Shadowing technique, which is based on spatial light modulation, is also employed. In this proof-of-concept article we describe the full methodology of DMD-PS and demonstrate - using the calibration-based concept - an improvement in dynamic range by a factor of ~100 over conventional imaging spectroscopy. The dynamic range of the presented approach will directly benefit from future technological development of DMDs and camera sensors.

Preparation and thermo-optic switch properties based on chiral azobenzene-containing polyurethane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Feiyan; Qiu, Fengxian; Yang, Dongya; Cao, Guorong; Guan, Yijun; Zhuang, Lin

2013-07-01

A chiral azo chromophore compound 4-(4'-nitro-phenyl-diazenyl)-phenyl-1,2-propanediol ether (NPDPPE) was prepared with p-nitroaniline, phenol and R(-)-3-chloro-1,2-propanediol by the diazo-coupling reaction. Then, the chromophore molecule NPDPPE was polymerized with isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to obtain novel chiral azobenzene-containing polyurethane (CACPU). The chemical structures of chromophore molecule and CACPU were characterized by the FT-IR and UV-visible spectroscopy. The physical properties (thermal conductivity, thermal diffusion coefficient, and specific heat capacity) and mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break and hardness) of CACPU thin films were measured. The refractive index and thermo-optic (TO) coefficient (dn/dT) of CACPU thin film was investigated for TE (transversal electric) polarizations by using an attenuated total reflection (ATR) configuration at the wavelengths of 532, 650 and 850 nm. The transmission loss of film was measured using the charge coupled device (CCD) digital imaging devices. A Y-branch switch and Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) thermo-optic switches based on thermo-optic effect were proposed and the performances of switches were simulated. The results showed that the power consumption of the Y-branch thermo-optic switch was only 3.28 mW. The rising and falling times of Y-branch and MZI switches were 12.0 ms and 2.0 ms, respectively. The conclusion has potential significance to improve and develop new Y-branch digital optical switch (DOS), MZI thermo-optic switch, directional coupler (DC) switch and optical modulators.

Aluminum/ammonia heat pipe gas generation and long term system impact for the Space Telescope's Wide Field Planetary Camera

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, J. A.

1983-01-01

In the Space Telescope's Wide Field Planetary Camera (WFPC) project, eight heat pipes (HPs) are used to remove heat from the camera's inner electronic sensors to the spacecraft's outer, cold radiator surface. For proper device functioning and maximization of the signal-to-noise ratios, the Charge Coupled Devices (CCD's) must be maintained at -95 C or lower. Thermoelectric coolers (TEC's) cool the CCD's, and heat pipes deliver each TEC's nominal six to eight watts of heat to the space radiator, which reaches an equilibrium temperature between -15 C to -70 C. An initial problem was related to the difficulty to produce gas-free aluminum/ammonia heat pipes. An investigation was, therefore, conducted to determine the cause of the gas generation and the impact of this gas on CCD cooling. In order to study the effect of gas slugs in the WFPC system, a separate HP was made. Attention is given to fabrication, testing, and heat pipe gas generation chemistry studies.

Study the performance of star sensor influenced by space radiation damage of image sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Jie; Li, Yudong; Wen, Lin; Guo, Qi; Zhang, Xingyao

2018-03-01

Star sensor is an essential component of spacecraft attitude control system. Spatial radiation can cause star sensor performance degradation, abnormal work, attitude measurement accuracy and reliability reduction. Many studies have already been dedicated to the radiation effect on Charge-Coupled Device(CCD) image sensor, but fewer studies focus on the radiation effect of star sensor. The innovation of this paper is to study the radiation effects from the device level to the system level. The influence of the degradation of CCD image sensor radiation sensitive parameters on the performance parameters of star sensor is studied in this paper. The correlation among the radiation effect of proton, the non-uniformity noise of CCD image sensor and the performance parameter of star sensor is analyzed. This paper establishes a foundation for the study of error prediction and correction technology of star sensor on-orbit attitude measurement, and provides some theoretical basis for the design of high performance star sensor.

Modeling the impact of preflushing on CTE in proton irradiated CCD-based detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Philbrick, R. H.

2002-04-01

A software model is described that performs a "real world" simulation of the operation of several types of charge-coupled device (CCD)-based detectors in order to accurately predict the impact that high-energy proton radiation has on image distortion and modulation transfer function (MTF). The model was written primarily to predict the effectiveness of vertical preflushing on the custom full frame CCD-based detectors intended for use on the proposed Kepler Discovery mission, but it is capable of simulating many other types of CCD detectors and operating modes as well. The model keeps track of the occupancy of all phosphorous-silicon (P-V), divacancy (V-V) and oxygen-silicon (O-V) defect centers under every CCD electrode over the entire detector area. The integrated image is read out by simulating every electrode-to-electrode charge transfer in both the vertical and horizontal CCD registers. A signal level dependency on the capture and emission of signal is included and the current state of each electrode (e.g., barrier or storage) is considered when distributing integrated and emitted signal. Options for performing preflushing, preflashing, and including mini-channels are available on both the vertical and horizontal CCD registers. In addition, dark signal generation and image transfer smear can be selectively enabled or disabled. A comparison of the charge transfer efficiency (CTE) data measured on the Hubble space telescope imaging spectrometer (STIS) CCD with the CTE extracted from model simulations of the STIS CCD show good agreement.

Endoscopic pulsed digital holography for 3D measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saucedo, A. Tonatiuh; Mendoza Santoyo, Fernando; de La Torre-Ibarra, Manuel; Pedrini, Giancarlo; Osten, Wolfgang

2006-02-01

A rigid endoscope and three different object illumination source positions are used in pulsed digital holography to measure the three orthogonal displacement components from hidden areas of a harmonically vibrating metallic cylinder. In order to obtain simultaneous 3D information from the optical set up, it is necessary to match the optical paths of each of the reference object beam pairs, but to incoherently mismatch the three reference object beam pairs, such that three pulsed digital holograms are incoherently recorded within a single frame of the CCD sensor. The phase difference is obtained using the Fourier method and by subtracting two digital holograms captured for two different object positions.

Single-Electron and Single-Photon Sensitivity with a Silicon Skipper CCD

DOE PAGES

Tiffenberg, Javier; Sofo-Haro, Miguel; Drlica-Wagner, Alex; ...

2017-09-26

Here, we have developed ultralow-noise electronics in combination with repetitive, nondestructive readout of a thick, fully depleted charge-coupled device (CCD) to achieve an unprecedented noise level of 0.068 e - rms/pixel. This is the first time that discrete subelectron readout noise has been achieved reproducible over millions of pixels on a stable, large-area detector. This enables the contemporaneous, discrete, and quantized measurement of charge in pixels, irrespective of whether they contain zero electrons or thousands of electrons. Thus, the resulting CCD detector is an ultra-sensitive calorimeter. It is also capable of counting single photons in the optical and near-infrared regime.more » Implementing this innovative non-destructive readout system has a negligible impact on CCD design and fabrication, and there are nearly immediate scientific applications. As a particle detector, this CCD will have unprecedented sensitivity to low-mass dark matter particles and coherent neutrino-nucleus scattering, while future astronomical applications may include direct imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets.« less

Single-Electron and Single-Photon Sensitivity with a Silicon Skipper CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiffenberg, Javier; Sofo-Haro, Miguel; Drlica-Wagner, Alex; Essig, Rouven; Guardincerri, Yann; Holland, Steve; Volansky, Tomer; Yu, Tien-Tien

2017-09-01

We have developed ultralow-noise electronics in combination with repetitive, nondestructive readout of a thick, fully depleted charge-coupled device (CCD) to achieve an unprecedented noise level of 0.068 e- rms /pixel . This is the first time that discrete subelectron readout noise has been achieved reproducible over millions of pixels on a stable, large-area detector. This enables the contemporaneous, discrete, and quantized measurement of charge in pixels, irrespective of whether they contain zero electrons or thousands of electrons. Thus, the resulting CCD detector is an ultra-sensitive calorimeter. It is also capable of counting single photons in the optical and near-infrared regime. Implementing this innovative non-destructive readout system has a negligible impact on CCD design and fabrication, and there are nearly immediate scientific applications. As a particle detector, this CCD will have unprecedented sensitivity to low-mass dark matter particles and coherent neutrino-nucleus scattering, while future astronomical applications may include direct imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets.

Single-Electron and Single-Photon Sensitivity with a Silicon Skipper CCD.

PubMed

Tiffenberg, Javier; Sofo-Haro, Miguel; Drlica-Wagner, Alex; Essig, Rouven; Guardincerri, Yann; Holland, Steve; Volansky, Tomer; Yu, Tien-Tien

2017-09-29

We have developed ultralow-noise electronics in combination with repetitive, nondestructive readout of a thick, fully depleted charge-coupled device (CCD) to achieve an unprecedented noise level of 0.068  e^{-} rms/pixel. This is the first time that discrete subelectron readout noise has been achieved reproducible over millions of pixels on a stable, large-area detector. This enables the contemporaneous, discrete, and quantized measurement of charge in pixels, irrespective of whether they contain zero electrons or thousands of electrons. Thus, the resulting CCD detector is an ultra-sensitive calorimeter. It is also capable of counting single photons in the optical and near-infrared regime. Implementing this innovative non-destructive readout system has a negligible impact on CCD design and fabrication, and there are nearly immediate scientific applications. As a particle detector, this CCD will have unprecedented sensitivity to low-mass dark matter particles and coherent neutrino-nucleus scattering, while future astronomical applications may include direct imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets.

Low-z Type Ia Supernova Calibration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamuy, Mario

The discovery of acceleration and dark energy in 1998 arguably constitutes one of the most revolutionary discoveries in astrophysics in recent years. This paradigm shift was possible thanks to one of the most traditional cosmological tests: the redshift-distance relation between galaxies. This discovery was based on a differential measurement of the expansion rate of the universe: the current one provided by nearby (low-z) type Ia supernovae and the one in the past measured from distant (high-z) supernovae. This paper focuses on the first part of this journey: the calibration of the type Ia supernova luminosities and the local expansion rate of the universe, which was made possible thanks to the introduction of digital CCD (charge-coupled device) digital photometry. The new technology permitted us in the early 1990s to convert supernovae as precise tools to measure extragalactic distances through two key surveys: (1) the "Tololo Supernova Program" which made possible the critical discovery of the "peak luminosity-decline rate" relation for type Ia supernovae, the key underlying idea today behind precise cosmology from supernovae, and (2) the Calán/Tololo project which provided the low - z type Ia supernova sample for the discovery of acceleration.

Handling of huge multispectral image data volumes from a spectral hole burning device (SHBD)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graff, Werner; Rosselet, Armel C.; Wild, Urs P.; Gschwind, Rudolf; Keller, Christoph U.

1995-06-01

We use chlorin-doped polymer films at low temperatures as the primary imaging detector. Based on the principles of persistent spectral hole burning, this system is capable of storing spatial and spectral information simultaneously in one exposure with extremely high resolution. The sun as an extended light source has been imaged onto the film. The information recorded amounts to tens of GBytes. This data volume is read out by scanning the frequency of a tunable dye laser and reading the images with a digital CCD camera. For acquisition, archival, processing, and visualization, we use MUSIC (MUlti processor System with Intelligent Communication), a single instruction multiple data parallel processor system equipped with the necessary I/O facilities. The huge amount of data requires the developemnt of sophisticated algorithms to efficiently calibrate the data and to extract useful and new information for solar physics.

Spectroscopic Studies of the Electronic Structure of Metal-Semiconductor and Vacuum-Semiconductor Interfaces.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-12-31

interfaces which are of importance in such semi- conductor devices as MOSFETS, CCD devices, photovoltaic devices, DD I jAN 73 1473 EDITION OF INOV 66 if...interfaces is interesting for the study of electrolytic cells . Our photoemission study reveals for the first time how the electronic structure of water

Cryostat and CCD for MEGARA at GTC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castillo-Domínguez, E.; Ferrusca, D.; Tulloch, S.; Velázquez, M.; Carrasco, E.; Gallego, J.; Gil de Paz, A.; Sánchez, F. M.; Vílchez Medina, J. M.

2012-09-01

MEGARA (Multi-Espectrógrafo en GTC de Alta Resolución para Astronomía) is the new integral field unit (IFU) and multi-object spectrograph (MOS) instrument for the GTC. The spectrograph subsystems include the pseudo-slit, the shutter, the collimator with a focusing mechanism, pupil elements on a volume phase holographic grating (VPH) wheel and the camera joined to the cryostat through the last lens, with a CCD detector inside. In this paper we describe the full preliminary design of the cryostat which will harbor the CCD detector for the spectrograph. The selected cryogenic device is an LN2 open-cycle cryostat which has been designed by the "Astronomical Instrumentation Lab for Millimeter Wavelengths" at INAOE. A complete description of the cryostat main body and CCD head is presented as well as all the vacuum and temperature sub-systems to operate it. The CCD is surrounded by a radiation shield to improve its performance and is placed in a custom made mechanical mounting which will allow physical adjustments for alignment with the spectrograph camera. The 4k x 4k pixel CCD231 is our selection for the cryogenically cooled detector of MEGARA. The characteristics of this CCD, the internal cryostat cabling and CCD controller hardware are discussed. Finally, static structural finite element modeling and thermal analysis results are shown to validate the cryostat model.

Spectroscopy and CCD-photography of extended red emission in reflection nebulae

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Witt, A. N.; Schild, R. E.

1986-01-01

Recent spectrographic studies of extended red emission (ERE) seen in the 0.6 to 0.9 micron spectral region in many reflection nebulae have shown fluorescence by amorphous hydrogenated carbon to be the most probable cause of the ERE. Spectrographic observations were performed on the nebulae NGC 2023 and NGC 7023, using the intensified Reticon scanner (IRS) of Kitt Peak National Observatory on the N0-2 0.9 mm telescope. Charge coupled device (CCD) images of NGC2023 and NGC 7023 were obtained with the CfA CCD detector on the 0.6 mm telescope of the Whipple Observatory. Results are discussed.

Curved CCD detector devices and arrays for multispectral astrophysical applications and terrestrial stereo panoramic cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swain, Pradyumna; Mark, David

2004-09-01

The emergence of curved CCD detectors as individual devices or as contoured mosaics assembled to match the curved focal planes of astronomical telescopes and terrestrial stereo panoramic cameras represents a major optical design advancement that greatly enhances the scientific potential of such instruments. In altering the primary detection surface within the telescope"s optical instrumentation system from flat to curved, and conforming the applied CCD"s shape precisely to the contour of the telescope"s curved focal plane, a major increase in the amount of transmittable light at various wavelengths through the system is achieved. This in turn enables multi-spectral ultra-sensitive imaging with much greater spatial resolution necessary for large and very large telescope applications, including those involving infrared image acquisition and spectroscopy, conducted over very wide fields of view. For earth-based and space-borne optical telescopes, the advent of curved CCD"s as the principle detectors provides a simplification of the telescope"s adjoining optics, reducing the number of optical elements and the occurrence of optical aberrations associated with large corrective optics used to conform to flat detectors. New astronomical experiments may be devised in the presence of curved CCD applications, in conjunction with large format cameras and curved mosaics, including three dimensional imaging spectroscopy conducted over multiple wavelengths simultaneously, wide field real-time stereoscopic tracking of remote objects within the solar system at high resolution, and deep field survey mapping of distant objects such as galaxies with much greater multi-band spatial precision over larger sky regions. Terrestrial stereo panoramic cameras equipped with arrays of curved CCD"s joined with associative wide field optics will require less optical glass and no mechanically moving parts to maintain continuous proper stereo convergence over wider perspective viewing fields than their flat CCD counterparts, lightening the cameras and enabling faster scanning and 3D integration of objects moving within a planetary terrain environment. Preliminary experiments conducted at the Sarnoff Corporation indicate the feasibility of curved CCD imagers with acceptable electro-optic integrity. Currently, we are in the process of evaluating the electro-optic performance of a curved wafer scale CCD imager. Detailed ray trace modeling and experimental electro-optical data performance obtained from the curved imager will be presented at the conference.

Optical method and apparatus for detection of surface and near-subsurface defects in dense ceramics

DOEpatents

Ellingson, W.A.; Brada, M.P.

1995-06-20

A laser is used in a non-destructive manner to detect surface and near-subsurface defects in dense ceramics and particularly in ceramic bodies with complex shapes such as ceramic bearings, turbine blades, races, and the like. The laser`s wavelength is selected based upon the composition of the ceramic sample and the laser can be directed on the sample while the sample is static or in dynamic rotate or translate motion. Light is scattered off surface and subsurface defects using a preselected polarization. The change in polarization angle is used to select the depth and characteristics of surface/subsurface defects. The scattered light is detected by an optical train consisting of a charge coupled device (CCD), or vidicon, television camera which, in turn, is coupled to a video monitor and a computer for digitizing the image. An analyzing polarizer in the optical train allows scattered light at a given polarization angle to be observed for enhancing sensitivity to either surface or near-subsurface defects. Application of digital image processing allows subtraction of digitized images in near real-time providing enhanced sensitivity to subsurface defects. Storing known ``feature masks`` of identified defects in the computer and comparing the detected scatter pattern (Fourier images) with the stored feature masks allows for automatic classification of detected defects. 29 figs.

Effectiveness study of UNL's pneumatic crack/joint preparation device.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-03-01

The aim of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of the crack cleaning device (CCD) for improving the current crack/joint preparation practices and for possible adoption as a standard in Nebraska Department of Roads (NDOR). Through the colla...

Modelling electron distributions within ESA's Gaia satellite CCD pixels to mitigate radiation damage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seabroke, G. M.; Holland, A. D.; Burt, D.; Robbins, M. S.

2009-08-01

The Gaia satellite is a high-precision astrometry, photometry and spectroscopic ESA cornerstone mission, currently scheduled for launch in 2012. Its primary science drivers are the composition, formation and evolution of the Galaxy. Gaia will achieve its unprecedented positional accuracy requirements with detailed calibration and correction for radiation damage. At L2, protons cause displacement damage in the silicon of CCDs. The resulting traps capture and emit electrons from passing charge packets in the CCD pixel, distorting the image PSF and biasing its centroid. Microscopic models of Gaia's CCDs are being developed to simulate this effect. The key to calculating the probability of an electron being captured by a trap is the 3D electron density within each CCD pixel. However, this has not been physically modelled for the Gaia CCD pixels. In Seabroke, Holland & Cropper (2008), the first paper of this series, we motivated the need for such specialised 3D device modelling and outlined how its future results will fit into Gaia's overall radiation calibration strategy. In this paper, the second of the series, we present our first results using Silvaco's physics-based, engineering software: the ATLAS device simulation framework. Inputting a doping profile, pixel geometry and materials into ATLAS and comparing the results to other simulations reveals that ATLAS has a free parameter, fixed oxide charge, that needs to be calibrated. ATLAS is successfully benchmarked against other simulations and measurements of a test device, identifying how to use it to model Gaia pixels and highlighting the affect of different doping approximations.

Development of Cell Phone Application for Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring Based on ISO/IEEE 11073 and HL7 CCD.

PubMed

Park, Hyun Sang; Cho, Hune; Kim, Hwa Sun

2015-04-01

The objectives of this research were to develop and evaluate a cell phone application based on the standard protocol for personal health devices and the standard information model for personal health records to support effective blood glucose management and standardized service for patients with diabetes. An application was developed for Android 4.0.3. In addition, an IEEE 11073 Manager, Medical Device Encoding Rule, and Bluetooth Health Device Profile Connector were developed for standardized health communication with a glucometer, and a Continuity of Care Document (CCD) Composer and CCD Parser were developed for CCD document exchange. The developed application was evaluated by five healthcare professionals and 87 users through a questionnaire comprising the following variables: usage intention, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating condition, perceived risk, and voluntariness. As a result of the evaluation of usability, it was confirmed that the developed application is useful for blood glucose self-monitoring by diabetic patients. In particular, the healthcare professionals stated their own views that the application is useful to observe the trends in blood glucose change through the automatic function which records a blood glucose level measured using Bluetooth function, and the function which checks accumulated records of blood glucose levels. Also, a result of the evaluation of usage intention was 3.52 ± 0.42 out of 5 points. The application developed by our research team was confirmed by the verification of healthcare professionals that accurate feedback can be provided to healthcare professionals during the management of diabetic patients or education for glucose management.

Development of Cell Phone Application for Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring Based on ISO/IEEE 11073 and HL7 CCD

PubMed Central

Park, Hyun Sang; Cho, Hune

2015-01-01

Objectives The objectives of this research were to develop and evaluate a cell phone application based on the standard protocol for personal health devices and the standard information model for personal health records to support effective blood glucose management and standardized service for patients with diabetes. Methods An application was developed for Android 4.0.3. In addition, an IEEE 11073 Manager, Medical Device Encoding Rule, and Bluetooth Health Device Profile Connector were developed for standardized health communication with a glucometer, and a Continuity of Care Document (CCD) Composer and CCD Parser were developed for CCD document exchange. The developed application was evaluated by five healthcare professionals and 87 users through a questionnaire comprising the following variables: usage intention, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating condition, perceived risk, and voluntariness. Results As a result of the evaluation of usability, it was confirmed that the developed application is useful for blood glucose self-monitoring by diabetic patients. In particular, the healthcare professionals stated their own views that the application is useful to observe the trends in blood glucose change through the automatic function which records a blood glucose level measured using Bluetooth function, and the function which checks accumulated records of blood glucose levels. Also, a result of the evaluation of usage intention was 3.52 ± 0.42 out of 5 points. Conclusions The application developed by our research team was confirmed by the verification of healthcare professionals that accurate feedback can be provided to healthcare professionals during the management of diabetic patients or education for glucose management. PMID:25995960

Laser-induced damage threshold of camera sensors and micro-opto-electro-mechanical systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwarz, Bastian; Ritt, Gunnar; Körber, Michael; Eberle, Bernd

2016-10-01

The continuous development of laser systems towards more compact and efficient devices constitutes an increasing threat to electro-optical imaging sensors such as complementary metal-oxide-semiconductors (CMOS) and charge-coupled devices (CCD). These types of electronic sensors are used in day-to-day life but also in military or civil security applications. In camera systems dedicated to specific tasks, also micro-opto-electro-mechanical systems (MOEMS) like a digital micromirror device (DMD) are part of the optical setup. In such systems, the DMD can be located at an intermediate focal plane of the optics and it is also susceptible to laser damage. The goal of our work is to enhance the knowledge of damaging effects on such devices exposed to laser light. The experimental setup for the investigation of laser-induced damage is described in detail. As laser sources both pulsed lasers and continuous-wave (CW) lasers are used. The laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT) is determined by the single-shot method by increasing the pulse energy from pulse to pulse or in the case of CW-lasers, by increasing the laser power. Furthermore, we investigate the morphology of laser-induced damage patterns and the dependence of the number of destructed device elements on the laser pulse energy or laser power. In addition to the destruction of single pixels, we observe aftereffects like persisting dead columns or rows of pixels in the sensor image.

Specialized CCDs for high-frame-rate visible imaging and UV imaging applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levine, Peter A.; Taylor, Gordon C.; Shallcross, Frank V.; Tower, John R.; Lawler, William B.; Harrison, Lorna J.; Socker, Dennis G.; Marchywka, Mike

1993-11-01

This paper reports recent progress by the authors in two distinct charge coupled device (CCD) technology areas. The first technology area is high frame rate, multi-port, frame transfer imagers. A 16-port, 512 X 512, split frame transfer imager and a 32-port, 1024 X 1024, split frame transfer imager are described. The thinned, backside illuminated devices feature on-chip correlated double sampling, buried blooming drains, and a room temperature dark current of less than 50 pA/cm2, without surface accumulation. The second technology area is vacuum ultraviolet (UV) frame transfer imagers. A developmental 1024 X 640 frame transfer imager with 20% quantum efficiency at 140 nm is described. The device is fabricated in a p-channel CCD process, thinned for backside illumination, and utilizes special packaging to achieve stable UV response.

Spatial resolution properties of digital autoradiography systems for pre-clinical alpha particle imaging (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanguay, Jesse; Benard, Francois; Celler, Anna; Ruth, Thomas; Schaffer, Paul

2017-03-01

Attaching alpha-emitting radionuclides to cancer-targeting agents increases the anti-tumor effects of targeted cancer therapies. The success of alpha therapy for treating bone metastases has increased interest in using targeted alpha therapy (TAT) to treat a broad spectrum of metastatic cancers. Estimating radiation doses to targeted tumors, including small (<250 μm) clusters of cancer cells, and to non-targeted tissues is critical in the pre-clinical development of TATs. However, accurate quantification of heterogeneous distributions of alpha-emitters in small metastases is not possible with existing pre-clinical in-vivo imaging systems. Ex-vivo digital autoradiography using a scintillator in combination with an image intensifier and a charged coupled device (CCD) has gained interest for pre-clinical ex-vivo alpha particle imaging. We present a simulation-based analysis of the fundamental spatial resolution limits of digital autoradiography systems. Spatial resolution was quantified in terms of the modulation transfer function (MTF) and Wagner's equivalent aperture. We modeled systems operating in either particle-counting (PC) or energy-integrating (EI) mode using a cascaded systems approach that accounts for: 1) the stopping power of alpha particles; 2) the distance alpha particles travel within the scintillator; 3) optical blur, and; 4) binning in detector elements. We applied our analysis to imaging of astatine-211 using an LYSO scintillator with thickness ranging from 10 μm to 20 μm. Our analysis demonstrates that when these systems are operated in particle-counting mode with a centroid-calculation algorithm, the effective apertures of 35 μm can be achieved, which suggests that digital autoradiography may enable quantifying the uptake of alpha emitters in tumors consisting of a few cancer cells. Future work will investigate the image noise and energy-resolution properties of digital autoradiography systems.

Mid-infrared photodetectors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guyot-Sionnest, Philippe; Keuleyan, Sean E.; Lhuillier, Emmanuel

2016-04-19

Nanoparticles, methods of manufacture, devices comprising the nanoparticles, methods of their manufacture, and methods of their use are provided herein. The nanoparticles and devices having photoabsorptions in the range of 1.7 .mu.m to 12 .mu.m and can be used as photoconductors, photodiodes, phototransistors, charge-coupled devices (CCD), luminescent probes, lasers, thermal imagers, night-vision systems, and/or photodetectors.

Methods in Astronomical Image Processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jörsäter, S.

A Brief Introductory Note History of Astronomical Imaging Astronomical Image Data Images in Various Formats Digitized Image Data Digital Image Data Philosophy of Astronomical Image Processing Properties of Digital Astronomical Images Human Image Processing Astronomical vs. Computer Science Image Processing Basic Tools of Astronomical Image Processing Display Applications Calibration of Intensity Scales Calibration of Length Scales Image Re-shaping Feature Enhancement Noise Suppression Noise and Error Analysis Image Processing Packages: Design of AIPS and MIDAS AIPS MIDAS Reduction of CCD Data Bias Subtraction Clipping Preflash Subtraction Dark Subtraction Flat Fielding Sky Subtraction Extinction Correction Deconvolution Methods Rebinning/Combining Summary and Prospects for the Future

Improving signal to noise in labeled biological specimens using energy-filtered TEM of sections with a drift correction strategy and a direct detection device.

PubMed

Ramachandra, Ranjan; Bouwer, James C; Mackey, Mason R; Bushong, Eric; Peltier, Steven T; Xuong, Nguyen-Huu; Ellisman, Mark H

2014-06-01

Energy filtered transmission electron microscopy techniques are regularly used to build elemental maps of spatially distributed nanoparticles in materials and biological specimens. When working with thick biological sections, electron energy loss spectroscopy techniques involving core-loss electrons often require exposures exceeding several minutes to provide sufficient signal to noise. Image quality with these long exposures is often compromised by specimen drift, which results in blurring and reduced resolution. To mitigate drift artifacts, a series of short exposure images can be acquired, aligned, and merged to form a single image. For samples where the target elements have extremely low signal yields, the use of charge coupled device (CCD)-based detectors for this purpose can be problematic. At short acquisition times, the images produced by CCDs can be noisy and may contain fixed pattern artifacts that impact subsequent correlative alignment. Here we report on the use of direct electron detection devices (DDD's) to increase the signal to noise as compared with CCD's. A 3× improvement in signal is reported with a DDD versus a comparably formatted CCD, with equivalent dose on each detector. With the fast rolling-readout design of the DDD, the duty cycle provides a major benefit, as there is no dead time between successive frames.

Comparing simulations and test data of a radiation damaged charge-coupled device for the Euclid mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skottfelt, Jesper; Hall, David J.; Gow, Jason P. D.; Murray, Neil J.; Holland, Andrew D.; Prod'homme, Thibaut

2017-04-01

The visible imager instrument on board the Euclid mission is a weak-lensing experiment that depends on very precise shape measurements of distant galaxies obtained by a large charge-coupled device (CCD) array. Due to the harsh radiative environment outside the Earth's atmosphere, it is anticipated that the CCDs over the mission lifetime will be degraded to an extent that these measurements will be possible only through the correction of radiation damage effects. We have therefore created a Monte Carlo model that simulates the physical processes taking place when transferring signals through a radiation-damaged CCD. The software is based on Shockley-Read-Hall theory and is made to mimic the physical properties in the CCD as closely as possible. The code runs on a single electrode level and takes the three-dimensional trap position, potential structure of the pixel, and multilevel clocking into account. A key element of the model is that it also takes device specific simulations of electron density as a direct input, thereby avoiding making any analytical assumptions about the size and density of the charge cloud. This paper illustrates how test data and simulated data can be compared in order to further our understanding of the positions and properties of the individual radiation-induced traps.

Active Pixel Sensors: Are CCD's Dinosaurs?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fossum, Eric R.

1993-01-01

Charge-coupled devices (CCD's) are presently the technology of choice for most imaging applications. In the 23 years since their invention in 1970, they have evolved to a sophisticated level of performance. However, as with all technologies, we can be certain that they will be supplanted someday. In this paper, the Active Pixel Sensor (APS) technology is explored as a possible successor to the CCD. An active pixel is defined as a detector array technology that has at least one active transistor within the pixel unit cell. The APS eliminates the need for nearly perfect charge transfer -- the Achilles' heel of CCDs. This perfect charge transfer makes CCD's radiation 'soft,' difficult to use under low light conditions, difficult to manufacture in large array sizes, difficult to integrate with on-chip electronics, difficult to use at low temperatures, difficult to use at high frame rates, and difficult to manufacture in non-silicon materials that extend wavelength response.

Constraining neutrinos as background to wimp-nucleon dark matter particle searches for DaMIC: CCD physics analysis and electronics development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butner, Melissa Jean

The DaMIC (Dark Matter in CCDs) experiment searches for dark matter particles using charge coupled devices (CCDs) operated at a low detection threshold of ˜40 eV electron equivalent energy (eVee). A multiplexor board is tested for DAMIC100+ which has the ability to control up to 16 CCDs at one time allowing for the selection of a single CCD for readout while leaving all others static and maintaining sub-electron noise. A dark matter limit is produced using the results of physics data taken with the DAMIC experiment. Next, the contribution from neutrino-nucleus coherent scattering is investigated using data from the Coherent Neutrino Nucleus Interaction Experiment (CONnuIE) using the same CCD technology. The results are used to explore the performance of CCD detectors that ultimately will limit the ability to differentiate incident solar and atmospheric neutrinos from dark matter particles.

Postirradiation behavior of p-channel charge-coupled devices irradiated at 153 K

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gow, Jason P. D.; Wood, Daniel; Murray, Neil J.; Burt, David; Hall, David J.; Dryer, Ben; Holland, Andrew D.

2016-04-01

The displacement damage hardness that can be achieved using p-channel charge-coupled devices (CCD) was originally demonstrated in 1997, and since then a number of other studies have demonstrated an improved tolerance to radiation-induced charge transfer inefficiency when compared to n-channel CCDs. A number of recent studies have also shown that the temperature history of the device after the irradiation impacts the performance of the detector, linked to the mobility of defects at different temperatures. The initial results from an e2v technologies p-channel CCD204 irradiated at 153 K with 10-MeV equivalent proton fluences of 1.24×109 and 1.24×1011 protons cm-2 is described. The dark current, cosmetic quality, and the number of defects identified using trap pumping immediately were monitored after the irradiation for a period of 150 h with the device held at 153 K and then after different periods of time at room temperature. The device also exhibited a flatband voltage shift of around 30 mV/krad, determined by the reduction in full well capacity.

Proton radiation damage assessment of a CCD for use in a Ultraviolet and Visible Spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gow, J. P. D.; Mason, J.; Leese, M.; Hathi, B.; Patel, M.

2017-01-01

This paper describes the radiation environment and radiation damage analysis performed for the Nadir and Occultation for MArs Discovery (NOMAD) Ultraviolet and Visible Spectrometer (UVIS) channel launched onboard the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) in 2016. The aim of the instrument is to map the temporal and spatial variation of trace gases such as ozone and dust/cloud aerosols in the atmosphere of Mars. The instrument consists of a set of two miniature telescope viewing optics which allow for selective input onto the optical bench, where an e2v technologies CCD30-11 will be used as the detector. A Geometry Description Markup Language model of the spacecraft and instrument box was created and through the use of ESA's SPace ENVironment Information System (SPENVIS) an estimate of the 10 MeV equivalent proton fluence was made at a number of radiation sensitive regions within NOMAD, including that of the CCD30-11 which is the focus of this paper. The end of life 10 MeV equivalent proton fluence at the charge coupled device was estimated to be 4.7 × 109 protons.cm-2 three devices were irradiated at different levels up a 10 MeV equivalent fluence of 9.4 × 109 protons.cm-2. The dark current, charge transfer inefficiency, charge storage, and cosmetic quality of the devices was investigated pre- and post-irradiation, determining that the devices will continue to provide excellent science throughout the mission.

Combining shearography and interferometric fringe projection in a single device for complete control of industrial applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blain, Pascal; Michel, Fabrice; Piron, Pierre; Renotte, Yvon; Habraken, Serge

2013-08-01

Noncontact optical measurement methods are essential tools in many industrial and research domains. A family of new noncontact optical measurement methods based on the polarization states splitting technique and monochromatic light projection as a way to overcome ambient lighting for in-situ measurement has been developed. Recent works on a birefringent element, a Savart plate, allow one to build a more flexible and robust interferometer. This interferometer is a multipurpose metrological device. On one hand the interferometer can be set in front of a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. This optical measurement system is called a shearography interferometer and allows one to measure microdisplacements between two states of the studied object under coherent lighting. On the other hand, by producing and shifting multiple sinusoidal Young's interference patterns with this interferometer, and using a CCD camera, it is possible to build a three-dimensional structured light profilometer.

Combining Charge Couple Devices and Rate Sensors for the Feedforward Control System of a Charge Coupled Device Tracking Loop.

PubMed

Tang, Tao; Tian, Jing; Zhong, Daijun; Fu, Chengyu

2016-06-25

A rate feed forward control-based sensor fusion is proposed to improve the closed-loop performance for a charge couple device (CCD) tracking loop. The target trajectory is recovered by combining line of sight (LOS) errors from the CCD and the angular rate from a fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG). A Kalman filter based on the Singer acceleration model utilizes the reconstructive target trajectory to estimate the target velocity. Different from classical feed forward control, additive feedback loops are inevitably added to the original control loops due to the fact some closed-loop information is used. The transfer function of the Kalman filter in the frequency domain is built for analyzing the closed loop stability. The bandwidth of the Kalman filter is the major factor affecting the control stability and close-loop performance. Both simulations and experiments are provided to demonstrate the benefits of the proposed algorithm.

A Vision-Based Motion Sensor for Undergraduate Laboratories.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salumbides, Edcel John; Maristela, Joyce; Uy, Alfredson; Karremans, Kees

2002-01-01

Introduces an alternative method to determine the mechanics of a moving object that uses computer vision algorithms with a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera as a recording device. Presents two experiments, pendulum motion and terminal velocity, to compare results of the alternative and conventional methods. (YDS)

Replacing a technology - The Large Space Telescope and CCDs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, R. W.; Tatarewicz, J. H.

1985-07-01

The technological improvements, design choices and mission goals which led to the inclusion of CCD detectors in the wide field camera of the Large Space Telescope (LST) to be launched by the STS are recounted. Consideration of CCD detectors began before CCDs had seen wide astronomical applications. During planning for the ST, in the 1960s, photographic methods and a vidicon were considered, and seemed feasible provided that periodic manual maintenance could be performed. The invention of CCDs was first reported in 1970 and by 1973 the CCDs were receiving significant attention as potential detectors instead of a vidicon, which retained its own technological challenges. The CCD format gained new emphasis when success was achieved in developments for planetary-imaging spacecraft. The rapidity of progress in CCD capabilities, coupled with the continued shortcomings of the vidicon, resulted in a finalized choice for a CCD device by 1977. The decision was also prompted by continuing commercial and military interest in CCDs, which was spurring the development of the technology and improving the sensitivities and reliability while lowering the costs.

Quantum efficiency measurement of the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) CCD detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krishnamurthy, A.; Villasenor, J.; Thayer, C.; Kissel, S.; Ricker, G.; Seager, S.; Lyle, R.; Deline, A.; Morgan, E.; Sauerwein, T.; Vanderspek, R.

2016-07-01

Very precise on-ground characterization and calibration of TESS CCD detectors will significantly assist in the analysis of the science data from the mission. An accurate optical test bench with very high photometric stability has been developed to perform precise measurements of the absolute quantum efficiency. The setup consists of a vacuum dewar with a single MIT Lincoln Lab CCID-80 device mounted on a cold plate with the calibrated reference photodiode mounted next to the CCD. A very stable laser-driven light source is integrated with a closed-loop intensity stabilization unit to control variations of the light source down to a few parts-per-million when averaged over 60 s. Light from the stabilization unit enters a 20 inch integrating sphere. The output light from the sphere produces near-uniform illumination on the cold CCD and on the calibrated reference photodiode inside the dewar. The ratio of the CCD and photodiode signals provides the absolute quantum efficiency measurement. The design, key features, error analysis, and results from the test campaign are presented.

BATMAN: MOS Spectroscopy on Demand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molinari, E.; Zamkotsian, F.; Moschetti, M.; Spano, P.; Boschin, W.; Cosentino, R.; Ghedina, A.; González, M.; Pérez, H.; Lanzoni, P.; Ramarijaona, H.; Riva, M.; Zerbi, F.; Nicastro, L.; Valenziano, L.; Di Marcantonio, P.; Coretti, I.; Cirami, R.

2016-10-01

Multi-Object Spectrographs (MOS) are the major instruments for studying primary galaxies and remote and faint objects. Current object selection systems are limited and/or difficult to implement in next generation MOS for space and ground-based telescopes. A promising solution is the use of MOEMS devices such as micromirror arrays, which allow the remote control of the multi-slit configuration in real time. TNG is hosting a novelty project for real-time, on-demand MOS masks based on MOEMS programmable slits. We are developing a 2048×1080 Digital-Micromirror-Device-based (DMD) MOS instrument to be mounted on the Galileo telescope, called BATMAN. It is a two-arm instrument designed for providing in parallel imaging and spectroscopic capabilities. With a field of view of 6.8×3.6 arcmin and a plate scale of 0.2 arcsec per micromirror, this astronomical setup can be used to investigate the formation and evolution of galaxies. The wavelength range is in the visible and the spectral resolution is R=560 for a 1 arcsec object, and the two arms will have 2k × 4k CCD detectors. ROBIN, a BATMAN demonstrator, has been designed, realized and integrated. We plan to have BATMAN first light by mid-2016.

Ultraviolet downconverting phosphor for use with silicon CCD imagers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blouke, M. M.; Cowens, M. W.; Hall, J. E.; Westphal, J. A.; Christensen, A. B.

1980-01-01

The properties and application of a UV downconverting phosphor (coronene) to silicon charge coupled devices are discussed. Measurements of the absorption spectrum have been extended to below 1000 A, and preliminary results indicate the existence of useful response to at least 584 A. The average conversion efficiency of coronene was measured to be approximately 20% at 2537 A. Imagery at 3650 A using a backside illuminated 800 x 800 CCD coated with coronene is presented.

A comparison of imaging methods for use in an array biosensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Golden, Joel P.; Ligler, Frances S.

2002-01-01

An array biosensor has been developed which uses an actively-cooled, charge-coupled device (CCD) imager. In an effort to save money and space, a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera and photodiode were tested as replacements for the cooled CCD imager. Different concentrations of CY5 fluorescent dye in glycerol were imaged using the three different detection systems with the same imaging optics. Signal discrimination above noise was compared for each of the three systems.

Psychophysical evaluation of the image quality of a dynamic flat-panel digital x-ray image detector using the threshold contrast detail detectability (TCDD) technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davies, Andrew G.; Cowen, Arnold R.; Bruijns, Tom J. C.

1999-05-01

We are currently in an era of active development of the digital X-ray imaging detectors that will serve the radiological communities in the new millennium. The rigorous comparative physical evaluations of such devices are therefore becoming increasingly important from both the technical and clinical perspectives. The authors have been actively involved in the evaluation of a clinical demonstration version of a flat-panel dynamic digital X-ray image detector (or FDXD). Results of objective physical evaluation of this device have been presented elsewhere at this conference. The imaging performance of FDXD under radiographic exposure conditions have been previously reported, and in this paper a psychophysical evaluation of the FDXD detector operating under continuous fluoroscopic conditions is presented. The evaluation technique employed was the threshold contrast detail detectability (TCDD) technique, which enables image quality to be measured on devices operating in the clinical environment. This approach addresses image quality in the context of both the image acquisition and display processes, and uses human observers to measure performance. The Leeds test objects TO[10] and TO[10+] were used to obtain comparative measurements of performance on the FDXD and two digital spot fluorography (DSF) systems, one utilizing a Plumbicon camera and the other a state of the art CCD camera. Measurements were taken at a range of detector entrance exposure rates, namely 6, 12, 25 and 50 (mu) R/s. In order to facilitate comparisons between the systems, all fluoroscopic image processing such as noise reduction algorithms, were disabled during the experiments. At the highest dose rate FDXD significantly outperformed the DSF comparison systems in the TCDD comparisons. At 25 and 12 (mu) R/s all three-systems performed in an equivalent manner and at the lowest exposure rate FDXD was inferior to the two DSF systems. At standard fluoroscopic exposures, FDXD performed in an equivalent manner to the DSF systems for the TCDD comparisons. This would suggest that FDXD would therefore perform adequately in a clinical fluoroscopic environment and our initial clinical experiences support this. Noise reduction processing of the fluoroscopic data acquired on FDXD was also found to further improve TCDD performance for FDXD. FDXD therefore combines acceptable fluoroscopic performance with excellent radiographic (snap shot) imaging fidelity, allowing the possibility of a universal x-ray detector to be developed, based on FDXD's technology. It is also envisaged that fluoroscopic performance will be improved by the development of digital image enhancement techniques specifically tailored to the characteristics of the FDXD detector.

Positions and proper motions of dwarf carbon stars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deutsch, Eric W.

1994-01-01

Recent-epochs positions and proper motions of nine dwarf carbon star candidates are presented along with finding charts for each object. Measurements are obtained from digitized Palomar Observatory Sky Survey (POSS) and Quik V plate archives at the Space Telescope Science Institute, and from recent CCD images.

Flat field anomalies in an x-ray charge coupled device camera measured using a Manson x-ray source

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Haugh, M. J.; Schneider, M. B.

2008-10-15

The static x-ray imager (SXI) is a diagnostic used at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to measure the position of the x rays produced by lasers hitting a gold foil target. The intensity distribution taken by the SXI camera during a NIF shot is used to determine how accurately NIF can aim laser beams. This is critical to proper NIF operation. Imagers are located at the top and the bottom of the NIF target chamber. The charge coupled device (CCD) chip is an x-ray sensitive silicon sensor, with a large format array (2kx2k), 24 {mu}m square pixels, and 15 {mu}mmore » thick. A multianode Manson x-ray source, operating up to 10 kV and 10 W, was used to characterize and calibrate the imagers. The output beam is heavily filtered to narrow the spectral beam width, giving a typical resolution E/{delta}E{approx_equal}10. The x-ray beam intensity was measured using an x-ray photodiode that has an accuracy better than 1% up to the Si K edge and better than 5% at higher energies. The x-ray beam provides full CCD illumination and is flat, within {+-}1% maximum to minimum. The spectral efficiency was measured at ten energy bands ranging from 930 to 8470 eV. We observed an energy dependent pixel sensitivity variation that showed continuous change over a large portion of the CCD. The maximum sensitivity variation occurred at 8470 eV. The geometric pattern did not change at lower energies, but the maximum contrast decreased and was not observable below 4 keV. We were also able to observe debris, damage, and surface defects on the CCD chip. The Manson source is a powerful tool for characterizing the imaging errors of an x-ray CCD imager. These errors are quite different from those found in a visible CCD imager.« less

Visualized measurement of the acoustic levitation field based on digital holography with phase multiplication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Puchao; Li, Enpu; Zhao, Jianlin; Di, Jianglei; Zhou, Wangmin; Wang, Hao; Zhang, Ruifeng

2009-11-01

By using digital holographic interferometory with phase multiplication, the visualized measurement of the acoustic levitation field (ALF) with single axis is carried out. The digital holograms of the ALF under different conditions are recorded by use of CCD. The corresponding digital holographic interferograms reflecting the sound pressure distribution and the interference phase distribution are obtained by numerical reconstruction and phase subtraction, which are consistent with the theoretical results. It indicates that the proposed digital holographic interferometory with phase multiplication can successfully double the fringe number of the interference phase patterns of the ALF and improve the measurement precision. Compared with the conventional optical holographic interferometory, digital holographic interferometory has the merits of quasi real-time, more exactitude and convenient operation, and it provides an effective way for studying the sound pressure distribution of the ALF.

Quantitative evaluation of the accuracy and variance of individual pixels in a scientific CMOS (sCMOS) camera for computational imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Shigeo; Takahashi, Teruo; Bennett, Keith

2017-02-01

The"scientific" CMOS (sCMOS) camera architecture fundamentally differs from CCD and EMCCD cameras. In digital CCD and EMCCD cameras, conversion from charge to the digital output is generally through a single electronic chain, and the read noise and the conversion factor from photoelectrons to digital outputs are highly uniform for all pixels, although quantum efficiency may spatially vary. In CMOS cameras, the charge to voltage conversion is separate for each pixel and each column has independent amplifiers and analog-to-digital converters, in addition to possible pixel-to-pixel variation in quantum efficiency. The "raw" output from the CMOS image sensor includes pixel-to-pixel variability in the read noise, electronic gain, offset and dark current. Scientific camera manufacturers digitally compensate the raw signal from the CMOS image sensors to provide usable images. Statistical noise in images, unless properly modeled, can introduce errors in methods such as fluctuation correlation spectroscopy or computational imaging, for example, localization microscopy using maximum likelihood estimation. We measured the distributions and spatial maps of individual pixel offset, dark current, read noise, linearity, photoresponse non-uniformity and variance distributions of individual pixels for standard, off-the-shelf Hamamatsu ORCA-Flash4.0 V3 sCMOS cameras using highly uniform and controlled illumination conditions, from dark conditions to multiple low light levels between 20 to 1,000 photons / pixel per frame to higher light conditions. We further show that using pixel variance for flat field correction leads to errors in cameras with good factory calibration.

Low cost charged-coupled device (CCD) based detectors for Shiga toxins activity analysis

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

To improve food safety there is a need to develop simple, low-cost sensitive devices for detection of foodborne pathogens and their toxins. We describe a simple and relatively low-cost webcam-based detector which can be used for various optical detection modalities, including fluorescence, chemilumi...

Intelligent error correction method applied on an active pixel sensor based star tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Uwe

2005-10-01

Star trackers are opto-electronic sensors used on-board of satellites for the autonomous inertial attitude determination. During the last years star trackers became more and more important in the field of the attitude and orbit control system (AOCS) sensors. High performance star trackers are based up today on charge coupled device (CCD) optical camera heads. The active pixel sensor (APS) technology, introduced in the early 90-ties, allows now the beneficial replacement of CCD detectors by APS detectors with respect to performance, reliability, power, mass and cost. The company's heritage in star tracker design started in the early 80-ties with the launch of the worldwide first fully autonomous star tracker system ASTRO1 to the Russian MIR space station. Jena-Optronik recently developed an active pixel sensor based autonomous star tracker "ASTRO APS" as successor of the CCD based star tracker product series ASTRO1, ASTRO5, ASTRO10 and ASTRO15. Key features of the APS detector technology are, a true xy-address random access, the multiple windowing read out and the on-chip signal processing including the analogue to digital conversion. These features can be used for robust star tracking at high slew rates and under worse conditions like stray light and solar flare induced single event upsets. A special algorithm have been developed to manage the typical APS detector error contributors like fixed pattern noise (FPN), dark signal non-uniformity (DSNU) and white spots. The algorithm works fully autonomous and adapts to e.g. increasing DSNU and up-coming white spots automatically without ground maintenance or re-calibration. In contrast to conventional correction methods the described algorithm does not need calibration data memory like full image sized calibration data sets. The application of the presented algorithm managing the typical APS detector error contributors is a key element for the design of star trackers for long term satellite applications like geostationary telecom platforms.

Readout of the UFFO Slewing Mirror Telescope to detect UV/optical photons from Gamma-Ray Bursts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, J. E.; Lim, H.; Nam, J. W.; Brandt, S.; Budtz-Jørgensen, C.; Castro-Tirado, A. J.; Chen, P.; Choi, H. S.; Grossan, B.; Huang, M. A.; Jeong, S.; Jung, A.; Kim, M. B.; Kim, S.-W.; Lee, J.; Linder, E. V.; Liu, T.-C.; Na, G. W.; Panasyuk, M. I.; Park, I. H.; Ripa, J.; Reglero, V.; Smoot, G. F.; Svertilov, S.; Vedenkin, N.; Yashin, I.

2013-07-01

The Slewing Mirror Telescope (SMT) was proposed for rapid response to prompt UV/optical photons from Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs). The SMT is a key component of the Ultra-Fast Flash Observatory (UFFO)-pathfinder, which will be launched aboard the Lomonosov spacecraft at the end of 2013. The SMT utilizes a motorized mirror that slews rapidly forward to its target within a second after triggering by an X-ray coded mask camera, which makes unnecessary a reorientation of the entire spacecraft. Subsequent measurement of the UV/optical is accomplished by a 10 cm aperture Ritchey-Chrètien telescope and the focal plane detector of Intensified Charge-Coupled Device (ICCD). The ICCD is sensitive to UV/optical photons of 200-650 nm in wavelength by using a UV-enhanced S20 photocathode and amplifies photoelectrons at a gain of 104-106 in double Micro-Channel Plates. These photons are read out by a Kodak KAI-0340 interline CCD sensor and a CCD Signal Processor with 10-bit Analog-to-Digital Converter. Various control clocks for CCD readout are implemented using a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The SMT readout is in charge of not only data acquisition, storage and transfer, but also control of the slewing mirror, the ICCD high voltage adjustments, power distribution, and system monitoring by interfacing to the UFFO-pathfinder. These functions are realized in the FPGA to minimize power consumption and to enhance processing time. The SMT readout electronics are designed and built to meet the spacecraft's constraints of power consumption, mass, and volume. The entire system is integrated with the SMT optics, as is the UFFO-pathfinder. The system has been tested and satisfies the conditions of launch and those of operation in space: those associated with shock and vibration and those associated with thermal and vacuum, respectively. In this paper, we present the SMT readout electronics: the design, construction, and performance, as well as the results of space environment test.

Research-grade CMOS image sensors for demanding space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saint-Pé, Olivier; Tulet, Michel; Davancens, Robert; Larnaudie, Franck; Magnan, Pierre; Corbière, Franck; Martin-Gonthier, Philippe; Belliot, Pierre

2004-06-01

Imaging detectors are key elements for optical instruments and sensors on board space missions dedicated to Earth observation (high resolution imaging, atmosphere spectroscopy...), Solar System exploration (micro cameras, guidance for autonomous vehicle...) and Universe observation (space telescope focal planes, guiding sensors...). This market has been dominated by CCD technology for long. Since the mid-90s, CMOS Image Sensors (CIS) have been competing with CCDs for more and more consumer domains (webcams, cell phones, digital cameras...). Featuring significant advantages over CCD sensors for space applications (lower power consumption, smaller system size, better radiations behaviour...), CMOS technology is also expanding in this field, justifying specific R&D and development programs funded by national and European space agencies (mainly CNES, DGA, and ESA). All along the 90s and thanks to their increasingly improving performances, CIS have started to be successfully used for more and more demanding applications, from vision and control functions requiring low-level performances to guidance applications requiring medium-level performances. Recent technology improvements have made possible the manufacturing of research-grade CIS that are able to compete with CCDs in the high-performances arena. After an introduction outlining the growing interest of optical instruments designers for CMOS image sensors, this talk will present the existing and foreseen ways to reach high-level electro-optics performances for CIS. The developments of CIS prototypes built using an imaging CMOS process and of devices based on improved designs will be presented.

Research-grade CMOS image sensors for demanding space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saint-Pé, Olivier; Tulet, Michel; Davancens, Robert; Larnaudie, Franck; Magnan, Pierre; Corbière, Franck; Martin-Gonthier, Philippe; Belliot, Pierre

2017-11-01

Imaging detectors are key elements for optical instruments and sensors on board space missions dedicated to Earth observation (high resolution imaging, atmosphere spectroscopy...), Solar System exploration (micro cameras, guidance for autonomous vehicle...) and Universe observation (space telescope focal planes, guiding sensors...). This market has been dominated by CCD technology for long. Since the mid- 90s, CMOS Image Sensors (CIS) have been competing with CCDs for more and more consumer domains (webcams, cell phones, digital cameras...). Featuring significant advantages over CCD sensors for space applications (lower power consumption, smaller system size, better radiations behaviour...), CMOS technology is also expanding in this field, justifying specific R&D and development programs funded by national and European space agencies (mainly CNES, DGA, and ESA). All along the 90s and thanks to their increasingly improving performances, CIS have started to be successfully used for more and more demanding applications, from vision and control functions requiring low-level performances to guidance applications requiring medium-level performances. Recent technology improvements have made possible the manufacturing of research-grade CIS that are able to compete with CCDs in the high-performances arena. After an introduction outlining the growing interest of optical instruments designers for CMOS image sensors, this talk will present the existing and foreseen ways to reach high-level electro-optics performances for CIS. The developments of CIS prototypes built using an imaging CMOS process and of devices based on improved designs will be presented.

LCOGT Imaging Lab

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tufts, Joseph R.; Lobdill, Rich; Haldeman, Benjamin J.; Haynes, Rachel; Hawkins, Eric; Burleson, Ben; Jahng, David

2008-07-01

The Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network (LCOGT) is an ambitious project to build and operate, within 5 years, a worldwide robotic network of 50 0.4, 1, and 2 m telescopes sharing identical instrumentation and optimized for precision photometry of time-varying sources. The telescopes, instrumentation, and software are all developed in house with two 2 m telescopes already installed. The LCOGT Imaging Lab is responsible for assembly and characterization of the network's cameras and instrumentation. In addition to a fully equipped CNC machine shop, two electronics labs, and a future optics lab, the Imaging Lab is designed from the ground up to be a superb environment for bare detectors, precision filters, and assembled instruments. At the heart of the lab is an ISO class 5 cleanroom with full ionization. Surrounding this, the class 7 main lab houses equipment for detector characterization including QE and CTE, and equipment for measuring transmission and reflection of optics. Although the first science cameras installed, two TEC cooled e2v 42-40 deep depletion based units and two CryoTiger cooled Fairchild Imaging CCD486-BI based units, are from outside manufacturers, their 18 position filter wheels and the remainder of the network's science cameras, controllers, and instrumentation will be built in house. Currently being designed, the first generation LCOGT cameras for the network's 1 m telescopes use existing CCD486-BI devices and an in-house controller. Additionally, the controller uses digital signal processing to optimize readout noise vs. speed, and all instrumentation uses embedded microprocessors for communication over ethernet.

Space infrared telescope pointing control system. Infrared telescope tracking in the presence of target motion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Powell, J. D.; Schneider, J. B.

1986-01-01

The use of charge-coupled-devices, or CCD's, has been documented by a number of sources as an effective means of providing a measurement of spacecraft attitude with respect to the stars. A method exists of defocussing and interpolation of the resulting shape of a star image over a small subsection of a large CCD array. This yields an increase in the accuracy of the device by better than an order of magnitude over the case when the star image is focussed upon a single CCD pixel. This research examines the effect that image motion has upon the overall precision of this star sensor when applied to an orbiting infrared observatory. While CCD's collect energy within the visible spectrum of light, the targets of scientific interest may well have no appreciable visible emissions. Image motion has the effect of smearing the image of the star in the direction of motion during a particular sampling interval. The presence of image motion is incorporated into a Kalman filter for the system, and it is shown that the addition of a gyro command term is adequate to compensate for the effect of image motion in the measurement. The updated gyro model is included in this analysis, but has natural frequencies faster than the projected star tracker sample rate for dim stars. The system state equations are reduced by modelling gyro drift as a white noise process. There exists a tradeoff in selected star tracker sample time between the CCD, which has improved noise characteristics as sample time increases, and the gyro, which will potentially drift further between long attitude updates. A sample time which minimizes pointing estimation error exists for the random drift gyro model as well as for a random walk gyro model.

Puesta en marcha de un microdensitómetro automático basado en CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calderón, J. H.; Bustos Fierro, I. H.

We present the commisioning of a CCD-based microdensitometer intended to perform astrometric measurements of photographic plates. The work done consisted in the installation of a CCD camera, the modification of the motion system, the construction of a new illumination device, the adaptation of the electronics, and the development of software. The instrument is intended to be used for the astrometric measurement mainly of plates of the Astrographic Catalog and Carte du Ciel collections from Córdoba Observatory. In this phase of the project we counted with the collaboration of the Instituto Provincial de Enseñanza Media No 59, 25 de Mayo, Cruz Alta (Province of Córdoba). The origin and importance of such collaboration is commented.

X-Ray Diffraction Apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blake, David F. (Inventor); Bryson, Charles (Inventor); Freund, Friedmann (Inventor)

1996-01-01

An x-ray diffraction apparatus for use in analyzing the x-ray diffraction pattern of a sample is introduced. The apparatus includes a beam source for generating a collimated x-ray beam having one or more discrete x-ray energies, a holder for holding the sample to be analyzed in the path of the beam, and a charge-coupled device having an array of pixels for detecting, in one or more selected photon energy ranges, x-ray diffraction photons produced by irradiating such a sample with said beam. The CCD is coupled to an output unit which receives input information relating to the energies of photons striking each pixel in the CCD, and constructs the diffraction pattern of photons within a selected energy range striking the CCD.

Investigation of solar active regions at high resolution by balloon flights of the solar optical universal polarimeter, extended definition phase

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tarbell, Theodore D.

1993-01-01

Technical studies of the feasibility of balloon flights of the former Spacelab instrument, the Solar Optical Universal Polarimeter, with a modern charge-coupled device (CCD) camera, to study the structure and evolution of solar active regions at high resolution, are reviewed. In particular, different CCD cameras were used at ground-based solar observatories with the SOUP filter, to evaluate their performance and collect high resolution images. High resolution movies of the photosphere and chromosphere were successfully obtained using four different CCD cameras. Some of this data was collected in coordinated observations with the Yohkoh satellite during May-July, 1992, and they are being analyzed scientifically along with simultaneous X-ray observations.

Remotely accessible laboratory for MEMS testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivakumar, Ganapathy; Mulsow, Matthew; Melinger, Aaron; Lacouture, Shelby; Dallas, Tim E.

2010-02-01

We report on the construction of a remotely accessible and interactive laboratory for testing microdevices (aka: MicroElectroMechancial Systems - MEMS). Enabling expanded utilization of microdevices for research, commercial, and educational purposes is very important for driving the creation of future MEMS devices and applications. Unfortunately, the relatively high costs associated with MEMS devices and testing infrastructure makes widespread access to the world of MEMS difficult. The creation of a virtual lab to control and actuate MEMS devices over the internet helps spread knowledge to a larger audience. A host laboratory has been established that contains a digital microscope, microdevices, controllers, and computers that can be logged into through the internet. The overall layout of the tele-operated MEMS laboratory system can be divided into two major parts: the server side and the client side. The server-side is present at Texas Tech University, and hosts a server machine that runs the Linux operating system and is used for interfacing the MEMS lab with the outside world via internet. The controls from the clients are transferred to the lab side through the server interface. The server interacts with the electronics required to drive the MEMS devices using a range of National Instruments hardware and LabView Virtual Instruments. An optical microscope (100 ×) with a CCD video camera is used to capture images of the operating MEMS. The server broadcasts the live video stream over the internet to the clients through the website. When the button is pressed on the website, the MEMS device responds and the video stream shows the movement in close to real time.

Development of a CCD based solar speckle imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nisenson, Peter; Stachnik, Robert V.; Noyes, Robert W.

1986-02-01

A program to develop software and hardware for the purpose of obtaining high angular resolution images of the solar surface is described. The program included the procurement of a Charge Coupled Devices imaging system; an extensive laboratory and remote site testing of the camera system; the development of a software package for speckle image reconstruction which was eventually installed and tested at the Sacramento Peak Observatory; and experiments of the CCD system (coupled to an image intensifier) for low light level, narrow spectral band solar imaging.

Data Reduction and Control Software for Meteor Observing Stations Based on CCD Video Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madiedo, J. M.; Trigo-Rodriguez, J. M.; Lyytinen, E.

2011-01-01

The SPanish Meteor Network (SPMN) is performing a continuous monitoring of meteor activity over Spain and neighbouring countries. The huge amount of data obtained by the 25 video observing stations that this network is currently operating made it necessary to develop new software packages to accomplish some tasks, such as data reduction and remote operation of autonomous systems based on high-sensitivity CCD video devices. The main characteristics of this software are described here.

Scientific charge-coupled devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janesick, James R.; Elliott, Tom; Collins, Stewart; Blouke, Morley M.; Freeman, Jack

1987-01-01

The charge-coupled device dominates an ever-increasing variety of scientific imaging and spectroscopy applications. Recent experience indicates, however, that the full potential of CCD performance lies well beyond that realized in devices currently available.Test data suggest that major improvements are feasible in spectral response, charge collection, charge transfer, and readout noise. These properties, their measurement in existing CCDs, and their potential for future improvement are discussed in this paper.

The optical-mechanical design of DMD modulation imaging device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Tianting; Xu, Xiping; Qiao, Yang; Li, Lei; Pan, Yue

2014-09-01

In order to avoid the phenomenon of some image information were lost, which is due to the jamming signals, such as incident laser, make the pixels dot on CCD saturated. In this article a device of optical-mechanical structure was designed, which utilized the DMD (Digital Micro mirror Device) to modulate the image. The DMD reflection imaging optical system adopts the telecentric light path. However, because the design is not only required to guarantee a 66° angle between the optical axis of the relay optics and the DMD, but also to ensure that the optical axis of the projection system keeps parallel with the perpendicular bisector of the micro-mirror which is in the "flat" state, so the TIR prism is introduced，and making the relay optics and the DMD satisfy the optical institution's requirements. In this paper, a mechanical structure of the imaging optical system was designed and at the meanwhile the lens assembly has been well connected and fixed and fine-tuned by detailed structural design, which included the tilt decentered lens, wedge flanges, prisms. By optimizing the design, the issues of mutual restraint between the inverting optical system and the projecting system were well resolved, and prevented the blocking of the two systems. In addition, the structure size of the whole DMD reflection imaging optical system was minimized; it reduced the energy loss and ensured the image quality.

Digital photorefraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costa, Manuel F. M.; Jorge, Jorge M.

1998-01-01

The early evaluation of the visual status of human infants is of a critical importance. It is of utmost importance to the development of the child's visual system that she perceives clear, focused, retinal images. Furthermore if the refractive problems are not corrected in due time amblyopia may occur. Photorefraction is a non-invasive clinical tool rather convenient for application to this kind of population. A qualitative or semi-quantitative information about refractive errors, accommodation, strabismus, amblyogenic factors and some pathologies (cataracts) can the easily obtained. The photorefraction experimental setup we established using new technological breakthroughs on the fields of imaging devices, image processing and fiber optics, allows the implementation of both the isotropic and eccentric photorefraction approaches. Essentially both methods consist on delivering a light beam into the eyes. It is refracted by the ocular media, strikes the retina, focusing or not, reflects off and is collected by a camera. The system is formed by one CCD color camera and a light source. A beam splitter in front of the camera's objective allows coaxial illumination and observation. An optomechanical system also allows eccentric illumination. The light source is a flash type one and is synchronized with the camera's image acquisition. The camera's image is digitized displayed in real time. Image processing routines are applied for image's enhancement and feature extraction.

Digital photorefraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costa, Manuel F.; Jorge, Jorge M.

1997-12-01

The early evaluation of the visual status of human infants is of a critical importance. It is of utmost importance to the development of the child's visual system that she perceives clear, focused, retinal images. Furthermore if the refractive problems are not corrected in due time amblyopia may occur. Photorefraction is a non-invasive clinical tool rather convenient for application to this kind of population. A qualitative or semi-quantitative information about refractive errors, accommodation, strabismus, amblyogenic factors and some pathologies (cataracts) can the easily obtained. The photorefraction experimental setup we established using new technological breakthroughs on the fields of imaging devices, image processing and fiber optics, allows the implementation of both the isotropic and eccentric photorefraction approaches. Essentially both methods consist on delivering a light beam into the eyes. It is refracted by the ocular media, strikes the retina, focusing or not, reflects off and is collected by a camera. The system is formed by one CCD color camera and a light source. A beam splitter in front of the camera's objective allows coaxial illumination and observation. An optomechanical system also allows eccentric illumination. The light source is a flash type one and is synchronized with the camera's image acquisition. The camera's image is digitized displayed in real time. Image processing routines are applied for image's enhancement and feature extraction.

Ink-jet printout of radiographs on transparent film and glossy paper versus monitor display: an ROC analysis.

PubMed

Kühl, Sebastian; Krummenauer, Frank; Dagassan-Berndt, Dorothea; Lambrecht, Thomas J; d'Hoedt, Bernd; Schulze, Ralf Kurt Willy

2011-06-01

The aim of this study was to compare the depiction ability of small grayscale contrasts in ink-jet printouts of digital radiographs on different print media with CRT monitor. A CCD-based digital cephalometric image of a stepless aluminum wedge containing 50 bur holes of different depth was cut into 100 isometric images. Each image was printed on glossy paper and on transparent film by means of a high-resolution desktop inkjet printer at specific settings. The printed images were viewed under standardized conditions, and the perceptibility of the bur holes was evaluated and compared to the perceptibility on a 17-in CRT monitor. Thirty observers stated their blinded decision on a five-point confidence scale. Areas (Az) under receiver operating characteristics curves were calculated and compared using the pair wise sign tests. Overall agreement was estimated using Cohen's kappa device and observer bias using McNemar's test. Glossy paper prints and monitor display revealed significantly higher (P < 0.001) average Az values (0.83) compared to prints on transparent film (0.79), which was caused by higher sensitivity. Specificity was similar for all modalities. The sensitivity was dependent on the mean gray scale values for the transparent film.

Development and use of an L3CCD high-cadence imaging system for Optical Astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheehan, Brendan J.; Butler, Raymond F.

2008-02-01

A high cadence imaging system, based on a Low Light Level CCD (L3CCD) camera, has been developed for photometric and polarimetric applications. The camera system is an iXon DV-887 from Andor Technology, which uses a CCD97 L3CCD detector from E2V technologies. This is a back illuminated device, giving it an extended blue response, and has an active area of 512×512 pixels. The camera system allows frame-rates ranging from 30 fps (full frame) to 425 fps (windowed & binned frame). We outline the system design, concentrating on the calibration and control of the L3CCD camera. The L3CCD detector can be either triggered directly by a GPS timeserver/frequency generator or be internally triggered. A central PC remotely controls the camera computer system and timeserver. The data is saved as standard `FITS' files. The large data loads associated with high frame rates, leads to issues with gathering and storing the data effectively. To overcome such problems, a specific data management approach is used, and a Python/PYRAF data reduction pipeline was written for the Linux environment. This uses calibration data collected either on-site, or from lab based measurements, and enables a fast and reliable method for reducing images. To date, the system has been used twice on the 1.5 m Cassini Telescope in Loiano (Italy) we present the reduction methods and observations made.

Performance of an extended dynamic range time delay integration charge coupled device (XDR TDI CCD) for high-intrascene dynamic range scanning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levine, Peter A.; Dawson, Robin M.; Andrews, James T.; Bhaskaran, Mahalingham; Furst, David; Hsueh, Fu-Lung; Meray, Grazyna M.; Sudol, Thomas M.; Swain, Pradyumna K.; Tower, John R.

2003-05-01

Many applications, such as industrial inspection and overhead reconnaissance benefit from line scanning architectures where time delay integration (TDI) significantly improves sensitivity. CCDs are particularly well suited to the TDI architecture since charge is transferred virtually noiselessly down the column. Sarnoff's TDI CCDs have demonstrated extremely high speeds where a 7200 x 64, 8 um pixel device with 120 output ports demonstrated a vertical line transfer rate greater than 800 kHz. The most recent addition to Sarnoff's TDI technology is the implementation of extended dynamic range (XDR) in high speed, back illuminated TDI CCDs. The optical, intrascene dynamic range can be adjusted in the design of the imager with measured dynamic ranges exceeding 2,000,000:1 with no degradation in low light performance. The device provides a piecewise linear response to light where multiple slopes and break points can be set during the CCD design. A description of the device architecture and measured results from fabricated XDR TDI CCDs are presented.

The USNO Astrometry Department

Science.gov Websites

and methods, such as large scale CCD measuring devices, speckle and radio interferometry, are being the observational programs are published in the Naval Observatory Publications and in refereed

Low-background performance of a monolithic InSb CCD array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bregman, J. D.; Goebel, J. H.; Mccreight, C. R.; Matsumoto, T.

1982-01-01

A 20 element monolithic InSb charge coupled device (CCD) detector array was measured under low background conditions to assess its potential for orbital astronomical applications. At a temperature of 64 K, previous results for charge transfer efficiency (CTE) were reproduced, and a sensitivity of about 2 x 10 to the minus 15th power joules was measured. At 27 and 6 K, extended integration times were achieved, but CTE was substantially degraded. The noise was approximately 6000 charges, which was in excess of the level where statistical fluctuations from the illumination could be detected. A telescope demonstration was performed showing that the array sensitivity and difficulty of operation were not substantially different from laboratory levels. Ways in which the device could be improved for astronomical applications were discussed.

Growth of a delta-doped silicon layer by molecular beam epitaxy on a charge-coupled device for reflection-limited ultraviolet quantum efficiency

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoenk, Michael E.; Grunthaner, Paula J.; Grunthaner, Frank J.; Terhune, R. W.; Fattahi, Masoud; Tseng, Hsin-Fu

1992-01-01

Low-temperature silicon molecular beam epitaxy is used to grow a delta-doped silicon layer on a fully processed charge-coupled device (CCD). The measured quantum efficiency of the delta-doped backside-thinned CCD is in agreement with the reflection limit for light incident on the back surface in the spectral range of 260-600 nm. The 2.5 nm silicon layer, grown at 450 C, contained a boron delta-layer with surface density of about 2 x 10 exp 14/sq cm. Passivation of the surface was done by steam oxidation of a nominally undoped 1.5 nm Si cap layer. The UV quantum efficiency was found to be uniform and stable with respect to thermal cycling and illumination conditions.

A goggle navigation system for cancer resection surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Junbin; Shao, Pengfei; Yue, Ting; Zhang, Shiwu; Ding, Houzhu; Wang, Jinkun; Xu, Ronald

2014-02-01

We describe a portable fluorescence goggle navigation system for cancer margin assessment during oncologic surgeries. The system consists of a computer, a head mount display (HMD) device, a near infrared (NIR) CCD camera, a miniature CMOS camera, and a 780 nm laser diode excitation light source. The fluorescence and the background images of the surgical scene are acquired by the CCD camera and the CMOS camera respectively, co-registered, and displayed on the HMD device in real-time. The spatial resolution and the co-registration deviation of the goggle navigation system are evaluated quantitatively. The technical feasibility of the proposed goggle system is tested in an ex vivo tumor model. Our experiments demonstrate the feasibility of using a goggle navigation system for intraoperative margin detection and surgical guidance.

Image Information Obtained Using a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) Camera During an Immersion Liquid Evaporation Process for Measuring the Refractive Index of Solid Particles.

PubMed

Niskanen, Ilpo; Sutinen, Veijo; Thungström, Göran; Räty, Jukka

2018-06-01

The refractive index is a fundamental physical property of a medium, which can be used for the identification and purity issues of all media. Here we describe a refractive index measurement technique to determine simultaneously the refractive index of different solid particles by monitoring the transmittance of light from a suspension using a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. An important feature of the measurement is the liquid evaporation process for the refractive index matching of the solid particle and the immersion liquid; this was realized by using a pair of volatile and non-volatile immersion liquids. In this study, refractive indices of calcium fluoride (CaF 2 ) and barium fluoride (BaF 2 ) were determined using the proposed method.

Time and space integrating acousto-optic folded spectrum processing for SETI

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wagner, K.; Psaltis, D.

1986-01-01

Time and space integrating folded spectrum techniques utilizing acousto-optic devices (AOD) as 1-D input transducers are investigated for a potential application as wideband, high resolution, large processing gain spectrum analyzers in the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence (SETI) program. The space integrating Fourier transform performed by a lens channels the coarse spectral components diffracted from an AOD onto an array of time integrating narrowband fine resolution spectrum analyzers. The pulsing action of a laser diode samples the interferometrically detected output, aliasing the fine resolution components to baseband, as required for the subsequent charge coupled devices (CCD) processing. The raster scan mechanism incorporated into the readout of the CCD detector array is used to unfold the 2-D transform, reproducing the desired high resolution Fourier transform of the input signal.

Effects of space-radiation damage and temperature on CCD noise for the Lyman FUSE mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murowinski, Richard G.; Gao, Linzhuang; Deen, Mohamed J.

1993-09-01

Charge coupled device (CCD) imaging arrays are becoming more frequently used in space vehicles and equipment, especially space-based astronomical telescopes. It is important to understand the effects of radiation on a CCD so that its performance degradation during mission lifetime can be predicted, and so that methods to prevent unacceptable performance degradation can be found. Much recent work by various groups has focused on the problems surrounding the loss of charge transfer efficiency and the increase in dark current and dark current spikes in CCDs. The use of a CCD as the fine error sensor in the Lyman Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) is limited by its noise performance. In this work we attempt to understand some of the factors surrounding the noise degradation due to radiation in a space environment. Later, we demonstrate how low frequency noise can be used as a characterization tool for studying proton radiation damage in CCDs.

DAMIC at SNOLAB

DOE PAGES

Chavarria, Alvaro E.; Tiffenberg, Javier; Aguilar-Arevalo, Alexis; ...

2015-03-24

We introduce the fully-depleted charge-coupled device (CCD) as a particle detector. We demonstrate its low energy threshold operation, capable of detecting ionizing energy depositions in a single pixel down to 50 eV ee. We present results of energy calibrations from 0.3 keV ee to 60 ke Vee, showing that the CCD is a fully active detector with uniform energy response throughout the silicon target, good resolution (Fano ~0.16), and remarkable linear response to electron energy depositions. We show the capability of the CCD to localize the depth of particle interactions within the silicon target. We discuss the mode of operationmore » and unique imaging capabilities of the CCD, and how they may be exploited to characterize and suppress backgrounds. We present the first results from the deployment of 250 μm thick CCDs in SNOLAB, a prototype for the upcoming DAMIC100. DAMIC100 will have a target mass of 0.1 kg and should be able to directly test the CDMS-Si signal within a year of operation.« less

Laser pulse detection method and apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goss, W.; Janesick, J. R. (Inventor)

1984-01-01

A sensor is described for detecting the difference in phase of a pair of returned light pulse components, such as two components of a light pulse of an optical gyro. In an optic gyro, the two light components have passed in opposite directions through a coil of optical fiber, with the difference in phase of the returned light components determining the intensity of light shining on the sensor. The sensor includes a CCD (charge coupled device) that receives the pair of returned light components to generate a charge proportional to the number of photons in the received light. The amount of the charge represents the phase difference between the two light components. At a time after the transmission of the light pulse and before the expected time of arrival of the interfering light components, charge accumulating in the CCD as a result of reflections from components in the system, are repeatedly removed from the CCD, by transferring out charges in the CCD and dumping these charges.

Novel low-cost vision-sensing technology with controllable of exposal time for welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenzeng; Wang, Bin; Chen, Nian; Cao, Yipeng

2005-02-01

In the process of robot Welding, position of welding seam and welding pool shape is detected by CCD camera for quality control and seam tracking in real-time. It is difficult to always get a clear welding image in some welding methods, such as TIG welding. A novel idea that the exposal time of CCD camera is automatically controlled by arc voltage or arc luminance is proposed to get clear welding image. A set of special device and circuits are added to a common industrial CCD camera in order to flexibly control the CCD to start or close exposal by control of the internal clearing signal of the accumulated charge. Two special vision sensors according to the idea are developed. Their exposal grabbing can be triggered respectively by the arc voltage and the variety of the arc luminance. Two prototypes have been designed and manufactured. Experiments show that they can stably grab clear welding images at appointed moment, which is a basic for the feedback control of automatic welding.

CCD Camera Detection of HIV Infection.

PubMed

Day, John R

2017-01-01

Rapid and precise quantification of the infectivity of HIV is important for molecular virologic studies, as well as for measuring the activities of antiviral drugs and neutralizing antibodies. An indicator cell line, a CCD camera, and image-analysis software are used to quantify HIV infectivity. The cells of the P4R5 line, which express the receptors for HIV infection as well as β-galactosidase under the control of the HIV-1 long terminal repeat, are infected with HIV and then incubated 2 days later with X-gal to stain the infected cells blue. Digital images of monolayers of the infected cells are captured using a high resolution CCD video camera and a macro video zoom lens. A software program is developed to process the images and to count the blue-stained foci of infection. The described method allows for the rapid quantification of the infected cells over a wide range of viral inocula with reproducibility, accuracy and at relatively low cost.

Design and development of a fiber optic TDI CCD-based slot-scan digital mammography system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toker, Emre; Piccaro, Michele F.

1993-12-01

We previously reported on the development, design, and clinical evaluation of a CCD-based, high performance, filmless imaging system for stereotactic needle biopsy procedures in mammography. The MammoVision system has a limited imaging area of 50 mm X 50 mm, since it is designed specifically for breast biopsy applications. We are currently developing a new filmless imaging system designed to cover the 18 cm X 24 cm imaging area required for screening and diagnostic mammography. The diagnostic mammography system is based on four 1100 X 330 pixel format, full-frame, scientific grade, front illuminated, MPP mode CCDs, with 24 micrometers X 24 micrometers square pixels Each CCD is coupled to an x-ray intensifying screen via a 1.7:1 fiber optic reducer. The detector assembly (180 mm long and 13.5 mm wide) is scanned across the patient's breast synchronously with the x-ray source, with the CCDs operated in time-delay integration (TDI) mode. The total scan time is 4.0 seconds.

Advancing the Technology of Monolithic CMOS detectors for their use as X-ray Imaging Spectrometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kenter, Almus

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) proposes a two year program to further advance the scientific capabilities of monolithic CMOS detectors for use as x-ray imaging spectrometers. This proposal will build upon the progress achieved with funding from a previous APRA proposal that ended in 2013. As part of that previous proposal, x- ray optimized, highly versatile, monolithic CMOS imaging detectors and technology were developed and tested. The performance and capabilities of these devices were then demonstrated, with an emphasis on the performance advantages these devices have over CCDs and other technologies. The developed SAO/SRI-Sarnoff CMOS devices incorporate: Low noise, high sensitivity ("gain") pixels; Highly parallel on-chip signal chains; Standard and very high resistivity (30,000Ohm-cm) Si; Back-Side thinning and passivation. SAO demonstrated the performance benefits of each of these features in these devices. This new proposal high-lights the performance of this previous generation of devices, and segues into new technology and capability. The high sensitivity ( 135uV/e) 6 Transistor (6T) Pinned Photo Diode (PPD) pixels provided a large charge to voltage conversion gain to the detect and resolve even small numbers of photo electrons produced by x-rays. The on-chip, parallel signal chain processed an entire row of pixels in the same time that a CCD requires to processes a single pixel. The resulting high speed operation ( 1000 times faster than CCD) provide temporal resolution while mitigating dark current and allowed room temperature operation. The high resistivity Si provided full (over) depletion for thicker devices which increased QE for higher energy x-rays. In this proposal, SAO will investigate existing NMOS and existing PMOS devices as xray imaging spectrometers. Conventional CMOS imagers are NMOS. NMOS devices collect and measure photo-electrons. In contrast, PMOS devices collect and measure photo-holes. PMOS devices have various attributes that would make them superior for use in X-ray astronomy. In particular, PMOS has: "no" photo-charge recombination; "no" Random Telegraph Signal noise (RTS); and lower read noise. The existing SRI/Sarnoff PMOS devices are small and have been developed for non-intensified night vision applications, however, no x-ray evaluation of a monolithic PMOS device has ever been made. In addition to these PMOS devices, SAO will also evaluate existing NMOS scale-able format devices that can be fabricated in any rectangular size/shape using stitchable reticles. These "Mk by Nk" devices would be ideal for large X-ray focal planes or long grating readouts. The Sarnoff/SRI Mk by Nk format devices have been designed, with foresight, so that they can be fabricated in either PMOS or NMOS by changing a single fabrication reticle and by changing the type of Si substrate. If X-ray performance results are expected, this proposal will lead the way to future fabrication of Mk by Nk PMOS devices that would be ideal for X-ray astronomy missions such as "X-ray Surveyor". SAO will also investigate the interaction of directly deposited Optical Blocking Filters (OBFs) on various back side passivated devices, and their resultant effects on very "soft" x-ray response. The latest CMOS processes and very fast on-chip, and off-chip digital readout signal chains and camera systems will be demonstrated.

Assessment study of infrared detector arrays for low-background astronomical research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ando, K. J.

1978-01-01

The current state-of-the-art of infrared detector arrays employing charge coupled devices (CCD) or charge injection devices (CID) readout are assessed. The applicability, limitations and potentials of such arrays under the low-background astronomical observing conditions of interest for SIRFT (Shuttle Infrared Telescope Facility) are determined. The following are reviewed: (1) monolithic extrinsic arrays; (2) monolithic intrinsic arrays; (3) charge injection devices; and (4) hybrid arrays.

Improved Scanners for Microscopic Hyperspectral Imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mao, Chengye

2009-01-01

Improved scanners to be incorporated into hyperspectral microscope-based imaging systems have been invented. Heretofore, in microscopic imaging, including spectral imaging, it has been customary to either move the specimen relative to the optical assembly that includes the microscope or else move the entire assembly relative to the specimen. It becomes extremely difficult to control such scanning when submicron translation increments are required, because the high magnification of the microscope enlarges all movements in the specimen image on the focal plane. To overcome this difficulty, in a system based on this invention, no attempt would be made to move either the specimen or the optical assembly. Instead, an objective lens would be moved within the assembly so as to cause translation of the image at the focal plane: the effect would be equivalent to scanning in the focal plane. The upper part of the figure depicts a generic proposed microscope-based hyperspectral imaging system incorporating the invention. The optical assembly of this system would include an objective lens (normally, a microscope objective lens) and a charge-coupled-device (CCD) camera. The objective lens would be mounted on a servomotor-driven translation stage, which would be capable of moving the lens in precisely controlled increments, relative to the camera, parallel to the focal-plane scan axis. The output of the CCD camera would be digitized and fed to a frame grabber in a computer. The computer would store the frame-grabber output for subsequent viewing and/or processing of images. The computer would contain a position-control interface board, through which it would control the servomotor. There are several versions of the invention. An essential feature common to all versions is that the stationary optical subassembly containing the camera would also contain a spatial window, at the focal plane of the objective lens, that would pass only a selected portion of the image. In one version, the window would be a slit, the CCD would contain a one-dimensional array of pixels, and the objective lens would be moved along an axis perpendicular to the slit to spatially scan the image of the specimen in pushbroom fashion. The image built up by scanning in this case would be an ordinary (non-spectral) image. In another version, the optics of which are depicted in the lower part of the figure, the spatial window would be a slit, the CCD would contain a two-dimensional array of pixels, the slit image would be refocused onto the CCD by a relay-lens pair consisting of a collimating and a focusing lens, and a prism-gratingprism optical spectrometer would be placed between the collimating and focusing lenses. Consequently, the image on the CCD would be spatially resolved along the slit axis and spectrally resolved along the axis perpendicular to the slit. As in the first-mentioned version, the objective lens would be moved along an axis perpendicular to the slit to spatially scan the image of the specimen in pushbroom fashion.

DMD-based LED-illumination super-resolution and optical sectioning microscopy.

PubMed

Dan, Dan; Lei, Ming; Yao, Baoli; Wang, Wen; Winterhalder, Martin; Zumbusch, Andreas; Qi, Yujiao; Xia, Liang; Yan, Shaohui; Yang, Yanlong; Gao, Peng; Ye, Tong; Zhao, Wei

2013-01-01

Super-resolution three-dimensional (3D) optical microscopy has incomparable advantages over other high-resolution microscopic technologies, such as electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, in the study of biological molecules, pathways and events in live cells and tissues. We present a novel approach of structured illumination microscopy (SIM) by using a digital micromirror device (DMD) for fringe projection and a low-coherence LED light for illumination. The lateral resolution of 90 nm and the optical sectioning depth of 120 μm were achieved. The maximum acquisition speed for 3D imaging in the optical sectioning mode was 1.6×10(7) pixels/second, which was mainly limited by the sensitivity and speed of the CCD camera. In contrast to other SIM techniques, the DMD-based LED-illumination SIM is cost-effective, ease of multi-wavelength switchable and speckle-noise-free. The 2D super-resolution and 3D optical sectioning modalities can be easily switched and applied to either fluorescent or non-fluorescent specimens.

DMD-based LED-illumination Super-resolution and optical sectioning microscopy

PubMed Central

Dan, Dan; Lei, Ming; Yao, Baoli; Wang, Wen; Winterhalder, Martin; Zumbusch, Andreas; Qi, Yujiao; Xia, Liang; Yan, Shaohui; Yang, Yanlong; Gao, Peng; Ye, Tong; Zhao, Wei

2013-01-01

Super-resolution three-dimensional (3D) optical microscopy has incomparable advantages over other high-resolution microscopic technologies, such as electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, in the study of biological molecules, pathways and events in live cells and tissues. We present a novel approach of structured illumination microscopy (SIM) by using a digital micromirror device (DMD) for fringe projection and a low-coherence LED light for illumination. The lateral resolution of 90 nm and the optical sectioning depth of 120 μm were achieved. The maximum acquisition speed for 3D imaging in the optical sectioning mode was 1.6×107 pixels/second, which was mainly limited by the sensitivity and speed of the CCD camera. In contrast to other SIM techniques, the DMD-based LED-illumination SIM is cost-effective, ease of multi-wavelength switchable and speckle-noise-free. The 2D super-resolution and 3D optical sectioning modalities can be easily switched and applied to either fluorescent or non-fluorescent specimens. PMID:23346373

Surface temperature/heat transfer measurement using a quantitative phosphor thermography system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buck, G. M.

1991-01-01

A relative-intensity phosphor thermography technique developed for surface heating studies in hypersonic wind tunnels is described. A direct relationship between relative emission intensity and phosphor temperature is used for quantitative surface temperature measurements in time. The technique provides global surface temperature-time histories using a 3-CCD (Charge Coupled Device) video camera and digital recording system. A current history of technique development at Langley is discussed. Latest developments include a phosphor mixture for a greater range of temperature sensitivity and use of castable ceramics for inexpensive test models. A method of calculating surface heat-transfer from thermal image data in blowdown wind tunnels is included in an appendix, with an analysis of material thermal heat-transfer properties. Results from tests in the Langley 31-Inch Mach 10 Tunnel are presented for a ceramic orbiter configuration and a four-inch diameter hemisphere model. Data include windward heating for bow-shock/wing-shock interactions on the orbiter wing surface, and a comparison with prediction for hemisphere heating distribution.

Estimating and Separating Noise from AIA Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirk, Michael S.; Ireland, Jack; Young, C. Alex; Pesnell, W. Dean

2016-10-01

All digital images are corrupted by noise and SDO AIA is no different. In most solar imaging, we have the luxury of high photon counts and low background contamination, which when combined with carful calibration, minimize much of the impact noise has on the measurement. Outside high-intensity regions, such as in coronal holes, the noise component can become significant and complicate feature recognition and segmentation. We create a practical estimate of noise in the high-resolution AIA images across the detector CCD in all seven EUV wavelengths. A mixture of Poisson and Gaussian noise is well suited in the digital imaging environment due to the statistical distributions of photons and the characteristics of the CCD. Using state-of-the-art noise estimation techniques, the publicly available solar images, and coronal loop simulations; we construct a maximum-a-posteriori assessment of the error in these images. The estimation and mitigation of noise not only provides a clearer view of large-scale solar structure in the solar corona, but also provides physical constraints on fleeting EUV features observed with AIA.

Numerically correcting the joint misplacement of the sub-holograms in spatial synthetic aperture digital Fresnel holography.

PubMed

Jiang, Hongzhen; Zhao, Jianlin; Di, Jianglei; Qin, Chuan

2009-10-12

We propose an effective reconstruction method for correcting the joint misplacement of the sub-holograms caused by the displacement error of CCD in spatial synthetic aperture digital Fresnel holography. For every two adjacent sub-holograms along the motion path of CCD, we reconstruct the corresponding holographic images under different joint distances between the sub-holograms and then find out the accurate joint distance by evaluating the quality of the corresponding synthetic reconstructed images. Then the accurate relative position relationships of the sub-holograms can be confirmed according to all of the identified joint distances, with which the accurate synthetic reconstructed image can be obtained by superposing the reconstruction results of the sub-holograms. The numerical reconstruction results are in agreement with the theoretical analysis. Compared with the traditional reconstruction method, this method could be used to not only correct the joint misplacement of the sub-holograms without the limitation of the actually overlapping circumstances of the adjacent sub-holograms, but also make the joint precision of the sub-holograms reach sub-pixel accuracy.

A Star Image Extractor for Small Satellites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Yoshiyuki; Yamauchi, Masahiro; Gouda, Naoteru; Kobayashi, Yukiyasu; Tsujimoto, Takuji; Yano, Taihei; Suganuma, Masahiro; Nakasuka, Shinichi; Sako, Nobutada; Inamori, Takaya

We have developed a Star Image Extractor (SIE) which works as an on-board real-time image processor. It is a logic circuit written on an FPGA(Field Programmable Gate Array) device. It detects and extracts only an object data from raw image data. SIE will be required with the Nano-JASMINE 1) satellite. Nano-JASMINE is the small astrometry satellite that observes objects in our galaxy. It will be launched in 2010 and needs two years mission period. Nano-JASMINE observes an object with the TDI (Time Delayed Integration) observation mode. TDI is one of operation modes of CCD detector. Data is obtained, by rotating the imaging system including CCD at a rated synchronized with a vertical charge transfer of CCD. Obtained image data is sent through SIE to the Mission-controller.

Multispectral linear array visible and shortwave infrared sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tower, J. R.; Warren, F. B.; Pellon, L. E.; Strong, R.; Elabd, H.; Cope, A. D.; Hoffmann, D. M.; Kramer, W. M.; Longsderff, R. W.

1984-08-01

All-solid state pushbroom sensors for multispectral linear array (MLA) instruments to replace mechanical scanners used on LANDSAT satellites are introduced. A buttable, four-spectral-band, linear-format charge coupled device (CCD) and a buttable, two-spectral-band, linear-format, shortwave infrared CCD are described. These silicon integrated circuits may be butted end to end to provide multispectral focal planes with thousands of contiguous, in-line photosites. The visible CCD integrated circuit is organized as four linear arrays of 1024 pixels each. Each array views the scene in a different spectral window, resulting in a four-band sensor. The shortwave infrared (SWIR) sensor is organized as 2 linear arrays of 512 detectors each. Each linear array is optimized for performance at a different wavelength in the SWIR band.

Clinical prototype of a plastic water-equivalent scintillating fiber dosimeter array for QA applications.

PubMed

Lacroix, Fréderic; Archambault, Louis; Gingras, Luc; Guillot, Mathieu; Beddar, A Sam; Beaulieu, Luc

2008-08-01

A clinical prototype of a scintillating fiber dosimeter array for quality assurance applications is presented. The array consists of a linear array of 29 plastic scintillation detectors embedded in a water-equivalent plastic sheet coupled to optical fibers used to guide optical photons to a charge coupled device (CCD) camera. The CCD is packaged in a light-tight, radiation-shielded housing designed for convenient transport. A custom designed connector is used to ensure reproducible mechanical positioning of the optical fibers relative to the CCD. Profile and depth dose characterization measurements are presented and show that the prototype provides excellent dose measurement reproducibility (+/-0.8%) in-field and good accuracy (+/-1.6% maximum deviation) relative to the dose measured with an IC10 ionization chamber.

Movement measurement of isolated skeletal muscle using imaging microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elias, David; Zepeda, Hugo; Leija, Lorenzo S.; Sossa, Humberto; de la Rosa, Jose I.

1997-05-01

An imaging-microscopy methodology to measure contraction movement in chemically stimulated crustacean skeletal muscle, whose movement speed is about 0.02 mm/s is presented. For this, a CCD camera coupled to a microscope and a high speed digital image acquisition system, allowing us to capture 960 images per second are used. The images are digitally processed in a PC and displayed in a video monitor. A maximal field of 0.198 X 0.198 mm2 and a spatial resolution of 3.5 micrometers are obtained.

Manipulating Digital Holograms to Modify Phase of Reconstructed Wavefronts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferraro, Pietro; Paturzo, Melania; Memmolo, Pasquale; Finizio, Andrea

2010-04-01

We show that through an adaptive deformation of digital holograms it is possible to manage the depth of focus in the numerical reconstruction. Deformation is applied to the original hologram with the aim to put simultaneously in-focus, and in one reconstructed image plane, different objects lying at different distance from the hologram plane (i.e. CCD sensor), but in the same field of view. In the same way it is possible to extend the depth of field for 3D object having a tilted object whole in-focus.

An LOD with improved breakdown voltage in full-frame CCD devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Banghart, Edmund K.; Stevens, Eric G.; Doan, Hung Q.; Shepherd, John P.; Meisenzahl, Eric J.

2005-02-01

In full-frame image sensors, lateral overflow drain (LOD) structures are typically formed along the vertical CCD shift registers to provide a means for preventing charge blooming in the imager pixels. In a conventional LOD structure, the n-type LOD implant is made through the thin gate dielectric stack in the device active area and adjacent to the thick field oxidation that isolates the vertical CCD columns of the imager. In this paper, a novel LOD structure is described in which the n-type LOD impurities are placed directly under the field oxidation and are, therefore, electrically isolated from the gate electrodes. By reducing the electrical fields that cause breakdown at the silicon surface, this new structure permits a larger amount of n-type impurities to be implanted for the purpose of increasing the LOD conductivity. As a consequence of the improved conductance, the LOD width can be significantly reduced, enabling the design of higher resolution imaging arrays without sacrificing charge capacity in the pixels. Numerical simulations with MEDICI of the LOD leakage current are presented that identify the breakdown mechanism, while three-dimensional solutions to Poisson's equation are used to determine the charge capacity as a function of pixel dimension.

LED characterization for development of on-board calibration unit of CCD-based advanced wide-field sensor camera of Resourcesat-2A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chatterjee, Abhijit; Verma, Anurag

2016-05-01

The Advanced Wide Field Sensor (AWiFS) camera caters to high temporal resolution requirement of Resourcesat-2A mission with repeativity of 5 days. The AWiFS camera consists of four spectral bands, three in the visible and near IR and one in the short wave infrared. The imaging concept in VNIR bands is based on push broom scanning that uses linear array silicon charge coupled device (CCD) based Focal Plane Array (FPA). On-Board Calibration unit for these CCD based FPAs is used to monitor any degradation in FPA during entire mission life. Four LEDs are operated in constant current mode and 16 different light intensity levels are generated by electronically changing exposure of CCD throughout the calibration cycle. This paper describes experimental setup and characterization results of various flight model visible LEDs (λP=650nm) for development of On-Board Calibration unit of Advanced Wide Field Sensor (AWiFS) camera of RESOURCESAT-2A. Various LED configurations have been studied to meet dynamic range coverage of 6000 pixels silicon CCD based focal plane array from 20% to 60% of saturation during night pass of the satellite to identify degradation of detector elements. The paper also explains comparison of simulation and experimental results of CCD output profile at different LED combinations in constant current mode.

Solid state high resolution multi-spectral imager CCD test phase

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The program consisted of measuring the performance characteristics of charge coupled linear imaging devices, and a study defining a multispectral imaging system employing advanced solid state photodetection techniques.

Inter- and intraobserver reliability of the Rockwood classification in acute acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

PubMed

Schneider, M M; Balke, M; Koenen, P; Fröhlich, M; Wafaisade, A; Bouillon, B; Banerjee, M

2016-07-01

The reliability of the Rockwood classification, the gold standard for acute acromioclavicular (AC) joint separations, has not yet been tested. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability of visual and measured AC joint lesion grades according to the Rockwood classification. Four investigators (two shoulder specialists and two second-year residents) examined radiographs (bilateral panoramic stress and axial views) in 58 patients and graded the injury according to the Rockwood classification using the following sequence: (1) visual classification of the AC joint lesion, (2) digital measurement of the coracoclavicular distance (CCD) and the horizontal dislocation (HD) with Osirix Dicom Viewer (Pixmeo, Switzerland), (3) classification of the AC joint lesion according to the measurements and (4) repetition of (1) and (2) after repeated anonymization by an independent physician. Visual and measured Rockwood grades as well as the CCD and HD of every patient were documented, and a CC index was calculated (CCD injured/CCD healthy). All records were then used to evaluate intra- and interobserver reliability. The disagreement between visual and measured diagnosis ranged from 6.9 to 27.6 %. Interobserver reliability for visual diagnosis was good (0.72-0.74) and excellent (0.85-0.93) for measured Rockwood grades. Intraobserver reliability was good to excellent (0.67-0.93) for visual diagnosis and excellent for measured diagnosis (0.90-0.97). The correlations between measurements of the axial view varied from 0.68 to 0.98 (good to excellent) for interobserver reliability and from 0.90 to 0.97 (excellent) for intraobserver reliability. Bilateral panoramic stress and axial radiographs are reliable examinations for grading AC joint injuries according to Rockwood's classification. Clinicians of all experience levels can precisely classify AC joint lesions according to the Rockwood classification. We recommend to grade acute ACG lesions by performing a digital measurement instead of a sole visual diagnosis because of the higher intra- and interobserver reliability. Case series, Level IV.

21 CFR 892.2030 - Medical image digitizer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Medical image digitizer. 892.2030 Section 892.2030...) MEDICAL DEVICES RADIOLOGY DEVICES Diagnostic Devices § 892.2030 Medical image digitizer. (a) Identification. A medical image digitizer is a device intended to convert an analog medical image into a digital...

21 CFR 892.2030 - Medical image digitizer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Medical image digitizer. 892.2030 Section 892.2030...) MEDICAL DEVICES RADIOLOGY DEVICES Diagnostic Devices § 892.2030 Medical image digitizer. (a) Identification. A medical image digitizer is a device intended to convert an analog medical image into a digital...

21 CFR 892.2030 - Medical image digitizer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Medical image digitizer. 892.2030 Section 892.2030...) MEDICAL DEVICES RADIOLOGY DEVICES Diagnostic Devices § 892.2030 Medical image digitizer. (a) Identification. A medical image digitizer is a device intended to convert an analog medical image into a digital...

21 CFR 892.2030 - Medical image digitizer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Medical image digitizer. 892.2030 Section 892.2030...) MEDICAL DEVICES RADIOLOGY DEVICES Diagnostic Devices § 892.2030 Medical image digitizer. (a) Identification. A medical image digitizer is a device intended to convert an analog medical image into a digital...

Reverse engineering physical models employing a sensor integration between 3D stereo detection and contact digitization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Liang-Chia; Lin, Grier C. I.

1997-12-01

A vision-drive automatic digitization process for free-form surface reconstruction has been developed, with a coordinate measurement machine (CMM) equipped with a touch-triggered probe and a CCD camera, in reverse engineering physical models. The process integrates 3D stereo detection, data filtering, Delaunay triangulation, adaptive surface digitization into a single process of surface reconstruction. By using this innovative approach, surface reconstruction can be implemented automatically and accurately. Least-squares B- spline surface models with the controlled accuracy of digitization can be generated for further application in product design and manufacturing processes. One industrial application indicates that this approach is feasible, and the processing time required in reverse engineering process can be significantly reduced up to more than 85%.

Observation and analysis of microcirculation using high-spatial-resolution image detectors and synchrotron radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umetani, Keiji; Yagi, Naoto; Suzuki, Yoshio; Ogasawara, Yasuo; Kajiya, Fumihiko; Matsumoto, Takeshi; Tachibana, Hiroyuki; Goto, Masami; Yamashita, Takenori; Imai, Shigeki; Kajihara, Yasumasa

2000-04-01

A microangiography system using monochromatized synchrotron radiation has been investigated as a diagnostic tool for circulatory disorders and early stage malignant tumors. The monochromatized X-rays with energies just above the contrast agent K-absorption edge energy can produce the highest contrast image of the contrast agent in small blood vessels. At SPring-8, digital microradiography with 6 - 24 micrometer pixel sizes has been carried out using two types of detectors designed for X-ray indirect and direct detection. The indirect-sensing detectors are fluorescent-screen optical-lens coupling systems using a high-sensitivity pickup-tube camera and a CCD camera. An X-ray image on the fluorescent screen is focused on the photoconductive layer of the pickup tube and the photosensitive area of the CCD by a small F number lens. The direct-sensing detector consists of an X-ray direct- sensing pickup tube with a beryllium faceplate for X-ray incidence to the photoconductive layer. Absorbed X-rays in the photoconductive layer are directly converted to photoelectrons and then signal charges are readout by electron beam scanning. The direct-sensing detector was expected to have higher spatial resolution in comparison with the indict-sensing detectors. Performance of the X-ray image detectors was examined at the bending magnet beamline BL20B2 using monochromatized X-ray at SPring-8. Image signals from the camera are converted into digital format by an analog-to- digital converter and stored in a frame memory with image format of 1024 X 1024 pixels. In preliminary experiments, tumor vessel specimens using barium contrast agent were prepared for taking static images. The growth pattern of tumor-induced vessels was clearly visualized. Heart muscle specimens were prepared for imaging of 3-dimensional microtomography using the fluorescent-screen CCD camera system. The complex structure of small blood vessels with diameters of 30 - 40 micrometer was visualized as a 3- dimensional CT image.

A Simple Illustrative Model of a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santillo, Michael F.

2009-01-01

Many students (as well as the general public) use modern technology without an understanding of how these devices actually work. They are what scientists refer to in the laboratory as "black boxes." Students often wonder how physics relates to the technology used in the real world and are interested in such applications. An example of one such…

Fast Neural Solution Of A Nonlinear Wave Equation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barhen, Jacob; Toomarian, Nikzad

1996-01-01

Neural algorithm for simulation of class of nonlinear wave phenomena devised. Numerically solves special one-dimensional case of Korteweg-deVries equation. Intended to be executed rapidly by neural network implemented as charge-coupled-device/charge-injection device, very-large-scale integrated-circuit analog data processor of type described in "CCD/CID Processors Would Offer Greater Precision" (NPO-18972).

Upwelling Radiance at 976 nm Measured from Space Using a CCD Camera

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Biswas, Abhijit; Kovalik, Joseph M.; Oaida, Bogdan V.; Abrahamson, Matthew J.; Wright, Malcolm W.

2015-01-01

The Optical Payload for Lasercomm Science (OPALS) Flight System on-board the International Space Station uses a charge coupled device (CCD) camera for receiving a beacon laser from Earth. Relative measurements of the background contributed by upwelling radiance under diverse illumination conditions and varying terrain is presented. In some cases clouds in the field-of-view allowed a comparison of terrestrial and cloud-top upwelling radiance. In this paper we will report these measurements and examine the extent of agreement with atmospheric model predictions.

C2D8: An eight channel CCD readout electronics dedicated to low energy neutron detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bourrion, O.; Clement, B.; Tourres, D.; Pignol, G.; Xi, Y.; Rebreyend, D.; Nesvizhevsky, V. V.

2018-02-01

Position-sensitive detectors for cold and ultra-cold neutrons (UCN) are in use in fundamental research. In particular, measuring the properties of the quantum states of bouncing neutrons requires micro-metric spatial resolution. To this end, a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) coated with a thin conversion layer that allows a real time detection of neutron hits is under development at LPSC. In this paper, we present the design and performance of a dedicated electronic board designed to read-out eight CCDs simultaneously and operating under vacuum.

Automatic target detection using binary template matching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jun, Dong-San; Sun, Sun-Gu; Park, HyunWook

2005-03-01

This paper presents a new automatic target detection (ATD) algorithm to detect targets such as battle tanks and armored personal carriers in ground-to-ground scenarios. Whereas most ATD algorithms were developed for forward-looking infrared (FLIR) images, we have developed an ATD algorithm for charge-coupled device (CCD) images, which have superior quality to FLIR images in daylight. The proposed algorithm uses fast binary template matching with an adaptive binarization, which is robust to various light conditions in CCD images and saves computation time. Experimental results show that the proposed method has good detection performance.

CCD image sensor induced error in PIV applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Legrand, M.; Nogueira, J.; Vargas, A. A.; Ventas, R.; Rodríguez-Hidalgo, M. C.

2014-06-01

The readout procedure of charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras is known to generate some image degradation in different scientific imaging fields, especially in astrophysics. In the particular field of particle image velocimetry (PIV), widely extended in the scientific community, the readout procedure of the interline CCD sensor induces a bias in the registered position of particle images. This work proposes simple procedures to predict the magnitude of the associated measurement error. Generally, there are differences in the position bias for the different images of a certain particle at each PIV frame. This leads to a substantial bias error in the PIV velocity measurement (˜0.1 pixels). This is the order of magnitude that other typical PIV errors such as peak-locking may reach. Based on modern CCD technology and architecture, this work offers a description of the readout phenomenon and proposes a modeling for the CCD readout bias error magnitude. This bias, in turn, generates a velocity measurement bias error when there is an illumination difference between two successive PIV exposures. The model predictions match the experiments performed with two 12-bit-depth interline CCD cameras (MegaPlus ES 4.0/E incorporating the Kodak KAI-4000M CCD sensor with 4 megapixels). For different cameras, only two constant values are needed to fit the proposed calibration model and predict the error from the readout procedure. Tests by different researchers using different cameras would allow verification of the model, that can be used to optimize acquisition setups. Simple procedures to obtain these two calibration values are also described.

Development of an Integrated Countermeasure Device for Use in Long-Duration Space Flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Streeper, Tim; Cavanagh, Peter R.; Hanson, Andrea M.; Carpenter, Dana; Saeed, Isra; Kornak, John; Frassetto, Lynda; Grodsinsky, Carlos; Funk, Justin; Lee, Stuart M. C.;

High-voltage compatible, full-depleted CCD

DOEpatents

Holland, Stephen Edward

2007-09-18

A charge coupled device for detecting electromagnetic and particle radiation is described. The device includes a high-resistivity semiconductor substrate, buried channel regions, gate electrode circuitry, and amplifier circuitry. For good spatial resolution and high performance, especially when operated at high voltages with full or nearly full depletion of the substrate, the device can also include a guard ring positioned near channel regions, a biased channel stop, and a biased polysilicon electrode over the channel stop.

Chromatic Modulator for High Resolution CCD or APS Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank T. (Inventor); Hull, Anthony B. (Inventor)

2003-01-01

A system for providing high-resolution color separation in electronic imaging. Comb drives controllably oscillate a red-green-blue (RGB) color strip filter system (or otherwise) over an electronic imaging system such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or active pixel sensor (APS). The color filter is modulated over the imaging array at a rate three or more times the frame rate of the imaging array. In so doing, the underlying active imaging elements are then able to detect separate color-separated images, which are then combined to provide a color-accurate frame which is then recorded as the representation of the recorded image. High pixel resolution is maintained. Registration is obtained between the color strip filter and the underlying imaging array through the use of electrostatic comb drives in conjunction with a spring suspension system.

An abuttable CCD imager for visible and X-ray focal plane arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burke, Barry E.; Mountain, Robert W.; Harrison, David C.; Bautz, Marshall W.; Doty, John P.

1991-01-01

A frame-transfer silicon charge-coupled-device (CCD) imager has been developed that can be closely abutted to other imagers on three sides of the imaging array. It is intended for use in multichip arrays. The device has 420 x 420 pixels in the imaging and frame-store regions and is constructed using a three-phase triple-polysilicon process. Particular emphasis has been placed on achieving low-noise charge detection for low-light-level imaging in the visible and maximum energy resolution for X-ray spectroscopic applications. Noise levels of 6 electrons at 1-MHz and less than 3 electrons at 100-kHz data rates have been achieved. Imagers have been fabricated on 1000-Ohm-cm material to maximize quantum efficiency and minimize split events in the soft X-ray regime.

Analysis of crystalline lens coloration using a black and white charge-coupled device camera.

PubMed

Sakamoto, Y; Sasaki, K; Kojima, M

1994-01-01

To analyze lens coloration in vivo, we used a new type of Scheimpflug camera that is a black and white type of charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. A new methodology was proposed. Scheimpflug images of the lens were taken three times through red (R), green (G), and blue (B) filters, respectively. Three images corresponding with the R, G, and B channels were combined into one image on the cathode-ray tube (CRT) display. The spectral transmittance of the tricolor filters and the spectral sensitivity of the CCD camera were used to correct the scattering-light intensity of each image. Coloration of the lens was expressed on a CIE standard chromaticity diagram. The lens coloration of seven eyes analyzed by this method showed values almost the same as those obtained by the previous method using color film.

Design and Fabrication of High-Efficiency CMOS/CCD Imagers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pain, Bedabrata

2007-01-01

An architecture for back-illuminated complementary metal oxide/semiconductor (CMOS) and charge-coupled-device (CCD) ultraviolet/visible/near infrared- light image sensors, and a method of fabrication to implement the architecture, are undergoing development. The architecture and method are expected to enable realization of the full potential of back-illuminated CMOS/CCD imagers to perform with high efficiency, high sensitivity, excellent angular response, and in-pixel signal processing. The architecture and method are compatible with next-generation CMOS dielectric-forming and metallization techniques, and the process flow of the method is compatible with process flows typical of the manufacture of very-large-scale integrated (VLSI) circuits. The architecture and method overcome all obstacles that have hitherto prevented high-yield, low-cost fabrication of back-illuminated CMOS/CCD imagers by use of standard VLSI fabrication tools and techniques. It is not possible to discuss the obstacles in detail within the space available for this article. Briefly, the obstacles are posed by the problems of generating light-absorbing layers having desired uniform and accurate thicknesses, passivation of surfaces, forming structures for efficient collection of charge carriers, and wafer-scale thinning (in contradistinction to diescale thinning). A basic element of the present architecture and method - the element that, more than any other, makes it possible to overcome the obstacles - is the use of an alternative starting material: Instead of starting with a conventional bulk-CMOS wafer that consists of a p-doped epitaxial silicon layer grown on a heavily-p-doped silicon substrate, one starts with a special silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafer that consists of a thermal oxide buried between a lightly p- or n-doped, thick silicon layer and a device silicon layer of appropriate thickness and doping. The thick silicon layer is used as a handle: that is, as a mechanical support for the device silicon layer during micro-fabrication.

Study on mechanical properties and damage behaviors of Kevlar fiber reinforced epoxy composites by digital image correlation technique under optical microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Xiang; Shao, Wenquan; Ji, Hongwei

2010-10-01

Kevlar fiber-reinforced epoxy (KFRE) composites are widely used in the fields of aerospace, weapon, shipping, and civil industry, due to their outstanding capabilities. In this paper, mechanical properties and damage behaviors of KFRE laminate (02/902) were tested and studied under tension condition. To precisely measure the tensile mechanical properties of the material and investigate its micro-scale damage evolution, a micro-image measuring system with in-situ tensile device was designed. The measuring system, by which the in-situ tensile test can be carried out and surface morphology evolution of the tensile specimen can be visually monitored and recorded during the process of loading, includes an ultra-long working distance zoom microscope and a in-situ tensile loading device. In this study, a digital image correlation method (DICM) was used to calculate the deformation of the tensile specimen under different load levels according to the temporal series images captured by an optical microscope and CCD camera. Then, the elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio of the KFRE was obtained accordingly. The damage progresses of the KFRE laminates were analyzed. Experimental results indicated that: (1) the KFRE laminate (02/902) is almost elastic, its failure mode is brittle tensile fracture.(2) Mechanical properties parameters of the material are as follows: elastic modulus is 14- 16GPa, and tensile ultimate stress is 450-480 Mpa respectively. (3) The damage evolution of the material is that cracks appear in epoxy matrix firstly, then, with the increasing of the tensile loading, matrix cracks add up and extend along a 45° angle direction with tensile load. Furthermore, decohesion between matrix and fibers as well as delamination occurs. Eventually, fibers break and the material is damaged.

Resolution Properties of a Calcium Tungstate (CaWO4) Screen Coupled to a CMOS Imaging Detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koukou, Vaia; Martini, Niki; Valais, Ioannis; Bakas, Athanasios; Kalyvas, Nektarios; Lavdas, Eleftherios; Fountos, George; Kandarakis, Ioannis; Michail, Christos

2017-11-01

The aim of the current work was to assess the resolution properties of a calcium tungstate (CaWO4) screen (screen coating thickness: 50.09 mg/cm2, actual thickness: 167.2 μm) coupled to a high resolution complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) digital imaging sensor. A 2.7x3.6 cm2 CaWO4 sample was extracted from an Agfa Curix universal screen and was coupled directly with the active area of the active pixel sensor (APS) CMOS sensor. Experiments were performed following the new IEC 62220-1-1:2015 International Standard, using an RQA-5 beam quality. Resolution was assessed in terms of the Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), using the slanted-edge method. The CaWO4/CMOS detector configuration was found with linear response, in the exposure range under investigation. The final MTF was obtained through averaging the oversampled edge spread function (ESF), using a custom-made software developed by our team, according to the IEC 62220-1-1:2015. Considering the renewed interest in calcium tungstate for various applications, along with the resolution results of this work, CaWO4 could be also considered for use in X-ray imaging devices such as charged-coupled devices (CCD) and CMOS.

Improving depth estimation from a plenoptic camera by patterned illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marshall, Richard J.; Meah, Chris J.; Turola, Massimo; Claridge, Ela; Robinson, Alex; Bongs, Kai; Gruppetta, Steve; Styles, Iain B.

2015-05-01

Plenoptic (light-field) imaging is a technique that allows a simple CCD-based imaging device to acquire both spatially and angularly resolved information about the "light-field" from a scene. It requires a microlens array to be placed between the objective lens and the sensor of the imaging device1 and the images under each microlens (which typically span many pixels) can be computationally post-processed to shift perspective, digital refocus, extend the depth of field, manipulate the aperture synthetically and generate a depth map from a single image. Some of these capabilities are rigid functions that do not depend upon the scene and work by manipulating and combining a well-defined set of pixels in the raw image. However, depth mapping requires specific features in the scene to be identified and registered between consecutive microimages. This process requires that the image has sufficient features for the registration, and in the absence of such features the algorithms become less reliable and incorrect depths are generated. The aim of this study is to investigate the generation of depth-maps from light-field images of scenes with insufficient features for accurate registration, using projected patterns to impose a texture on the scene that provides sufficient landmarks for the registration methods.

Considerations on Circuit Design and Data Acquisition of a Portable Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensing System.

PubMed

Chang, Keke; Chen, Ruipeng; Wang, Shun; Li, Jianwei; Hu, Xinran; Liang, Hao; Cao, Baiqiong; Sun, Xiaohui; Ma, Liuzheng; Zhu, Juanhua; Jiang, Min; Hu, Jiandong

2015-08-19

The aim of this study was to develop a circuit for an inexpensive portable biosensing system based on surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy. This portable biosensing system designed for field use is characterized by a special structure which consists of a microfluidic cell incorporating a right angle prism functionalized with a biomolecular identification membrane, a laser line generator and a data acquisition circuit board. The data structure, data memory capacity and a line charge-coupled device (CCD) array with a driving circuit for collecting the photoelectric signals are intensively focused on and the high performance analog-to-digital (A/D) converter is comprehensively evaluated. The interface circuit and the photoelectric signal amplifier circuit are first studied to obtain the weak signals from the line CCD array in this experiment. Quantitative measurements for validating the sensitivity of the biosensing system were implemented using ethanol solutions of various concentrations indicated by volume fractions of 5%, 8%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%, respectively, without a biomembrane immobilized on the surface of the SPR sensor. The experiments demonstrated that it is possible to detect a change in the refractive index of an ethanol solution with a sensitivity of 4.99838 × 10(5) ΔRU/RI in terms of the changes in delta response unit with refractive index using this SPR biosensing system, whereby the theoretical limit of detection of 3.3537 × 10(-5) refractive index unit (RIU) and a high linearity at the correlation coefficient of 0.98065. The results obtained from a series of tests confirmed the practicality of this cost-effective portable SPR biosensing system.

Ice-Borehole Probe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Behar, Alberto; Carsey, Frank; Lane, Arthur; Engelhardt, Herman

2006-01-01

An instrumentation system has been developed for studying interactions between a glacier or ice sheet and the underlying rock and/or soil. Prior borehole imaging systems have been used in well-drilling and mineral-exploration applications and for studying relatively thin valley glaciers, but have not been used for studying thick ice sheets like those of Antarctica. The system includes a cylindrical imaging probe that is lowered into a hole that has been bored through the ice to the ice/bedrock interface by use of an established hot-water-jet technique. The images acquired by the cameras yield information on the movement of the ice relative to the bedrock and on visible features of the lower structure of the ice sheet, including ice layers formed at different times, bubbles, and mineralogical inclusions. At the time of reporting the information for this article, the system was just deployed in two boreholes on the Amery ice shelf in East Antarctica and after successful 2000 2001 deployments in 4 boreholes at Ice Stream C, West Antarctica, and in 2002 at Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska. The probe is designed to operate at temperatures from 40 to +40 C and to withstand the cold, wet, high-pressure [130-atm (13.20-MPa)] environment at the bottom of a water-filled borehole in ice as deep as 1.6 km. A current version is being outfitted to service 2.4-km-deep boreholes at the Rutford Ice Stream in West Antarctica. The probe (see figure) contains a sidelooking charge-coupled-device (CCD) camera that generates both a real-time analog video signal and a sequence of still-image data, and contains a digital videotape recorder. The probe also contains a downward-looking CCD analog video camera, plus halogen lamps to illuminate the fields of view of both cameras. The analog video outputs of the cameras are converted to optical signals that are transmitted to a surface station via optical fibers in a cable. Electric power is supplied to the probe through wires in the cable at a potential of 170 VDC. A DC-to-DC converter steps the supply down to 12 VDC for the lights, cameras, and image-data-transmission circuitry. Heat generated by dissipation of electric power in the probe is removed simply by conduction through the probe housing to the visible features of the lower structure of the ice sheet, including ice layers formed at different times, bubbles, and mineralogical inclusions. At the time of reporting the information for this article, the system was just deployed in two boreholes on the Amery ice shelf in East Antarctica and after successful 2000 2001 deployments in 4 boreholes at Ice Stream C, West Antarctica, and in 2002 at Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska. The probe is designed to operate at temperatures from 40 to +40 C and to withstand the cold, wet, high-pressure [130-atm (13.20-MPa)] environment at the bottom of a water-filled borehole in ice as deep as 1.6 km. A current version is being outfitted to service 2.4-km-deep boreholes at the Rutford Ice Stream in West Antarctica. The probe (see figure) contains a sidelooking charge-coupled-device (CCD) camera that generates both a real-time analog video signal and a sequence of still-image data, and contains a digital videotape recorder. The probe also contains a downward-looking CCD analog video camera, plus halogen lamps to illuminate the fields of view of both cameras. The analog video outputs of the cameras are converted to optical signals that are transmitted to a surface station via optical fibers in a cable. Electric power is supplied to the probe through wires in the cable at a potential of 170 VDC. A DC-to-DC converter steps the supply down to 12 VDC for the lights, cameras, and image-datatransmission circuitry. Heat generated by dissipation of electric power in the probe is removed simply by conduction through the probe housing to the visible features of the lower structure of the ice sheet, including ice layers formed at different times, bubbles, and mineralogical inclusions. At thime of reporting the information for this article, the system was just deployed in two boreholes on the Amery ice shelf in East Antarctica and after successful 2000 2001 deployments in 4 boreholes at Ice Stream C, West Antarctica, and in 2002 at Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska. The probe is designed to operate at temperatures from 40 to +40 C and to withstand the cold, wet, high-pressure [130-atm (13.20-MPa)] environment at the bottom of a water-filled borehole in ice as deep as 1.6 km. A current version is being outfitted to service 2.4-km-deep boreholes at the Rutford Ice Stream in West Antarctica. The probe (see figure) contains a sidelooking charge-coupled-device (CCD) camera that generates both a real-time analog video signal and a sequence of still-image data, and contains a digital videotape recorder. The probe also contains a downward-looking CCD analog video camera, plus halogen lamps to illuminate the fields of view of both cameras. The analog video outputs of the cameras are converted to optical signals that are transmitted to a surface station via optical fibers in a cable. Electric power is supplied to the probe through wires in the cable at a potential of 170 VDC. A DC-to-DC converter steps the supply down to 12 VDC for the lights, cameras, and image-datatransmission circuitry. Heat generated by dissipation of electric power in the probe is removed simply by conduction through the probe housing to the adjacent water and ice.

Fiber-MZI-based FBG sensor interrogation: comparative study with a CCD spectrometer.

PubMed

Das, Bhargab; Chandra, Vikash

2016-10-10

We present an experimental comparative study of the two most commonly used fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor interrogation techniques: a charge-coupled device (CCD) spectrometer and a fiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer (F-MZI). Although the interferometric interrogation technique is historically known to offer the highest sensitivity measurements, very little information exists regarding how it compares with the current commercially available spectral-characteristics-based interrogation systems. It is experimentally established here that the performance of a modern-day CCD spectrometer interrogator is very close to a F-MZI interrogator with the capability of measuring Bragg wavelength shifts with sub-picometer-level accuracy. The results presented in this research study can further be used as a guideline for choosing between the two FBG sensor interrogator types for small-amplitude dynamic perturbation measurements down to nano-level strain.

Dosimetry of heavy ions by use of CCD detectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schott, J. U.

1994-01-01

The design and the atomic composition of Charge Coupled Devices (CCD's) make them unique for investigations of single energetic particle events. As detector system for ionizing particles they detect single particles with local resolution and near real time particle tracking. In combination with its properties as optical sensor, particle transversals of single particles are to be correlated to any objects attached to the light sensitive surface of the sensor by simple imaging of their shadow and subsequent image analysis of both, optical image and particle effects, observed in affected pixels. With biological objects it is possible for the first time to investigate effects of single heavy ions in tissue or extinguished organs of metabolizing (i.e. moving) systems with a local resolution better than 15 microns. Calibration data for particle detection in CCD's are presented for low energetic protons and heavy ions.

A curved surface micro-moiré method and its application in evaluating curved surface residual stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hongye; Wu, Chenlong; Liu, Zhanwei; Xie, Huimin

2014-09-01

The moiré method is typically applied to the measurement of deformations of a flat surface while, for a curved surface, this method is rarely used other than for projection moiré or moiré interferometry. Here, a novel colour charge-coupled device (CCD) micro-moiré method has been developed, based on which a curved surface micro-moiré (CSMM) method is proposed with a colour CCD and optical microscope (OM). In the CSMM method, no additional reference grating is needed as a Bayer colour filter array (CFA) installed on the OM in front of the colour CCD image sensor performs this role. Micro-moiré fringes with high contrast are directly observed with the OM through the Bayer CFA under the special condition of observing a curved specimen grating. The principle of the CSMM method based on a colour CCD micro-moiré method and its application range and error analysis are all described in detail. In an experiment, the curved surface residual stress near a welded seam on a stainless steel tube was investigated using the CSMM method.

Analysis of Dark Current in BRITE Nanostellite CCD Sensors †

PubMed Central

Popowicz, Adam

2018-01-01

The BRightest Target Explorer (BRITE) is the pioneering nanosatellite mission dedicated for photometric observations of the brightest stars in the sky. The BRITE charge coupled device (CCD) sensors are poorly shielded against extensive flux of energetic particles which constantly induce defects in the silicon lattice. In this paper we investigate the temporal evolution of the generation of the dark current in the BRITE CCDs over almost four years after launch. Utilizing several steps of image processing and employing normalization of the results, it was possible to obtain useful information about the progress of thermal activity in the sensors. The outcomes show a clear and consistent linear increase of induced damage despite the fact that only about 0.14% of CCD pixels were probed. By performing the analysis of temperature dependencies of the dark current, we identified the observed defects as phosphorus-vacancy (PV) pairs, which are common in proton irradiated CCD matrices. Moreover, the Meyer-Neldel empirical rule was confirmed in our dark current data, yielding EMN=24.8 meV for proton-induced PV defects. PMID:29415471

Polarization microscopy by use of digital holography: application to optical-fiber birefringence measurements.

PubMed

Colomb, Tristan; Dürr, Florian; Cuche, Etienne; Marquet, Pierre; Limberger, Hans G; Salathé, René-Paul; Depeursinge, Christian

2005-07-20

We present a digital holographic microscope that permits one to image polarization state. This technique results from the coupling of digital holographic microscopy and polarization digital holography. The interference between two orthogonally polarized reference waves and the wave transmitted by a microscopic sample, magnified by a microscope objective, is recorded on a CCD camera. The off-axis geometry permits one to reconstruct separately from this single hologram two wavefronts that are used to image the object-wave Jones vector. We applied this technique to image the birefringence of a bent fiber. To evaluate the precision of the phase-difference measurement, the birefringence induced by internal stress in an optical fiber is measured and compared to the birefringence profile captured by a standard method, which had been developed to obtain high-resolution birefringence profiles of optical fibers.

Design of multi-mode compatible image acquisition system for HD area array CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chen; Sui, Xiubao

2014-11-01

Combining with the current development trend in video surveillance-digitization and high-definition, a multimode-compatible image acquisition system for HD area array CCD is designed. The hardware and software designs of the color video capture system of HD area array CCD KAI-02150 presented by Truesense Imaging company are analyzed, and the structure parameters of the HD area array CCD and the color video gathering principle of the acquisition system are introduced. Then, the CCD control sequence and the timing logic of the whole capture system are realized. The noises of the video signal (KTC noise and 1/f noise) are filtered by using the Correlated Double Sampling (CDS) technique to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio of the system. The compatible designs in both software and hardware for the two other image sensors of the same series: KAI-04050 and KAI-08050 are put forward; the effective pixels of these two HD image sensors are respectively as many as four million and eight million. A Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) is adopted as the key controller of the system to perform the modularization design from top to bottom, which realizes the hardware design by software and improves development efficiency. At last, the required time sequence driving is simulated accurately by the use of development platform of Quartus II 12.1 combining with VHDL. The result of the simulation indicates that the driving circuit is characterized by simple framework, low power consumption, and strong anti-interference ability, which meet the demand of miniaturization and high-definition for the current tendency.

Phase retrieval without unwrapping by single-shot dual-wavelength digital holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Min, Junwei; Yao, Baoli; Zhou, Meiling; Guo, Rongli; Lei, Ming; Yang, Yanlong; Dan, Dan; Yan, Shaohui; Peng, Tong

2014-12-01

A phase retrieval method by using single-shot dual-wavelength digital holography is proposed. Each single wavelength hologram is extracted from the color CCD recorded hologram at one exposure, and the unwrapped phase image of object can be reconstructed directly. Different from the traditional multiple wavelength phase unwrapping techniques, any single complex wave-fronts at different wavelengths have no need to be calculated any more. Thus, the phase retrieval is computationally fast and straightforward, and the limitations on the total optical path difference are significantly relaxed. The practicability of the proposed method is demonstrated by both simulated and experimental results.

SU-E-T-161: SOBP Beam Analysis Using Light Output of Scintillation Plate Acquired by CCD Camera.

PubMed

Cho, S; Lee, S; Shin, J; Min, B; Chung, K; Shin, D; Lim, Y; Park, S

2012-06-01

To analyze Bragg-peak beams in SOBP (spread-out Bragg-peak) beam using CCD (charge-coupled device) camera - scintillation screen system. We separated each Bragg-peak beam using light output of high sensitivity scintillation material acquired by CCD camera and compared with Bragg-peak beams calculated by Monte Carlo simulation. In this study, CCD camera - scintillation screen system was constructed with a high sensitivity scintillation plate (Gd2O2S:Tb) and a right-angled prismatic PMMA phantom, and a Marlin F-201B, EEE-1394 CCD camera. SOBP beam irradiated by the double scattering mode of a PROTEUS 235 proton therapy machine in NCC is 8 cm width, 13 g/cm 2 range. The gain, dose rate and current of this beam is 50, 2 Gy/min and 70 nA, respectively. Also, we simulated the light output of scintillation plate for SOBP beam using Geant4 toolkit. We evaluated the light output of high sensitivity scintillation plate according to intergration time (0.1 - 1.0 sec). The images of CCD camera during the shortest intergration time (0.1 sec) were acquired automatically and randomly, respectively. Bragg-peak beams in SOBP beam were analyzed by the acquired images. Then, the SOBP beam used in this study was calculated by Geant4 toolkit and Bragg-peak beams in SOBP beam were obtained by ROOT program. The SOBP beam consists of 13 Bragg-peak beams. The results of experiment were compared with that of simulation. We analyzed Bragg-peak beams in SOBP beam using light output of scintillation plate acquired by CCD camera and compared with that of Geant4 simulation. We are going to study SOBP beam analysis using more effective the image acquisition technique. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

CCD sensors in synchrotron X-ray detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strauss, M. G.; Naday, I.; Sherman, I. S.; Kraimer, M. R.; Westbrook, E. M.; Zaluzec, N. J.

1988-04-01

The intense photon flux from advanced synchrotron light sources, such as the 7-GeV synchrotron being designed at Argonne, require integrating-type detectors. Charge-coupled devices (CCDs) are well suited as synchrotron X-ray detectors. When irradiated indirectly via a phosphor followed by reducing optics, diffraction patterns of 100 cm 2 can be imaged on a 2 cm 2 CCD. With a conversion efficiency of ˜ 1 CCD electron/X-ray photon, a peak saturation capacity of > 10 6 X-rays can be obtained. A programmable CCD controller operating at a clock frequency of 20 MHz has been developed. The readout rate is 5 × 10 6 pixels/s and the shift rate in the parallel registers is 10 6 lines/s. The test detector was evaluated in two experiments. In protein crystallography diffraction patterns have been obtained from a lysozyme crystal using a conventional rotating anode X-ray generator. Based on these results we expect to obtain at a synchrotron diffraction images at a rate of ˜ 1 frame/s or a complete 3-dimensional data set from a single crystal in ˜ 2 min. In electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), the CCD was used in a parallel detection mode which is similar to the mode array detectors are used in dispersive EXAFS. With a beam current corresponding to 3 × 10 9 electron/s on the detector, a series of 64 spectra were recorded on the CCD in a continuous sequence without interruption due to readout. The frame-to-frame pixel signal fluctuations had σ = 0.4% from which DQE = 0.4 was obtained, where the detector conversion efficiency was 2.6 CCD electrons/X-ray photon. These multiple frame series also showed the time-resolved modulation of the electron microscope optics by stray magnetic fields.

Digitally-bypassed transducers: interfacing digital mockups to real-time medical equipment.

PubMed

Sirowy, Scott; Givargis, Tony; Vahid, Frank

2009-01-01

Medical device software is sometimes initially developed by using a PC simulation environment that executes models of both the device and a physiological system, and then later by connecting the actual medical device to a physical mockup of the physiological system. An alternative is to connect the medical device to a digital mockup of the physiological system, such that the device believes it is interacting with a physiological system, but in fact all interaction is entirely digital. Developing medical device software by interfacing with a digital mockup enables development without costly or dangerous physical mockups, and enables execution that is faster or slower than real time. We introduce digitally-bypassed transducers, which involve a small amount of hardware and software additions, and which enable interfacing with digital mockups.

QUALITY ASSESSMENT OF CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY SLIDE-BASED SYSTEMS: INSTABLITY

EPA Science Inventory

Background: All slide-based fluorescence cytometry detections systems basically include an excitation light source, intermediate optics, and a detection device (CCD or PMT). Occasionally, this equipment becomes unstable, generating unreliable and inferior data. Methods: A num...

An Efficient Image Compressor for Charge Coupled Devices Camera

PubMed Central

Li, Jin; Xing, Fei; You, Zheng

2014-01-01

Recently, the discrete wavelet transforms- (DWT-) based compressor, such as JPEG2000 and CCSDS-IDC, is widely seen as the state of the art compression scheme for charge coupled devices (CCD) camera. However, CCD images project on the DWT basis to produce a large number of large amplitude high-frequency coefficients because these images have a large number of complex texture and contour information, which are disadvantage for the later coding. In this paper, we proposed a low-complexity posttransform coupled with compressing sensing (PT-CS) compression approach for remote sensing image. First, the DWT is applied to the remote sensing image. Then, a pair base posttransform is applied to the DWT coefficients. The pair base are DCT base and Hadamard base, which can be used on the high and low bit-rate, respectively. The best posttransform is selected by the l p-norm-based approach. The posttransform is considered as the sparse representation stage of CS. The posttransform coefficients are resampled by sensing measurement matrix. Experimental results on on-board CCD camera images show that the proposed approach significantly outperforms the CCSDS-IDC-based coder, and its performance is comparable to that of the JPEG2000 at low bit rate and it does not have the high excessive implementation complexity of JPEG2000. PMID:25114977

Design and implementation of fast bipolar clock drivers for CCD imaging systems in space applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayarajan, Jayesh; Kumar, Nishant; Verma, Amarnath; Thaker, Ramkrishna

2016-05-01

Drive electronics for generating fast, bipolar clocks, which can drive capacitive loads of the order of 5-10nF are indispensable for present day Charge Coupled Devices (CCDs). Design of these high speed bipolar clocks is challenging because of the capacitive loads that have to be driven and a strict constraint on the rise and fall times. Designing drive electronics circuits for space applications becomes even more challenging due to limited number of available discrete devices, which can survive in the harsh radiation prone space environment. This paper presents the design, simulations and test results of a set of such high speed, bipolar clock drivers. The design has been tested under a thermal cycle of -15 deg C to +55 deg C under vacuum conditions and has been designed using radiation hardened components. The test results show that the design meets the stringent rise/fall time requirements of 50+/-10ns for Multiple Vertical CCD (VCCD) clocks and 20+/-5ns for Horizontal CCD (HCCD) clocks with sufficient design margins across full temperature range, with a pixel readout rate of 6.6MHz. The full design has been realized in flexi-rigid PCB with package volume of 140x160x50 mm3.

An investigation of potential applications of OP-SAPS: Operational sampled analog processors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrish, E. A.; Mcvey, E. S.

1976-01-01

The impact of charge-coupled device (CCD) processors on future instrumentation was investigated. The CCD devices studied process sampled analog data and are referred to as OP-SAPS - operational sampled analog processors. Preliminary studies into various architectural configurations for systems composed of OP-SAPS show that they have potential in such diverse applications as pattern recognition and automatic control. It appears probable that OP-SAPS may be used to construct computing structures which can serve as special peripherals to large-scale computer complexes used in real time flight simulation. The research was limited to the following benchmark programs: (1) face recognition, (2) voice command and control, (3) terrain classification, and (4) terrain identification. A small amount of effort was spent on examining a method by which OP-SAPS may be used to decrease the limiting ground sampling distance encountered in remote sensing from satellites.

PRESBYOPIA OPTOMETRY METHOD BASED ON DIOPTER REGULATION AND CHARGE COUPLE DEVICE IMAGING TECHNOLOGY.

PubMed

Zhao, Q; Wu, X X; Zhou, J; Wang, X; Liu, R F; Gao, J

2015-01-01

With the development of photoelectric technology and single-chip microcomputer technology, objective optometry, also known as automatic optometry, is becoming precise. This paper proposed a presbyopia optometry method based on diopter regulation and Charge Couple Device (CCD) imaging technology and, in the meantime, designed a light path that could measure the system. This method projects a test figure to the eye ground and then the reflected image from the eye ground is detected by CCD. The image is then automatically identified by computer and the far point and near point diopters are determined to calculate lens parameter. This is a fully automatic objective optometry method which eliminates subjective factors of the tested subject. Furthermore, it can acquire the lens parameter of presbyopia accurately and quickly and can be used to measure the lens parameter of hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism.

Scintillation imaging of tritium radioactivity distribution during tritiated thymidine uptake by PC12 cells using a melt-on scintillator.

PubMed

Irikura, Namiko; Miyoshi, Hirokazu; Shinohara, Yasuo

2017-02-01

A scintillation image of tritium fixed in a melt-on scintillator was obtained using a charged-coupled device (CCD) imager, and a linear relationship was observed between the intensity of the scintillation image and the radioactivity of tritium. In a [ 3 H]thymidine uptake experiment, a linear correlation between the intensity of the CCD image and the dilution ratio of cells was confirmed. Scintillation imaging has the potential for use in direct observation of tritium radioactivity distribution. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of RCA thinned buried channel charge-coupled devices /CCDs/ for scientific applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zucchino, P.; Long, D.; Lowrance, J. L.; Renda, G.; Crawshaw, D. D.; Battson, D. F.

1981-01-01

An experimental version of a thinned illuminated buried-channel 512 x 320 pixel CCD with reduced amplifier input capacitance has been produced which is characterized by lower readout noise. Changes made to the amplifier are discussed, and readout noise measurements obtained by several different techniques are presented. The single energetic electron response of the CCD in the electron-bombarded mode and the single 5.9 keV X-ray pulse height distribution are reported. Results are also given on the dark current versus temperature and the spatial frequency response as a function of signal level.

Proximal caries detection: Sirona Sidexis versus Kodak Ektaspeed Plus.

PubMed

Khan, Emad A; Tyndall, Donald A; Ludlow, John B; Caplan, Daniel

2005-01-01

This study compared the accuracy of intraoral film and a charge-coupled device (CCD) receptor for proximal caries detection. Four observers evaluated images of the proximal surfaces of 40 extracted posterior teeth. The presence or absence of caries was scored using a five-point confidence scale. The actual status of each surface was determined from ground section histology. Responses were evaluated by means of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Areas under ROC curves (Az) were assessed through a paired t-test. The performance of the CCD-based intraoral sensor was not different statistically from Ektaspeed Plus film in detecting proximal caries.

Design and performance of 4 x 5120-element visible and 2 x 2560-element shortwave infrared multispectral focal planes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tower, J. R.; Cope, A. D.; Pellon, L. E.; McCarthy, B. M.; Strong, R. T.

1986-06-01

Two solid-state sensors for use in remote sensing instruments operating in the pushbroom mode are examined. The design and characteristics of the visible/near-infrared (VIS/NIR) device and the short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) device are described. The VIS/NIR is a CCD imager with four parallel sensor lines, each 1024 pixel long; the chip design and filter system of the VIS/NIR are studied. The performance of the VIS/NIR sensor with mask and its system performance are measured. The SWIR is a dual-band line imager consisting of palladium silicide Schottky-barrier detectors coupled to CCD multiplexers; the performance of the device is analyzed. The substrate materials and layout designs used to assemble the 4 x 5120-element VIS/NIR array and the 2 x 2560-element SWIR array are discussed, and the planarity of the butted arrays are verified using a profilometer. The optical and electrical characteristics, and the placement and butting accuracy of the arrays are evaluated. It is noted that the arrays met or exceed their expected performance.

Modeling of organic solar cell using response surface methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suliman, Rajab; Mitul, Abu Farzan; Mohammad, Lal; Djira, Gemechis; Pan, Yunpeng; Qiao, Qiquan

Polymer solar cells have drawn much attention during the past few decades due to their low manufacturing cost and incompatibility for flexible substrates. In solution-processed organic solar cells, the optimal thickness, annealing temperature, and morphology are key components to achieving high efficiency. In this work, response surface methodology (RSM) is used to find optimal fabrication conditions for polymer solar cells. In order to optimize cell efficiency, the central composite design (CCD) with three independent variables polymer concentration, polymer-fullerene ratio, and active layer spinning speed was used. Optimal device performance was achieved using 10.25 mg/ml polymer concentration, 0.42 polymer-fullerene ratio, and 1624 rpm of active layer spinning speed. The predicted response (the efficiency) at the optimum stationary point was found to be 5.23% for the Poly(diketopyrrolopyrrole-terthiophene) (PDPP3T)/PC60BM solar cells. Moreover, 97% of the variation in the device performance was explained by the best model. Finally, the experimental results are consistent with the CCD prediction, which proves that this is a promising and appropriate model for optimum device performance and fabrication conditions.

Establishing imaging sensor specifications for digital still cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kriss, Michael A.

2007-02-01

Digital Still Cameras, DSCs, have now displaced conventional still cameras in most markets. The heart of a DSC is thought to be the imaging sensor, be it Full Frame CCD, and Interline CCD, a CMOS sensor or the newer Foveon buried photodiode sensors. There is a strong tendency by consumers to consider only the number of mega-pixels in a camera and not to consider the overall performance of the imaging system, including sharpness, artifact control, noise, color reproduction, exposure latitude and dynamic range. This paper will provide a systematic method to characterize the physical requirements of an imaging sensor and supporting system components based on the desired usage. The analysis is based on two software programs that determine the "sharpness", potential for artifacts, sensor "photographic speed", dynamic range and exposure latitude based on the physical nature of the imaging optics, sensor characteristics (including size of pixels, sensor architecture, noise characteristics, surface states that cause dark current, quantum efficiency, effective MTF, and the intrinsic full well capacity in terms of electrons per square centimeter). Examples will be given for consumer, pro-consumer, and professional camera systems. Where possible, these results will be compared to imaging system currently on the market.

Fabricating a hybrid imaging device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wadsworth, Mark (Inventor); Atlas, Gene (Inventor)

2003-01-01

A hybrid detector or imager includes two substrates fabricated under incompatible processes. An array of detectors, such as charged-coupled devices, are formed on the first substrate using a CCD fabrication process, such as a buried channel or peristaltic process. One or more charge-converting amplifiers are formed on a second substrate using a CMOS fabrication process. The two substrates are then bonded together to form a hybrid detector.

Ocean View

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

Analytical Spectral Devices was able to commercialize the "engine" of SeaSpec. The Dual CCD developed for SeaSpec is used in our FieldSpecO Dual UV/VNIR/CCD. This product is very popular for coastal research. It allows for a small suitcase sized spectrometer to be placed in a boat and the attached fiber optic cable can be lowered 30 feet below the surface allowing researchers to perform the same studies as SeaSpec just not at the deep-water depths. Most of the people who inquire about SeaSpec end up purchasing a FieldSpec Dual CCD.SeaSpec was designed to withstand harsh marine environments and depths up to 200 m. While it meets these requirements it is the only instrument of its kind and we consider it a prototype. The first version was released in April 1997. It was tested, we made modification and returned the product in March 1998.

DQE analysis for CCD imaging arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shaw, Rodney

1997-05-01

By consideration of the statistical interaction between exposure quanta and the mechanisms of image detection, the signal-to-noise limitations of a variety of image acquisition technologies are now well understood. However in spite of the growing fields of application for CCD imaging- arrays and the obvious advantages of their multi-level mode of quantum detection, only limited and largely empirical approaches have been made to quantify these advantages on an absolute basis. Here an extension is made of a previous model for noise-free sequential photon-counting to the more general case involving both count-noise and arbitrary separation functions between count levels. This allows a basic model to be developed for the DQE associated with devices which approximate to the CCD mode of operation, and conclusions to be made concerning the roles of the separation-function and count-noise in defining the departure from the ideal photon counter.

Measuring high-resolution sky luminance distributions with a CCD camera.

PubMed

Tohsing, Korntip; Schrempf, Michael; Riechelmann, Stefan; Schilke, Holger; Seckmeyer, Gunther

2013-03-10

We describe how sky luminance can be derived from a newly developed hemispherical sky imager (HSI) system. The system contains a commercial compact charge coupled device (CCD) camera equipped with a fish-eye lens. The projection of the camera system has been found to be nearly equidistant. The luminance from the high dynamic range images has been calculated and then validated with luminance data measured by a CCD array spectroradiometer. The deviation between both datasets is less than 10% for cloudless and completely overcast skies, and differs by no more than 20% for all sky conditions. The global illuminance derived from the HSI pictures deviates by less than 5% and 20% under cloudless and cloudy skies for solar zenith angles less than 80°, respectively. This system is therefore capable of measuring sky luminance with the high spatial and temporal resolution of more than a million pixels and every 20 s respectively.

Deflection Measurements of a Thermally Simulated Nuclear Core Using a High-Resolution CCD-Camera

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stanojev, B. J.; Houts, M.

2004-01-01

Space fission systems under consideration for near-term missions all use compact. fast-spectrum reactor cores. Reactor dimensional change with increasing temperature, which affects neutron leakage. is the dominant source of reactivity feedback in these systems. Accurately measuring core dimensional changes during realistic non-nuclear testing is therefore necessary in predicting the system nuclear equivalent behavior. This paper discusses one key technique being evaluated for measuring such changes. The proposed technique is to use a Charged Couple Device (CCD) sensor to obtain deformation readings of electrically heated prototypic reactor core geometry. This paper introduces a technique by which a single high spatial resolution CCD camera is used to measure core deformation in Real-Time (RT). Initial system checkout results are presented along with a discussion on how additional cameras could be used to achieve a three- dimensional deformation profile of the core during test.

Scientific, Back-Illuminated CCD Development for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Suntharalingam, V.; Ciampi, J.; Cooper, M. J.; Lambert, R. D.; O'Mara, D. M.; Prigozhin, I.; Young, D. J.; Warner, K.; Burke, B. E.

2015-01-01

We describe the development of the fully depleted, back illuminated charge coupled devices for the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite, which includes a set of four wide angle telescopes, each having a 2x2 array of CCDs. The devices are fabricated on the newly upgraded 200-mm wafer line at Lincoln Laboratory. We discuss methods used to produce the devices and present early performance results from the 100- micron thick, 15x15-microns, 2k x 4k pixel frame transfer CCDs.

Technical advances of interventional fluoroscopy and flat panel image receptor.

PubMed

Lin, Pei-Jan Paul

2008-11-01

In the past decade, various radiation reducing devices and control circuits have been implemented on fluoroscopic imaging equipment. Because of the potential for lengthy fluoroscopic procedures in interventional cardiovascular angiography, these devices and control circuits have been developed for the cardiac catheterization laboratories and interventional angiography suites. Additionally, fluoroscopic systems equipped with image intensifiers have benefited from technological advances in x-ray tube, x-ray generator, and spectral shaping filter technologies. The high heat capacity x-ray tube, the medium frequency inverter generator with high performance switching capability, and the patient dose reduction spectral shaping filter had already been implemented on the image intensified fluoroscopy systems. These three underlying technologies together with the automatic dose rate and image quality (ADRIQ) control logic allow patients undergoing cardiovascular angiography procedures to benefit from "lower patient dose" with "high image quality." While photoconductor (or phosphor plate) x-ray detectors and signal capture thin film transistor (TFT) and charge coupled device (CCD) arrays are analog in nature, the advent of the flat panel image receptor allowed for fluoroscopy procedures to become more streamlined. With the analog-to-digital converter built into the data lines, the flat panel image receptor appears to become a digital device. While the transition from image intensified fluoroscopy systems to flat panel image receptor fluoroscopy systems is part of the on-going "digitization of imaging," the value of a flat panel image receptor may have to be evaluated with respect to patient dose, image quality, and clinical application capabilities. The advantage of flat panel image receptors has yet to be fully explored. For instance, the flat panel image receptor has its disadvantages as compared to the image intensifiers; the cost of the equipment is probably the most obvious. On the other hand, due to its wide dynamic range and linearity, lowering of patient dose beyond current practice could be achieved through the calibration process of the flat panel input dose rate being set to, for example, one half or less of current values. In this article various radiation saving devices and control circuits are briefly described. This includes various types of fluoroscopic systems designed to strive for reduction of patient exposure with the application of spectral shaping filters. The main thrust is to understand the ADRIQ control logic, through equipment testing, as it relates to clinical applications, and to show how this ADRIQ control logic "ties" those three technological advancements together to provide low radiation dose to the patient with high quality fluoroscopic images. Finally, rotational angiography with computed tomography (CT) and three dimensional (3-D) images utilizing flat panel technology will be reviewed as they pertain to diagnostic imaging in cardiovascular disease.

Optical digitizing and strategies to combine different views of an optical sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duwe, Hans P.

1997-09-01

Non-contact digitization of objects and surfaces with optical sensors based on fringe or pattern projection in combination with a CCD-camera allows a representation of surfaces with pointclouds equals x, y, z data points. To digitize the total surface of an object, it is necessary to combine the different measurement data obtained by the optical sensor from different views. Depending on the size of the object and the required accuracy of the measured data, different sensor set-ups with handling system or a combination of linear and rotation axes are described. Furthermore, strategies to match the overlapping pointclouds of a digitized object are introduced. This is very important especially for the digitization of large objects like 1:1 car models, etc. With different sensor sizes, it is possible to digitize small objects like teeth, crowns, inlays, etc. with an overall accuracy of 20 micrometer as well as large objects like car models, with a total accuracy of 0.5 mm. The various applications in the field of optical digitization are described.

Characterization and Design of Digital Pointing Subsystem for Optical Communication Demonstrator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Racho, C.; Portillo, A.

1998-01-01

The Optical Communications Demonstrator (OCD) is a laboratory-based lasercom demonstration terminal designed to validate several key technologies, including beacon acquisition, high bandwidth tracking, precision bearn pointing, and point-ahead compensation functions. It has been under active development over the past few years. The instrument uses a CCD array detector for both spatial acquisition and high-bandwidth tracking, and a fiber coupled laser transmitter. The array detector tracking concept provides wide field-of-view acquisition and permits effective platform jitter compensation and point-ahead control using only one steering mirror. This paper describes the detailed design and characterization of the digital control loop system which includes the Fast Steering Mirror (FSM), the CCD image tracker, and the associated electronics. The objective is to improve the overall system performance using laboratory measured data. The. design of the digital control loop is based on a linear time invariant open loop model. The closed loop performance is predicted using the theoretical model. With the digital filter programmed into the OCD control software, data is collected to verify the predictions. This paper presents the results of the, system modeling and performance analysis. It has been shown that measurement data closely matches theoretical predictions. An important part of the laser communication experiment is the ability of FSM to track the laser beacon within the. required tolerances. The pointing must be maintained to an accuracy that is much smaller than the transmit signal beamwidth. For an earth orbit distance, the system must be able to track the receiving station to within a few microradians. The failure. to do so will result in a severely degraded system performance.

Agreement and reading time for differently-priced devices for the digital capture of X-ray films.

PubMed

Salazar, Antonio José; Camacho, Juan Camilo; Aguirre, Diego Andrés

2012-03-01

We assessed the reliability of three digital capture devices: a film digitizer (which cost US $15,000), a flat-bed scanner (US $1800) and a digital camera (US $450). Reliability was measured as the agreement between six observers when reading images acquired from a single device and also in terms of the pair-device agreement. The images were 136 chest X-ray cases. The variables measured were the interstitial opacities distribution, interstitial patterns, nodule size and percentage pneumothorax size. The agreement between the six readers when reading images acquired from a single device was similar for the three devices. The pair-device agreements were moderate for all variables. There were significant differences in reading-time between devices: the mean reading-time for the film digitizer was 93 s, it was 59 s for the flat-bed scanner and 70 s for the digital camera. Despite the differences in their cost, there were no substantial differences in the performance of the three devices.

Comparing simulations and test data of a radiation damaged CCD for the Euclid mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Skottfelt, Jesper; Hall, David; Gow, Jason; Murray, Neil; Holland, Andrew; Prod'homme, Thibaut

2016-07-01

The radiation damage effects from the harsh radiative environment outside the Earth's atmosphere can be a cause for concern for most space missions. With the science goals becoming ever more demanding, the requirements on the precision of the instruments on board these missions also increases, and it is therefore important to investigate how the radiation induced damage affects the Charge-Coupled Devices (CCDs) that most of these instruments rely on. The primary goal of the Euclid mission is to study the nature of dark matter and dark energy using weak lensing and baryonic acoustic oscillation techniques. The weak lensing technique depends on very precise shape measurements of distant galaxies obtained by a large CCD array. It is anticipated that over the 6 year nominal lifetime of mission, the CCDs will be degraded to an extent that these measurements will not be possible unless the radiation damage effects are corrected. We have therefore created a Monte Carlo model that simulates the physical processes taking place when transferring signal through a radiation damaged CCD. The software is based on Shockley-Read-Hall theory, and is made to mimic the physical properties in the CCD as close as possible. The code runs on a single electrode level and takes charge cloud size and density, three dimensional trap position, and multi-level clocking into account. A key element of the model is that it takes device specific simulations of electron density as a direct input, thereby avoiding to make any analytical assumptions about the size and density of the charge cloud. This paper illustrates how test data and simulated data can be compared in order to further our understanding of the positions and properties of the individual radiation-induced traps.

Development of low-noise CCD drive electronics for the world space observatory ultraviolet spectrograph subsystem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salter, Mike; Clapp, Matthew; King, James; Morse, Tom; Mihalcea, Ionut; Waltham, Nick; Hayes-Thakore, Chris

2016-07-01

World Space Observatory Ultraviolet (WSO-UV) is a major Russian-led international collaboration to develop a large space-borne 1.7 m Ritchey-Chrétien telescope and instrumentation to study the universe at ultraviolet wavelengths between 115 nm and 320 nm, exceeding the current capabilities of ground-based instruments. The WSO Ultraviolet Spectrograph subsystem (WUVS) is led by the Institute of Astronomy of the Russian Academy of Sciences and consists of two high resolution spectrographs covering the Far-UV range of 115-176 nm and the Near-UV range of 174-310 nm, and a long-slit spectrograph covering the wavelength range of 115-305 nm. The custom-designed CCD sensors and cryostat assemblies are being provided by e2v technologies (UK). STFC RAL Space is providing the Camera Electronics Boxes (CEBs) which house the CCD drive electronics for each of the three WUVS channels. This paper presents the results of the detailed characterisation of the WUVS CCD drive electronics. The electronics include a novel high-performance video channel design that utilises Digital Correlated Double Sampling (DCDS) to enable low-noise readout of the CCD at a range of pixel frequencies, including a baseline requirement of less than 3 electrons rms readout noise for the combined CCD and electronics system at a readout rate of 50 kpixels/s. These results illustrate the performance of this new video architecture as part of a wider electronics sub-system that is designed for use in the space environment. In addition to the DCDS video channels, the CEB provides all the bias voltages and clocking waveforms required to operate the CCD and the system is fully programmable via a primary and redundant SpaceWire interface. The development of the CEB electronics design has undergone critical design review and the results presented were obtained using the engineering-grade electronics box. A variety of parameters and tests are included ranging from general system metrics, such as the power and mass, to more detailed analysis of the video performance including noise, linearity, crosstalk, gain stability and transient response.

3D endoscopic pulsed digital holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saucedo Anaya, T.; Mendoza Santoyo, F.; Pedrini, G.; Osten, W.

2006-06-01

A rigid endoscope is used in pulsed digital holography to simultaneously evaluate the three orthogonal displacement components from hidden areas of a harmonically vibrating metallic cylinder. The cylinder is illuminated from three different illuminating directions. The optical path for each illumination direction is matched to its corresponding reference beam, but also in such a way that each object-reference beam pair optical path is mismatched such that they are incoherent and can be stored in a single CCD frame. As is typical in these types of interferometric arrangements, two digital holograms are needed in order to compare two different states of the cylinder. Each hologram is Fourier transformed and due to the incoherence introduced three separate spectra are readily identified, each belonging to a object-reference beam pair. On comparing by subtraction the phase obtained from the two pulsed digital holograms it is possible to gather quantitative 3D results from harmonic displacements.

Combining HJ CCD, GF-1 WFV and MODIS Data to Generate Daily High Spatial Resolution Synthetic Data for Environmental Process Monitoring.

PubMed

Wu, Mingquan; Huang, Wenjiang; Niu, Zheng; Wang, Changyao

2015-08-20

The limitations of satellite data acquisition mean that there is a lack of satellite data with high spatial and temporal resolutions for environmental process monitoring. In this study, we address this problem by applying the Enhanced Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model (ESTARFM) and the Spatial and Temporal Data Fusion Approach (STDFA) to combine Huanjing satellite charge coupled device (HJ CCD), Gaofen satellite no. 1 wide field of view camera (GF-1 WFV) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data to generate daily high spatial resolution synthetic data for land surface process monitoring. Actual HJ CCD and GF-1 WFV data were used to evaluate the precision of the synthetic images using the correlation analysis method. Our method was tested and validated for two study areas in Xinjiang Province, China. The results show that both the ESTARFM and STDFA can be applied to combine HJ CCD and MODIS reflectance data, and GF-1 WFV and MODIS reflectance data, to generate synthetic HJ CCD data and synthetic GF-1 WFV data that closely match actual data with correlation coefficients (r) greater than 0.8989 and 0.8643, respectively. Synthetic red- and near infrared (NIR)-band data generated by ESTARFM are more suitable for the calculation of Normalized Different Vegetation Index (NDVI) than the data generated by STDFA.

Combining HJ CCD, GF-1 WFV and MODIS Data to Generate Daily High Spatial Resolution Synthetic Data for Environmental Process Monitoring

PubMed Central

Wu, Mingquan; Huang, Wenjiang; Niu, Zheng; Wang, Changyao

2015-01-01

The limitations of satellite data acquisition mean that there is a lack of satellite data with high spatial and temporal resolutions for environmental process monitoring. In this study, we address this problem by applying the Enhanced Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model (ESTARFM) and the Spatial and Temporal Data Fusion Approach (STDFA) to combine Huanjing satellite charge coupled device (HJ CCD), Gaofen satellite no. 1 wide field of view camera (GF-1 WFV) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data to generate daily high spatial resolution synthetic data for land surface process monitoring. Actual HJ CCD and GF-1 WFV data were used to evaluate the precision of the synthetic images using the correlation analysis method. Our method was tested and validated for two study areas in Xinjiang Province, China. The results show that both the ESTARFM and STDFA can be applied to combine HJ CCD and MODIS reflectance data, and GF-1 WFV and MODIS reflectance data, to generate synthetic HJ CCD data and synthetic GF-1 WFV data that closely match actual data with correlation coefficients (r) greater than 0.8989 and 0.8643, respectively. Synthetic red- and near infrared (NIR)-band data generated by ESTARFM are more suitable for the calculation of Normalized Different Vegetation Index (NDVI) than the data generated by STDFA. PMID:26308017

Design principles and applications of a cooled CCD camera for electron microscopy.

PubMed

Faruqi, A R

1998-01-01

Cooled CCD cameras offer a number of advantages in recording electron microscope images with CCDs rather than film which include: immediate availability of the image in a digital format suitable for further computer processing, high dynamic range, excellent linearity and a high detective quantum efficiency for recording electrons. In one important respect however, film has superior properties: the spatial resolution of CCD detectors tested so far (in terms of point spread function or modulation transfer function) are inferior to film and a great deal of our effort has been spent in designing detectors with improved spatial resolution. Various instrumental contributions to spatial resolution have been analysed and in this paper we discuss the contribution of the phosphor-fibre optics system in this measurement. We have evaluated the performance of a number of detector components and parameters, e.g. different phosphors (and a scintillator), optical coupling with lens or fibre optics with various demagnification factors, to improve the detector performance. The camera described in this paper, which is based on this analysis, uses a tapered fibre optics coupling between the phosphor and the CCD and is installed on a Philips CM12 electron microscope equipped to perform cryo-microscopy. The main use of the camera so far has been in recording electron diffraction patterns from two dimensional crystals of bacteriorhodopsin--from wild type and from different trapped states during the photocycle. As one example of the type of data obtained with the CCD camera a two dimensional Fourier projection map from the trapped O-state is also included. With faster computers, it will soon be possible to undertake this type of work on an on-line basis. Also, with improvements in detector size and resolution, CCD detectors, already ideal for diffraction, will be able to compete with film in the recording of high resolution images.

A 14-bit 40-MHz analog front end for CCD application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jingyu, Wang; Zhangming, Zhu; Shubin, Liu

2016-06-01

A 14-bit, 40-MHz analog front end (AFE) for CCD scanners is analyzed and designed. The proposed system incorporates a digitally controlled wideband variable gain amplifier (VGA) with nearly 42 dB gain range, a correlated double sampler (CDS) with programmable gain functionality, a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter and a programmable timing core. To achieve the maximum dynamic range, the VGA proposed here can linearly amplify the input signal in a gain range from -1.08 to 41.06 dB in 6.02 dB step with a constant bandwidth. A novel CDS takes image information out of noise, and further amplifies the signal accurately in a gain range from 0 to 18 dB in 0.035 dB step. A 14-bit ADC is adopted to quantify the analog signal with optimization in power and linearity. An internal timing core can provide flexible timing for CCD arrays, CDS and ADC. The proposed AFE was fabricated in SMIC 0.18 μm CMOS process. The whole circuit occupied an active area of 2.8 × 4.8 mm2 and consumed 360 mW. When the frequency of input signal is 6.069 MHz, and the sampling frequency is 40 MHz, the signal to noise and distortion (SNDR) is 70.3 dB, the effective number of bits is 11.39 bit. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 61234002, 61322405, 61306044, 61376033), the National High-Tech Program of China (No. 2013AA014103), and the Opening Project of Science and Technology on Reliability Physics and Application Technology of Electronic Component Laboratory (No. ZHD201302).

Fabricating a hybrid imaging device having non-destructive sense nodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wadsworth, Mark (Inventor); Atlas, Gene (Inventor)

2001-01-01

A hybrid detector or imager includes two substrates fabricated under incompatible processes. An array of detectors, such as charged-coupled devices, are formed on the first substrate using a CCD fabrication process, such as a buried channel or peristaltic process. One or more charge-converting amplifiers are formed on a second substrate using a CMOS fabrication process. The two substrates are then bonded together to form a hybrid detector.

Medical devices; radiology devices; reclassification of full-field digital mammography system. Final rule.

PubMed

2010-11-05

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is announcing the reclassification of the full-field digital mammography (FFDM) system from class III (premarket approval) to class II (special controls). The device type is intended to produce planar digital x-ray images of the entire breast; this generic type of device may include digital mammography acquisition software, full-field digital image receptor, acquisition workstation, automatic exposure control, image processing and reconstruction programs, patient and equipment supports, component parts, and accessories. The special control that will apply to the device is the guidance document entitled "Class II Special Controls Guidance Document: Full-Field Digital Mammography System." FDA is reclassifying the device into class II (special controls) because general controls along with special controls will provide a reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness of the device. Elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register, FDA is announcing the availability of the guidance document that will serve as the special control for this device.

Quadrilinear CCD sensors for the multispectral channel of spaceborne imagers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Materne, Alex; Gili, Bruno; Laubier, David; Gimenez, Thierry

2001-12-01

The PLEIADES-HR Earth Observation satellites will combine a high resolution panchromatic channel -- 0.7 m at nadir -- and a multispectral channel allowing a 2.8 m resolution. This paper presents the main specifications, design and performances of a 52 microns pitch quadrilinear CCD sensor developed by ATMEL under CNES contract, for the multispectral channel of the PLEIADES-HR instrument. The monolithic CCD device includes four lines of 1500 pixels, each line dedicated to a narrow spectral band within blue to near infra red spectrum. The design of the photodiodes and CCD registers, with larger size than those developed up to now for CNES spaceborne imagers, needed some specific structures to break the large equipotential areas where charge do not flow properly. Results are presented on the options which were experimented to improve sensitivity, maintain transfer efficiency and reduce power dissipation. The four spectral bands are achieved by four stripe filters made by SAGEM-REOSC PRODUCTS on a glass substrate, to be assembled on the sensor window. Line to line spacing on the silicon die takes into account the results of straylight analysis. A mineral layer, with high optical absorption performances is deposited between photosensitive lines to further reduce straylight.

Development of an all-in-one gamma camera/CCD system for safeguard verification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Hyun-Il; An, Su Jung; Chung, Yong Hyun; Kwak, Sung-Woo

2014-12-01

For the purpose of monitoring and verifying efforts at safeguarding radioactive materials in various fields, a new all-in-one gamma camera/charged coupled device (CCD) system was developed. This combined system consists of a gamma camera, which gathers energy and position information on gamma-ray sources, and a CCD camera, which identifies the specific location in a monitored area. Therefore, 2-D image information and quantitative information regarding gamma-ray sources can be obtained using fused images. A gamma camera consists of a diverging collimator, a 22 × 22 array CsI(Na) pixelated scintillation crystal with a pixel size of 2 × 2 × 6 mm3 and Hamamatsu H8500 position-sensitive photomultiplier tube (PSPMT). The Basler scA640-70gc CCD camera, which delivers 70 frames per second at video graphics array (VGA) resolution, was employed. Performance testing was performed using a Co-57 point source 30 cm from the detector. The measured spatial resolution and sensitivity were 4.77 mm full width at half maximum (FWHM) and 7.78 cps/MBq, respectively. The energy resolution was 18% at 122 keV. These results demonstrate that the combined system has considerable potential for radiation monitoring.

ARC-1990-A91-2000

NASA Image and Video Library

1990-02-12

Range : 1 million miles (1.63 million km) This image of the planet Venus was taken by NASA's Galileo spacecraft shortly befor 10pm PST when the space craft was directly above Venus' equator. This is the 66th of more than 80 Venus images Galileo was programmed to take and record during its Venus flyby. In the picture, cloud features as small as 25 miles (40 km) can be seen. Patches of waves and convective clouds are superimpposed on the swirl of the planet's broad weather patterns, marked by the dark chevron at the center. North is at the top. The several ring-shaped shadows are blemishes, not planetary features. The spacecraft imaging system has a 1500-mm, f/8.5 reflecting telescope; the exposure time was 1/40 second. The image was taken through the violet filter (0.41 micron.). It was produced by the imaging system in digital form, as a set of numbers representing the brightness perceived in each of the 640,000 picture elements defined on the solid-state plate, called a charged-coupled-device or CCD, on which the image was focused.

The analysis of optical-electro collimated light tube measurement system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhenhui; Jiang, Tao; Cao, Guohua; Wang, Yanfei

2005-12-01

A new type of collimated light tube (CLT) is mentioned in this paper. The analysis and structure of CLT are described detail. The reticle and discrimination board are replaced by a optical-electro graphics generator, or DLP-Digital Light Processor. DLP gives all kinds of graphics controlled by computer, the lighting surface lies on the focus of the CLT. The rays of light pass through the CLT, and the tested products, the image of aim is received by variant focus objective CCD camera, the image can be processed by computer, then, some basic optical parameters will be obtained, such as optical aberration, image slope, etc. At the same time, motorized translation stage carry the DLP moving to simulate the limited distance. The grating ruler records the displacement of the DLP. The key technique is optical-electro auto-focus, the best imaging quality can be gotten by moving 6-D motorized positioning stage. Some principal questions can be solved in this device, for example, the aim generating, the structure of receiving system and optical matching.

Biotube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richards, Stephanie E. (Compiler); Levine, Howard G.; Romero, Vergel

2016-01-01

Biotube was developed for plant gravitropic research investigating the potential for magnetic fields to orient plant roots as they grow in microgravity. Prior to flight, experimental seeds are placed into seed cassettes, that are capable of containing up to 10 seeds, and inserted between two magnets located within one of three Magnetic Field Chamber (MFC). Biotube is stored within an International Space Station (ISS) stowage locker and provides three levels of containment for chemical fixatives. Features include monitoring of temperature, fixative/ preservative delivery to specimens, and real-time video imaging downlink. Biotube's primary subsystems are: (1) The Water Delivery System that automatically activates and controls the delivery of water (to initiate seed germination). (2) The Fixative Storage and Delivery System that stores and delivers chemical fixative or RNA later to each seed cassette. (3) The Digital Imaging System consisting of 4 charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras, a video multiplexer, a lighting multiplexer, and 16 infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that provide illumination while the photos are being captured. (4) The Command and Data Management System that provides overall control of the integrated subsystems, graphical user interface, system status and error message display, image display, and other functions.

Design of automatic leveling and centering system of theodolite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chun-tong; He, Zhen-Xin; Huang, Xian-xiang; Zhan, Ying

2012-09-01

To realize the theodolite automation and improve the azimuth Angle measurement instrument, the theodolite automatic leveling and centering system with the function of leveling error compensation is designed, which includes the system solution, key components selection, the mechanical structure of leveling and centering, and system software solution. The redesigned leveling feet are driven by the DC servo motor; and the electronic control center device is installed. Using high precision of tilt sensors as horizontal skew detection sensors ensures the effectiveness of the leveling error compensation. Aiming round mark center is located using digital image processing through surface array CCD; and leveling measurement precision can reach the pixel level, which makes the theodolite accurate centering possible. Finally, experiments are conducted using the automatic leveling and centering system of the theodolite. The results show the leveling and centering system can realize automatic operation with high centering accuracy of 0.04mm.The measurement precision of the orientation angle after leveling error compensation is improved, compared with that of in the traditional method. Automatic leveling and centering system of theodolite can satisfy the requirements of the measuring precision and its automation.

Assessing Postural Asymmetry with a Podoscope in Infants with Central Coordination Disturbance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pyzio-Kowalik, Magdalena; Wojtowicz, Dorota; Skrzek, Anna

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to digitally evaluate the incidence and severity of postural asymmetry in infants with Central Coordination Disturbance (CCD) by using a computer-aided podoscope (PodoBaby) from CQ Elektronik System. A sample of 120 infants aged from 3 months (plus or minus 1 week) to 6 months (plus or minus 1 week) took part in the…

Smartwatch feedback device for high-quality chest compressions by a single rescuer during infant cardiac arrest: a randomized, controlled simulation study.

PubMed

Lee, Juncheol; Song, Yeongtak; Oh, Jaehoon; Chee, Youngjoon; Ahn, Chiwon; Shin, Hyungoo; Kang, Hyunggoo; Lim, Tae Ho

2018-02-12

According to the guidelines, rescuers should provide chest compressions (CC) ∼1.5 inches (40 mm) for infants. Feedback devices could help rescuers perform CC with adequate rates (CCR) and depths (CCD). However, there is no CC feedback device for infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). We suggest a smartwatch-based CC feedback application for infant CPR. We created a smartwatch-based CC feedback application. This application provides feedback on CCD and CCR by colour and text for infant CPR. To evaluate the application, 30 participants were divided randomly into two groups on the basis of whether CC was performed with or without the assistance of the smartwatch application. Both groups performed continuous CC-only CPR for 2 min on an infant mannequin placed on a firm table. We collected CC parameters from the mannequin, including the proportion of correct depth, CCR, CCD and the proportion of correct decompression depth. Demographics between the two groups were not significantly different. The median (interquartile range) proportion of correct depth was 99 (97-100) with feedback compared with 83 (58-97) without feedback (P=0.002). The CCR and proportion of correct decompression depth were not significantly different between the two groups (P=0.482 and 0.089). The CCD of the feedback group was significantly deeper than that of the control group [feedback vs. 41.2 (39.8-41.7) mm vs. 38.6 (36.1-39.6) mm; P=0.004]. Rescuers who receive feedback of CC parameters from a smartwatch could perform adequate CC during infant CPR.This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/.

Double-pulse digital speckle pattern interferometry for vibration analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dazhi; Xue, Jingfeng; Chen, Lu; Wen, Juying; Wang, Jingjing

2014-12-01

The double-pulse Digital Speckle Pattern Interferometry (DSPI) in the laboratory is established. Two good performances have been achieved at the same time, which is uniform distribution of laser beam energy by space filter and recording two successive pictures by a CCD camera successfully. Then two-dimensional discrete orthogonal wavelet transform method is used for the process of filtering method. By using the DSPI, speckle pattern of a vibrated object is obtained with interval of (2~800)μs, and 3D plot of the transient vibration is achieved. Moreover, good agreements of the mode shapes and displacement are obtained by comparing with Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV) .

Image sensor for testing refractive error of eyes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiangning; Chen, Jiabi; Xu, Longyun

2000-05-01

It is difficult to detect ametropia and anisometropia for children. Image sensor for testing refractive error of eyes does not need the cooperation of children and can be used to do the general survey of ametropia and anisometropia for children. In our study, photographs are recorded by a CCD element in a digital form which can be directly processed by a computer. In order to process the image accurately by digital technique, formula considering the effect of extended light source and the size of lens aperture has been deduced, which is more reliable in practice. Computer simulation of the image sensing is made to verify the fineness of the results.

Digital radiography and caries diagnosis.

PubMed

Wenzel, A

1998-01-01

Direct digital acquisition of intra-oral radiographs has been possible only in the last decade. Several studies have shown that, theoretically, there are a number of advantages of direct digital radiography compared with conventional film. Laboratory as well as controlled clinical studies are needed to determine whether new digital imaging systems alter diagnosis, treatment and prognosis compared with conventional methods. Most studies so far have evaluated their diagnostic performance only in laboratory settings. This review concentrates on what evidence we have for the diagnostic efficacy of digital systems for caries detection. Digital systems are compared with film and those studies which have evaluated the effects on diagnostic accuracy of contrast and edge enhancement, image size, variations in radiation dose and image compression are reviewed together with the use of automated image analysis for caries diagnosis. Digital intra-oral radiographic systems seem to be as accurate as the currently available dental films for the detection of caries. Sensitivities are relatively high (0.6-0.8) for detection of occlusal lesions into dentine with false positive fractions of 5-10%. A radiolucency in dentine is recognised as a good predictor for demineralisation. Radiography is of no value for the detection of initial (enamel) occlusal lesions. For detection of approximal dentinal lesions, sensitivities, specificities as well as the predictive values are fair, but are very poor for lesions known to be confined to enamel. Very little documented information exists, however, on the utilization of digital systems in the clinic. It is not known whether dose is actually reduced with the storage phosphor system, or whether collimator size is adjusted to fit sensor size in the CCD-based systems. There is no evidence that the number of retakes have been reduced. It is not known how many images are needed with the various CCD systems when compared with a conventional bitewing, nor how stable these systems are in the daily clinical use or whether proper cross-infection control can be maintained in relation to scanning the storage phosphor plates and the sensors and the cable. There is only sparse evidence that the enhancement facilities are used when interpreting images, and none that this has changed working practices or treatment decisions. The economic consequences for the patient, dentist and society require examination.

Microgravity

NASA Image and Video Library

1991-04-03

The USML-1 Glovebox (GBX) is a multi-user facility supporting 16 experiments in fluid dynamics, combustion sciences, crystal growth, and technology demonstration. The GBX has an enclosed working space which minimizes the contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. The GBX supports four charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras (two of which may be operated simultaneously) with three black-and-white and three color camera CCD heads available. The GBX also has a backlight panel, a 35 mm camera, and a stereomicroscope that offers high-magnification viewing of experiment samples. Video data can also be downlinked in real-time. The GBX also provides electrical power for experiment hardware, a time-temperature display, and cleaning supplies.

Microgravity

NASA Image and Video Library

1995-08-29

The USML-1 Glovebox (GBX) is a multi-user facility supporting 16 experiments in fluid dynamics, combustion sciences, crystal growth, and technology demonstration. The GBX has an enclosed working space which minimizes the contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. The GBX supports four charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras (two of which may be operated simultaneously) with three black-and-white and three color camera CCD heads available. The GBX also has a backlight panel, a 35 mm camera, and a stereomicroscope that offers high-magnification viewing of experiment samples. Video data can also be downlinked in real-time. The GBX also provides electrical power for experiment hardware, a time-temperature display, and cleaning supplies.

Brazil's remote sensing activities in the Eighties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raupp, M. A.; Pereiradacunha, R.; Novaes, R. A.

1985-01-01

Most of the remote sensing activities in Brazil have been conducted by the Institute for Space Research (INPE). This report describes briefly INPE's activities in remote sensing in the last years. INPE has been engaged in research (e.g., radiance studies), development (e.g., CCD-scanners, image processing devices) and applications (e.g., crop survey, land use, mineral resources, etc.) of remote sensing. INPE is also responsible for the operation (data reception and processing) of the LANDSATs and meteorological satellites. Data acquisition activities include the development of CCD-Camera to be deployed on board the space shuttle and the construction of a remote sensing satellite.

Night Sky Weather Monitoring System Using Fish-Eye CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomida, Takayuki; Saito, Yasunori; Nakamura, Ryo; Yamazaki, Katsuya

Telescope Array (TA) is international joint experiment observing ultra-high energy cosmic rays. TA employs fluorescence detection technique to observe cosmic rays. In this technique, tho existence of cloud significantly affects quality of data. Therefore, cloud monitoring provides important information. We are developing two new methods for evaluating night sky weather with pictures taken by charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. One is evaluating the amount of cloud with pixels brightness. The other is counting the number of stars with contour detection technique. The results of these methods show clear correlation, and we concluded both the analyses are reasonable methods for weather monitoring. We discuss reliability of the star counting method.

Testing fully depleted CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casas, Ricard; Cardiel-Sas, Laia; Castander, Francisco J.; Jiménez, Jorge; de Vicente, Juan

2014-08-01

The focal plane of the PAU camera is composed of eighteen 2K x 4K CCDs. These devices, plus four spares, were provided by the Japanese company Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. with type no. S10892-04(X). These detectors are 200 μm thick fully depleted and back illuminated with an n-type silicon base. They have been built with a specific coating to be sensitive in the range from 300 to 1,100 nm. Their square pixel size is 15 μm. The read-out system consists of a Monsoon controller (NOAO) and the panVIEW software package. The deafualt CCD read-out speed is 133 kpixel/s. This is the value used in the calibration process. Before installing these devices in the camera focal plane, they were characterized using the facilities of the ICE (CSIC- IEEC) and IFAE in the UAB Campus in Bellaterra (Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain). The basic tests performed for all CCDs were to obtain the photon transfer curve (PTC), the charge transfer efficiency (CTE) using X-rays and the EPER method, linearity, read-out noise, dark current, persistence, cosmetics and quantum efficiency. The X-rays images were also used for the analysis of the charge diffusion for different substrate voltages (VSUB). Regarding the cosmetics, and in addition to white and dark pixels, some patterns were also found. The first one, which appears in all devices, is the presence of half circles in the external edges. The origin of this pattern can be related to the assembly process. A second one appears in the dark images, and shows bright arcs connecting corners along the vertical axis of the CCD. This feature appears in all CCDs exactly in the same position so our guess is that the pattern is due to electrical fields. Finally, and just in two devices, there is a spot with wavelength dependence whose origin could be the result of a defectous coating process.

47 CFR 90.212 - Provisions relating to the use of scrambling devices and digital voice modulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... devices and digital voice modulation. 90.212 Section 90.212 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS... Standards § 90.212 Provisions relating to the use of scrambling devices and digital voice modulation. (a... emission, subject to the provision of paragraph (d) of this section. (b) The use of digital scrambling...

47 CFR 90.212 - Provisions relating to the use of scrambling devices and digital voice modulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... devices and digital voice modulation. 90.212 Section 90.212 Telecommunication FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS... Standards § 90.212 Provisions relating to the use of scrambling devices and digital voice modulation. (a... emission, subject to the provision of paragraph (d) of this section. (b) The use of digital scrambling...

78 FR 29392 - Embedded Digital Devices in Safety-Related Systems, Systems Important to Safety, and Items Relied...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-20

... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION [NRC-2013-0098] Embedded Digital Devices in Safety-Related Systems... (NRC) is issuing for public comment Draft Regulatory Issue Summary (RIS) 2013-XX, ``Embedded Digital... requirements for the quality and reliability of basic components with embedded digital devices. DATES: Submit...

Three-dimensional shape measurement and calibration for fringe projection by considering unequal height of the projector and the camera

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu Feipeng; Shi Hongjian; Bai Pengxiang

In fringe projection, the CCD camera and the projector are often placed at equal height. In this paper, we will study the calibration of an unequal arrangement of the CCD camera and the projector. The principle of fringe projection with two-dimensional digital image correlation to acquire the profile of object surface is described in detail. By formula derivation and experiment, the linear relationship between the out-of-plane calibration coefficient and the y coordinate is clearly found. To acquire the three-dimensional (3D) information of an object correctly, this paper presents an effective calibration method with linear least-squares fitting, which is very simplemore » in principle and calibration. Experiments are implemented to validate the availability and reliability of the calibration method.« less

A Simple Method Based on the Application of a CCD Camera as a Sensor to Detect Low Concentrations of Barium Sulfate in Suspension

PubMed Central

de Sena, Rodrigo Caciano; Soares, Matheus; Pereira, Maria Luiza Oliveira; da Silva, Rogério Cruz Domingues; do Rosário, Francisca Ferreira; da Silva, Joao Francisco Cajaiba

2011-01-01

The development of a simple, rapid and low cost method based on video image analysis and aimed at the detection of low concentrations of precipitated barium sulfate is described. The proposed system is basically composed of a webcam with a CCD sensor and a conventional dichroic lamp. For this purpose, software for processing and analyzing the digital images based on the RGB (Red, Green and Blue) color system was developed. The proposed method had shown very good repeatability and linearity and also presented higher sensitivity than the standard turbidimetric method. The developed method is presented as a simple alternative for future applications in the study of precipitations of inorganic salts and also for detecting the crystallization of organic compounds. PMID:22346607

Comparison between different cost devices for digital capture of X-ray films: an image characteristics detection approach.

PubMed

Salazar, Antonio José; Camacho, Juan Camilo; Aguirre, Diego Andrés

2012-02-01

A common teleradiology practice is digitizing films. The costs of specialized digitizers are very high, that is why there is a trend to use conventional scanners and digital cameras. Statistical clinical studies are required to determine the accuracy of these devices, which are very difficult to carry out. The purpose of this study was to compare three capture devices in terms of their capacity to detect several image characteristics. Spatial resolution, contrast, gray levels, and geometric deformation were compared for a specialized digitizer ICR (US$ 15,000), a conventional scanner UMAX (US$ 1,800), and a digital camera LUMIX (US$ 450, but require an additional support system and a light box for about US$ 400). Test patterns printed in films were used. The results detected gray levels lower than real values for all three devices; acceptable contrast and low geometric deformation with three devices. All three devices are appropriate solutions, but a digital camera requires more operator training and more settings.

Betacam: a commercial approach to β-autoradiography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cabello, J.; Holland, A.; Holland, K.; Bailey, A.; Kitchen, I.; Wells, K.

2009-02-01

Autoradiography is a well established imaging modality in Biology and Medicine. This aims to measure the location and concentration of labelled molecules within thin tissue sections. The brain is the most anatomically complex organ and identification of neuroanatomical structures is still a challenge particularly when small animals are used for pre-clinical trials. High spatial resolution and high sensitivity are therefore necessary. This work shows the performance and ability of a prototype commercial system, based on a Charged-Couple Device (CCD), to accurately obtain detailed functional information in brain Autoradiography. The sample is placed in contact with the detector enabling direct detection of β- particles in silicon, and the system is run in a range of quasi-room temperatures (17-22 °C) under stable conditions by using a precision temperature controller. Direct detection of β- particles with low energy down to ~5 keV from 3[H] is possible using this room temperature approach. The CCD used in this work is an E2V CCD47-20 frame-transfer device which removes the image smear arising in conventional full-frame imaging devices. The temporal stability of the system has been analyzed by exposing a set of 14[C] calibrated microscales for different periods of time, and measuring the stability of the resultant sensitivity and background noise. The thermal performance of the system has also been analyzed in order to demonstrate its capability of working in other life science applications, where higher working temperatures are required. Once the performance of the system was studied, a set of experiments with biological samples, labelled with typical β- radioisotopes, such as 3[H], has been carried out to demonstrate its application in life sciences.

Advances in detector technologies for visible and infrared wavefront sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feautrier, Philippe; Gach, Jean-Luc; Downing, Mark; Jorden, Paul; Kolb, Johann; Rothman, Johan; Fusco, Thierry; Balard, Philippe; Stadler, Eric; Guillaume, Christian; Boutolleau, David; Destefanis, Gérard; Lhermet, Nicolas; Pacaud, Olivier; Vuillermet, Michel; Kerlain, Alexandre; Hubin, Norbert; Reyes, Javier; Kasper, Markus; Ivert, Olaf; Suske, Wolfgang; Walker, Andrew; Skegg, Michael; Derelle, Sophie; Deschamps, Joel; Robert, Clélia; Vedrenne, Nicolas; Chazalet, Frédéric; Tanchon, Julien; Trollier, Thierry; Ravex, Alain; Zins, Gérard; Kern, Pierre; Moulin, Thibaut; Preis, Olivier

2012-07-01

The purpose of this paper is to give an overview of the state of the art wavefront sensor detectors developments held in Europe for the last decade. The success of the next generation of instruments for 8 to 40-m class telescopes will depend on the ability of Adaptive Optics (AO) systems to provide excellent image quality and stability. This will be achieved by increasing the sampling, wavelength range and correction quality of the wave front error in both spatial and time domains. The modern generation of AO wavefront sensor detectors development started in the late nineties with the CCD50 detector fabricated by e2v technologies under ESO contract for the ESO NACO AO system. With a 128x128 pixels format, this 8 outputs CCD offered a 500 Hz frame rate with a readout noise of 7e-. A major breakthrough has been achieved with the recent development by e2v technologies of the CCD220. This 240x240 pixels 8 outputs EMCCD (CCD with internal multiplication) has been jointly funded by ESO and Europe under the FP6 programme. The CCD220 and the OCAM2 camera that operates the detector are now the most sensitive system in the world for advanced adaptive optics systems, offering less than 0.2 e readout noise at a frame rate of 1500 Hz with negligible dark current. Extremely easy to operate, OCAM2 only needs a 24 V power supply and a modest water cooling circuit. This system, commercialized by First Light Imaging, is extensively described in this paper. An upgrade of OCAM2 is foreseen to boost its frame rate to 2 kHz, opening the window of XAO wavefront sensing for the ELT using 4 synchronized cameras and pyramid wavefront sensing. Since this major success, new developments started in Europe. One is fully dedicated to Natural and Laser Guide Star AO for the E-ELT with ESO involvement. The spot elongation from a LGS Shack Hartman wavefront sensor necessitates an increase of the pixel format. Two detectors are currently developed by e2v. The NGSD will be a 880x840 pixels CMOS detector with a readout noise of 3 e (goal 1e) at 700 Hz frame rate. The LGSD is a scaling of the NGSD with 1760x1680 pixels and 3 e readout noise (goal 1e) at 700 Hz (goal 1000 Hz) frame rate. New technologies will be developed for that purpose: advanced CMOS pixel architecture, CMOS back thinned and back illuminated device for very high QE, full digital outputs with signal digital conversion on chip. In addition, the CMOS technology is extremely robust in a telescope environment. Both detectors will be used on the European ELT but also interest potentially all giant telescopes under development. Additional developments also started for wavefront sensing in the infrared based on a new technological breakthrough using ultra low noise Avalanche Photodiode (APD) arrays within the RAPID project. Developed by the SOFRADIR and CEA/LETI manufacturers, the latter will offer a 320x240 8 outputs 30 microns IR array, sensitive from 0.4 to 3.2 microns, with 2 e readout noise at 1500 Hz frame rate. The high QE response is almost flat over this wavelength range. Advanced packaging with miniature cryostat using liquid nitrogen free pulse tube cryocoolers is currently developed for this programme in order to allow use on this detector in any type of environment. First results of this project are detailed here. These programs are held with several partners, among them are the French astronomical laboratories (LAM, OHP, IPAG), the detector manufacturers (e2v technologies, Sofradir, CEA/LETI) and other partners (ESO, ONERA, IAC, GTC). Funding is: Opticon FP6 and FP7 from European Commission, ESO, CNRS and Université de Provence, Sofradir, ONERA, CEA/LETI and the French FUI (DGCIS).

Usability of digital media in patients with COPD: a pilot study.

PubMed

Cheung, Amy; Janssen, Anton; Amft, Oliver; Wouters, Emiel F M; Spruit, Martijn A

2013-04-01

Digital media can be integrated in tele-monitoring solutions, serving as the main interface between the patient and the caregiver. Consequently, the selection of the most appropriate digital medium for the specified target group is critical to ensure compliance with the tele-monitoring system. This pilot study aims to gather insights from patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on the ease-of-use, efficacy, effectiveness, and satisfaction of different types of digital media. Five off-the-shelf digital media devices were tested on nine patients at CIRO+ in Horn, The Netherlands. Usability was evaluated by asking patients to use each device to answer questions related to their symptoms and health status. Subsequently, patients completed a paper-based device usability questionnaire, which assessed prior experience with digital media, device dimensions, device controllability, response speed, screen readability, ease-of-use, and overall satisfaction. After testing all the devices, patients ranked the devices according to their preference. We identified the netbook as the preferred type of device due to its good controllability, fast response time, and large screen size. The smartphone was the least favorite device as patients found the size of the screen to be too small, which made it difficult to interact with. The pilot study has provided important insights to guide the selection of the most appropriate type of digital medium for implementation in tele-monitoring solutions for patients with COPD. As the digital medium is an important interface to the patient in tele-monitoring solutions, it is essential that patients feel motivated to interact with the digital medium on a regular basis.

Earth elevation map production and high resolution sensing camera imaging analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiubin; Jin, Guang; Jiang, Li; Dai, Lu; Xu, Kai

2010-11-01

The Earth's digital elevation which impacts space camera imaging has prepared and imaging has analysed. Based on matching error that TDI CCD integral series request of the speed of image motion, statistical experimental methods-Monte Carlo method is used to calculate the distribution histogram of Earth's elevation in image motion compensated model which includes satellite attitude changes, orbital angular rate changes, latitude, longitude and the orbital inclination changes. And then, elevation information of the earth's surface from SRTM is read. Earth elevation map which produced for aerospace electronic cameras is compressed and spliced. It can get elevation data from flash according to the shooting point of latitude and longitude. If elevation data between two data, the ways of searching data uses linear interpolation. Linear interpolation can better meet the rugged mountains and hills changing requests. At last, the deviant framework and camera controller are used to test the character of deviant angle errors, TDI CCD camera simulation system with the material point corresponding to imaging point model is used to analyze the imaging's MTF and mutual correlation similarity measure, simulation system use adding cumulation which TDI CCD imaging exceeded the corresponding pixel horizontal and vertical offset to simulate camera imaging when stability of satellite attitude changes. This process is practicality. It can effectively control the camera memory space, and meet a very good precision TDI CCD camera in the request matches the speed of image motion and imaging.

A multi-characteristic based algorithm for classifying vegetation in a plateau area: Qinghai Lake watershed, northwestern China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Weiwei; Gong, Cailan; Hu, Yong; Li, Long; Meng, Peng

2015-10-01

Remote sensing technology has been broadly recognized for its convenience and efficiency in mapping vegetation, particularly in high-altitude and inaccessible areas where there are lack of in-situ observations. In this study, Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) images and Chinese environmental mitigation satellite CCD sensor (HJ-1 CCD) images, both of which are at 30m spatial resolution were employed for identifying and monitoring of vegetation types in a area of Western China——Qinghai Lake Watershed(QHLW). A decision classification tree (DCT) algorithm using multi-characteristic including seasonal TM/HJ-1 CCD time series data combined with digital elevation models (DEMs) dataset, and a supervised maximum likelihood classification (MLC) algorithm with single-data TM image were applied vegetation classification. Accuracy of the two algorithms was assessed using field observation data. Based on produced vegetation classification maps, it was found that the DCT using multi-season data and geomorphologic parameters was superior to the MLC algorithm using single-data image, improving the overall accuracy by 11.86% at second class level and significantly reducing the "salt and pepper" noise. The DCT algorithm applied to TM /HJ-1 CCD time series data geomorphologic parameters appeared as a valuable and reliable tool for monitoring vegetation at first class level (5 vegetation classes) and second class level(8 vegetation subclasses). The DCT algorithm using multi-characteristic might provide a theoretical basis and general approach to automatic extraction of vegetation types from remote sensing imagery over plateau areas.

76 FR 59737 - In the Matter of Certain Digital Photo Frames and Image Display Devices and Components Thereof...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-27

... Frames and Image Display Devices and Components Thereof; Notice of Institution of Investigation... United States after importation of certain digital photo frames and image display devices and components... certain digital photo frames and image display devices and components thereof that infringe one or more of...

Applications of a pnCCD detector coupled to columnar structure CsI(Tl) scintillator system in ultra high energy X-ray Laue diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shokr, M.; Schlosser, D.; Abboud, A.; Algashi, A.; Tosson, A.; Conka, T.; Hartmann, R.; Klaus, M.; Genzel, C.; Strüder, L.; Pietsch, U.

2017-12-01

Most charge coupled devices (CCDs) are made of silicon (Si) with typical active layer thicknesses of several microns. In case of a pnCCD detector the sensitive Si thickness is 450 μm. However, for silicon based detectors the quantum efficiency for hard X-rays drops significantly for photon energies above 10 keV . This drawback can be overcome by combining a pixelated silicon-based detector system with a columnar scintillator. Here we report on the characterization of a low noise, fully depleted 128×128 pixels pnCCD detector with 75×75 μm2 pixel size coupled to a 700 μm thick columnar CsI(Tl) scintillator in the photon range between 1 keV to 130 keV . The excellent performance of the detection system in the hard X-ray range is demonstrated in a Laue type X-ray diffraction experiment performed at EDDI beamline of the BESSY II synchrotron taken at a set of several GaAs single crystals irradiated by white synchrotron radiation. With the columnar structure of the scintillator, the position resolution of the whole system reaches a value of less than one pixel. Using the presented detector system and considering the functional relation between indirect and direct photon events Laue diffraction peaks with X-ray energies up to 120 keV were efficiently detected. As one of possible applications of the combined CsI-pnCCD system we demonstrate that the accuracy of X-ray structure factors extracted from Laue diffraction peaks can be significantly improved in hard X-ray range using the combined CsI(Tl)-pnCCD system compared to a bare pnCCD.

Application of the CCD Fabry-Perot Annular Summing Technique to Thermospheric O(1)D.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coakley, Monica Marie

1995-01-01

This work will detail the verification of the advantages of the Fabry-Perot charge coupled device (CCD) annular summing technique, the development of the technique for analysis of daysky spectra, and the implications of the resulting spectra for neutral temperature and wind measurements in the daysky thermosphere. The daysky spectral feature of interest is the bright (1 kilo-Rayleigh) thermospheric (OI) emission at 6300 A which had been observed in the nightsky in order to determine winds and temperatures in the vicinity of the altitude of 250 km. In the daysky, the emission line sits on top of a bright Rayleigh scattered continuum background which significantly complicates the observation. With a triple etalon Fabry-Perot spectrometer, the continuum background can be reduced while maintaining high throughput and high resolution. The inclusion of a CCD camera results in significant savings in integration time over the two more standard scanning photomultiplier systems that have made the same wind and temperature measurements in the past. A comparable CCD system can experience an order of magnitude savings in integration time over a PMT system. Laboratory and field tests which address the advantages and limitations of both the Fabry-Perot CCD annular summing technique and the daysky CCD imaging are included in Chap. 2 and Chap. 3. With a sufficiently large throughput associated with the spectrometer and a CCD detector, rapid observations (~4 minute integrations) can be made. Extraction of the line width and line center from the daysky near-continuum background is complicated compared to the nightsky case, but possible. Methods of fitting the line are included in Chap. 4. The daysky O ^1D temperatures are consistent with a lower average emission height than predicted by models. The data and models are discussed in Chap. 5. Although some discrepancies exist between resulting temperatures and models, the observations indicate the potential for other direct measurements of bright neutral species in the daysky as well as the potential for twenty-four hour coverage.

Stroboscopic Imaging Interferometer for MEMS Performance Measurement

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-15

Optical Iocusing L.aser Fiber Optics I) c 0 Mim er Collimator - C d Microcope lcam. indo Cold Objcclive Splitte FingerCCD "Mount irnro MEMS PicL zStack...Electronics and Photonics Laboratory: Microelectronics, VLSI reliability, failure analysis, solid-state device physics, compound semiconductors

Detector for CheMin

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-10-30

This charged couple device CCD is part of the CheMin instrument on NASA Curiosity rover. When CheMin directs X-rays at a sample of soil, this imager, which is the size of a postage stamp, detects both the position and energy of each X-ray photon.

A new clocking method for a charge coupled device

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Umezu, Rika; Kitamoto, Shunji, E-mail: kitamoto@rikkyo.ac.jp; Murakami, Hiroshi

2014-07-15

We propose and demonstrate a new clocking method for a charge-coupled device (CCD). When a CCD is used for a photon counting detector of X-rays, its weak point is a limitation of its counting rate, because high counting rate makes non-negligible pile-up of photons. In astronomical usage, this pile-up is especially severe for an observation of a bright point-like object. One typical idea to reduce the pile-up is a parallel sum (P-sum) mode. This mode completely loses one-dimensional information. Our new clocking method, panning mode, provides complementary properties between the normal mode and the P-sum mode. We performed a simplemore » simulation in order to investigate a pile-up probability and compared the simulated result and actual obtained event rates. Using this simulation and the experimental results, we compared the pile-up tolerance of various clocking modes including our new method and also compared their other characteristics.« less

Multiport backside-illuminated CCD imagers for high-frame-rate camera applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levine, Peter A.; Sauer, Donald J.; Hseuh, Fu-Lung; Shallcross, Frank V.; Taylor, Gordon C.; Meray, Grazyna M.; Tower, John R.; Harrison, Lorna J.; Lawler, William B.

1994-05-01

Two multiport, second-generation CCD imager designs have been fabricated and successfully tested. They are a 16-port 512 X 512 array and a 32-port 1024 X 1024 array. Both designs are back illuminated, have on-chip CDS, lateral blooming control, and use a split vertical frame transfer architecture with full frame storage. The 512 X 512 device has been operated at rates over 800 frames per second. The 1024 X 1024 device has been operated at rates over 300 frames per second. The major changes incorporated in the second-generation design are, reduction in gate length in the output area to give improved high-clock-rate performance, modified on-chip CDS circuitry for reduced noise, and optimized implants to improve performance of blooming control at lower clock amplitude. This paper discusses the imager design improvements and presents measured performance results at high and moderate frame rates. The design and performance of three moderate frame rate cameras are discussed.

Ground-Based Fabry-Perot Interferometry of the Terrestrial Nightglow with a Bare Charge-Coupled Device: Remote Field Site Deployment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Niciejewski, Rick; Killeen, Timothy L.; Turnbull, Matthew

1994-01-01

The application of Fabry-Perot interferometers (FPIs) to the study of upper atmosphere thermodynamics has largely been restricted by the very low light levels in the terrestrial airglow as well as the limited range in wavelength of photomultiplier tube (PMT) technology. During the past decade, the development of the scientific grade charge-coupled device (CCD) has progressed to the stage in which this detector has become the logical replacement for the PMT. Small fast microcomputers have made it possible to "upgrade" our remote field sites with bare CCDs and not only retain the previous capabilities of the existing FPls but expand the data coverage in both temporal and wavelength domains. The problems encountered and the solutions applied to the deployment of a bare CCD, with data acquisition and image reduction techniques, are discussed. Sample geophysical data determined from the FPI fringe profiles are shown for our stations at Peach Mountain, Michigan, and Watson Lake, Yukon Territory.

Imaging with organic indicators and high-speed charge-coupled device cameras in neurons: some applications where these classic techniques have advantages.

PubMed

Ross, William N; Miyazaki, Kenichi; Popovic, Marko A; Zecevic, Dejan

2015-04-01

Dynamic calcium and voltage imaging is a major tool in modern cellular neuroscience. Since the beginning of their use over 40 years ago, there have been major improvements in indicators, microscopes, imaging systems, and computers. While cutting edge research has trended toward the use of genetically encoded calcium or voltage indicators, two-photon microscopes, and in vivo preparations, it is worth noting that some questions still may be best approached using more classical methodologies and preparations. In this review, we highlight a few examples in neurons where the combination of charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging and classical organic indicators has revealed information that has so far been more informative than results using the more modern systems. These experiments take advantage of the high frame rates, sensitivity, and spatial integration of the best CCD cameras. These cameras can respond to the faster kinetics of organic voltage and calcium indicators, which closely reflect the fast dynamics of the underlying cellular events.

A CCD-based reader combined with CdS quantum dot-labeled lateral flow strips for ultrasensitive quantitative detection of CagA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gui, Chen; Wang, Kan; Li, Chao; Dai, Xuan; Cui, Daxiang

2014-02-01

Immunochromatographic assays are widely used to detect many analytes. CagA is proved to be associated closely with initiation of gastric carcinoma. Here, we reported that a charge-coupled device (CCD)-based test strip reader combined with CdS quantum dot-labeled lateral flow strips for quantitative detection of CagA was developed, which used 365-nm ultraviolet LED as the excitation light source, and captured the test strip images through an acquisition module. Then, the captured image was transferred to the computer and was processed by a software system. A revised weighted threshold histogram equalization (WTHE) image processing algorithm was applied to analyze the result. CdS quantum dot-labeled lateral flow strips for detection of CagA were prepared. One hundred sera samples from clinical patients with gastric cancer and healthy people were prepared for detection, which demonstrated that the device could realize rapid, stable, and point-of-care detection, with a sensitivity of 20 pg/mL.

Memory device for two-dimensional radiant energy array computers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaefer, D. H.; Strong, J. P., III (Inventor)

1977-01-01

A memory device for two dimensional radiant energy array computers was developed, in which the memory device stores digital information in an input array of radiant energy digital signals that are characterized by ordered rows and columns. The memory device contains a radiant energy logic storing device having a pair of input surface locations for receiving a pair of separate radiant energy digital signal arrays and an output surface location adapted to transmit a radiant energy digital signal array. A regenerative feedback device that couples one of the input surface locations to the output surface location in a manner for causing regenerative feedback is also included

The Development of the Spanish Fireball Network Using a New All-Sky CCD System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trigo-Rodríguez, J. M.; Castro-Tirado, A. J.; Llorca, J.; Fabregat, J.; Martínez, V. J.; Reglero, V.; Jelínek, M.; Kubánek, P.; Mateo, T.; Postigo, A. De Ugarte

2004-12-01

We have developed an all-sky charge coupled devices (CCD) automatic system for detecting meteors and fireballs that will be operative in four stations in Spain during 2005. The cameras were developed following the BOOTES-1 prototype installed at the El Arenosillo Observatory in 2002, which is based on a CCD detector of 4096 × 4096 pixels with a fish-eye lens that provides an all-sky image with enough resolution to make accurate astrometric measurements. Since late 2004, a couple of cameras at two of the four stations operate for 30 s in alternate exposures, allowing 100% time coverage. The stellar limiting magnitude of the images is +10 in the zenith, and +8 below ~ 65° of zenithal angle. As a result, the images provide enough comparison stars to make astrometric measurements of faint meteors and fireballs with an accuracy of ~ 2°arcminutes. Using this prototype, four automatic all-sky CCD stations have been developed, two in Andalusia and two in the Valencian Community, to start full operation of the Spanish Fireball Network. In addition to all-sky coverage, we are developing a fireball spectroscopy program using medium field lenses with additional CCD cameras. Here we present the first images obtained from the El Arenosillo and La Mayora stations in Andalusia during their first months of activity. The detection of the Jan 27, 2003 superbolide of ± 17 ± 1 absolute magnitude that overflew Algeria and Morocco is an example of the detection capability of our prototype.

Double Star Measurements at the Internationale Amateur Sternwarte (IAS) in Namibia in 2008 and 2009

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anton, Rainer

2010-04-01

A 40-cm-Cassegrain telescope in Namibia was used for observing double and multiple systems in the southern sky. Digital images were recorded with a CCD camera at high frame rates via a firewire interface directly in a computer. Measurements of 34 double and multiple systems are presented and compared with literature data. Some noteworthy objects are discussed in more detail.

Multiple Sensor Camera for Enhanced Video Capturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagahara, Hajime; Kanki, Yoshinori; Iwai, Yoshio; Yachida, Masahiko

A resolution of camera has been drastically improved under a current request for high-quality digital images. For example, digital still camera has several mega pixels. Although a video camera has the higher frame-rate, the resolution of a video camera is lower than that of still camera. Thus, the high-resolution is incompatible with the high frame rate of ordinary cameras in market. It is difficult to solve this problem by a single sensor, since it comes from physical limitation of the pixel transfer rate. In this paper, we propose a multi-sensor camera for capturing a resolution and frame-rate enhanced video. Common multi-CCDs camera, such as 3CCD color camera, has same CCD for capturing different spectral information. Our approach is to use different spatio-temporal resolution sensors in a single camera cabinet for capturing higher resolution and frame-rate information separately. We build a prototype camera which can capture high-resolution (2588×1958 pixels, 3.75 fps) and high frame-rate (500×500, 90 fps) videos. We also proposed the calibration method for the camera. As one of the application of the camera, we demonstrate an enhanced video (2128×1952 pixels, 90 fps) generated from the captured videos for showing the utility of the camera.

Advantages of computer cameras over video cameras/frame grabbers for high-speed vision applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olson, Gaylord G.; Walker, Jo N.

1997-09-01

Cameras designed to work specifically with computers can have certain advantages in comparison to the use of cameras loosely defined as 'video' cameras. In recent years the camera type distinctions have become somewhat blurred, with a great presence of 'digital cameras' aimed more at the home markets. This latter category is not considered here. The term 'computer camera' herein is intended to mean one which has low level computer (and software) control of the CCD clocking. These can often be used to satisfy some of the more demanding machine vision tasks, and in some cases with a higher rate of measurements than video cameras. Several of these specific applications are described here, including some which use recently designed CCDs which offer good combinations of parameters such as noise, speed, and resolution. Among the considerations for the choice of camera type in any given application would be such effects as 'pixel jitter,' and 'anti-aliasing.' Some of these effects may only be relevant if there is a mismatch between the number of pixels per line in the camera CCD and the number of analog to digital (A/D) sampling points along a video scan line. For the computer camera case these numbers are guaranteed to match, which alleviates some measurement inaccuracies and leads to higher effective resolution.

Resolution power in digital in-line holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Sucerquia, J.; Xu, W.; Jericho, S. K.; Jericho, M. H.; Klages, P.; Kreuzer, H. J.

2006-01-01

Digital in-line holographic microscopy (DIHM) can achieve wavelength resolution both laterally and in depth with the simple optical setup consisting of a laser illuminating a wavelength-sized pinhole and a CCD camera for recording the hologram. The reconstruction is done numerically on the basis of the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz transform which yields a three-dimensional image of the objects throughout the sample volume. Resolution in DIHM depends on several controllable factors or parameters: (1) pinhole size controlling spatial coherence, (2) numerical aperture given by the size and positioning of the recording CCD chip, (3) pixel density and dynamic range controlling fringe resolution and noise level in the hologram and (4) wavelength. We present a detailed study of the individual and combined effects of these factors by doing an analytical analysis coupled with numerical simulations of holograms and their reconstruction. The result of this analysis is a set of criteria, also in the form of graphs, which can be used for the optimum design of the DIHM setup. We will also present a series of experimental results that test and confirm our theoretical analysis. The ultimate resolution to date is the imaging of the motion of submicron spheres and bacteria, a few microns apart, with speeds of hundreds of microns per second.

3D digital image correlation using a single 3CCD colour camera and dichroic filter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, F. Q.; Shao, X. X.; Quan, C.

2018-04-01

In recent years, three-dimensional digital image correlation methods using a single colour camera have been reported. In this study, we propose a simplified system by employing a dichroic filter (DF) to replace the beam splitter and colour filters. The DF can be used to combine two views from different perspectives reflected by two planar mirrors and eliminate their interference. A 3CCD colour camera is then used to capture two different views simultaneously via its blue and red channels. Moreover, the measurement accuracy of the proposed method is higher since the effect of refraction is reduced. Experiments are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. It is shown that the interference between the blue and red views is insignificant. In addition, the measurement accuracy of the proposed method is validated on the rigid body displacement. The experimental results demonstrate that the measurement accuracy of the proposed method is higher compared with the reported methods using a single colour camera. Finally, the proposed method is employed to measure the in- and out-of-plane displacements of a loaded plastic board. The re-projection errors of the proposed method are smaller than those of the reported methods using a single colour camera.

SPECIAL ISSUE ON OPTICAL PROCESSING OF INFORMATION: Optoelectronic processors with scanning CCD photodetectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Esepkina, N. A.; Lavrov, A. P.; Anan'ev, M. N.; Blagodarnyi, V. S.; Ivanov, S. I.; Mansyrev, M. I.; Molodyakov, S. A.

1995-10-01

Two new types of optoelectronic radio-signal processors were investigated. Charge-coupled device (CCD) photodetectors are used in these processors under continuous scanning conditions, i.e. in a time delay and storage mode. One of these processors is based on a CCD photodetector array with a reference-signal amplitude transparency and the other is an adaptive acousto-optical signal processor with linear frequency modulation. The processor with the transparency performs multichannel discrete—analogue convolution of an input signal with a corresponding kernel of the transformation determined by the transparency. If a light source is an array of light-emitting diodes of special (stripe) geometry, the optical stages of the processor can be made from optical fibre components and the whole processor then becomes a rigid 'sandwich' (a compact hybrid optoelectronic microcircuit). A report is given also of a study of a prototype processor with optical fibre components for the reception of signals from a system with antenna aperture synthesis, which forms a radio image of the Earth.

Label-free immunosensor based on gold nanoparticle silver enhancement.

PubMed

Yang, Minghui; Wang, Cunchang

2009-02-01

A label-free immunosensor for the sensitive detection of human immunoglobulin G (IgG) was prepared based on gold nanoparticle-silver enhancement detection with a simple charge-coupled device (CCD) detector. The gold nanoparticles, which were used as nuclei for the deposit of metallic silver and also for the adsorption of antibodies, were immobilized into wells of a 9-well chip. With the addition of silver enhancement buffer, metallic silver will deposit onto gold nanoparticles, causing darkness that can be optically measured by the CCD camera and quantified using ImageJ software. When antibody was immobilized onto the gold nanoparticles and antigen was captured, the formed immunocomplex resulted in a decrease of the darkness and the intensity of the darkness was in line with IgG concentrations from 0.05 to 10 ng/ml. The CCD detector is simple and portable, and the reported method has many desirable merits such as sensitivity and accuracy, making it a promising technique for protein detection.

The Extended Range X-Ray Telescope center director's discretionary fund report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoover, R. B.; Cumings, N. P.; Hildner, E.; Moore, R. L.; Tandberg-Hanssen, E. A.

1985-01-01

An Extended Range X-Ray Telescope (ERXRT) of high sensitivity and spatial resolution capable of functioning over a broad region of the X-ray/XUV portion of the spectrum has been designed and analyzed. This system has been configured around the glancing-incidence Wolter Type I X-ray mirror system which was flown on the Skylab Apollo Telescope Mount as ATM Experiment S-056. Enhanced sensitivity over a vastly broader spectral range can be realized by the utilization of a thinned, back-illuminated, buried-channel Charge Coupled Device (CCD) as the X-ray/XUV detector rather than photographic film. However, to maintain the high spatial resolution inherent in the X-ray optics when a CCD of 30 micron pixel size is used, it is necessary to increase the telescope plate scale. This can be accomplished by use of a glancing-incidence X-ray microscope to enlarge and re-focus the primary image onto the focal surface of the CCD.

Flemish general dental practitioners' knowledge of dental radiology

PubMed Central

Aps, J K M

2010-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess general dental practitioners' knowledge of dental radiography and radiation protection in order to alert the Belgian authorities and dental professional societies. Prior to attending a postgraduate course on intraoral radiology, general dental practitioners in Flanders, Belgium, were asked to fill in a questionnaire regarding the radiological equipment and the techniques they used for intraoral radiography. The availability and type of dental panoramic equipment were also assessed. A total of 374 questionnaires were available for this study. 15% of the attendants used radiographic equipment that was more than 27 years old and 43% reported equipment that operated with a clockwork timer. 32% and 75% respectively had no idea what the kV or mA settings were on their intraoral equipment. 5% were unaware which cone geometry or geometric technique (paralleling or bisecting angle technique) they were using. 81% claimed to be using a short cone technique. 47% did not know what collimation meant, whereas 40% stated that they were using circular collimation. 38% used digital intraoral image detectors (63% were photostimulable storage phosphorplate (PSPP)), but 16% were not sure about the type of sensor they were using (PSPP or solid-state sensors). 61% also had dental panoramic equipment available, 25% of which was digital (10% charge coupled device (CCD) and 15% PSPP). These results clearly indicate the need for continued education on this subject. The latter is an important signal to Belgian authorities and dental professional societies. PMID:20100924

Vision communications based on LED array and imaging sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoo, Jong-Ho; Jung, Sung-Yoon

2012-11-01

In this paper, we propose a brand new communication concept, called as "vision communication" based on LED array and image sensor. This system consists of LED array as a transmitter and digital device which include image sensor such as CCD and CMOS as receiver. In order to transmit data, the proposed communication scheme simultaneously uses the digital image processing and optical wireless communication scheme. Therefore, the cognitive communication scheme is possible with the help of recognition techniques used in vision system. By increasing data rate, our scheme can use LED array consisting of several multi-spectral LEDs. Because arranged each LED can emit multi-spectral optical signal such as visible, infrared and ultraviolet light, the increase of data rate is possible similar to WDM and MIMO skills used in traditional optical and wireless communications. In addition, this multi-spectral capability also makes it possible to avoid the optical noises in communication environment. In our vision communication scheme, the data packet is composed of Sync. data and information data. Sync. data is used to detect the transmitter area and calibrate the distorted image snapshots obtained by image sensor. By making the optical rate of LED array be same with the frame rate (frames per second) of image sensor, we can decode the information data included in each image snapshot based on image processing and optical wireless communication techniques. Through experiment based on practical test bed system, we confirm the feasibility of the proposed vision communications based on LED array and image sensor.

Synthesis, physical properties and simulation of thermo-optic switch based on azo benzothiazole heterocyclic polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Fengxian; Chen, Caihong; Zhou, Qiaolan; Cao, Zhijuan; Cao, Guorong; Guan, Yijun; Yang, Dongya

2014-05-01

A chromophore molecule 4-[(benzothiazole-2-yl)diazenyl]phenyl-1,3-diamine (BTPD) was prepared with 2-amino benzothiazole and m-phenylenediamine by diazo-coupling reaction. Then, the BTPD was polymerized with polyether polyol (NJ-220) and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) to obtain novel azo benzothiazole polyurethane-urea (BTPUU). The chemical structures of BTPD and BTPUU were characterized by FT-IR and UV-visible spectroscopy. The thermal and mechanical properties of BTPUU film were investigated. The refractive index and transmission loss of BTPUU film were measured at different temperatures and different laser wavelengths (532 nm, 650 nm and 850 nm) by an attenuated total reflection (ATR) technique and CCD digital imaging devices. The thermo-optic coefficients of BTPUU are -4.7086 × 10-4 °C-1 (532 nm), -6.5257 × 10-4 °C-1 (650 nm) and -5.1029 × 10-4 °C-1 (850 nm), respectively. A Y-branch switch and Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) thermo-optic switches based on thermo-optic effect were proposed and the performances of the switches were simulated, respectively. The results show that the power consumption of the Y-branch thermo-optic switch is only 3.28 mW. The response times of Y-branch and MZI switches are 8.0 ms and 2.0 ms, respectively. The results indicate that the prepared BTPUU has high potential for the applications of the Y-branch digital optical switch (DOS), MZI thermo-optic switch, directional coupler (DC) switch and optical modulators.

Calibration and Testing of Digital Zenith Camera System Components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulug, Rasit; Halicioglu, Kerem; Tevfik Ozludemir, M.; Albayrak, Muge; Basoglu, Burak; Deniz, Rasim

2017-04-01

Starting from the beginning of the new millennium, thanks to the Charged-Coupled Device (CCD) technology, fully or partly automatic zenith camera systems are designed and used in order to determine astro-geodetic deflections of the vertical components in several countries, including Germany, Switzerland, Serbia, Latvia, Poland, Austria, China and Turkey. The Digital Zenith Camera System (DZCS) of Turkey performed successful observations yet it needs to be improved in terms of automating the system and increasing observation accuracy. In order to optimize the observation time and improve the system, some modifications have been implemented. Through the modification process that started at the beginning of 2016, some DZCS components have been replaced with the new ones and some new additional components have been installed. In this presentation, the ongoing calibration and testing process of the DZCS are summarized in general. In particular, one of the tested system components is the High Resolution Tiltmeter (HRTM), which enable orthogonal orientation of DZCS to the direction of plump line, is discussed. For the calibration of these components, two tiltmeters with different accuracies (1 nrad and 0.001 mrad) were observed nearly 30 days. The data recorded under different environmental conditions were divided into hourly, daily, and weekly subsets. In addition to the effects of temperature and humidity, interoperability of two tiltmeters were also investigated. Results show that with the integration of HRTM and the other implementations, the modified DZCS provides higher accuracy for the determination of vertical deflections.

78 FR 16707 - Certain Digital Photo Frames and Image Display Devices and Components Thereof; Issuance of a...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-18

... Image Display Devices and Components Thereof; Issuance of a Limited Exclusion Order and Cease and Desist... within the United States after importation of certain digital photo frames and image display devices and...: (1) The unlicensed entry of digital photo frames and image display devices and components thereof...

CAD and CAE Analysis for Siphon Jet Toilet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yuhua; Xiu, Guoji; Tan, Haishu

The high precision 3D laser scanner with the dual CCD technology was used to measure the original design sample of a siphon jet toilet. The digital toilet model was constructed from the cloud data measured with the curve and surface fitting technology and the CAD/CAE systems. The Realizable k - ɛ double equation model of the turbulence viscosity coefficient method and the VOF multiphase flow model were used to simulate the flushing flow in the toilet digital model. Through simulating and analyzing the distribution of the flushing flow's total pressure, the flow speed at the toilet-basin surface and the siphoning bent tube, the toilet performance can be evaluated efficiently and conveniently. The method of "establishing digital model, flushing flow simulating, performances evaluating, function shape modifying" would provide a high efficiency approach to develop new water-saving toilets.

Digital reconstruction of Young's fringes using Fresnel transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulenovic, Rudi; Song, Yaozu; Renninger, P.; Groll, Manfred

1997-11-01

This paper deals with the digital numerical reconstruction of Young's fringes from laser speckle photography by means of the Fresnel-transformation. The physical model of the optical reconstruction of a specklegram is a near-field Fresnel-diffraction phenomenon which can be mathematically described by the Fresnel-transformation. Therefore, the interference phenomena can be directly calculated by a microcomputer.If additional a CCD-camera is used for specklegram recording the measurement procedure and evaluation process can be completely carried out in a digital way. Compared with conventional laser speckle photography no holographic plates, no wet development process and no optical specklegram reconstruction are needed. These advantages reveal a wide future in scientific and engineering applications. The basic principle of the numerical reconstruction is described, the effects of experimental parameters of Young's fringes are analyzed and representative results are presented.

Evaluating a CCD film digitizer: comparing interpretation accuracy with original film readings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gitlin, Joseph N.; Scott, William W., Jr.; Bell, Kathryn; Narayan, Anand

2002-04-01

The purpose of the study was to determine if there were differences between the interpretations of radiographic images resulting from digitizing films using a recently developed CCD unit, and the readings of the original films. The general hypothesis to be tested was that there were no significant differences in the measures of accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and ROC analyses when the interpretations related to the two modes were compared. The authors selected 120 radiographic examinations for the study from departmental teaching files, which included chest, abdomen, extremity and other cases that were considered difficult to interpret. The authors also selected six specific abnormalities visualized on 60 of the cases as true positives to classify the reports. After anonymizing the patient identification, the films were digitized and independently interpreted by four board-certified radiologists. Each reader read all of the examinations, half on film alternators and the other half on a high-resolution soft-copy workstation. No reader interpreted the same examination more than once. As of this date, the preliminary results indicate that the hypothesis will be accepted, but more analyses of the data must be performed to confirm the early findings. The additional work will include complete verification of data entry and classification of interpretations, a detailed review of perceived image quality and completion of the ROC analysis by pairs of readers. If the results are confirmed, radiologists, other physicians and administrators will have another reliable option to conventional film practice through increased access to remote primary diagnosis and consultation using high-speed telecommunication media.

X-ray imaging using digital cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winch, Nicola M.; Edgar, Andrew

2012-03-01

The possibility of using the combination of a computed radiography (storage phosphor) cassette and a semiprofessional grade digital camera for medical or dental radiography is investigated. We compare the performance of (i) a Canon 5D Mk II single lens reflex camera with f1.4 lens and full-frame CMOS array sensor and (ii) a cooled CCD-based camera with a 1/3 frame sensor and the same lens system. Both systems are tested with 240 x 180 mm cassettes which are based on either powdered europium-doped barium fluoride bromide or needle structure europium-doped cesium bromide. The modulation transfer function for both systems has been determined and falls to a value of 0.2 at around 2 lp/mm, and is limited by light scattering of the emitted light from the storage phosphor rather than the optics or sensor pixelation. The modulation transfer function for the CsBr:Eu2+ plate is bimodal, with a high frequency wing which is attributed to the light-guiding behaviour of the needle structure. The detective quantum efficiency has been determined using a radioisotope source and is comparatively low at 0.017 for the CMOS camera and 0.006 for the CCD camera, attributed to the poor light harvesting by the lens. The primary advantages of the method are portability, robustness, digital imaging and low cost; the limitations are the low detective quantum efficiency and hence signal-to-noise ratio for medical doses, and restricted range of plate sizes. Representative images taken with medical doses are shown and illustrate the potential use for portable basic radiography.

Findings toward the miniaturization of a laser speckle contrast device for skin roughness measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Louie, Daniel C.; Tchvialeva, Lioudmilla; Zeng, Haishan; Lee, Tim K.

2017-02-01

Skin roughness is an important parameter in the characterization of skin and skin lesions, particularly for the purposes of skin cancer detection. Our group had previously constructed a laser speckle device that can detect the roughness in microrelief of the skin. This paper reports on findings made for the further miniaturization of our existing portably-sized device. These findings include the feasibility of adopting a laser diode without temperature control, and the use of a single CCD camera for detection. The coherence length of a laser is a crucial criterion for speckle measurements as it must be within a specific range. The coherence length of a commercial grade 405 nm laser diode was found to be of an appropriate length. Also, after a short warm-up period the coherence length of the laser was found to remain relatively stable, even without temperature control. Although the laser's temperature change during operation may affect its power output and the shape of its spectrum, these are only minor factors in speckle contrast measurements. Our second finding covers a calibration curve to relate speckle measurements to roughness using only parallel polarization from one CCD camera. This was created using experimental data from skin phantoms and tested on in-vivo skin. These improvements are important steps forward in the ongoing development of the laser speckle device, especially towards a clinical device to measure skin roughness and evaluate skin lesions.

Modelling and testing the x-ray performance of CCD and CMOS APS detectors using numerical finite element simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weatherill, Daniel P.; Stefanov, Konstantin D.; Greig, Thomas A.; Holland, Andrew D.

2014-07-01

Pixellated monolithic silicon detectors operated in a photon-counting regime are useful in spectroscopic imaging applications. Since a high energy incident photon may produce many excess free carriers upon absorption, both energy and spatial information can be recovered by resolving each interaction event. The performance of these devices in terms of both the energy and spatial resolution is in large part determined by the amount of diffusion which occurs during the collection of the charge cloud by the pixels. Past efforts to predict the X-ray performance of imaging sensors have used either analytical solutions to the diffusion equation or simplified monte carlo electron transport models. These methods are computationally attractive and highly useful but may be complemented using more physically detailed models based on TCAD simulations of the devices. Here we present initial results from a model which employs a full transient numerical solution of the classical semiconductor equations to model charge collection in device pixels under stimulation from initially Gaussian photogenerated charge clouds, using commercial TCAD software. Realistic device geometries and doping are included. By mapping the pixel response to different initial interaction positions and charge cloud sizes, the charge splitting behaviour of the model sensor under various illuminations and operating conditions is investigated. Experimental validation of the model is presented from an e2v CCD30-11 device under varying substrate bias, illuminated using an Fe-55 source.

Soft x-ray pinhole imaging diagnostics for compact toroid plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crawford, E. A.; Taggart, D. P.; Bailey, A. D., III

1990-10-01

Soft x-ray pinhole imaging has recently become established as a valuable diagnostic for visualization of field reversed configuration (FRC) plasmas in the TRX-2, FRX-C/LSM devices. Gated MCP image converter devices with CsI cathodes and Be filters with a peak response around 11 nm wavelength are used for exposure durations ranging from a few tenths up to several microseconds. Results of experiments with single and Chevron channel plates are discussed along with estimates of linear exposure limitations with both film and CCD cameras as recording media. Plans for multiframe devices on the FRX-C/LSM and the LSX devices are also discussed.

Sealed symmetric multilayered microelectronic device package with integral windows

DOEpatents

Peterson, Kenneth A.; Watson, Robert D.

2002-01-01

A sealed symmetric multilayered package with integral windows for housing one or more microelectronic devices. The devices can be a semiconductor chip, a CCD chip, a CMOS chip, a VCSEL chip, a laser diode, a MEMS device, or a IMEMS device. The multilayered package can be formed of a low-temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) or high-temperature cofired ceramic (HTCC) multilayer processes with the windows being simultaneously joined (e.g. cofired) to the package body during LTCC or HTCC processing. The microelectronic devices can be flip-chip bonded and oriented so that the light-sensitive sides are optically accessible through the windows. The result is a compact, low-profile, sealed symmetric package, having integral windows that can be hermetically-sealed.

CCD Astrometric Measurements of Double Stars BAL 746, BPM 342, KU 92, and STF 897

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, Schuyler

2017-07-01

Double stars WDS 06589-0106 (BAL 746), WDS 06579+1430 (BPM 342), WDS 07006+0921 (KU 92), and WDS 06224+2640 (STF 897) were measured as part of a science fair project for the 2016 Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair. The goal was to measure the separation and position angles of stars by using a telescope with a charge-coupled device (CCD) on the iTelescope network. Five images were taken of each of the stars. These images were plate solved with Visual PinPoint and measured using Aladin Sky Atlas. Measurements for all five doubles compare well to the more recent values in the Washington Double Star Catalog.

MTF measurement of LCDs by a linear CCD imager: I. Monochrome case

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Tae-hee; Choe, O. S.; Lee, Yun Woo; Cho, Hyun-Mo; Lee, In Won

1997-11-01

We construct the modulation transfer function (MTF) measurement system of a LCD using a linear charge-coupled device (CCD) imager. The MTF used in optical system can not describe in the effect of both resolution and contrast on the image quality of display. Thus we present the new measurement method based on the transmission property of a LCD. While controlling contrast and brightness levels, the MTF is measured. From the result, we show that the method is useful for describing of the image quality. A ne measurement method and its condition are described. To demonstrate validity, the method is applied for comparison of the performance of two different LCDs.

75 FR 28058 - In the Matter of Certain Digital Imaging Devices and Related Software; Notice of Investigation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-19

... Devices and Related Software; Notice of Investigation AGENCY: U.S. International Trade Commission. ACTION... certain digital imaging devices and related software by reason of infringement of certain claims of U.S... digital imaging devices and related software that infringe one or more of claim 1-3 and 5-8 of U.S. Patent...

Reconfigurable Optical Elements Based on Single and Coupled Microdisk Resonators with Quantum DOT Active Media

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-29

of active-passive integrated polymer waveguides. The active waveguides consist of CdSe quantum dots dispersed in SU8 . Bottom panel shows CCD images...successfully demonstrated (i) incorporation of CdSe QDs into polymer and dielectric host and realization of devices such as active waveguides, microdisk...the significant outcomes of the program: • Successful incorporation of CdSe QDs into polymer and dielectric host and realization of devices such as

Modified modular imaging system designed for a sounding rocket experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Veach, Todd J.; Scowen, Paul A.; Beasley, Matthew; Nikzad, Shouleh

2012-09-01

We present the design and system calibration results from the fabrication of a charge-coupled device (CCD) based imaging system designed using a modified modular imager cell (MIC) used in an ultraviolet sounding rocket mission. The heart of the imaging system is the MIC, which provides the video pre-amplifier circuitry and CCD clock level filtering. The MIC is designed with standard four-layer FR4 printed circuit board (PCB) with surface mount and through-hole components for ease of testing and lower fabrication cost. The imager is a 3.5k by 3.5k LBNL p-channel CCD with enhanced quantum efficiency response in the UV using delta-doping technology at JPL. The recently released PCIe/104 Small-Cam CCD controller from Astronomical Research Cameras, Inc (ARC) performs readout of the detector. The PCIe/104 Small-Cam system has the same capabilities as its larger PCI brethren, but in a smaller form factor, which makes it ideally suited for sub-orbital ballistic missions. The overall control is then accomplished using a PCIe/104 computer from RTD Embedded Technologies, Inc. The design, fabrication, and testing was done at the Laboratory for Astronomical and Space Instrumentation (LASI) at Arizona State University. Integration and flight calibration are to be completed at the University of Colorado Boulder before integration into CHESS.

Analysis of the Measurement and Modeling of a Digital Inverter Based on a Ferroelectric Transistor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

MacLeod, Todd C.; Phillips, Thomas A.; Sayyah, Rana; Ho, Fat D.

2009-01-01

The use of ferroelectric materials for digital memory devices is widely researched and implemented, but ferroelectric devices also possess unique characteristics that make them have interesting and useful properties in digital circuits. Because ferroelectric transistors possess the properties of hysteresis and nonlinearity, a digital inverter containing a FeFET has very different characteristics than one with a traditional FET. This paper characterizes the properties of the measurement and modeling of a FeFET based digital inverter. The circuit was set up using discrete FeFETs. The purpose of this circuit was not to produce a practical integrated circuit that could be inserted directly into existing digital circuits, but to explore the properties and characteristics of such a device and to look at possible future uses. Input and output characteristics are presented, as well as timing measurements. Comparisons are made between the ferroelectric device and the properties of a standard digital inverter. Potential benefits and possible uses of such a device are presented.

Automated Meteor Detection by All-Sky Digital Camera Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suk, Tomáš; Šimberová, Stanislava

2017-12-01

We have developed a set of methods to detect meteor light traces captured by all-sky CCD cameras. Operating at small automatic observatories (stations), these cameras create a network spread over a large territory. Image data coming from these stations are merged in one central node. Since a vast amount of data is collected by the stations in a single night, robotic storage and analysis are essential to processing. The proposed methodology is adapted to data from a network of automatic stations equipped with digital fish-eye cameras and includes data capturing, preparation, pre-processing, analysis, and finally recognition of objects in time sequences. In our experiments we utilized real observed data from two stations.

Method to implement the CCD timing generator based on FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Binhua; Song, Qian; He, Chun; Jin, Jianhui; He, Lin

2010-07-01

With the advance of the PFPA technology, the design methodology of digital systems is changing. In recent years we develop a method to implement the CCD timing generator based on FPGA and VHDL. This paper presents the principles and implementation skills of the method. Taking a developed camera as an example, we introduce the structure, input and output clocks/signals of a timing generator implemented in the camera. The generator is composed of a top module and a bottom module. The bottom one is made up of 4 sub-modules which correspond to 4 different operation modes. The modules are implemented by 5 VHDL programs. Frame charts of the architecture of these programs are shown in the paper. We also describe implementation steps of the timing generator in Quartus II, and the interconnections between the generator and a Nios soft core processor which is the controller of this generator. Some test results are presented in the end.

Transformation of Pan-STARRS1 gri to Stetson BVRI magnitudes. Photometry of small bodies observations.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kostov, A.; Bonev, T.

2018-02-01

The UBVRI broad band photometric system is widely used in CCD astronomy. There are a lot of sets of standard stars for this photometric system, the Landolt's and Stetson's catalogues being the most precise and reliable. Another photometric system, recently considerably spread in CCD observations is ugriz, which originates from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) and has now many variations based on its 5 broad-band filters. One of the photometric systems based on it is The Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS). In this paper we compare the BVRI magnitudes in the Stetson catalogue of standard stars with the magnitudes of the corresponding stars in the Pan-STARRS1 (PS1) grizyw catalogue. Transformations between these two systems are presented and discussed. An algorithm for data reduction and calibration is developed and its functionality is demonstrated in the magnitude determination of an asteroid.

64 x 64 thresholding photodetector array for optical pattern recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langenbacher, Harry; Chao, Tien-Hsin; Shaw, Timothy; Yu, Jeffrey W.

1993-10-01

A high performance 32 X 32 peak detector array is introduced. This detector consists of a 32 X 32 array of thresholding photo-transistor cells, manufactured with a standard MOSIS digital 2-micron CMOS process. A built-in thresholding function that is able to perform 1024 thresholding operations in parallel strongly distinguishes this chip from available CCD detectors. This high speed detector offers responses from one to 10 milliseconds that is much higher than the commercially available CCD detectors operating at a TV frame rate. The parallel multiple peaks thresholding detection capability makes it particularly suitable for optical correlator and optoelectronically implemented neural networks. The principle of operation, circuit design and the performance characteristics are described. Experimental demonstration of correlation peak detection is also provided. Recently, we have also designed and built an advanced version of a 64 X 64 thresholding photodetector array chip. Experimental investigation of using this chip for pattern recognition is ongoing.

Reverse engineering of the homogeneous-entity product profiles based on CCD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gan, Yong; Zhong, Jingru; Sun, Ning; Sun, Aoran

2011-08-01

This measurement system uses delaminated measurement principle, measures the three perpendicular direction values of the entities. When the measured entity is immerged in the liquid layer by layer, every layer's image are collected by CCD and digitally processed. It introduces the basic measuring principle and the working process of the measure method. According to Archimedes law, the related buoyancy and volume that soaked in different layer's depth are measured by electron balance and the mathematics models are established. Through calculating every layer's weight and centre of gravity by computer based on the method of Artificial Intelligence, we can reckon 3D coordinate values of every minute entity cell in different layers and its 3D contour picture is constructed. The experimental results show that for all the homogeneous entity insoluble in water, it can measure them. The measurement velocity is fast and non-destructive test, it can measure the entity with internal hole.

Vibration measurement by temporal Fourier analyses of a digital hologram sequence.

PubMed

Fu, Yu; Pedrini, Giancarlo; Osten, Wolfgang

2007-08-10

A method for whole-field noncontact measurement of displacement, velocity, and acceleration of a vibrating object based on image-plane digital holography is presented. A series of digital holograms of a vibrating object are captured by use of a high-speed CCD camera. The result of the reconstruction is a three-dimensional complex-valued matrix with noise. We apply Fourier analysis and windowed Fourier analysis in both the spatial and the temporal domains to extract the displacement, the velocity, and the acceleration. The instantaneous displacement is obtained by temporal unwrapping of the filtered phase map, whereas the velocity and acceleration are evaluated by Fourier analysis and by windowed Fourier analysis along the time axis. The combination of digital holography and temporal Fourier analyses allows for evaluation of the vibration, without a phase ambiguity problem, and smooth spatial distribution of instantaneous displacement, velocity, and acceleration of each instant are obtained. The comparison of Fourier analysis and windowed Fourier analysis in velocity and acceleration measurements is also presented.

Digitization and Position Measurement of Astronomical Plates of Saturnian Satellites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, D.; Yu, Y.; Zhang, H. Y.; Qiao, R. C.

2014-05-01

Using the advanced commercial scanners to digitize astronomical plates may be a simple and effective way. In this paper, we discuss the method of digitizing and astrometrically reducing six astronomical plates of Saturnian satellites, which were taken from the 1 m RCC (Ritchey Chretien Coude) telescope of Yunnan Observatory in 1988, by using the 10000XL scanner of Epson. The digitized images of the astronomical plates of Saturnian satellites are re-reduced, and the positions of Saturnian satellites based on the UCAC2 (The Second US Naval Observatory CCD Astrograph Catalog) catalogue are given. A comparison of our measured positions with the IMCCE (Institut de Mecanique Celeste et de Calcul des Ephemerides) ephemeris of Saturnian satellites shows the high quality of our measurements, which have an accuracy of 106 mas in right ascension and 89 mas in declination. Moreover, our measurements appear to be consistent with this ephemeris within only about 56 mas in right ascension and 9 mas in declination.

Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) Briefing

NASA Image and Video Library

2018-03-28

George Ricker, TESS principal investigator, MIT Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research, is seen during a media briefing holding one of the wafers from which the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) camera charge coupled device (CCD) were fabricated, Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at NASA Headquarters in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

The detection of soft X-rays with charged coupled detectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burstein, P.; Davis, John M.

1989-01-01

The characteristics of an ideal soft X-ray imaging detector are enumerated. Of recent technical developments the CCD or charge coupled device goes furthest to meeting these requirements. Several properties of CCDs are described with reference to experimental work and their application to practical instruments is reviewed.

Current Total Ionizing Dose Results and Displacement Damage Results for Candidate Spacecraft Electronics for NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cochran, Donna J.; Kniffin, Scott D.; LaBel, Kenneth A.; OBryan, Martha V.; Reed, Robert A.; Ladbury, Ray L.; Howard, James W., Jr.; Poivey, Christian; Buchner, Stephen P.; Marshall, Cheryl J.

2004-01-01

We present data on the vulnerability of a variety of candidate spacecraft electronics to total ionizing dose and displacement damage. Devices tested include optoelectronics, digital, analog, linear bipolar devices, hybrid devices, Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs), and Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACS), among others.

Total Ionizing Dose Results and Displacement Damage Results for Candidate Spacecraft Electronics for NASA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cochran, Donna J.; Kniffin, Scott D.; LaBel, Kenneth A.; OBryan, Martha V.; Reed, Robert A.; Ladbury, Ray L.; Howard, James W., Jr.; Poivey, Christian; Buchner, Stephen P.; Marshall, Cheryl J.

2003-01-01

We present data on the vulnerability of a variety of candidate spacecraft electronics to total ionizing dose and displacement damage. Devices tested include optoelectronics, digital, analog, linear bipolar devices, hybrid devices, Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs), and Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs), among others.

37 CFR 201.28 - Statements of Account for digital audio recording devices or media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... digital audio recording devices or media. 201.28 Section 201.28 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights COPYRIGHT OFFICE, LIBRARY OF CONGRESS COPYRIGHT OFFICE AND PROCEDURES GENERAL PROVISIONS § 201.28 Statements of Account for digital audio recording devices or media. (a) General. This section prescribes rules...

37 CFR 201.28 - Statements of Account for digital audio recording devices or media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... digital audio recording devices or media. 201.28 Section 201.28 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights COPYRIGHT OFFICE, LIBRARY OF CONGRESS COPYRIGHT OFFICE AND PROCEDURES GENERAL PROVISIONS § 201.28 Statements of Account for digital audio recording devices or media. (a) General. This section prescribes rules...

37 CFR 201.28 - Statements of Account for digital audio recording devices or media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... digital audio recording devices or media. 201.28 Section 201.28 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights COPYRIGHT OFFICE, LIBRARY OF CONGRESS COPYRIGHT OFFICE AND PROCEDURES GENERAL PROVISIONS § 201.28 Statements of Account for digital audio recording devices or media. (a) General. This section prescribes rules...