Development of high precision digital driver of acoustic-optical frequency shifter for ROG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Rong; Kong, Mei; Xu, Yameng

2016-10-01

We develop a high precision digital driver of the acoustic-optical frequency shifter (AOFS) based on the parallel direct digital synthesizer (DDS) technology. We use an atomic clock as the phase-locked loop (PLL) reference clock, and the PLL is realized by a dual digital phase-locked loop. A DDS sampling clock up to 320 MHz with a frequency stability as low as 10-12 Hz is obtained. By constructing the RF signal measurement system, it is measured that the frequency output range of the AOFS-driver is 52-58 MHz, the center frequency of the band-pass filter is 55 MHz, the ripple in the band is less than 1 dB@3MHz, the single channel output power is up to 0.3 W, the frequency stability is 1 ppb (1 hour duration), and the frequency-shift precision is 0.1 Hz. The obtained frequency stability has two orders of improvement compared to that of the analog AOFS-drivers. For the designed binary frequency shift keying (2-FSK) and binary phase shift keying (2-PSK) modulation system, the demodulating frequency of the input TTL synchronous level signal is up to 10 kHz. The designed digital-bus coding/decoding system is compatible with many conventional digital bus protocols. It can interface with the ROG signal detecting software through the integrated drive electronics (IDE) and exchange data with the two DDS frequency-shift channels through the signal detecting software.

Design, Simulation and Characteristics Research of the Interface Circuit based on nano-polysilicon thin films pressure sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xiaosong; Zhao, Xiaofeng; Yin, Liang

2018-03-01

This paper presents a interface circuit for nano-polysilicon thin films pressure sensor. The interface circuit includes consist of instrument amplifier and Analog-to-Digital converter (ADC). The instrumentation amplifier with a high common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) is implemented by three stages current feedback structure. At the same time, in order to satisfy the high precision requirements of pressure sensor measure system, the 1/f noise corner of 26.5 mHz can be achieved through chopping technology at a noise density of 38.2 nV/sqrt(Hz).Ripple introduced by chopping technology adopt continuous ripple reduce circuit (RRL), which achieves the output ripple level is lower than noise. The ADC achieves 16 bits significant digit by adopting sigma-delta modulator with fourth-order single-bit structure and digital decimation filter, and finally achieves high precision integrated pressure sensor interface circuit.

Methods for Multiplex Template Sampling in Digital PCR Assays

PubMed Central

Petriv, Oleh I.; Heyries, Kevin A.; VanInsberghe, Michael; Walker, David; Hansen, Carl L.

2014-01-01

The efficient use of digital PCR (dPCR) for precision copy number analysis requires high concentrations of target molecules that may be difficult or impossible to obtain from clinical samples. To solve this problem we present a strategy, called Multiplex Template Sampling (MTS), that effectively increases template concentrations by detecting multiple regions of fragmented target molecules. Three alternative assay approaches are presented for implementing MTS analysis of chromosome 21, providing a 10-fold concentration enhancement while preserving assay precision. PMID:24854517

Methods for multiplex template sampling in digital PCR assays.

PubMed

Petriv, Oleh I; Heyries, Kevin A; VanInsberghe, Michael; Walker, David; Hansen, Carl L

2014-01-01

The efficient use of digital PCR (dPCR) for precision copy number analysis requires high concentrations of target molecules that may be difficult or impossible to obtain from clinical samples. To solve this problem we present a strategy, called Multiplex Template Sampling (MTS), that effectively increases template concentrations by detecting multiple regions of fragmented target molecules. Three alternative assay approaches are presented for implementing MTS analysis of chromosome 21, providing a 10-fold concentration enhancement while preserving assay precision.

Study of the precision guided communication of digital television

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lun

2012-04-01

Along with the progress and development of the digital technology, there produced the transmission of the new media by medium of such as the network, mobile phones and the digital television, while among them digital TV has the superiority of other media. The appearance and development of digital TV will induce a profound change in the broadcasting and television industry chain. This paper started with discussing the transformation of digital television in profit model, mode of operation and mode of transmission to construct the precision-guided communication theory; And then analyzes the properties and marketing nature of the precision-guided communication to make the construction of the precision-guided communication marketing mode; And put forward the implementing of the precision-guided communication marketing strategies and concrete steps; At the end of the article the author summarized four conclusions.

Sensitivity, accuracy, and precision issues in opto-electronic holography based on fiber optics and high-spatial- and high-digitial-resolution cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furlong, Cosme; Yokum, Jeffrey S.; Pryputniewicz, Ryszard J.

2002-06-01

Sensitivity, accuracy, and precision characteristics in quantitative optical metrology techniques, and specifically in optoelectronic holography based on fiber optics and high-spatial and high-digital resolution cameras, are discussed in this paper. It is shown that sensitivity, accuracy, and precision dependent on both, the effective determination of optical phase and the effective characterization of the illumination-observation conditions. Sensitivity, accuracy, and precision are investigated with the aid of National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable gages, demonstrating the applicability of quantitative optical metrology techniques to satisfy constantly increasing needs for the study and development of emerging technologies.

Precision and Error of Three-dimensional Phenotypic Measures Acquired from 3dMD Photogrammetric Images

PubMed Central

Aldridge, Kristina; Boyadjiev, Simeon A.; Capone, George T.; DeLeon, Valerie B.; Richtsmeier, Joan T.

2015-01-01

The genetic basis for complex phenotypes is currently of great interest for both clinical investigators and basic scientists. In order to acquire a thorough understanding of the translation from genotype to phenotype, highly precise measures of phenotypic variation are required. New technologies, such as 3D photogrammetry are being implemented in phenotypic studies due to their ability to collect data rapidly and non-invasively. Before these systems can be broadly implemented the error associated with data collected from images acquired using these technologies must be assessed. This study investigates the precision, error, and repeatability associated with anthropometric landmark coordinate data collected from 3D digital photogrammetric images acquired with the 3dMDface System. Precision, error due to the imaging system, error due to digitization of the images, and repeatability are assessed in a sample of children and adults (N=15). Results show that data collected from images with the 3dMDface System are highly repeatable and precise. The average error associated with the placement of landmarks is sub-millimeter; both the error due to digitization and to the imaging system are very low. The few measures showing a higher degree of error include those crossing the labial fissure, which are influenced by even subtle movement of the mandible. These results suggest that 3D anthropometric data collected using the 3dMDface System are highly reliable and therefore useful for evaluation of clinical dysmorphology and surgery, analyses of genotype-phenotype correlations, and inheritance of complex phenotypes. PMID:16158436

[Precision of digital impressions with TRIOS under simulated intraoral impression taking conditions].

PubMed

Yang, Xin; Sun, Yi-fei; Tian, Lei; Si, Wen-jie; Feng, Hai-lan; Liu, Yi-hong

2015-02-18

To evaluate the precision of digital impressions taken under simulated clinical impression taking conditions with TRIOS and to compare with the precision of extraoral digitalizations. Six #14-#17 epoxy resin dentitions with extracted #16 tooth preparations embedded were made. For each artificial dentition, (1)a silicone rubber impression was taken with individual tray, poured with type IV plaster,and digitalized with 3Shape D700 model scanner for 10 times; (2) fastened to a dental simulator, 10 digital impressions for each were taken with 3Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner. To assess the precision, best-fit algorithm and 3D comparison were conducted between repeated scan models pairwise by Geomagic Qualify 12.0, exported as averaged errors (AE) and color-coded diagrams. Non-parametric analysis was performed to compare the precisions of digital impressions and model images. The color-coded diagrams were used to show the deviations distributions. The mean of AE for digital impressions was 7.058 281 μm, which was greater than that of 4.092 363 μm for the model images (P<0.05). However, the means and medians of AE for digital impressions were no more than 10 μm, which meant that the consistency between the digital impressions was good. The deviations distribution was uniform in the model images,while nonuniform in the digital impressions with greater deviations lay mainly around the shoulders and interproximal surfaces. Digital impressions with TRIOS are of good precision and up to the clinical standard. Shoulders and interproximal surfaces scanning are more difficult.

Absolute quantification by droplet digital PCR versus analog real-time PCR

PubMed Central

Hindson, Christopher M; Chevillet, John R; Briggs, Hilary A; Gallichotte, Emily N; Ruf, Ingrid K; Hindson, Benjamin J; Vessella, Robert L; Tewari, Muneesh

2014-01-01

Nanoliter-sized droplet technology paired with digital PCR (ddPCR) holds promise for highly precise, absolute nucleic acid quantification. Our comparison of microRNA quantification by ddPCR and real-time PCR revealed greater precision (coefficients of variation decreased by 37–86%) and improved day-to-day reproducibility (by a factor of seven) of ddPCR but with comparable sensitivity. When we applied ddPCR to serum microRNA biomarker analysis, this translated to superior diagnostic performance for identifying individuals with cancer. PMID:23995387

A 256-channel, high throughput and precision time-to-digital converter with a decomposition encoding scheme in a Kintex-7 FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Z.; Wang, Y.; Kuang, J.

2018-05-01

Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) made with 28 nm and more advanced process technology have great potentials for implementation of high precision time-to-digital convertors (TDC), because the delay cells in the tapped delay line (TDL) used for time interpolation are getting smaller and smaller. However, the bubble problems in the TDL status are becoming more complicated, which make it difficult to achieve TDCs on these chips with a high time precision. In this paper, we are proposing a novel decomposition encoding scheme, which not only can solve the bubble problem easily, but also has a high encoding efficiency. The potential of these chips to realize TDC can be fully released with the scheme. In a Xilinx Kintex-7 FPGA chip, we implemented a TDC system with 256 TDC channels, which doubles the number of TDC channels that our previous technique could achieve. Performances of all these TDC channels are evaluated. The average RMS time precision among them is 10.23 ps in the time-interval measurement range of (0–10 ns), and their measurement throughput reaches 277 M measures per second.

A flexible 32-channel time-to-digital converter implemented in a Xilinx Zynq-7000 field programmable gate array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yonggang; Kuang, Jie; Liu, Chong; Cao, Qiang; Li, Deng

2017-03-01

A high performance multi-channel time-to-digital converter (TDC) is implemented in a Xilinx Zynq-7000 field programmable gate array (FPGA). It can be flexibly configured as either 32 TDC channels with 9.9 ps time-interval RMS precision, 16 TDC channels with 6.9 ps RMS precision, or 8 TDC channels with 5.8 ps RMS precision. All TDCs have a 380 M Samples/second measurement throughput and a 2.63 ns measurement dead time. The performance consistency and temperature dependence of TDC channels are also evaluated. Because Zynq-7000 FPGA family integrates a feature-rich dual-core ARM based processing system and 28 nm Xilinx programmable logic in a single device, the realization of high performance TDCs on it will make the platform more widely used in time-measuring related applications.

Note: High precision measurements using high frequency gigahertz signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Aohan; Fu, Siyuan; Sakurai, Atsunori; Liu, Liang; Edman, Fredrik; Pullerits, Tõnu; Öwall, Viktor; Karki, Khadga Jung

2014-12-01

Generalized lock-in amplifiers use digital cavities with Q-factors as high as 5 × 108 to measure signals with very high precision. In this Note, we show that generalized lock-in amplifiers can be used to analyze microwave (giga-hertz) signals with a precision of few tens of hertz. We propose that the physical changes in the medium of propagation can be measured precisely by the ultra-high precision measurement of the signal. We provide evidence to our proposition by verifying the Newton's law of cooling by measuring the effect of change in temperature on the phase and amplitude of the signals propagating through two calibrated cables. The technique could be used to precisely measure different physical properties of the propagation medium, for example, the change in length, resistance, etc. Real time implementation of the technique can open up new methodologies of in situ virtual metrology in material design.

3D Digital Smile Design With a Mobile Phone and Intraoral Optical Scanner.

PubMed

Daher, René; Ardu, Stefano; Vjero, Osela; Krejci, Ivo

2018-06-01

Extraoral facial scanning using a mobile phone has emerged as a viable, cost-effective option for certain applications not requiring high precision, such as patient education and 3-dimensional (3D) digital smile design. This technological development is particularly promising for general practitioners (GPs) who may not be able to invest in expensive,complex digital impressioning devices. This article describes and illustrates a relatively simple and accessible workflow that avails digital 3D facial scanning benefits to GPs.

Accuracy of five intraoral scanners compared to indirect digitalization.

PubMed

Güth, Jan-Frederik; Runkel, Cornelius; Beuer, Florian; Stimmelmayr, Michael; Edelhoff, Daniel; Keul, Christine

2017-06-01

Direct and indirect digitalization offer two options for computer-aided design (CAD)/ computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)-generated restorations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of different intraoral scanners and compare them to the process of indirect digitalization. A titanium testing model was directly digitized 12 times with each intraoral scanner: (1) CS 3500 (CS), (2) Zfx Intrascan (ZFX), (3) CEREC AC Bluecam (BLU), (4) CEREC AC Omnicam (OC) and (5) True Definition (TD). As control, 12 polyether impressions were taken and the referring plaster casts were digitized indirectly with the D-810 laboratory scanner (CON). The accuracy (trueness/precision) of the datasets was evaluated by an analysing software (Geomagic Qualify 12.1) using a "best fit alignment" of the datasets with a highly accurate reference dataset of the testing model, received from industrial computed tomography. Direct digitalization using the TD showed the significant highest overall "trueness", followed by CS. Both performed better than CON. BLU, ZFX and OC showed higher differences from the reference dataset than CON. Regarding the overall "precision", the CS 3500 intraoral scanner and the True Definition showed the best performance. CON, BLU and OC resulted in significantly higher precision than ZFX did. Within the limitations of this in vitro study, the accuracy of the ascertained datasets was dependent on the scanning system. The direct digitalization was not superior to indirect digitalization for all tested systems. Regarding the accuracy, all tested intraoral scanning technologies seem to be able to reproduce a single quadrant within clinical acceptable accuracy. However, differences were detected between the tested systems.

Precise Quantitation of MicroRNA in a Single Cell with Droplet Digital PCR Based on Ligation Reaction.

PubMed

Tian, Hui; Sun, Yuanyuan; Liu, Chenghui; Duan, Xinrui; Tang, Wei; Li, Zhengping

2016-12-06

MicroRNA (miRNA) analysis in a single cell is extremely important because it allows deep understanding of the exact correlation between the miRNAs and cell functions. Herein, we wish to report a highly sensitive and precisely quantitative assay for miRNA detection based on ligation-based droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR), which permits the quantitation of miRNA in a single cell. In this ligation-based ddPCR assay, two target-specific oligonucleotide probes can be simply designed to be complementary to the half-sequence of the target miRNA, respectively, which avoids the sophisticated design of reverse transcription and provides high specificity to discriminate a single-base difference among miRNAs with simple operations. After the miRNA-templated ligation, the ddPCR partitions individual ligated products into a water-in-oil droplet and digitally counts the fluorescence-positive and negative droplets after PCR amplification for quantification of the target molecules, which possesses the power of precise quantitation and robustness to variation in PCR efficiency. By integrating the advantages of the precise quantification of ddPCR and the simplicity of the ligation-based PCR, the proposed method can sensitively measure let-7a miRNA with a detection limit of 20 aM (12 copies per microliter), and even a single-base difference can be discriminated in let-7 family members. More importantly, due to its high selectivity and sensitivity, the proposed method can achieve precise quantitation of miRNAs in single-cell lysate. Therefore, the ligation-based ddPCR assay may serve as a useful tool to exactly reveal the miRNAs' actions in a single cell, which is of great importance for the study of miRNAs' biofunction as well as for the related biomedical studies.

Precision of FLEET Velocimetry Using High-speed CMOS Camera Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peters, Christopher J.; Danehy, Paul M.; Bathel, Brett F.; Jiang, Naibo; Calvert, Nathan D.; Miles, Richard B.

2015-01-01

Femtosecond laser electronic excitation tagging (FLEET) is an optical measurement technique that permits quantitative velocimetry of unseeded air or nitrogen using a single laser and a single camera. In this paper, we seek to determine the fundamental precision of the FLEET technique using high-speed complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) cameras. Also, we compare the performance of several different high-speed CMOS camera systems for acquiring FLEET velocimetry data in air and nitrogen free-jet flows. The precision was defined as the standard deviation of a set of several hundred single-shot velocity measurements. Methods of enhancing the precision of the measurement were explored such as digital binning (similar in concept to on-sensor binning, but done in post-processing), row-wise digital binning of the signal in adjacent pixels and increasing the time delay between successive exposures. These techniques generally improved precision; however, binning provided the greatest improvement to the un-intensified camera systems which had low signal-to-noise ratio. When binning row-wise by 8 pixels (about the thickness of the tagged region) and using an inter-frame delay of 65 micro sec, precisions of 0.5 m/s in air and 0.2 m/s in nitrogen were achieved. The camera comparison included a pco.dimax HD, a LaVision Imager scientific CMOS (sCMOS) and a Photron FASTCAM SA-X2, along with a two-stage LaVision High Speed IRO intensifier. Excluding the LaVision Imager sCMOS, the cameras were tested with and without intensification and with both short and long inter-frame delays. Use of intensification and longer inter-frame delay generally improved precision. Overall, the Photron FASTCAM SA-X2 exhibited the best performance in terms of greatest precision and highest signal-to-noise ratio primarily because it had the largest pixels.

Accuracy of Intraoral Digital Impressions for Whole Upper Jaws, Including Full Dentitions and Palatal Soft Tissues.

PubMed

Gan, Ning; Xiong, Yaoyang; Jiao, Ting

2016-01-01

Intraoral digital impressions have been stated to meet the clinical requirements for some teeth-supported restorations, though fewer evidences were proposed for larger scanning range. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy (trueness and precision) of intraoral digital impressions for whole upper jaws, including the full dentitions and palatal soft tissues, as well as to determine the effect of different palatal vault height or arch width on accuracy of intraoral digital impressions. Thirty-two volunteers were divided into three groups according to the palatal vault height or arch width. Each volunteer received three scans with TRIOS intraoral scanner and one conventional impression of whole upper jaw. Three-dimensional (3D) images digitized from conventional gypsum casts by a laboratory scanner were chose as the reference models. All datasets were imported to a specific software program for 3D analysis by "best fit alignment" and "3D compare" process. Color-coded deviation maps showed qualitative visualization of the deviations. For the digital impressions for palatal soft tissues, trueness was (130.54±33.95)μm and precision was (55.26±11.21)μm. For the digital impressions for upper full dentitions, trueness was (80.01±17.78)μm and precision was (59.52±11.29)μm. Larger deviations were found between intraoral digital impressions and conventional impressions in the areas of palatal soft tissues than that in the areas of full dentitions (p<0.001). Precision of digital impressions for palatal soft tissues was slightly better than that for full dentitions (p = 0.049). There was no significant effect of palatal vault height on accuracy of digital impressions for palatal soft tissues (p>0.05), but arch width was found to have a significant effect on precision of intraoral digital impressions for full dentitions (p = 0.016). A linear correlation was found between arch width and precision of digital impressions for whole upper jaws (r = 0.326, p = 0.034 for palatal soft tissues and r = 0.485, p = 0.002 for full dentitions). It was feasible to use the intraoral scanner to obtain digital impressions for whole upper jaws. Wider dental arch contributed to lower precision of an intraoral digital impression. It should be confirmed in further studies that whether accuracy of digital impressions for whole upper jaws is clinically acceptable.

The Magsat precision vector magnetometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Acuna, M. H.

1980-01-01

This paper examines the Magsat precision vector magnetometer which is designed to measure projections of the ambient field in three orthogonal directions. The system contains a highly stable and linear triaxial fluxgate magnetometer with a dynamic range of + or - 2000 nT (1 nT = 10 to the -9 weber per sq m). The magnetometer electronics, analog-to-digital converter, and digitally controlled current sources are implemented with redundant designs to avoid a loss of data in case of failures. Measurements are carried out with an accuracy of + or - 1 part in 64,000 in magnitude and 5 arcsec in orientation (1 arcsec = 0.00028 deg).

The optimal digital filters of sine and cosine transforms for geophysical transient electromagnetic method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yun-wei; Zhu, Zi-qiang; Lu, Guang-yin; Han, Bo

2018-03-01

The sine and cosine transforms implemented with digital filters have been used in the Transient electromagnetic methods for a few decades. Kong (2007) proposed a method of obtaining filter coefficients, which are computed in the sample domain by Hankel transform pair. However, the curve shape of Hankel transform pair changes with a parameter, which usually is set to be 1 or 3 in the process of obtaining the digital filter coefficients of sine and cosine transforms. First, this study investigates the influence of the parameter on the digital filter algorithm of sine and cosine transforms based on the digital filter algorithm of Hankel transform and the relationship between the sine, cosine function and the ±1/2 order Bessel function of the first kind. The results show that the selection of the parameter highly influences the precision of digital filter algorithm. Second, upon the optimal selection of the parameter, it is found that an optimal sampling interval s also exists to achieve the best precision of digital filter algorithm. Finally, this study proposes four groups of sine and cosine transform digital filter coefficients with different length, which may help to develop the digital filter algorithm of sine and cosine transforms, and promote its application.

High-precision processing and detection of the high-caliber off-axis aspheric mirror

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Chen; Li, Ang; Xu, Lingdi; Zhang, Yingjie

2017-10-01

To achieve the efficient, controllable, digital processing and high-precision detection of the high-caliber off-axis aspheric mirror, meeting the high-level development needs of the modern high-resolution, large field of space optical remote sensing camera, we carried out the research on high precision machining and testing technology of off-axis aspheric mirror. First, we forming the off-axis aspheric sample with diameter of 574mm × 302mm by milling it with milling machine, and then the intelligent robot equipment was used for off-axis aspheric high precision polishing. Surface detection of the sample will be proceed with the off-axis aspheric contact contour detection technology and offaxis non-spherical surface interference detection technology after its fine polishing using ion beam equipment. The final surface accuracy RMS is 12nm.

Fundamental Characteristics of Bioprint on Calcium Alginate Gel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umezu, Shinjiro; Hatta, Tatsuru; Ohmori, Hitoshi

2013-05-01

The goal of this study is to fabricate precision three-dimensional (3D) biodevices those are micro fluidics and artificial organs utilizing digital fabrication. Digital fabrication is fabrication method utilizing inkjet technologies. Electrostatic inkjet is one of the inkjet technologies. The electrostatic inkjet method has following two merits; those are high resolution to print and ability to eject highly viscous liquid. These characteristics are suitable to print biomaterials precisely. We are now applying for bioprint. In this paper, the electrostatic inkjet method is applied for fabrication of 3D biodevices that has cave like blood vessel. When aqueous solution of sodium alginate is printed to aqueous solution of calcium chloride, calcium alginate is produced. 3D biodevices are fabricated in case that calcium alginate is piled.

[Assessment of precision and accuracy of digital surface photogrammetry with the DSP 400 system].

PubMed

Krimmel, M; Kluba, S; Dietz, K; Reinert, S

2005-03-01

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the precision and accuracy of facial anthropometric measurements obtained through digital 3-D surface photogrammetry with the DSP 400 system in comparison to traditional 2-D photogrammetry. Fifty plaster casts of cleft infants were imaged and 21 standard anthropometric measurements were obtained. For precision assessment the measurements were performed twice in a subsample. Accuracy was determined by comparison of direct measurements and indirect 2-D and 3-D image measurements. Precision of digital surface photogrammetry was almost as good as direct anthropometry and clearly better than 2-D photogrammetry. Measurements derived from 3-D images showed better congruence to direct measurements than from 2-D photos. Digital surface photogrammetry with the DSP 400 system is sufficiently precise and accurate for craniofacial anthropometric examinations.

Digital Pitch-And-Roll Monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finley, Tom D.; Brown, Jeff; Campbell, Ryland

1991-01-01

Highly accurate inclinometer developed. Monitors both pitch and roll simultaneously and provides printed output on demand. Includes three mutually perpendicular accelerometers and signal-conditioning circuitry converting outputs of sensors to digital values of pitch and roll. In addition to wind-tunnel applications, system useful in any application involving steady-state, precise sensing of angles, such as calibration of robotic devices and positioners.

Application of the ANNA neural network chip to high-speed character recognition.

PubMed

Sackinger, E; Boser, B E; Bromley, J; Lecun, Y; Jackel, L D

1992-01-01

A neural network with 136000 connections for recognition of handwritten digits has been implemented using a mixed analog/digital neural network chip. The neural network chip is capable of processing 1000 characters/s. The recognition system has essentially the same rate (5%) as a simulation of the network with 32-b floating-point precision.

Precision of guided scanning procedures for full-arch digital impressions in vivo.

PubMed

Zimmermann, Moritz; Koller, Christina; Rumetsch, Moritz; Ender, Andreas; Mehl, Albert

2017-11-01

System-specific scanning strategies have been shown to influence the accuracy of full-arch digital impressions. Special guided scanning procedures have been implemented for specific intraoral scanning systems with special regard to the digital orthodontic workflow. The aim of this study was to evaluate the precision of guided scanning procedures compared to conventional impression techniques in vivo. Two intraoral scanning systems with implemented full-arch guided scanning procedures (Cerec Omnicam Ortho; Ormco Lythos) were included along with one conventional impression technique with irreversible hydrocolloid material (alginate). Full-arch impressions were taken three times each from 5 participants (n = 15). Impressions were then compared within the test groups using a point-to-surface distance method after best-fit model matching (OraCheck). Precision was calculated using the (90-10%)/2 quantile and statistical analysis with one-way repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni test was performed. The conventional impression technique with alginate showed the lowest precision for full-arch impressions with 162.2 ± 71.3 µm. Both guided scanning procedures performed statistically significantly better than the conventional impression technique (p < 0.05). Mean values for group Cerec Omnicam Ortho were 74.5 ± 39.2 µm and for group Ormco Lythos 91.4 ± 48.8 µm. The in vivo precision of guided scanning procedures exceeds conventional impression techniques with the irreversible hydrocolloid material alginate. Guided scanning procedures may be highly promising for clinical applications, especially for digital orthodontic workflows.

Relationship between resolution and accuracy of four intraoral scanners in complete-arch impressions

PubMed Central

Pascual-Moscardó, Agustín; Camps, Isabel

2018-01-01

Background The scanner does not measure the dental surface continually. Instead, it generates a point cloud, and these points are then joined to form the scanned object. This approximation will depend on the number of points generated (resolution), which can lead to low accuracy (trueness and precision) when fewer points are obtained. The purpose of this study is to determine the resolution of four intraoral digital imaging systems and to demonstrate the relationship between accuracy and resolution of the intraoral scanner in impressions of a complete dental arch. Material and Methods A master cast of the complete maxillary arch was prepared with different dental preparations. Using four digital impression systems, the cast was scanned inside of a black methacrylate box, obtaining a total of 40 digital impressions from each scanner. The resolution was obtained by dividing the number of points of each digital impression by the total surface area of the cast. Accuracy was evaluated using a three-dimensional measurement software, using the “best alignment” method of the casts with a highly faithful reference model obtained from an industrial scanner. Pearson correlation was used for statistical analysis of the data. Results Of the intraoral scanners, Omnicam is the system with the best resolution, with 79.82 points per mm2, followed by True Definition with 54.68 points per mm2, Trios with 41.21 points per mm2, and iTero with 34.20 points per mm2. However, the study found no relationship between resolution and accuracy of the study digital impression systems (P >0.05), except for Omnicam and its precision. Conclusions The resolution of the digital impression systems has no relationship with the accuracy they achieve in the impression of a complete dental arch. The study found that the Omnicam scanner is the system that obtains the best resolution, and that as the resolution increases, its precision increases. Key words:Trueness, precision, accuracy, resolution, intraoral scanner, digital impression. PMID:29750097

Digital Ratiometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beer, R.

1985-01-01

Small, low-cost comparator with 24-bit-precision yields ratio signal from pair of analog or digital input signals. Arithmetic logic chips (bit-slice) sample two 24-bit analog-to-digital converters approximately once every millisecond and accumulate them in two 24-bit registers. Approach readily modified to arbitrary precision.

High precision locating control system based on VCM for Talbot lithography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Jingwei; Zhao, Lixin; Deng, Qian; Hu, Song

2016-10-01

Aiming at the high precision and efficiency requirements of Z-direction locating in Talbot lithography, a control system based on Voice Coil Motor (VCM) was designed. In this paper, we built a math model of VCM and its moving characteristic was analyzed. A double-closed loop control strategy including position loop and current loop were accomplished. The current loop was implemented by driver, in order to achieve the rapid follow of the system current. The position loop was completed by the digital signal processor (DSP) and the position feedback was achieved by high precision linear scales. Feed forward control and position feedback Proportion Integration Differentiation (PID) control were applied in order to compensate for dynamic lag and improve the response speed of the system. And the high precision and efficiency of the system were verified by simulation and experiments. The results demonstrated that the performance of Z-direction gantry was obviously improved, having high precision, quick responses, strong real-time and easily to expend for higher precision.

Accuracy of Intraoral Digital Impressions for Whole Upper Jaws, Including Full Dentitions and Palatal Soft Tissues

PubMed Central

Gan, Ning; Xiong, Yaoyang; Jiao, Ting

2016-01-01

Intraoral digital impressions have been stated to meet the clinical requirements for some teeth-supported restorations, though fewer evidences were proposed for larger scanning range. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy (trueness and precision) of intraoral digital impressions for whole upper jaws, including the full dentitions and palatal soft tissues, as well as to determine the effect of different palatal vault height or arch width on accuracy of intraoral digital impressions. Thirty-two volunteers were divided into three groups according to the palatal vault height or arch width. Each volunteer received three scans with TRIOS intraoral scanner and one conventional impression of whole upper jaw. Three-dimensional (3D) images digitized from conventional gypsum casts by a laboratory scanner were chose as the reference models. All datasets were imported to a specific software program for 3D analysis by "best fit alignment" and "3D compare" process. Color-coded deviation maps showed qualitative visualization of the deviations. For the digital impressions for palatal soft tissues, trueness was (130.54±33.95)μm and precision was (55.26±11.21)μm. For the digital impressions for upper full dentitions, trueness was (80.01±17.78)μm and precision was (59.52±11.29)μm. Larger deviations were found between intraoral digital impressions and conventional impressions in the areas of palatal soft tissues than that in the areas of full dentitions (p<0.001). Precision of digital impressions for palatal soft tissues was slightly better than that for full dentitions (p = 0.049). There was no significant effect of palatal vault height on accuracy of digital impressions for palatal soft tissues (p>0.05), but arch width was found to have a significant effect on precision of intraoral digital impressions for full dentitions (p = 0.016). A linear correlation was found between arch width and precision of digital impressions for whole upper jaws (r = 0.326, p = 0.034 for palatal soft tissues and r = 0.485, p = 0.002 for full dentitions). It was feasible to use the intraoral scanner to obtain digital impressions for whole upper jaws. Wider dental arch contributed to lower precision of an intraoral digital impression. It should be confirmed in further studies that whether accuracy of digital impressions for whole upper jaws is clinically acceptable. PMID:27383409

Precise color images a high-speed color video camera system with three intensified sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oki, Sachio; Yamakawa, Masafumi; Gohda, Susumu; Etoh, Takeharu G.

1999-06-01

High speed imaging systems have been used in a large field of science and engineering. Although the high speed camera systems have been improved to high performance, most of their applications are only to get high speed motion pictures. However, in some fields of science and technology, it is useful to get some other information, such as temperature of combustion flame, thermal plasma and molten materials. Recent digital high speed video imaging technology should be able to get such information from those objects. For this purpose, we have already developed a high speed video camera system with three-intensified-sensors and cubic prism image splitter. The maximum frame rate is 40,500 pps (picture per second) at 64 X 64 pixels and 4,500 pps at 256 X 256 pixels with 256 (8 bit) intensity resolution for each pixel. The camera system can store more than 1,000 pictures continuously in solid state memory. In order to get the precise color images from this camera system, we need to develop a digital technique, which consists of a computer program and ancillary instruments, to adjust displacement of images taken from two or three image sensors and to calibrate relationship between incident light intensity and corresponding digital output signals. In this paper, the digital technique for pixel-based displacement adjustment are proposed. Although the displacement of the corresponding circle was more than 8 pixels in original image, the displacement was adjusted within 0.2 pixels at most by this method.

Accuracy of Digital Impressions and Fitness of Single Crowns Based on Digital Impressions

PubMed Central

Yang, Xin; Lv, Pin; Liu, Yihong; Si, Wenjie; Feng, Hailan

2015-01-01

In this study, the accuracy (precision and trueness) of digital impressions and the fitness of single crowns manufactured based on digital impressions were evaluated. #14-17 epoxy resin dentitions were made, while full-crown preparations of extracted natural teeth were embedded at #16. (1) To assess precision, deviations among repeated scan models made by intraoral scanner TRIOS and MHT and model scanner D700 and inEos were calculated through best-fit algorithm and three-dimensional (3D) comparison. Root mean square (RMS) and color-coded difference images were offered. (2) To assess trueness, micro computed tomography (micro-CT) was used to get the reference model (REF). Deviations between REF and repeated scan models (from (1)) were calculated. (3) To assess fitness, single crowns were manufactured based on TRIOS, MHT, D700 and inEos scan models. The adhesive gaps were evaluated under stereomicroscope after cross-sectioned. Digital impressions showed lower precision and better trueness. Except for MHT, the means of RMS for precision were lower than 10 μm. Digital impressions showed better internal fitness. Fitness of single crowns based on digital impressions was up to clinical standard. Digital impressions could be an alternative method for single crowns manufacturing. PMID:28793417

Digital PCR Modeling for Maximal Sensitivity, Dynamic Range and Measurement Precision

PubMed Central

Majumdar, Nivedita; Wessel, Thomas; Marks, Jeffrey

2015-01-01

The great promise of digital PCR is the potential for unparalleled precision enabling accurate measurements for genetic quantification. A challenge associated with digital PCR experiments, when testing unknown samples, is to perform experiments at dilutions allowing the detection of one or more targets of interest at a desired level of precision. While theory states that optimal precision (Po) is achieved by targeting ~1.59 mean copies per partition (λ), and that dynamic range (R) includes the space spanning one positive (λL) to one negative (λU) result from the total number of partitions (n), these results are tempered for the practitioner seeking to construct digital PCR experiments in the laboratory. A mathematical framework is presented elucidating the relationships between precision, dynamic range, number of partitions, interrogated volume, and sensitivity in digital PCR. The impact that false reaction calls and volumetric variation have on sensitivity and precision is next considered. The resultant effects on sensitivity and precision are established via Monte Carlo simulations reflecting the real-world likelihood of encountering such scenarios in the laboratory. The simulations provide insight to the practitioner on how to adapt experimental loading concentrations to counteract any one of these conditions. The framework is augmented with a method of extending the dynamic range of digital PCR, with and without increasing n, via the use of dilutions. An example experiment demonstrating the capabilities of the framework is presented enabling detection across 3.33 logs of starting copy concentration. PMID:25806524

Evaluation of the accuracy of 7 digital scanners: An in vitro analysis based on 3-dimensional comparisons.

PubMed

Renne, Walter; Ludlow, Mark; Fryml, John; Schurch, Zach; Mennito, Anthony; Kessler, Ray; Lauer, Abigail

2017-07-01

As digital impressions become more common and more digital impression systems are released onto the market, it is essential to systematically and objectively evaluate their accuracy. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the trueness and precision of 6 intraoral scanners and 1 laboratory scanner in both sextant and complete-arch scenarios. Furthermore, time of scanning was evaluated and correlated with trueness and precision. A custom complete-arch model was fabricated with a refractive index similar to that of tooth structure. Seven digital impression systems were used to scan the custom model for both posterior sextant and complete arch scenarios. Analysis was performed using 3-dimensional metrology software to measure discrepancies between the master model and experimental casts. Of the intraoral scanners, the Planscan was found to have the best trueness and precision while the 3Shape Trios was found to have the poorest for sextant scanning (P<.001). The order of trueness for complete arch scanning was as follows: 3Shape D800 >iTero >3Shape TRIOS 3 >Carestream 3500 >Planscan >CEREC Omnicam >CEREC Bluecam. The order of precision for complete-arch scanning was as follows: CS3500 >iTero >3Shape D800 >3Shape TRIOS 3 >CEREC Omnicam >Planscan >CEREC Bluecam. For the secondary outcome evaluating the effect time has on trueness and precision, the complete- arch scan time was highly correlated with both trueness (r=0.771) and precision (r=0.771). For sextant scanning, the Planscan was found to be the most precise and true scanner. For complete-arch scanning, the 3Shape Trios was found to have the best balance of speed and accuracy. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An Improved Method of AGM for High Precision Geolocation of SAR Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, G.; He, C.; Yue, T.; Huang, W.; Huang, Y.; Li, X.; Chen, Y.

2018-05-01

In order to take full advantage of SAR images, it is necessary to obtain the high precision location of the image. During the geometric correction process of images, to ensure the accuracy of image geometric correction and extract the effective mapping information from the images, precise image geolocation is important. This paper presents an improved analytical geolocation method (IAGM) that determine the high precision geolocation of each pixel in a digital SAR image. This method is based on analytical geolocation method (AGM) proposed by X. K. Yuan aiming at realizing the solution of RD model. Tests will be conducted using RADARSAT-2 SAR image. Comparing the predicted feature geolocation with the position as determined by high precision orthophoto, results indicate an accuracy of 50m is attainable with this method. Error sources will be analyzed and some recommendations about improving image location accuracy in future spaceborne SAR's will be given.

Experimental investigation of analog and digital dimming techniques on photometric performance of an indoor Visible Light Communication (VLC) system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zafar, Fahad; Kalavally, Vineetha; Bakaul, Masuduzzaman; Parthiban, R.

2015-09-01

For making commercial implementation of light emitting diode (LED) based visible light communication (VLC) systems feasible, it is necessary to incorporate it with dimming schemes which will provide energy savings, moods and increase the aesthetic value of the places using this technology. There are two general methods which are used to dim LEDs commonly categorized as analog and digital dimming. Incorporating fast data transmission with these techniques is a key challenge in VLC. In this paper, digital and analog dimming for a 10 Mb/s non return to zero on-off keying (NRZ-OOK) based VLC system is experimentally investigated considering both photometric and communicative parameters. A spectrophotometer was used for photometric analysis and a line of sight (LOS) configuration in the presence of ambient light was used for analyzing communication parameters. Based on the experimental results, it was determined that digital dimming scheme is preferable for use in indoor VLC systems requiring high dimming precision and data transmission at lower brightness levels. On the other hand, analog dimming scheme is a cost effective solution for high speed systems where dimming precision is insignificant.

Trueness and precision of digital impressions obtained using an intraoral scanner with different head size in the partially edentulous mandible.

PubMed

Hayama, Hironari; Fueki, Kenji; Wadachi, Juro; Wakabayashi, Noriyuki

2018-03-01

It remains unclear whether digital impressions obtained using an intraoral scanner are sufficiently accurate for use in fabrication of removable partial dentures. We therefore compared the trueness and precision between conventional and digital impressions in the partially edentulous mandible. Mandibular Kennedy Class I and III models with soft silicone simulated-mucosa placed on the residual edentulous ridge were used. The reference models were converted to standard triangulated language (STL) file format using an extraoral scanner. Digital impressions were obtained using an intraoral scanner with a large or small scanning head, and converted to STL files. For conventional impressions, pressure impressions of the reference models were made and working casts fabricated using modified dental stone; these were converted to STL file format using an extraoral scanner. Conversion to STL file format was performed 5 times for each method. Trueness and precision were evaluated by deviation analysis using three-dimensional image processing software. Digital impressions had superior trueness (54-108μm), but inferior precision (100-121μm) compared to conventional impressions (trueness 122-157μm, precision 52-119μm). The larger intraoral scanning head showed better trueness and precision than the smaller head, and on average required fewer scanned images of digital impressions than the smaller head (p<0.05). On the color map, the deviation distribution tended to differ between the conventional and digital impressions. Digital impressions are partially comparable to conventional impressions in terms of accuracy; the use of a larger scanning head may improve the accuracy for removable partial denture fabrication. Copyright © 2018 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DESDynI Quad First Stage Processor - A Four Channel Digitizer and Digital Beam Forming Processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chuang, Chung-Lun; Shaffer, Scott; Smythe, Robert; Niamsuwan, Noppasin; Li, Samuel; Liao, Eric; Lim, Chester; Morfopolous, Arin; Veilleux, Louise

2013-01-01

The proposed Deformation, Eco-Systems, and Dynamics of Ice Radar (DESDynI-R) L-band SAR instrument employs multiple digital channels to optimize resolution while keeping a large swath on a single pass. High-speed digitization with very fine synchronization and digital beam forming are necessary in order to facilitate this new technique. The Quad First Stage Processor (qFSP) was developed to achieve both the processing performance as well as the digitizing fidelity in order to accomplish this sweeping SAR technique. The qFSP utilizes high precision and high-speed analog to digital converters (ADCs), each with a finely adjustable clock distribution network to digitize the channels at the fidelity necessary to allow for digital beam forming. The Xilinx produced FX130T Virtex 5 part handles the processing to digitally calibrate each channel as well as filter and beam form the receive signals. Demonstrating the digital processing required for digital beam forming and digital calibration is instrumental to the viability of the proposed DESDynI instrument. The qFSP development brings this implementation to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6. This paper will detail the design and development of the prototype qFSP as well as the preliminary results from hardware tests.

High-speed digital signal normalization for feature identification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ortiz, J. A.; Meredith, B. D.

1983-01-01

A design approach for high speed normalization of digital signals was developed. A reciprocal look up table technique is employed, where a digital value is mapped to its reciprocal via a high speed memory. This reciprocal is then multiplied with an input signal to obtain the normalized result. Normalization improves considerably the accuracy of certain feature identification algorithms. By using the concept of pipelining the multispectral sensor data processing rate is limited only by the speed of the multiplier. The breadboard system was found to operate at an execution rate of five million normalizations per second. This design features high precision, a reduced hardware complexity, high flexibility, and expandability which are very important considerations for spaceborne applications. It also accomplishes a high speed normalization rate essential for real time data processing.

Automatic Topography Using High Precision Digital Moire Methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yatagai, T.; Idesawa, M.; Saito, S.

1983-07-01

Three types of moire topographic methods using digital techniques are proposed. Deformed gratings obtained by projecting a reference grating onto an object under test are subjected to digital analysis. The electronic analysis procedures of deformed gratings described here enable us to distinguish between depression and elevation of the object, so that automatic measurement of 3-D shapes and automatic moire fringe interpolation are performed. Based on the digital moire methods, we have developed a practical measurement system, with a linear photodiode array on a micro-stage as a scanning image sensor. Examples of fringe analysis in medical applications are presented.

In vivo precision of conventional and digital methods of obtaining complete-arch dental impressions.

PubMed

Ender, Andreas; Attin, Thomas; Mehl, Albert

2016-03-01

Digital impression systems have undergone significant development in recent years, but few studies have investigated the accuracy of the technique in vivo, particularly compared with conventional impression techniques. The purpose of this in vivo study was to investigate the precision of conventional and digital methods for complete-arch impressions. Complete-arch impressions were obtained using 5 conventional (polyether, POE; vinylsiloxanether, VSE; direct scannable vinylsiloxanether, VSES; digitized scannable vinylsiloxanether, VSES-D; and irreversible hydrocolloid, ALG) and 7 digital (CEREC Bluecam, CER; CEREC Omnicam, OC; Cadent iTero, ITE; Lava COS, LAV; Lava True Definition Scanner, T-Def; 3Shape Trios, TRI; and 3Shape Trios Color, TRC) techniques. Impressions were made 3 times each in 5 participants (N=15). The impressions were then compared within and between the test groups. The cast surfaces were measured point-to-point using the signed nearest neighbor method. Precision was calculated from the (90%-10%)/2 percentile value. The precision ranged from 12.3 μm (VSE) to 167.2 μm (ALG), with the highest precision in the VSE and VSES groups. The deviation pattern varied distinctly according to the impression method. Conventional impressions showed the highest accuracy across the complete dental arch in all groups, except for the ALG group. Conventional and digital impression methods differ significantly in the complete-arch accuracy. Digital impression systems had higher local deviations within the complete arch cast; however, they achieve equal and higher precision than some conventional impression materials. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Is digital photography an accurate and precise method for measuring range of motion of the shoulder and elbow?

PubMed

Russo, Russell R; Burn, Matthew B; Ismaily, Sabir K; Gerrie, Brayden J; Han, Shuyang; Alexander, Jerry; Lenherr, Christopher; Noble, Philip C; Harris, Joshua D; McCulloch, Patrick C

2018-03-01

Accurate measurements of shoulder and elbow motion are required for the management of musculoskeletal pathology. The purpose of this investigation was to compare three techniques for measuring motion. The authors hypothesized that digital photography would be equivalent in accuracy and show higher precision compared to the other two techniques. Using infrared motion capture analysis as the reference standard, shoulder flexion/abduction/internal rotation/external rotation and elbow flexion/extension were measured using visual estimation, goniometry, and digital photography on 10 fresh frozen cadavers. These measurements were performed by three physical therapists and three orthopaedic surgeons. Accuracy was defined by the difference from the reference standard (motion capture analysis), while precision was defined by the proportion of measurements within the authors' definition of clinical significance (10° for all motions except for elbow extension where 5° was used). Analysis of variance (ANOVA), t-tests, and chi-squared tests were used. Although statistically significant differences were found in measurement accuracy between the three techniques, none of these differences met the authors' definition of clinical significance. Precision of the measurements was significantly higher for both digital photography (shoulder abduction [93% vs. 74%, p < 0.001], shoulder internal rotation [97% vs. 83%, p = 0.001], and elbow flexion [93% vs. 65%, p < 0.001]) and goniometry (shoulder abduction [92% vs. 74%, p < 0.001] and shoulder internal rotation [94% vs. 83%, p = 0.008]) than visual estimation. Digital photography was more precise than goniometry for measurements of elbow flexion only [93% vs. 76%, p < 0.001]. There was no clinically significant difference in measurement accuracy between the three techniques for shoulder and elbow motion. Digital photography showed higher measurement precision compared to visual estimation for shoulder abduction, shoulder internal rotation, and elbow flexion. However, digital photography was only more precise than goniometry for measurements of elbow flexion. Overall digital photography shows equivalent accuracy to visual estimation and goniometry, but with higher precision than visual estimation. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Fast, High-Precision Readout Circuit for Detector Arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rider, David M.; Hancock, Bruce R.; Key, Richard W.; Cunningham, Thomas J.; Wrigley, Chris J.; Seshadri, Suresh; Sander, Stanley P.; Blavier, Jean-Francois L.

2013-01-01

The GEO-CAPE mission described in NASA's Earth Science and Applications Decadal Survey requires high spatial, temporal, and spectral resolution measurements to monitor and characterize the rapidly changing chemistry of the troposphere over North and South Americas. High-frame-rate focal plane arrays (FPAs) with many pixels are needed to enable such measurements. A high-throughput digital detector readout integrated circuit (ROIC) that meets the GEO-CAPE FPA needs has been developed, fabricated, and tested. The ROIC is based on an innovative charge integrating, fast, high-precision analog-to-digital circuit that is built into each pixel. The 128×128-pixel ROIC digitizes all 16,384 pixels simultaneously at frame rates up to 16 kHz to provide a completely digital output on a single integrated circuit at an unprecedented rate of 262 million pixels per second. The approach eliminates the need for off focal plane electronics, greatly reducing volume, mass, and power compared to conventional FPA implementations. A focal plane based on this ROIC will require less than 2 W of power on a 1×1-cm integrated circuit. The ROIC is fabricated of silicon using CMOS technology. It is designed to be indium bump bonded to a variety of detector materials including silicon PIN diodes, indium antimonide (InSb), indium gallium arsenide (In- GaAs), and mercury cadmium telluride (HgCdTe) detector arrays to provide coverage over a broad spectral range in the infrared, visible, and ultraviolet spectral ranges.

Precision of FLEET Velocimetry Using High-Speed CMOS Camera Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peters, Christopher J.; Danehy, Paul M.; Bathel, Brett F.; Jiang, Naibo; Calvert, Nathan D.; Miles, Richard B.

2015-01-01

Femtosecond laser electronic excitation tagging (FLEET) is an optical measurement technique that permits quantitative velocimetry of unseeded air or nitrogen using a single laser and a single camera. In this paper, we seek to determine the fundamental precision of the FLEET technique using high-speed complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) cameras. Also, we compare the performance of several different high-speed CMOS camera systems for acquiring FLEET velocimetry data in air and nitrogen free-jet flows. The precision was defined as the standard deviation of a set of several hundred single-shot velocity measurements. Methods of enhancing the precision of the measurement were explored such as digital binning (similar in concept to on-sensor binning, but done in post-processing), row-wise digital binning of the signal in adjacent pixels and increasing the time delay between successive exposures. These techniques generally improved precision; however, binning provided the greatest improvement to the un-intensified camera systems which had low signal-to-noise ratio. When binning row-wise by 8 pixels (about the thickness of the tagged region) and using an inter-frame delay of 65 microseconds, precisions of 0.5 meters per second in air and 0.2 meters per second in nitrogen were achieved. The camera comparison included a pco.dimax HD, a LaVision Imager scientific CMOS (sCMOS) and a Photron FASTCAM SA-X2, along with a two-stage LaVision HighSpeed IRO intensifier. Excluding the LaVision Imager sCMOS, the cameras were tested with and without intensification and with both short and long inter-frame delays. Use of intensification and longer inter-frame delay generally improved precision. Overall, the Photron FASTCAM SA-X2 exhibited the best performance in terms of greatest precision and highest signal-to-noise ratio primarily because it had the largest pixels.

A digitalized silicon microgyroscope based on embedded FPGA.

PubMed

Xia, Dunzhu; Yu, Cheng; Wang, Yuliang

2012-09-27

This paper presents a novel digital miniaturization method for a prototype silicon micro-gyroscope (SMG) with the symmetrical and decoupled structure. The schematic blocks of the overall system consist of high precision analog front-end interface, high-speed 18-bit analog to digital convertor, a high-performance core Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) chip and other peripherals such as high-speed serial ports for transmitting data. In drive mode, the closed-loop drive circuit are implemented by automatic gain control (AGC) loop and software phase-locked loop (SPLL) based on the Coordinated Rotation Digital Computer (CORDIC) algorithm. Meanwhile, the sense demodulation module based on varying step least mean square demodulation (LMSD) are addressed in detail. All kinds of algorithms are simulated by Simulink and DSPbuilder tools, which is in good agreement with the theoretical design. The experimental results have fully demonstrated the stability and flexibility of the system.

A Digitalized Silicon Microgyroscope Based on Embedded FPGA

PubMed Central

Xia, Dunzhu; Yu, Cheng; Wang, Yuliang

2012-01-01

This paper presents a novel digital miniaturization method for a prototype silicon micro-gyroscope (SMG) with the symmetrical and decoupled structure. The schematic blocks of the overall system consist of high precision analog front-end interface, high-speed 18-bit analog to digital convertor, a high-performance core Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) chip and other peripherals such as high-speed serial ports for transmitting data. In drive mode, the closed-loop drive circuit are implemented by automatic gain control (AGC) loop and software phase-locked loop (SPLL) based on the Coordinated Rotation Digital Computer (CORDIC) algorithm. Meanwhile, the sense demodulation module based on varying step least mean square demodulation (LMSD) are addressed in detail. All kinds of algorithms are simulated by Simulink and DSPbuilder tools, which is in good agreement with the theoretical design. The experimental results have fully demonstrated the stability and flexibility of the system. PMID:23201990

Accuracy and precision of occlusal contacts of stereolithographic casts mounted by digital interocclusal registrations.

PubMed

Krahenbuhl, Jason T; Cho, Seok-Hwan; Irelan, Jon; Bansal, Naveen K

2016-08-01

Little peer-reviewed information is available regarding the accuracy and precision of the occlusal contact reproduction of digitally mounted stereolithographic casts. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the accuracy and precision of occlusal contacts among stereolithographic casts mounted by digital occlusal registrations. Four complete anatomic dentoforms were arbitrarily mounted on a semi-adjustable articulator in maximal intercuspal position and served as the 4 different simulated patients (SP). A total of 60 digital impressions and digital interocclusal registrations were made with a digital intraoral scanner to fabricate 15 sets of mounted stereolithographic (SLA) definitive casts for each dentoform. After receiving a total of 60 SLA casts, polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) interocclusal records were made for each set. The occlusal contacts for each set of SLA casts were measured by recording the amount of light transmitted through the interocclusal records. To evaluate the accuracy between the SP and their respective SLA casts, the areas of actual contact (AC) and near contact (NC) were calculated. For precision analysis, the coefficient of variation (CoV) was used. The data was analyzed with t tests for accuracy and the McKay and Vangel test for precision (α=.05). The accuracy analysis showed a statistically significant difference between the SP and the SLA cast of each dentoform (P<.05). For the AC in all dentoforms, a significant increase was found in the areas of actual contact of SLA casts compared with the contacts present in the SP (P<.05). Conversely, for the NC in all dentoforms, a significant decrease was found in the occlusal contact areas of the SLA casts compared with the contacts in the SP (P<.05). The precision analysis demonstrated the different CoV values between AC (5.8 to 8.8%) and NC (21.4 to 44.6%) of digitally mounted SLA casts, indicating that the overall precision of the SLA cast was low. For the accuracy evaluation, statistically significant differences were found between the occlusal contacts of all digitally mounted SLA casts groups, with an increase in AC values and a decrease in NC values. For the precision assessment, the CoV values of the AC and NC showed the digitally articulated cast's inability to reproduce the uniform occlusal contacts. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Periscopic Spine Surgery

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

Guided Technologies, Boulder, CO; motion path built from three orthogonal sinusoidal paths is Optotrak , Northern Digital, Waterloo, ON) optical tracking...Hopkins University using an Optotrak to evaluate the simulated motions. The Optotrak (Northern Digital, Inc.) is an optical high- precision 3-D motion...verify the accuracy of the RMS, tests were carried out using the Optotrak , which was placed about 2 m from the simulator. For each test, two sets of data

NULL Convention Floating Point Multiplier

PubMed Central

Ramachandran, Seshasayanan

2015-01-01

Floating point multiplication is a critical part in high dynamic range and computational intensive digital signal processing applications which require high precision and low power. This paper presents the design of an IEEE 754 single precision floating point multiplier using asynchronous NULL convention logic paradigm. Rounding has not been implemented to suit high precision applications. The novelty of the research is that it is the first ever NULL convention logic multiplier, designed to perform floating point multiplication. The proposed multiplier offers substantial decrease in power consumption when compared with its synchronous version. Performance attributes of the NULL convention logic floating point multiplier, obtained from Xilinx simulation and Cadence, are compared with its equivalent synchronous implementation. PMID:25879069

NULL convention floating point multiplier.

PubMed

Albert, Anitha Juliette; Ramachandran, Seshasayanan

2015-01-01

Floating point multiplication is a critical part in high dynamic range and computational intensive digital signal processing applications which require high precision and low power. This paper presents the design of an IEEE 754 single precision floating point multiplier using asynchronous NULL convention logic paradigm. Rounding has not been implemented to suit high precision applications. The novelty of the research is that it is the first ever NULL convention logic multiplier, designed to perform floating point multiplication. The proposed multiplier offers substantial decrease in power consumption when compared with its synchronous version. Performance attributes of the NULL convention logic floating point multiplier, obtained from Xilinx simulation and Cadence, are compared with its equivalent synchronous implementation.

Accuracy of 3D white light scanning of abutment teeth impressions: evaluation of trueness and precision.

PubMed

Jeon, Jin-Hun; Kim, Hae-Young; Kim, Ji-Hwan; Kim, Woong-Chul

2014-12-01

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of digitizing dental impressions of abutment teeth using a white light scanner and to compare the findings among teeth types. To assess precision, impressions of the canine, premolar, and molar prepared to receive all-ceramic crowns were repeatedly scanned to obtain five sets of 3-D data (STL files). Point clouds were compared and error sizes were measured (n=10 per type). Next, to evaluate trueness, impressions of teeth were rotated by 10°-20° and scanned. The obtained data were compared with the first set of data for precision assessment, and the error sizes were measured (n=5 per type). The Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to evaluate precision and trueness among three teeth types, and post-hoc comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test with Bonferroni correction (α=.05). Precision discrepancies for the canine, premolar, and molar were 3.7 µm, 3.2 µm, and 7.3 µm, respectively, indicating the poorest precision for the molar (P<.001). Trueness discrepancies for teeth types were 6.2 µm, 11.2 µm, and 21.8 µm, respectively, indicating the poorest trueness for the molar (P=.007). In respect to accuracy the molar showed the largest discrepancies compared with the canine and premolar. Digitizing of dental impressions of abutment teeth using a white light scanner was assessed to be a highly accurate method and provided discrepancy values in a clinically acceptable range. Further study is needed to improve digitizing performance of white light scanning in axial wall.

Quantification of the Mutant CALR Allelic Burden by Digital PCR: Application to Minimal Residual Disease Evaluation after Bone Marrow Transplantation.

PubMed

Mansier, Olivier; Migeon, Marina; Saint-Lézer, Arnaud; James, Chloé; Verger, Emmanuelle; Robin, Marie; Socié, Gérard; Bidet, Audrey; Mahon, François-Xavier; Cassinat, Bruno; Lippert, Eric

2016-01-01

With the recent discovery of CALR mutations, >80% of patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms carry a phenotype-driving mutation. For JAK2 V617F, the most frequent mutation in myeloproliferative neoplasms, accurate determination of mutational loads is of interest at diagnosis, for phenotypic and prognostic purposes, and during follow-up for minimal residual disease assessment. We developed a digital PCR technique that allowed the accurate determination of CALR allelic burdens for the main mutations (types 1 and 2). Compared with the commonly used fluorescent PCR product analysis, digital PCR is more precise, reproducible, and accurate. Furthermore, this method reached a very high sensitivity. We detected at least 0.025% CALR mutants. It can thus be used for patient characterization at diagnosis and for minimal residual disease monitoring. When applied to patients with primary myelofibrosis who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplant, the digital PCR detected low levels of minimal residual disease. After negativation of the mutational load in all patients, the disease reappeared at a low level in one patient, preceding hematologic relapse. In conclusion, digital PCR adapted to type 1 and 2 CALR mutations is an inexpensive, highly precise, and sensitive technique suitable for evaluation of myeloproliferative neoplasm patients during follow-up. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Investigative Pathology and the Association for Molecular Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analog-to-digital conversion techniques for precision photometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Opal, Chet B.

1988-01-01

Three types of analog-to-digital converters are described: parallel, successive-approximation, and integrating. The functioning of comparators and sample-and-hold amplifiers is explained. Differential and integral linearity are defined, and good and bad examples are illustrated. The applicability and relative advantages of the three types of converters for precision astronomical photometric measurements are discussed. For most measurements, integral linearity is more important than differential linearity. Successive-approximation converters should be used with multielement solid state detectors because of their high speed, but dual slope integrating converters may be superior for use with single element solid state detectors where speed of digitization is not a factor. In all cases, the input signal should be tailored so that they occupy the upper part of the converter's dynamic range; this can be achieved by providing adjustable gain, or better by varying the integration time of the observation if possible.

Smartphone schlieren and shadowgraph imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Settles, Gary S.

2018-05-01

Schlieren and shadowgraph techniques are used throughout the realm of scientific experimentation to reveal transparent refractive phenomena, but the requirement of large precise optics has kept them mostly out of reach of the public. New developments, including the ubiquity of smartphones with high-resolution digital cameras and the Background-Oriented Schlieren technique (BOS), which replaces the precise optics with digital image processing, have changed these circumstances. This paper demonstrates a number of different schlieren and shadowgraph setups and image examples based only on a smartphone, its software applications, and some inexpensive accessories. After beginning with a simple traditional schlieren system the emphasis is placed on what can be visualized and measured using BOS and digital slit-scan imaging on the smartphone. Thermal plumes, liquid mixing and glass are used as subjects of investigation. Not only recreational and experimental photography, but also serious scientific imaging can be done.

Digital output compensation for precise frequency transfer over commercial fiber link

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ci, Cheng; Wu, Hong; Tang, Ran; Liu, Bo; Chen, Xing; Zhang, Xue-song; Zhang, Yu; Zhao, Ying-xin

2018-03-01

An ultra-highly precise and long-term stable frequency transmission system over 120 km commercial fiber link has been proposed and experimentally demonstrated. This system is based on digital output compensation technique to suppress phase fluctuations during the frequency transmission process. A mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser driven by a hydrogen maser serves as an optical transmitter. Moreover, a dense wavelength division multiplexing system is able to separate forward and backward signals with reflection effect excluded. The ultimate fractional frequency instabilities for the long-distance frequency distributed system are up to 3.14×10-15 at 1 s and 2.96×10-19 at 10 000 s, respectively.

Harmonic arbitrary waveform generator

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

Roberts, Brock Franklin

2017-11-28

High frequency arbitrary waveforms have applications in radar, communications, medical imaging, therapy, electronic warfare, and charged particle acceleration and control. State of the art arbitrary waveform generators are limited in the frequency they can operate by the speed of the Digital to Analog converters that directly create their arbitrary waveforms. The architecture of the Harmonic Arbitrary Waveform Generator allows the phase and amplitude of the high frequency content of waveforms to be controlled without taxing the Digital to Analog converters that control them. The Harmonic Arbitrary Waveform Generator converts a high frequency input, into a precision, adjustable, high frequency arbitrarymore » waveform.« less

The Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica (REMA): A High Resolution, Time-Stamped Digital Elevation Model for the Antarctic Ice Sheet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Howat, I.; Noh, M. J.; Porter, C. C.; Smith, B. E.; Morin, P. J.

2017-12-01

We are creating the Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica (REMA), a continuous, high resolution (2-8 m), high precision (accuracy better than 1 m) reference surface for a wide range of glaciological and geodetic applications. REMA will be constructed from stereo-photogrammetric Digital Surface Models (DSM) extracted from pairs of submeter resolution DigitalGlobe satellite imagery and vertically registred to precise elevations from near-coincident airborne LiDAR, ground-based GPS surveys and Cryosat-2 radar altimetry. Both a seamless mosaic and individual, time-stamped DSM strips, collected primarily between 2012 and 2016, will be distributed to enable change measurement. These data will be used for mapping bed topography from ice thickness, measuring ice thickness changes, constraining ice flow and geodynamic models, mapping glacial geomorphology, terrain corrections and filtering of remote sensing observations, and many other science tasks. Is will also be critical for mapping ice traverse routes, landing sites and other field logistics planning. REMA will also provide a critical elevation benchmark for future satellite altimetry missions including ICESat-2. Here we report on REMA production progress, initial accuracy assessment and data availability.

The research and realization of digital management platform for ultra-precision optical elements within life-cycle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Juan; Wang, Jian; Li, Lijuan; Zhou, Kun

2014-08-01

In order to solve the information fusion, process integration, collaborative design and manufacturing for ultra-precision optical elements within life-cycle management, this paper presents a digital management platform which is based on product data and business processes by adopting the modern manufacturing technique, information technique and modern management technique. The architecture and system integration of the digital management platform are discussed in this paper. The digital management platform can realize information sharing and interaction for information-flow, control-flow and value-stream from user's needs to offline in life-cycle, and it can also enhance process control, collaborative research and service ability of ultra-precision optical elements.

Sampling system for wheat (Triticum aestivum L) area estimation using digital LANDSAT MSS data and aerial photographs. [Brazil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parada, N. D. J. (Principal Investigator); Moreira, M. A.; Chen, S. C.; Batista, G. T.

1984-01-01

A procedure to estimate wheat (Triticum aestivum L) area using sampling technique based on aerial photographs and digital LANDSAT MSS data is developed. Aerial photographs covering 720 square km are visually analyzed. To estimate wheat area, a regression approach is applied using different sample sizes and various sampling units. As the size of sampling unit decreased, the percentage of sampled area required to obtain similar estimation performance also decreased. The lowest percentage of the area sampled for wheat estimation with relatively high precision and accuracy through regression estimation is 13.90% using 10 square km as the sampling unit. Wheat area estimation using only aerial photographs is less precise and accurate than those obtained by regression estimation.

Implementation of a high precision multi-measurement time-to-digital convertor on a Kintex-7 FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuang, Jie; Wang, Yonggang; Cao, Qiang; Liu, Chong

2018-05-01

Time-to-digital convertors (TDCs) based on field programmable gate array (FPGA) are becoming more and more popular. Multi-measurement is an effective method to improve TDC precision beyond the cell delay limitation. However, the implementation of TDC with multi-measurement on FPGAs manufactured with 28 nm and more advanced process is facing new challenges. Benefiting from the ones-counter encoding scheme, which was developed in our previous work, we implement a ring oscillator multi-measurement TDC on a Xilinx Kintex-7 FPGA. Using the two TDC channels to measure time-intervals in the range (0 ns-30 ns), the average RMS precision can be improved to 5.76 ps, meanwhile the logic resource usage remains the same with the one-measurement TDC, and the TDC dead time is only 22 ns. The investigation demonstrates that the multi-measurement methods are still available for current main-stream FPGAs. Furthermore, the new implementation in this paper could make the trade-off among the time precision, resource usage and TDC dead time better than ever before.

High accuracy digital aging monitor based on PLL-VCO circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuejun, Zhang; Zhidi, Jiang; Pengjun, Wang; Xuelong, Zhang

2015-01-01

As the manufacturing process is scaled down to the nanoscale, the aging phenomenon significantly affects the reliability and lifetime of integrated circuits. Consequently, the precise measurement of digital CMOS aging is a key aspect of nanoscale aging tolerant circuit design. This paper proposes a high accuracy digital aging monitor using phase-locked loop and voltage-controlled oscillator (PLL-VCO) circuit. The proposed monitor eliminates the circuit self-aging effect for the characteristic of PLL, whose frequency has no relationship with circuit aging phenomenon. The PLL-VCO monitor is implemented in TSMC low power 65 nm CMOS technology, and its area occupies 303.28 × 298.94 μm2. After accelerating aging tests, the experimental results show that PLL-VCO monitor improves accuracy about high temperature by 2.4% and high voltage by 18.7%.

A high precision dual feedback discrete control system designed for satellite trajectory simulator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ximin; Liu, Liren; Sun, Jianfeng; Xu, Nan

2005-08-01

Cooperating with the free-space laser communication terminals, the satellite trajectory simulator is used to test the acquisition, pointing, tracking and communicating performances of the terminals. So the satellite trajectory simulator plays an important role in terminal ground test and verification. Using the double-prism, Sun etc in our group designed a satellite trajectory simulator. In this paper, a high precision dual feedback discrete control system designed for the simulator is given and a digital fabrication of the simulator is made correspondingly. In the dual feedback discrete control system, Proportional- Integral controller is used in velocity feedback loop and Proportional- Integral- Derivative controller is used in position feedback loop. In the controller design, simplex method is introduced and an improvement to the method is made. According to the transfer function of the control system in Z domain, the digital fabrication of the simulator is given when it is exposed to mechanism error and moment disturbance. Typically, when the mechanism error is 100urad, the residual standard error of pitching angle, azimuth angle, x-coordinate position and y-coordinate position are 0.49urad, 6.12urad, 4.56urad, 4.09urad respectively. When the moment disturbance is 0.1rad, the residual standard error of pitching angle, azimuth angle, x-coordinate position and y-coordinate position are 0.26urad, 0.22urad, 0.16urad, 0.15urad respectively. The digital fabrication results demonstrate that the dual feedback discrete control system designed for the simulator can achieve the anticipated high precision performance.

Development and Evaluation of Math Library Routines for a 1750A Airborne Microcomputer.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-12-04

Since each iteration doubles the number of correct significant digits in the square root, this assures an accuracy of 63.32 bits. (4: 23) The next...X, C1 + C2 represents In (C) to more than working precision This method gives extra digits of precision equivalent to the number of extra digits in...will not underflow for lxI K eps. Cody and Waite have suggested that eps = 2-t/2 where there are t base-2 digits in the significand. The next step

All-digital precision processing of ERTS images

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bernstein, R. (Principal Investigator)

1975-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Digital techniques have been developed and used to apply precision-grade radiometric and geometric corrections to ERTS MSS and RBV scenes. Geometric accuracies sufficient for mapping at 1:250,000 scale have been demonstrated. Radiometric quality has been superior to ERTS NDPF precision products. A configuration analysis has shown that feasible, cost-effective all-digital systems for correcting ERTS data are easily obtainable. This report contains a summary of all results obtained during this study and includes: (1) radiometric and geometric correction techniques, (2) reseau detection, (3) GCP location, (4) resampling, (5) alternative configuration evaluations, and (6) error analysis.

Terrain matching image pre-process and its format transform in autonomous underwater navigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Xuejun; Zhang, Feizhou; Yang, Dongkai; Yang, Bogang

2007-06-01

Underwater passive navigation technology is one of the important development orientations in the field of modern navigation. With the advantage of high self-determination, stealth at sea, anti-jamming and high precision, passive navigation is completely meet with actual navigation requirements. Therefore passive navigation has become a specific navigating method for underwater vehicles. The scientists and researchers in the navigating field paid more attention to it. The underwater passive navigation can provide accurate navigation information with main Inertial Navigation System (INS) for a long period, such as location and speed. Along with the development of micro-electronics technology, the navigation of AUV is given priority to INS assisted with other navigation methods, such as terrain matching navigation. It can provide navigation ability for a long period, correct the errors of INS and make AUV not emerge from the seabed termly. With terrain matching navigation technique, in the assistance of digital charts and ocean geographical characteristics sensors, we carry through underwater image matching assistant navigation to obtain the higher location precision, therefore it is content with the requirement of underwater, long-term, high precision and all-weather of the navigation system for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles. Tertian-assistant navigation (TAN) is directly dependent on the image information (map information) in the navigating field to assist the primary navigation system according to the path appointed in advance. In TAN, a factor coordinative important with the system operation is precision and practicability of the storable images and the database which produce the image data. If the data used for characteristics are not suitable, the system navigation precision will be low. Comparing with terrain matching assistant navigation system, image matching navigation system is a kind of high precision and low cost assistant navigation system, and its matching precision directly influences the final precision of integrated navigation system. Image matching assistant navigation is spatially matching and aiming at two underwater scenery images coming from two different sensors matriculating of the same scenery in order to confirm the relative displacement of the two images. In this way, we can obtain the vehicle's location in fiducial image known geographical relation, and the precise location information given from image matching location is transmitted to INS to eliminate its location error and greatly enhance the navigation precision of vehicle. Digital image data analysis and processing of image matching in underwater passive navigation is important. In regard to underwater geographic data analysis, we focus on the acquirement, disposal, analysis, expression and measurement of database information. These analysis items structure one of the important contents of underwater terrain matching and are propitious to know the seabed terrain configuration of navigation areas so that the best advantageous seabed terrain district and dependable navigation algorithm can be selected. In this way, we can improve the precision and reliability of terrain assistant navigation system. The pre-process and format transformation of digital image during underwater image matching are expatiated in this paper. The information of the terrain status in navigation areas need further study to provide the reliable data terrain characteristic and underwater overcast for navigation. Through realizing the choice of sea route, danger district prediction and navigating algorithm analysis, TAN can obtain more high location precision and probability, hence provide technological support for image matching of underwater passive navigation.

Digital sun sensor multi-spot operation.

PubMed

Rufino, Giancarlo; Grassi, Michele

2012-11-28

The operation and test of a multi-spot digital sun sensor for precise sun-line determination is described. The image forming system consists of an opaque mask with multiple pinhole apertures producing multiple, simultaneous, spot-like images of the sun on the focal plane. The sun-line precision can be improved by averaging multiple simultaneous measures. Nevertheless, the sensor operation on a wide field of view requires acquiring and processing images in which the number of sun spots and the related intensity level are largely variable. To this end, a reliable and robust image acquisition procedure based on a variable shutter time has been considered as well as a calibration function exploiting also the knowledge of the sun-spot array size. Main focus of the present paper is the experimental validation of the wide field of view operation of the sensor by using a sensor prototype and a laboratory test facility. Results demonstrate that it is possible to keep high measurement precision also for large off-boresight angles.

Hybrid Network Architectures for the Next Generation NAS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madubata, Christian

2003-01-01

To meet the needs of the 21st Century NAS, an integrated, network-centric infrastructure is essential that is characterized by secure, high bandwidth, digital communication systems that support precision navigation capable of reducing position errors for all aircraft to within a few meters. This system will also require precision surveillance systems capable of accurately locating all aircraft, and automatically detecting any deviations from an approved path within seconds and be able to deliver high resolution weather forecasts - critical to create 4- dimensional (space and time) profiles for up to 6 hours for all atmospheric conditions affecting aviation, including wake vortices. The 21st Century NAS will be characterized by highly accurate digital data bases depicting terrain, obstacle, and airport information no matter what visibility conditions exist. This research task will be to perform a high-level requirements analysis of the applications, information and services required by the next generation National Airspace System. The investigation and analysis is expected to lead to the development and design of several national network-centric communications architectures that would be capable of supporting the Next Generation NAS.

Astronomy Legacy Project - Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barker, Thurburn; Castelaz, Michael W.; Rottler, Lee; Cline, J. Donald

2016-01-01

Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI) is a not-for-profit public foundation in North Carolina dedicated to providing hands-on educational and research opportunities for a broad cross-section of users in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) disciplines. In November 2007 a Workshop on a National Plan for Preserving Astronomical Photographic Data (2009ASPC,410,33O, Osborn, W. & Robbins, L) was held at PARI. The result was the establishment of the Astronomical Photographic Data Archive (APDA) at PARI. In late 2013 PARI began ALP (Astronomy Legacy Project). ALP's purpose is to digitize an extensive set of twentieth century photographic astronomical data housed in APDA. Because of the wide range of types of plates, plate dimensions and emulsions found among the 40+ collections, plate digitization will require a versatile set of scanners and digitizing instruments. Internet crowdfunding was used to assist in the purchase of additional digitization equipment that were described at AstroPlate2014 Plate Preservation Workshop (www.astroplate.cz) held in Prague, CZ, March, 2014. Equipment purchased included an Epson Expression 11000XL scanner and two Nikon D800E cameras. These digital instruments will compliment a STScI GAMMA scanner now located in APDA. GAMMA will be adapted to use an electroluminescence light source and a digital camera with a telecentric lens to achieve high-speed high-resolution scanning. The 1μm precision XY stage of GAMMA will allow very precise positioning of the plate stage. Multiple overlapping CCD images of small sections of each plate, tiles, will be combined using a photo-mosaic process similar to one used in Harvard's DASCH project. Implementation of a software pipeline for the creation of a SQL database containing plate images and metadata will be based upon APPLAUSE as described by Tuvikene at AstroPlate2014 (www.astroplate.cz/programs/).

Is digital photography an accurate and precise method for measuring range of motion of the hip and knee?

PubMed

Russo, Russell R; Burn, Matthew B; Ismaily, Sabir K; Gerrie, Brayden J; Han, Shuyang; Alexander, Jerry; Lenherr, Christopher; Noble, Philip C; Harris, Joshua D; McCulloch, Patrick C

2017-09-07

Accurate measurements of knee and hip motion are required for management of musculoskeletal pathology. The purpose of this investigation was to compare three techniques for measuring motion at the hip and knee. The authors hypothesized that digital photography would be equivalent in accuracy and show higher precision compared to the other two techniques. Using infrared motion capture analysis as the reference standard, hip flexion/abduction/internal rotation/external rotation and knee flexion/extension were measured using visual estimation, goniometry, and photography on 10 fresh frozen cadavers. These measurements were performed by three physical therapists and three orthopaedic surgeons. Accuracy was defined by the difference from the reference standard, while precision was defined by the proportion of measurements within either 5° or 10°. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), t-tests, and chi-squared tests were used. Although two statistically significant differences were found in measurement accuracy between the three techniques, neither of these differences met clinical significance (difference of 1.4° for hip abduction and 1.7° for the knee extension). Precision of measurements was significantly higher for digital photography than: (i) visual estimation for hip abduction and knee extension, and (ii) goniometry for knee extension only. There was no clinically significant difference in measurement accuracy between the three techniques for hip and knee motion. Digital photography only showed higher precision for two joint motions (hip abduction and knee extension). Overall digital photography shows equivalent accuracy and near-equivalent precision to visual estimation and goniometry.

Configurable analog-digital conversion using the neural engineering framework

PubMed Central

Mayr, Christian G.; Partzsch, Johannes; Noack, Marko; Schüffny, Rene

2014-01-01

Efficient Analog-Digital Converters (ADC) are one of the mainstays of mixed-signal integrated circuit design. Besides the conventional ADCs used in mainstream ICs, there have been various attempts in the past to utilize neuromorphic networks to accomplish an efficient crossing between analog and digital domains, i.e., to build neurally inspired ADCs. Generally, these have suffered from the same problems as conventional ADCs, that is they require high-precision, handcrafted analog circuits and are thus not technology portable. In this paper, we present an ADC based on the Neural Engineering Framework (NEF). It carries out a large fraction of the overall ADC process in the digital domain, i.e., it is easily portable across technologies. The analog-digital conversion takes full advantage of the high degree of parallelism inherent in neuromorphic networks, making for a very scalable ADC. In addition, it has a number of features not commonly found in conventional ADCs, such as a runtime reconfigurability of the ADC sampling rate, resolution and transfer characteristic. PMID:25100933

WE-G-209-03: PET

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

Kemp, B.

2016-06-15

Digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR are complicated imaging modalities which are composed of many hardware and software components. These components work together in a highly coordinated chain of events with the intent to produce high quality images. Acquisition, processing and reconstruction of data must occur in a precise way for optimum image quality to be achieved. Any error or unexpected event in the entire process can produce unwanted pixel intensities in the final images which may contribute to visible image artifacts. The diagnostic imaging physicist is uniquely qualified to investigate and contribute to resolution of image artifacts. This coursemore » will teach the participant to identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR, to determine the causes of artifacts, and to make recommendations for how to resolve artifacts. Learning Objectives: Identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Determine causes of various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Describe how to resolve various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR.« less

WE-G-209-02: CT

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

Kofler, J.

2016-06-15

Digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR are complicated imaging modalities which are composed of many hardware and software components. These components work together in a highly coordinated chain of events with the intent to produce high quality images. Acquisition, processing and reconstruction of data must occur in a precise way for optimum image quality to be achieved. Any error or unexpected event in the entire process can produce unwanted pixel intensities in the final images which may contribute to visible image artifacts. The diagnostic imaging physicist is uniquely qualified to investigate and contribute to resolution of image artifacts. This coursemore » will teach the participant to identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR, to determine the causes of artifacts, and to make recommendations for how to resolve artifacts. Learning Objectives: Identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Determine causes of various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Describe how to resolve various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR.« less

WE-G-209-04: MRI

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

Pooley, R.

2016-06-15

Digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR are complicated imaging modalities which are composed of many hardware and software components. These components work together in a highly coordinated chain of events with the intent to produce high quality images. Acquisition, processing and reconstruction of data must occur in a precise way for optimum image quality to be achieved. Any error or unexpected event in the entire process can produce unwanted pixel intensities in the final images which may contribute to visible image artifacts. The diagnostic imaging physicist is uniquely qualified to investigate and contribute to resolution of image artifacts. This coursemore » will teach the participant to identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR, to determine the causes of artifacts, and to make recommendations for how to resolve artifacts. Learning Objectives: Identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Determine causes of various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Describe how to resolve various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR.« less

NCI and the Precision Medicine Initiative®

Cancer.gov

NCI's activities related to precision medicine focuses on new and expanded precision medicine clinical trials; mechanisms to overcome drug resistance to cancer treatments; and developing a shared digital repository of precision medicine trials data.

High Resolution UAV-based Passive Microwave L-band Imaging of Soil Moisture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gasiewski, A. J.; Stachura, M.; Elston, J.; McIntyre, E. M.

2013-12-01

Due to long electrical wavelengths and aperture size limitations the scaling of passive microwave remote sensing of soil moisture from spaceborne low-resolution applications to high resolution applications suitable for precision agriculture requires use of low flying aerial vehicles. This presentation summarizes a project to develop a commercial Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) hosting a precision microwave radiometer for mapping of soil moisture in high-value shallow root-zone crops. The project is based on the use of the Tempest electric-powered UAV and a compact digital L-band (1400-1427 MHz) passive microwave radiometer developed specifically for extremely small and lightweight aerial platforms or man-portable, tractor, or tower-based applications. Notable in this combination are a highly integrated UAV/radiometer antenna design and use of both the upwelling emitted signal from the surface and downwelling cold space signal for precise calibration using a lobe-correlating radiometer architecture. The system achieves a spatial resolution comparable to the altitude of the UAV above the ground while referencing upwelling measurements to the constant and well-known background temperature of cold space. The radiometer incorporates digital sampling and radio frequency interference mitigation along with infrared, near-infrared, and visible (red) sensors for surface temperature and vegetation biomass correction. This NASA-sponsored project is being developed both for commercial application in cropland water management, L-band satellite validation, and estuarian plume studies.

Design Method of Digital Optimal Control Scheme and Multiple Paralleled Bridge Type Current Amplifier for Generating Gradient Magnetic Fields in MRI Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Shuji; Takano, Hiroshi; Fukuda, Hiroya; Hiraki, Eiji; Nakaoka, Mutsuo

This paper deals with a digital control scheme of multiple paralleled high frequency switching current amplifier with four-quadrant chopper for generating gradient magnetic fields in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) systems. In order to track high precise current pattern in Gradient Coils (GC), the proposal current amplifier cancels the switching current ripples in GC with each other and designed optimum switching gate pulse patterns without influences of the large filter current ripple amplitude. The optimal control implementation and the linear control theory in GC current amplifiers have affinity to each other with excellent characteristics. The digital control system can be realized easily through the digital control implementation, DSPs or microprocessors. Multiple-parallel operational microprocessors realize two or higher paralleled GC current pattern tracking amplifier with optimal control design and excellent results are given for improving the image quality of MRI systems.

Integration of ground-based laser scanner and aerial digital photogrammetry for topographic modelling of Vesuvio volcano

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pesci, Arianna; Fabris, Massimo; Conforti, Dario; Loddo, Fabiana; Baldi, Paolo; Anzidei, Marco

2007-05-01

This work deals with the integration of different surveying methodologies for the definition of very accurate Digital Terrain Models (DTM) and/or Digital Surface Models (DSM): in particular, the aerial digital photogrammetry and the terrestrial laser scanning were used to survey the Vesuvio volcano, allowing the total coverage of the internal cone and surroundings (the whole surveyed area was about 3 km × 3 km). The possibility to reach a very high precision, especially from the laser scanner data set, allowed a detailed description of the morphology of the volcano. The comparisons of models obtained in repeated surveys allow a detailed map of residuals providing a data set that can be used for detailed studies of the morphological evolution. Moreover, the reflectivity information, highly correlated to materials properties, allows for the measurement and quantification of some morphological variations in areas where structural discontinuities and displacements are present.

Determination of the accuracy and operating constants in a digitally biased ring core magnetometer

USGS Publications Warehouse

Green, A.W.

1990-01-01

By using a very stable voltage reference and a high precision digital-to-analog converter to set bias in digital increments, the inherently high stability and accuracy of a ring core magnetometer can be significantly enhanced. In this case it becomes possible to measure not only variations about the bias level, but to measure the entire value of the field along each magnetometer sensing axis in a nearly absolute sense. To accomplish this, one must accurately determine the value of the digital bias increment for each axis, the zero field offset value for each axis, the scale values, and the transfer coefficients (or nonorthogonality angles) for pairs of axes. This determination can be carried out very simply, using only the Earth's field, a proton magnetometer, and a tripod-mounted fixture which is capable of rotations about two axes that are mutually perpendicular to the Earth's magnetic field vector. ?? 1990.

Analog synthetic biology.

PubMed

Sarpeshkar, R

2014-03-28

We analyse the pros and cons of analog versus digital computation in living cells. Our analysis is based on fundamental laws of noise in gene and protein expression, which set limits on the energy, time, space, molecular count and part-count resources needed to compute at a given level of precision. We conclude that analog computation is significantly more efficient in its use of resources than deterministic digital computation even at relatively high levels of precision in the cell. Based on this analysis, we conclude that synthetic biology must use analog, collective analog, probabilistic and hybrid analog-digital computational approaches; otherwise, even relatively simple synthetic computations in cells such as addition will exceed energy and molecular-count budgets. We present schematics for efficiently representing analog DNA-protein computation in cells. Analog electronic flow in subthreshold transistors and analog molecular flux in chemical reactions obey Boltzmann exponential laws of thermodynamics and are described by astoundingly similar logarithmic electrochemical potentials. Therefore, cytomorphic circuits can help to map circuit designs between electronic and biochemical domains. We review recent work that uses positive-feedback linearization circuits to architect wide-dynamic-range logarithmic analog computation in Escherichia coli using three transcription factors, nearly two orders of magnitude more efficient in parts than prior digital implementations.

Analog synthetic biology

PubMed Central

Sarpeshkar, R.

2014-01-01

We analyse the pros and cons of analog versus digital computation in living cells. Our analysis is based on fundamental laws of noise in gene and protein expression, which set limits on the energy, time, space, molecular count and part-count resources needed to compute at a given level of precision. We conclude that analog computation is significantly more efficient in its use of resources than deterministic digital computation even at relatively high levels of precision in the cell. Based on this analysis, we conclude that synthetic biology must use analog, collective analog, probabilistic and hybrid analog–digital computational approaches; otherwise, even relatively simple synthetic computations in cells such as addition will exceed energy and molecular-count budgets. We present schematics for efficiently representing analog DNA–protein computation in cells. Analog electronic flow in subthreshold transistors and analog molecular flux in chemical reactions obey Boltzmann exponential laws of thermodynamics and are described by astoundingly similar logarithmic electrochemical potentials. Therefore, cytomorphic circuits can help to map circuit designs between electronic and biochemical domains. We review recent work that uses positive-feedback linearization circuits to architect wide-dynamic-range logarithmic analog computation in Escherichia coli using three transcription factors, nearly two orders of magnitude more efficient in parts than prior digital implementations. PMID:24567476

Fast and robust control of nanopositioning systems: Performance limits enabled by field programmable analog arrays.

PubMed

Baranwal, Mayank; Gorugantu, Ram S; Salapaka, Srinivasa M

2015-08-01

This paper aims at control design and its implementation for robust high-bandwidth precision (nanoscale) positioning systems. Even though modern model-based control theoretic designs for robust broadband high-resolution positioning have enabled orders of magnitude improvement in performance over existing model independent designs, their scope is severely limited by the inefficacies of digital implementation of the control designs. High-order control laws that result from model-based designs typically have to be approximated with reduced-order systems to facilitate digital implementation. Digital systems, even those that have very high sampling frequencies, provide low effective control bandwidth when implementing high-order systems. In this context, field programmable analog arrays (FPAAs) provide a good alternative to the use of digital-logic based processors since they enable very high implementation speeds, moreover with cheaper resources. The superior flexibility of digital systems in terms of the implementable mathematical and logical functions does not give significant edge over FPAAs when implementing linear dynamic control laws. In this paper, we pose the control design objectives for positioning systems in different configurations as optimal control problems and demonstrate significant improvements in performance when the resulting control laws are applied using FPAAs as opposed to their digital counterparts. An improvement of over 200% in positioning bandwidth is achieved over an earlier digital signal processor (DSP) based implementation for the same system and same control design, even when for the DSP-based system, the sampling frequency is about 100 times the desired positioning bandwidth.

WE-G-209-01: Digital Radiography

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

Schueler, B.

Digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR are complicated imaging modalities which are composed of many hardware and software components. These components work together in a highly coordinated chain of events with the intent to produce high quality images. Acquisition, processing and reconstruction of data must occur in a precise way for optimum image quality to be achieved. Any error or unexpected event in the entire process can produce unwanted pixel intensities in the final images which may contribute to visible image artifacts. The diagnostic imaging physicist is uniquely qualified to investigate and contribute to resolution of image artifacts. This coursemore » will teach the participant to identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR, to determine the causes of artifacts, and to make recommendations for how to resolve artifacts. Learning Objectives: Identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Determine causes of various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Describe how to resolve various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR.« less

Achieving sub-millimetre precision with a solid-state full-field heterodyning range imaging camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorrington, A. A.; Cree, M. J.; Payne, A. D.; Conroy, R. M.; Carnegie, D. A.

2007-09-01

We have developed a full-field solid-state range imaging system capable of capturing range and intensity data simultaneously for every pixel in a scene with sub-millimetre range precision. The system is based on indirect time-of-flight measurements by heterodyning intensity-modulated illumination with a gain modulation intensified digital video camera. Sub-millimetre precision to beyond 5 m and 2 mm precision out to 12 m has been achieved. In this paper, we describe the new sub-millimetre class range imaging system in detail, and review the important aspects that have been instrumental in achieving high precision ranging. We also present the results of performance characterization experiments and a method of resolving the range ambiguity problem associated with homodyne and heterodyne ranging systems.

Video-rate or high-precision: a flexible range imaging camera

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorrington, Adrian A.; Cree, Michael J.; Carnegie, Dale A.; Payne, Andrew D.; Conroy, Richard M.; Godbaz, John P.; Jongenelen, Adrian P. P.

2008-02-01

A range imaging camera produces an output similar to a digital photograph, but every pixel in the image contains distance information as well as intensity. This is useful for measuring the shape, size and location of objects in a scene, hence is well suited to certain machine vision applications. Previously we demonstrated a heterodyne range imaging system operating in a relatively high resolution (512-by-512) pixels and high precision (0.4 mm best case) configuration, but with a slow measurement rate (one every 10 s). Although this high precision range imaging is useful for some applications, the low acquisition speed is limiting in many situations. The system's frame rate and length of acquisition is fully configurable in software, which means the measurement rate can be increased by compromising precision and image resolution. In this paper we demonstrate the flexibility of our range imaging system by showing examples of high precision ranging at slow acquisition speeds and video-rate ranging with reduced ranging precision and image resolution. We also show that the heterodyne approach and the use of more than four samples per beat cycle provides better linearity than the traditional homodyne quadrature detection approach. Finally, we comment on practical issues of frame rate and beat signal frequency selection.

Digital identification of cartographic control points

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaskell, R. W.

1988-01-01

Techniques have been developed for the sub-pixel location of control points in satellite images returned by the Voyager spacecraft. The procedure uses digital imaging data in the neighborhood of the point to form a multipicture model of a piece of the surface. Comparison of this model with the digital image in each picture determines the control point locations to about a tenth of a pixel. At this level of precision, previously insignificant effects must be considered, including chromatic aberration, high level imaging distortions, and systematic errors due to navigation uncertainties. Use of these methods in the study of Jupiter's satellite Io has proven very fruitful.

[Extraction of buildings three-dimensional information from high-resolution satellite imagery based on Barista software].

PubMed

Zhang, Pei-feng; Hu, Yuan-man; He, Hong-shi

2010-05-01

The demand for accurate and up-to-date spatial information of urban buildings is becoming more and more important for urban planning, environmental protection, and other vocations. Today's commercial high-resolution satellite imagery offers the potential to extract the three-dimensional information of urban buildings. This paper extracted the three-dimensional information of urban buildings from QuickBird imagery, and validated the precision of the extraction based on Barista software. It was shown that the extraction of three-dimensional information of the buildings from high-resolution satellite imagery based on Barista software had the advantages of low professional level demand, powerful universality, simple operation, and high precision. One pixel level of point positioning and height determination accuracy could be achieved if the digital elevation model (DEM) and sensor orientation model had higher precision and the off-Nadir View Angle was relatively perfect.

Valley Network Morphology and Topographic Gradients on Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aharonson, Oded; Zuber, Maria T.; Rothman, Daniel H.; Schorghofer, Norbert; Phillips, Roger J.; Williams, Rebecca M. E.

2001-01-01

Data returned from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter allows construction of a high precision digital elevation model. Quantitative investigations into the geomorphic properties of drainage features, similar to ones carried out on Earth, are now possible Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Adaptive array antenna for satellite cellular and direct broadcast communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horton, Charles R.; Abend, Kenneth

1993-01-01

Adaptive phased-array antennas provide cost-effective implementation of large, light weight apertures with high directivity and precise beamshape control. Adaptive self-calibration allows for relaxation of all mechanical tolerances across the aperture and electrical component tolerances, providing high performance with a low-cost, lightweight array, even in the presence of large physical distortions. Beam-shape is programmable and adaptable to changes in technical and operational requirements. Adaptive digital beam-forming eliminates uplink contention by allowing a single electronically steerable antenna to service a large number of receivers with beams which adaptively focus on one source while eliminating interference from others. A large, adaptively calibrated and fully programmable aperture can also provide precise beam shape control for power-efficient direct broadcast from space. Advanced adaptive digital beamforming technologies are described for: (1) electronic compensation of aperture distortion, (2) multiple receiver adaptive space-time processing, and (3) downlink beam-shape control. Cost considerations for space-based array applications are also discussed.

Clinical performance evaluation of total protein measurement by digital refractometry and characterization of non-protein solute interferences.

PubMed

Hunsaker, Joshua J H; Wyness, Sara P; Snow, Taylor M; Genzen, Jonathan R

2016-12-01

Refractometric methods to measure total protein (TP) in serum and plasma specimens have been replaced by automated biuret methods in virtually all routine clinical testing. A subset of laboratories, however, still report using refractometry to measure TP in conjunction with serum protein electrophoresis. The objective of this study was therefore to conduct a modern performance evaluation of a digital refractometer for TP measurement. Performance evaluation of a MISCO Palm Abbe™ digital refractometer was conducted through device familiarization, carryover, precision, accuracy, linearity, analytical sensitivity, analytical specificity, and reference interval verification. Comparison assays included a manual refractometer and an automated biuret assay. Carryover risk was eliminated using a demineralized distilled water (ddH 2 O) wash step. Precision studies demonstrated overall imprecision of 2.2% CV (low TP pool) and 0.5% CV (high TP pool). Accuracy studies demonstrated correlation to both manual refractometry and the biuret method. An overall positive bias (+5.0%) was observed versus the biuret method. On average, outlier specimens had an increased triglyceride concentration. Linearity was verified using mixed dilutions of: a) low and high concentration patient pools, or b) albumin-spiked ddH 2 O and high concentration patient pool. Decreased recovery was observed using ddH 2 O dilutions at low TP concentrations. Significant interference was detected at high concentrations of glucose (>267 mg/dL) and triglycerides (>580 mg/dL). Current laboratory reference intervals for TP were verified. Performance characteristics of this digital refractometer were validated in a clinical laboratory setting. Biuret method remains the preferred assay for TP measurement in routine clinical analyses.

Research on an optoelectronic measurement system of dynamic envelope measurement for China Railway high-speed train

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Ziyue; Gan, Xiaochuan; Zou, Zhi; Ma, Liqun

2018-01-01

The dynamic envelope measurement plays very important role in the external dimension design for high-speed train. Recently there is no digital measurement system to solve this problem. This paper develops an optoelectronic measurement system by using monocular digital camera, and presents the research of measurement theory, visual target design, calibration algorithm design, software programming and so on. This system consists of several CMOS digital cameras, several luminous targets for measuring, a scale bar, data processing software and a terminal computer. The system has such advantages as large measurement scale, high degree of automation, strong anti-interference ability, noise rejection and real-time measurement. In this paper, we resolve the key technology such as the transformation, storage and calculation of multiple cameras' high resolution digital image. The experimental data show that the repeatability of the system is within 0.02mm and the distance error of the system is within 0.12mm in the whole workspace. This experiment has verified the rationality of the system scheme, the correctness, the precision and effectiveness of the relevant methods.

Flight test experience with pilot-induced-oscillation suppressor filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shafer, M. F.; Smith, R. E.; Stewart, J. F.; Bailey, R. E.

1983-01-01

Digital flight control systems are popular for their flexibility, reliability, and power; however, their use sometimes results in deficient handling qualities, including pilot-induced oscillation (PIO), which can require extensive redesign of the control system. When redesign is not immediately possible, temporary solutions, such as the PIO suppression (PIOS) filter developed for the Space Shuttle, have been proposed. To determine the effectiveness of such PIOS filters on more conventional, high-performance aircraft, three experiments were performed using the NASA F-8 digital fly-by-wire and USAF/Calspan NT-33 variable-stability aircraft. Two types of PIOS filters were evaluated, using high-gain, precision tasks (close formation, probe-and-drogue refueling, and precision touch-and-go landing) with a time delay or a first-order lag added to make the aircraft prone to PIO. Various configurations of the PIOS filter were evaluated in the flight programs, and most of the PIOS filter configurations reduced the occurrence of PIOs and improved the handling qualities of the PIO-prone aircraft. These experiments also confirmed the influence of high-gain tasks and excessive control system time delay in evoking pilot-induced oscillations.

Flight test experience with pilot-induced-oscillation suppression filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shafer, M. F.; Smith, R. E.; Stewart, J. F.; Bailey, R. E.

1984-01-01

Digital flight control systems are popular for their flexibility, reliability, and power; however, their use sometimes results in deficient handling qualities, including pilot-induced oscillation (PIO), which can require extensive redesign of the control system. When redesign is not immediately possible, temporary solutions, such as the PIO suppression (PIOS) filter developed for the Space Shuttle, have been proposed. To determine the effectiveness of such PIOS filters on more conventional, high-performance aircraft, three experiments were performed using the NASA F-8 digital fly-by-wire and USAF/Calspan NT-33 variable-stability aircraft. Two types of PIOS filters were evaluated, using high-gain, precision tasks (close formation, probe-and-drogue refueling, and precision touch-and-go landing) with a time delay or a first-order lag added to make the aircraft prone to PIO. Various configurations of the PIOS filter were evaluated in the flight programs, and most of the PIOS filter configurations reduced the occurrence of PIOs and improved the handling qualities of the PIO-prone aircraft. These experiments also confirmed the influence of high-gain tasks and excessive control system time delay in evoking pilot-induced oscillations.

Independent digit movements and precision grip patterns in 1-5-month-old human infants: hand-babbling, including vacuous then self-directed hand and digit movements, precedes targeted reaching.

PubMed

Wallace, Patricia S; Whishaw, Ian Q

2003-01-01

Previous work has described human reflexive grasp patterns in early infancy and visually guided reaching and grasping in late infancy. There has been no examination of hand movements in the intervening period. This was the purpose of the present study. We video recorded the spontaneous hand and digit movements made by alert infants over their first 5 months of age. Over this period, spontaneous hand and digit movements developed from fists to almost continuous, vacuous movements and then to self-directed grasping movements. Amongst the many hand and digit movements observed, four grasping patterns emerged during this period: fists, pre-precision grips associated with numerous digit postures, precision grips including the pincer grasp, and self-directed grasps. The finding that a wide range of independent digit movements and grasp patterns are displayed spontaneously by infants within their first 5 months of age is discussed in relation to the development of the motor system, including the suggestion that direct connections of the pyramidal tract are functional relatively early in infancy. It is also suggested that hand babbling, consisting of first vacuous and then self-directed movements, is preparatory to targeted reaching.

Design and Implementation of Hybrid CORDIC Algorithm Based on Phase Rotation Estimation for NCO

PubMed Central

Zhang, Chaozhu; Han, Jinan; Li, Ke

2014-01-01

The numerical controlled oscillator has wide application in radar, digital receiver, and software radio system. Firstly, this paper introduces the traditional CORDIC algorithm. Then in order to improve computing speed and save resources, this paper proposes a kind of hybrid CORDIC algorithm based on phase rotation estimation applied in numerical controlled oscillator (NCO). Through estimating the direction of part phase rotation, the algorithm reduces part phase rotation and add-subtract unit, so that it decreases delay. Furthermore, the paper simulates and implements the numerical controlled oscillator by Quartus II software and Modelsim software. Finally, simulation results indicate that the improvement over traditional CORDIC algorithm is achieved in terms of ease of computation, resource utilization, and computing speed/delay while maintaining the precision. It is suitable for high speed and precision digital modulation and demodulation. PMID:25110750

Digital holographic interferometry for characterizing deformable mirrors in aero-optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trolinger, James D.; Hess, Cecil F.; Razavi, Payam; Furlong, Cosme

2016-08-01

Measuring and understanding the transient behavior of a surface with high spatial and temporal resolution are required in many areas of science. This paper describes the development and application of a high-speed, high-dynamic range, digital holographic interferometer for high-speed surface contouring with fractional wavelength precision and high-spatial resolution. The specific application under investigation here is to characterize deformable mirrors (DM) employed in aero-optics. The developed instrument was shown capable of contouring a deformable mirror with extremely high-resolution at frequencies exceeding 40 kHz. We demonstrated two different procedures for characterizing the mechanical response of a surface to a wide variety of input forces, one that employs a high-speed digital camera and a second that employs a low-speed, low-cost digital camera. The latter is achieved by cycling the DM actuators with a step input, producing a transient that typically lasts up to a millisecond before reaching equilibrium. Recordings are made at increasing times after the DM initiation from zero to equilibrium to analyze the transient. Because the wave functions are stored and reconstructable, they can be compared with each other to produce contours including absolute, difference, and velocity. High-speed digital cameras recorded the wave functions during a single transient at rates exceeding 40 kHz. We concluded that either method is fully capable of characterizing a typical DM to the extent required by aero-optical engineers.

A Comparative Study of the Precision of Carstens and Northern Digital Instruments Electromagnetic Articulographs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Savariaux, Christophe; Badin, Pierre; Samson, Adeline; Gerber, Silvain

2017-01-01

Purpose: This study compares the precision of the electromagnetic articulographs used in speech research: Northern Digital Instruments' Wave and Carstens' AG200, AG500, and AG501 systems. Method: The fluctuation of distances between 3 pairs of sensors attached to a manually rotated device that can position them inside the measurement volumes was…

Metrological-grade tunable coherent source in the mid-infrared for molecular precision spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Insero, G.; Clivati, C.; D'Ambrosio, D.; Cancio Pastor, P.; Verde, M.; Schunemann, P. G.; Zondy, J.-J.; Inguscio, M.; Calonico, D.; Levi, F.; De Natale, P.; Santambrogio, G.; Borri, S.

2018-02-01

We report on a metrological-grade mid-IR source with a 10-14 short-term instability for high-precision spectroscopy. Our source is based on the combination of a quantum cascade laser and a coherent radiation obtained by difference-frequency generation in an orientation-patterned gallium phosphide (OP-GaP) crystal. The pump and signal lasers are locked to an optical frequency comb referenced to the primary frequency standard via an optical fiber link. We demonstrate the robustness of the apparatus by measuring a vibrational transition around 6 μm on a metastable state of CO molecuels with 11 digits of precision.

Research on application of photoelectric rotary encoder in space optical remote sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Jun; Qi, Shao-fan; Wang, Yuan-yuan; Zhang, Zhan-dong

2016-11-01

For space optical remote sensor, especially wide swath detecting sensor, the focusing control system for the focal plane should be well designed to obtain the best image quality. The crucial part of this system is the measuring instrument. For previous implements, the potentiometer, which is essentially a voltage divider, is usually introduced to conduct the position in feedback closed-loop control process system. However, the performances of both electro-mechanical and digital potentiometers is limited in accuracy, temperature coefficients, and scale range. To have a better performance of focal plane moving detection, this article presents a new measuring implement with photoelectric rotary encoder, which consists of the photoelectric conversion system and the signal process system. In this novel focusing control system, the photoelectric conversion system is fixed on main axis, which can transform the angle information into a certain analog signal. Through the signal process system, after analog-to-digital converting and data format processing of the certain analog signal, the focusing control system can receive the digital precision angle position which can be used to deduct the current moving position of the focal plane. For utilization of space optical remote sensor in aerospace areas, the reliability design of photoelectric rotary encoder system should be considered with highest priority. As mentioned above, this photoelectric digital precision angle measurement device is well designed for this real-time control and dynamic measurement system, because its characters of high resolution, high accuracy, long endurance, and easy to maintain.

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.

Phasemeter core for intersatellite laser heterodyne interferometry: modelling, simulations and experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerberding, Oliver; Sheard, Benjamin; Bykov, Iouri; Kullmann, Joachim; Esteban Delgado, Juan Jose; Danzmann, Karsten; Heinzel, Gerhard

2013-12-01

Intersatellite laser interferometry is a central component of future space-borne gravity instruments like Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), evolved LISA, NGO and future geodesy missions. The inherently small laser wavelength allows us to measure distance variations with extremely high precision by interfering a reference beam with a measurement beam. The readout of such interferometers is often based on tracking phasemeters, which are able to measure the phase of an incoming beatnote with high precision over a wide range of frequencies. The implementation of such phasemeters is based on all digital phase-locked loops (ADPLL), hosted in FPGAs. Here, we present a precise model of an ADPLL that allows us to design such a readout algorithm and we support our analysis by numerical performance measurements and experiments with analogue signals.

Development of Youth Digital Citizenship Scale and Implication for Educational Setting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Minjeong; Choi, Dongyeon

2018-01-01

Digital citizens need comprehensive knowledge and technological accessibility to the internet and digital world and teachers have a responsibility to lead them to become digital citizens. However, existing Digital Citizenship Scales contain too broad ranges and do not precisely focus on the target students, so teachers do not have clear criteria…

Implementing Audio Digital Feedback Loop Using the National Instruments RIO System

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

Huang, G.; Byrd, J. M.

2006-11-20

Development of system for high precision RF distribution and laser synchronization at Berkeley Lab has been ongoing for several years. Successful operation of these systems requires multiple audio bandwidth feedback loops running at relatively high gains. Stable operation of the feedback loops requires careful design of the feedback transfer function. To allow for flexible and compact implementation, we have developed digital feedback loops on the National Instruments Reconfigurable Input/Output (RIO) platform. This platform uses an FPGA and multiple I/Os that can provide eight parallel channels running different filters. We present the design and preliminary experimental results of this system.

A 3.9 ps Time-Interval RMS Precision Time-to-Digital Converter Using a Dual-Sampling Method in an UltraScale FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yonggang; Liu, Chong

2016-10-01

Field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) manufactured with more advanced processing technology have faster carry chains and smaller delay elements, which are favorable for the design of tapped delay line (TDL)-style time-to-digital converters (TDCs) in FPGA. However, new challenges are posed in using them to implement TDCs with a high time precision. In this paper, we propose a bin realignment method and a dual-sampling method for TDC implementation in a Xilinx UltraScale FPGA. The former realigns the disordered time delay taps so that the TDC precision can approach the limit of its delay granularity, while the latter doubles the number of taps in the delay line so that the TDC precision beyond the cell delay limitation can be expected. Two TDC channels were implemented in a Kintex UltraScale FPGA, and the effectiveness of the new methods was evaluated. For fixed time intervals in the range from 0 to 440 ns, the average RMS precision measured by the two TDC channels reaches 5.8 ps using the bin realignment, and it further improves to 3.9 ps by using the dual-sampling method. The time precision has a 5.6% variation in the measured temperature range. Every part of the TDC, including dual-sampling, encoding, and on-line calibration, could run at a 500 MHz clock frequency. The system measurement dead time is only 4 ns.

A Double Perturbation Method for Reducing Dynamical Degradation of the Digital Baker Map

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lingfeng; Lin, Jun; Miao, Suoxia; Liu, Bocheng

2017-06-01

The digital Baker map is widely used in different kinds of cryptosystems, especially for image encryption. However, any chaotic map which is realized on the finite precision device (e.g. computer) will suffer from dynamical degradation, which refers to short cycle lengths, low complexity and strong correlations. In this paper, a novel double perturbation method is proposed for reducing the dynamical degradation of the digital Baker map. Both state variables and system parameters are perturbed by the digital logistic map. Numerical experiments show that the perturbed Baker map can achieve good statistical and cryptographic properties. Furthermore, a new image encryption algorithm is provided as a simple application. With a rather simple algorithm, the encrypted image can achieve high security, which is competitive to the recently proposed image encryption algorithms.

Existing methods for improving the accuracy of digital-to-analog converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eielsen, Arnfinn A.; Fleming, Andrew J.

2017-09-01

The performance of digital-to-analog converters is principally limited by errors in the output voltage levels. Such errors are known as element mismatch and are quantified by the integral non-linearity. Element mismatch limits the achievable accuracy and resolution in high-precision applications as it causes gain and offset errors, as well as harmonic distortion. In this article, five existing methods for mitigating the effects of element mismatch are compared: physical level calibration, dynamic element matching, noise-shaping with digital calibration, large periodic high-frequency dithering, and large stochastic high-pass dithering. These methods are suitable for improving accuracy when using digital-to-analog converters that use multiple discrete output levels to reconstruct time-varying signals. The methods improve linearity and therefore reduce harmonic distortion and can be retrofitted to existing systems with minor hardware variations. The performance of each method is compared theoretically and confirmed by simulations and experiments. Experimental results demonstrate that three of the five methods provide significant improvements in the resolution and accuracy when applied to a general-purpose digital-to-analog converter. As such, these methods can directly improve performance in a wide range of applications including nanopositioning, metrology, and optics.

A robust internal control for high-precision DNA methylation analyses by droplet digital PCR.

PubMed

Pharo, Heidi D; Andresen, Kim; Berg, Kaja C G; Lothe, Ragnhild A; Jeanmougin, Marine; Lind, Guro E

2018-01-01

Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) allows absolute quantification of nucleic acids and has potential for improved non-invasive detection of DNA methylation. For increased precision of the methylation analysis, we aimed to develop a robust internal control for use in methylation-specific ddPCR. Two control design approaches were tested: (a) targeting a genomic region shared across members of a gene family and (b) combining multiple assays targeting different pericentromeric loci on different chromosomes. Through analyses of 34 colorectal cancer cell lines, the performance of the control assay candidates was optimized and evaluated, both individually and in various combinations, using the QX200™ droplet digital PCR platform (Bio-Rad). The best-performing control was tested in combination with assays targeting methylated CDO1 , SEPT9 , and VIM . A 4Plex panel consisting of EPHA3 , KBTBD4 , PLEKHF1 , and SYT10 was identified as the best-performing control. The use of the 4Plex for normalization reduced the variability in methylation values, corrected for differences in template amount, and diminished the effect of chromosomal aberrations. Positive Droplet Calling (PoDCall), an R-based algorithm for standardized threshold determination, was developed, ensuring consistency of the ddPCR results. Implementation of a robust internal control, i.e., the 4Plex, and an algorithm for automated threshold determination, PoDCall, in methylation-specific ddPCR increase the precision of DNA methylation analysis.

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.

WE-G-209-00: Identifying Image Artifacts, Their Causes, and How to Fix Them

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

NONE

Digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR are complicated imaging modalities which are composed of many hardware and software components. These components work together in a highly coordinated chain of events with the intent to produce high quality images. Acquisition, processing and reconstruction of data must occur in a precise way for optimum image quality to be achieved. Any error or unexpected event in the entire process can produce unwanted pixel intensities in the final images which may contribute to visible image artifacts. The diagnostic imaging physicist is uniquely qualified to investigate and contribute to resolution of image artifacts. This coursemore » will teach the participant to identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET, and MR, to determine the causes of artifacts, and to make recommendations for how to resolve artifacts. Learning Objectives: Identify common artifacts found clinically in digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Determine causes of various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR. Describe how to resolve various clinical artifacts from digital radiography, CT, PET and MR.« less

High-speed high-accuracy three-dimensional shape measurement using digital binary defocusing method versus sinusoidal method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hyun, Jae-Sang; Li, Beiwen; Zhang, Song

2017-07-01

This paper presents our research findings on high-speed high-accuracy three-dimensional shape measurement using digital light processing (DLP) technologies. In particular, we compare two different sinusoidal fringe generation techniques using the DLP projection devices: direct projection of computer-generated 8-bit sinusoidal patterns (a.k.a., the sinusoidal method), and the creation of sinusoidal patterns by defocusing binary patterns (a.k.a., the binary defocusing method). This paper mainly examines their performance on high-accuracy measurement applications under precisely controlled settings. Two different projection systems were tested in this study: a commercially available inexpensive projector and the DLP development kit. Experimental results demonstrated that the binary defocusing method always outperforms the sinusoidal method if a sufficient number of phase-shifted fringe patterns can be used.

Development of a real-time, high-frequency ultrasound digital beamformer for high-frequency linear array transducers.

PubMed

Hu, Chang-Hong; Xu, Xiao-Chen; Cannata, Jonathan M; Yen, Jesse T; Shung, K Kirk

2006-02-01

A real-time digital beamformer for high-frequency (>20 MHz) linear ultrasonic arrays has been developed. The system can handle up to 64-element linear array transducers and excite 16 channels and receive simultaneously at 100 MHz sampling frequency with 8-bit precision. Radio frequency (RF) signals are digitized, delayed, and summed through a real-time digital beamformer, which is implemented using a field programmable gate array (FPGA). Using fractional delay filters, fine delays as small as 2 ns can be implemented. A frame rate of 30 frames per second is achieved. Wire phantom (20 microm tungsten) images were obtained and -6 dB axial and lateral widths were measured. The results showed that, using a 30 MHz, 48-element array with a pitch of 100 microm produced a -6 dB width of 68 microm in the axial and 370 microm in the lateral direction at 6.4 mm range. Images from an excised rabbit eye sample also were acquired, and fine anatomical structures, such as the cornea and lens, were resolved.

Quantifying Human Visible Color Variation from High Definition Digital Images of Orb Web Spiders.

PubMed

Tapia-McClung, Horacio; Ajuria Ibarra, Helena; Rao, Dinesh

2016-01-01

Digital processing and analysis of high resolution images of 30 individuals of the orb web spider Verrucosa arenata were performed to extract and quantify human visible colors present on the dorsal abdomen of this species. Color extraction was performed with minimal user intervention using an unsupervised algorithm to determine groups of colors on each individual spider, which was then analyzed in order to quantify and classify the colors obtained, both spatially and using energy and entropy measures of the digital images. Analysis shows that the colors cover a small region of the visible spectrum, are not spatially homogeneously distributed over the patterns and from an entropic point of view, colors that cover a smaller region on the whole pattern carry more information than colors covering a larger region. This study demonstrates the use of processing tools to create automatic systems to extract valuable information from digital images that are precise, efficient and helpful for the understanding of the underlying biology.

Quantifying Human Visible Color Variation from High Definition Digital Images of Orb Web Spiders

PubMed Central

Ajuria Ibarra, Helena; Rao, Dinesh

2016-01-01

Digital processing and analysis of high resolution images of 30 individuals of the orb web spider Verrucosa arenata were performed to extract and quantify human visible colors present on the dorsal abdomen of this species. Color extraction was performed with minimal user intervention using an unsupervised algorithm to determine groups of colors on each individual spider, which was then analyzed in order to quantify and classify the colors obtained, both spatially and using energy and entropy measures of the digital images. Analysis shows that the colors cover a small region of the visible spectrum, are not spatially homogeneously distributed over the patterns and from an entropic point of view, colors that cover a smaller region on the whole pattern carry more information than colors covering a larger region. This study demonstrates the use of processing tools to create automatic systems to extract valuable information from digital images that are precise, efficient and helpful for the understanding of the underlying biology. PMID:27902724

Cosmic ray measurements with LOPES: Status and recent results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schröder, F. G.; Apel, W. D.; Arteaga-Velázquez, J. C.; Bähren, L.; Bekk, K.; Bertaina, M.; Biermann, P. L.; Blümer, J.; Bozdog, H.; Brancus, I. M.; Chiavassa, A.; Daumiller, K.; de Souza, V.; Di Pierro, F.; Doll, P.; Engel, R.; Falcke, H.; Fuchs, B.; Fuhrmann, D.; Gemmeke, H.; Grupen, C.; Haungs, A.; Heck, D.; Hörandel, J. R.; Horneffer, A.; Huber, D.; Huege, T.; Isar, P. G.; Kampert, K.-H.; Kang, D.; Krömer, O.; Kuijpers, J.; Link, K.; Łuczak, P.; Ludwig, M.; Mathes, H. J.; Melissas, M.; Morello, C.; Oehlschläger, J.; Palmieri, N.; Pierog, T.; Rautenberg, J.; Rebel, H.; Roth, M.; Rühle, C.; Saftoiu, A.; Schieler, H.; Schmidt, A.; Sima, O.; Toma, G.; Trinchero, G. C.; Weindl, A.; Wochele, J.; Zabierowski, J.; Zensus, J. A.

2013-05-01

LOPES is a digital antenna array at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany, for cosmic-ray air-shower measurements. Triggered by the co-located KASCADE-Grande air-shower array, LOPES detects the radio emission of air showers via digital radio interferometry. We summarize the status of LOPES and recent results. In particular, we present an update on the reconstruction of the primary-particle properties based on almost 500 events above 100PeV. With LOPES, the arrival direction can be reconstructed with a precision of at least 0.65°, and the energy with a precision of at least 20%, which, however, does not include systematic uncertainties on the absolute energy scale. For many particle and astrophysics questions the reconstruction of the atmospheric depth of the shower maximum, Xmax, is important, since it yields information on the type of the primary particle and its interaction with the atmosphere. Recently, we found experimental evidence that the slope of the radio lateral distribution is indeed sensitive to the longitudinal development of the air shower, but unfortunately, the Xmax precision at LOPES is limited by the high level of anthropogenic radio background. Nevertheless, the developed methods can be transferred to next generation experiments with lower background, which should provide an Xmax precision competitive to other detection technologies.

The fault-tree compiler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martensen, Anna L.; Butler, Ricky W.

1987-01-01

The Fault Tree Compiler Program is a new reliability tool used to predict the top event probability for a fault tree. Five different gate types are allowed in the fault tree: AND, OR, EXCLUSIVE OR, INVERT, and M OF N gates. The high level input language is easy to understand and use when describing the system tree. In addition, the use of the hierarchical fault tree capability can simplify the tree description and decrease program execution time. The current solution technique provides an answer precise (within the limits of double precision floating point arithmetic) to the five digits in the answer. The user may vary one failure rate or failure probability over a range of values and plot the results for sensitivity analyses. The solution technique is implemented in FORTRAN; the remaining program code is implemented in Pascal. The program is written to run on a Digital Corporation VAX with the VMS operation system.

Simulation of proportional control of hydraulic actuator using digital hydraulic valves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raghuraman, D. R. S.; Senthil Kumar, S.; Kalaiarasan, G.

2017-11-01

Fluid power systems using oil hydraulics in earth moving and construction equipment have been using proportional and servo control valves for a long time to achieve precise and accurate position control backed by system performance. Such valves are having feedback control in them and exhibit good response, sensitivity and fine control of the actuators. Servo valves and proportional valves are possessing less hysteresis when compared to on-off type valves, but when the servo valve spools get stuck in one position, a high frequency called as jitter is employed to bring the spool back, whereas in on-off type valves it requires lesser technology to retract the spool. Hence on-off type valves are used in a technology known as digital valve technology, which caters to precise control on slow moving loads with fast switching times and with good flow and pressure control mimicking the performance of an equivalent “proportional valve” or “servo valve”.

Digital detection of endonuclease mediated gene disruption in the HIV provirus

PubMed Central

Sedlak, Ruth Hall; Liang, Shu; Niyonzima, Nixon; De Silva Feelixge, Harshana S.; Roychoudhury, Pavitra; Greninger, Alexander L.; Weber, Nicholas D.; Boissel, Sandrine; Scharenberg, Andrew M.; Cheng, Anqi; Magaret, Amalia; Bumgarner, Roger; Stone, Daniel; Jerome, Keith R.

2016-01-01

Genome editing by designer nucleases is a rapidly evolving technology utilized in a highly diverse set of research fields. Among all fields, the T7 endonuclease mismatch cleavage assay, or Surveyor assay, is the most commonly used tool to assess genomic editing by designer nucleases. This assay, while relatively easy to perform, provides only a semi-quantitative measure of mutation efficiency that lacks sensitivity and accuracy. We demonstrate a simple droplet digital PCR assay that quickly quantitates a range of indel mutations with detection as low as 0.02% mutant in a wild type background and precision (≤6%CV) and accuracy superior to either mismatch cleavage assay or clonal sequencing when compared to next-generation sequencing. The precision and simplicity of this assay will facilitate comparison of gene editing approaches and their optimization, accelerating progress in this rapidly-moving field. PMID:26829887

The Fault Tree Compiler (FTC): Program and mathematics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Butler, Ricky W.; Martensen, Anna L.

1989-01-01

The Fault Tree Compiler Program is a new reliability tool used to predict the top-event probability for a fault tree. Five different gate types are allowed in the fault tree: AND, OR, EXCLUSIVE OR, INVERT, AND m OF n gates. The high-level input language is easy to understand and use when describing the system tree. In addition, the use of the hierarchical fault tree capability can simplify the tree description and decrease program execution time. The current solution technique provides an answer precisely (within the limits of double precision floating point arithmetic) within a user specified number of digits accuracy. The user may vary one failure rate or failure probability over a range of values and plot the results for sensitivity analyses. The solution technique is implemented in FORTRAN; the remaining program code is implemented in Pascal. The program is written to run on a Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) VAX computer with the VMS operation system.

Automated and model-based assembly of an anamorphic telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holters, Martin; Dirks, Sebastian; Stollenwerk, Jochen; Loosen, Peter

2018-02-01

Since the first usage of optical glasses there has been an increasing demand for optical systems which are highly customized for a wide field of applications. To meet the challenge of the production of so many unique systems, the development of new techniques and approaches has risen in importance. However, the assembly of precision optical systems with lot sizes of one up to a few tens of systems is still dominated by manual labor. In contrast, highly adaptive and model-based approaches may offer a solution for manufacturing with a high degree of automation and high throughput while maintaining high precision. In this work a model-based automated assembly approach based on ray-tracing is presented. This process runs autonomously, and accounts for a wide range of functionality. It firstly identifies the sequence for an optimized assembly and secondly, generates and matches intermediate figures of merit to predict the overall optical functionality of the optical system. This process also takes into account the generation of a digital twin of the optical system, by mapping key-performance-indicators like the first and the second momentum of intensity into the optical model. This approach is verified by the automatic assembly of an anamorphic telescope within an assembly cell. By continuous measuring and mapping the key-performance-indicators into the optical model, the quality of the digital twin is determined. Moreover, by measuring the optical quality and geometrical parameters of the telescope, the precision of this approach is determined. Finally, the productivity of the process is evaluated by monitoring the speed of the different steps of the process.

Moving from Digitalization to Digitization in Cardiovascular Care: Why is it Important and What Can it Mean for Patients and Providers?

PubMed Central

Steinhubl, Steven R.; Topol, Eric J.

2015-01-01

So far, the digitization of health care is best exemplified by electronic medical records, which have been far from favorably or uniformly accepted. However, properly implemented digitization can enable better patient outcomes, improve convenience, potentially lower health care costs, and possibly lead to much greater physician satisfaction. Precision (also known as personalized or individualized) medicine is frequently discussed today, but, in reality, it is what physicians have attempted to do as best they could for millennia. But now we have new tools that can begin to give us a much more high-definition view of our patients; from affordable and rapid genetic testing to wearable sensors that track a wide range of important physiologic parameters continuously. Although seemingly counterintuitive, the digitization of health care can also markedly improve the physician-patient relationship, allowing more time for human interaction when care is bolstered by digital technologies that better individualize diagnostics and treatments. PMID:26403346

Digital pathology imaging as a novel platform for standardization and globalization of quantitative nephropathology

PubMed Central

Gimpel, Charlotte; Kain, Renate; Laurinavicius, Arvydas; Bueno, Gloria; Zeng, Caihong; Liu, Zhihong; Schaefer, Franz; Kretzler, Matthias; Holzman, Lawrence B.; Hewitt, Stephen M.

2017-01-01

Abstract The introduction of digital pathology to nephrology provides a platform for the development of new methodologies and protocols for visual, morphometric and computer-aided assessment of renal biopsies. Application of digital imaging to pathology made substantial progress over the past decade; it is now in use for education, clinical trials and translational research. Digital pathology evolved as a valuable tool to generate comprehensive structural information in digital form, a key prerequisite for achieving precision pathology for computational biology. The application of this new technology on an international scale is driving novel methods for collaborations, providing unique opportunities but also challenges. Standardization of methods needs to be rigorously evaluated and applied at each step, from specimen processing to scanning, uploading into digital repositories, morphologic, morphometric and computer-aided assessment, data collection and analysis. In this review, we discuss the status and opportunities created by the application of digital imaging to precision nephropathology, and present a vision for the near future. PMID:28584625

Digital pathology imaging as a novel platform for standardization and globalization of quantitative nephropathology.

PubMed

Barisoni, Laura; Gimpel, Charlotte; Kain, Renate; Laurinavicius, Arvydas; Bueno, Gloria; Zeng, Caihong; Liu, Zhihong; Schaefer, Franz; Kretzler, Matthias; Holzman, Lawrence B; Hewitt, Stephen M

2017-04-01

The introduction of digital pathology to nephrology provides a platform for the development of new methodologies and protocols for visual, morphometric and computer-aided assessment of renal biopsies. Application of digital imaging to pathology made substantial progress over the past decade; it is now in use for education, clinical trials and translational research. Digital pathology evolved as a valuable tool to generate comprehensive structural information in digital form, a key prerequisite for achieving precision pathology for computational biology. The application of this new technology on an international scale is driving novel methods for collaborations, providing unique opportunities but also challenges. Standardization of methods needs to be rigorously evaluated and applied at each step, from specimen processing to scanning, uploading into digital repositories, morphologic, morphometric and computer-aided assessment, data collection and analysis. In this review, we discuss the status and opportunities created by the application of digital imaging to precision nephropathology, and present a vision for the near future.

US National Large-scale City Orthoimage Standard Initiative

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zhou, G.; Song, C.; Benjamin, S.; Schickler, W.

2003-01-01

The early procedures and algorithms for National digital orthophoto generation in National Digital Orthophoto Program (NDOP) were based on earlier USGS mapping operations, such as field control, aerotriangulation (derived in the early 1920's), the quarter-quadrangle-centered (3.75 minutes of longitude and latitude in geographic extent), 1:40,000 aerial photographs, and 2.5 D digital elevation models. However, large-scale city orthophotos using early procedures have disclosed many shortcomings, e.g., ghost image, occlusion, shadow. Thus, to provide the technical base (algorithms, procedure) and experience needed for city large-scale digital orthophoto creation is essential for the near future national large-scale digital orthophoto deployment and the revision of the Standards for National Large-scale City Digital Orthophoto in National Digital Orthophoto Program (NDOP). This paper will report our initial research results as follows: (1) High-precision 3D city DSM generation through LIDAR data processing, (2) Spatial objects/features extraction through surface material information and high-accuracy 3D DSM data, (3) 3D city model development, (4) Algorithm development for generation of DTM-based orthophoto, and DBM-based orthophoto, (5) True orthophoto generation by merging DBM-based orthophoto and DTM-based orthophoto, and (6) Automatic mosaic by optimizing and combining imagery from many perspectives.

Scalable hybrid computation with spikes.

PubMed

Sarpeshkar, Rahul; O'Halloran, Micah

2002-09-01

We outline a hybrid analog-digital scheme for computing with three important features that enable it to scale to systems of large complexity: First, like digital computation, which uses several one-bit precise logical units to collectively compute a precise answer to a computation, the hybrid scheme uses several moderate-precision analog units to collectively compute a precise answer to a computation. Second, frequent discrete signal restoration of the analog information prevents analog noise and offset from degrading the computation. And, third, a state machine enables complex computations to be created using a sequence of elementary computations. A natural choice for implementing this hybrid scheme is one based on spikes because spike-count codes are digital, while spike-time codes are analog. We illustrate how spikes afford easy ways to implement all three components of scalable hybrid computation. First, as an important example of distributed analog computation, we show how spikes can create a distributed modular representation of an analog number by implementing digital carry interactions between spiking analog neurons. Second, we show how signal restoration may be performed by recursive spike-count quantization of spike-time codes. And, third, we use spikes from an analog dynamical system to trigger state transitions in a digital dynamical system, which reconfigures the analog dynamical system using a binary control vector; such feedback interactions between analog and digital dynamical systems create a hybrid state machine (HSM). The HSM extends and expands the concept of a digital finite-state-machine to the hybrid domain. We present experimental data from a two-neuron HSM on a chip that implements error-correcting analog-to-digital conversion with the concurrent use of spike-time and spike-count codes. We also present experimental data from silicon circuits that implement HSM-based pattern recognition using spike-time synchrony. We outline how HSMs may be used to perform learning, vector quantization, spike pattern recognition and generation, and how they may be reconfigured.

Reduction of a grid moiré pattern by integrating a carbon-interspaced high precision x-ray grid with a digital radiographic detector.

PubMed

Yoon, Jai-Woong; Park, Young-Guk; Park, Chun-Joo; Kim, Do-Il; Lee, Jin-Ho; Chung, Nag-Kun; Choe, Bo-Young; Suh, Tae-Suk; Lee, Hyoung-Koo

2007-11-01

The stationary grid commonly used with a digital x-ray detector causes a moiré interference pattern due to the inadequate sampling of the grid shadows by the detector pixels. There are limitations with the previous methods used to remove the moiré such as imperfect electromagnetic interference shielding and the loss of image information. A new method is proposed for removing the moiré pattern by integrating a carbon-interspaced high precision x-ray grid with high grid line uniformity with the detector for frequency matching. The grid was aligned to the detector by translating and rotating the x-ray grid with respect to the detector using microcontrolled alignment mechanism. The gap between the grid and the detector surface was adjusted with micrometer precision to precisely match the projected grid line pitch to the detector pixel pitch. Considering the magnification of the grid shadows on the detector plane, the grids were manufactured such that the grid line frequency was slightly higher than the detector sampling frequency. This study examined the factors that affect the moiré pattern, particularly the line frequency and displacement. The frequency of the moiré pattern was found to be sensitive to the angular displacement of the grid with respect to the detector while the horizontal translation alters the phase but not the moiré frequency. The frequency of the moiré pattern also decreased with decreasing difference in frequency between the grid and the detector, and a moiré-free image was produced after complete matching for a given source to detector distance. The image quality factors including the contrast, signal-to-noise ratio and uniformity in the images with and without the moiré pattern were investigated.

Dynamic tracking down-conversion signal processing method based on reference signal for grating heterodyne interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Guochao; Yan, Shuhua; Zhou, Weihong; Gu, Chenhui

2012-08-01

Traditional displacement measurement systems by grating, which purely make use of fringe intensity to implement fringe count and subdivision, have rigid demands for signal quality and measurement condition, so they are not easy to realize measurement with nanometer precision. Displacement measurement with the dual-wavelength and single-grating design takes advantage of the single grating diffraction theory and the heterodyne interference theory, solving quite well the contradiction between large range and high precision in grating displacement measurement. To obtain nanometer resolution and nanometer precision, high-power subdivision of interference fringes must be realized accurately. A dynamic tracking down-conversion signal processing method based on the reference signal is proposed. Accordingly, a digital phase measurement module to realize high-power subdivision on field programmable gate array (FPGA) was designed, as well as a dynamic tracking down-conversion module using phase-locked loop (PLL). Experiments validated that a carrier signal after down-conversion can constantly maintain close to 100 kHz, and the phase-measurement resolution and phase precision are more than 0.05 and 0.2 deg, respectively. The displacement resolution and the displacement precision, corresponding to the phase results, are 0.139 and 0.556 nm, respectively.

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.

High Precision Method of Measuring the Velocity of Sound With Simple Apparatus

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hansen, Russell C.

1975-01-01

A capacitor is discharged to generate an acoustical pulse and start a digital counter which is stopped by a microphone. Differences are accurately measured by positioning the sensing microphone on an optical bench. Results are discussed and extended experiments are suggested. The sources of some components are given. (GH)

High resolution distributed time-to-digital converter (TDC) in a White Rabbit network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Weibin; Gong, Guanghua; Du, Qiang; Li, Hongming; Li, Jianmin

2014-02-01

The Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO) project consists of a complex detector array with over 6000 detector nodes spreading over 1.2 km2 areas. The arrival times of shower particles are captured by time-to-digital converters (TDCs) in the detectors' frontend electronics, the arrival direction of the high energy cosmic ray are then to be reconstructed from the space-time information of all detector nodes. To guarantee the angular resolution of 0.5°, a time synchronization of 500 ps (RMS) accuracy and 100 ps precision must be achieved among all TDC nodes. A technology enhancing Gigabit Ethernet, called the White Rabbit (WR), has shown the capability of delivering sub-nanosecond accuracy and picoseconds precision of synchronization over the standard data packet transfer. In this paper we demonstrate a distributed TDC prototype system combining the FPGA based TDC and the WR technology. With the time synchronization and data transfer services from a compact WR node, separate FPGA-TDC nodes can be combined to provide uniform time measurement information for correlated events. The design detail and test performance will be described in the paper.

Robustness of spiking Deep Belief Networks to noise and reduced bit precision of neuro-inspired hardware platforms.

PubMed

Stromatias, Evangelos; Neil, Daniel; Pfeiffer, Michael; Galluppi, Francesco; Furber, Steve B; Liu, Shih-Chii

2015-01-01

Increasingly large deep learning architectures, such as Deep Belief Networks (DBNs) are the focus of current machine learning research and achieve state-of-the-art results in different domains. However, both training and execution of large-scale Deep Networks require vast computing resources, leading to high power requirements and communication overheads. The on-going work on design and construction of spike-based hardware platforms offers an alternative for running deep neural networks with significantly lower power consumption, but has to overcome hardware limitations in terms of noise and limited weight precision, as well as noise inherent in the sensor signal. This article investigates how such hardware constraints impact the performance of spiking neural network implementations of DBNs. In particular, the influence of limited bit precision during execution and training, and the impact of silicon mismatch in the synaptic weight parameters of custom hybrid VLSI implementations is studied. Furthermore, the network performance of spiking DBNs is characterized with regard to noise in the spiking input signal. Our results demonstrate that spiking DBNs can tolerate very low levels of hardware bit precision down to almost two bits, and show that their performance can be improved by at least 30% through an adapted training mechanism that takes the bit precision of the target platform into account. Spiking DBNs thus present an important use-case for large-scale hybrid analog-digital or digital neuromorphic platforms such as SpiNNaker, which can execute large but precision-constrained deep networks in real time.

Robustness of spiking Deep Belief Networks to noise and reduced bit precision of neuro-inspired hardware platforms

PubMed Central

Stromatias, Evangelos; Neil, Daniel; Pfeiffer, Michael; Galluppi, Francesco; Furber, Steve B.; Liu, Shih-Chii

2015-01-01

Increasingly large deep learning architectures, such as Deep Belief Networks (DBNs) are the focus of current machine learning research and achieve state-of-the-art results in different domains. However, both training and execution of large-scale Deep Networks require vast computing resources, leading to high power requirements and communication overheads. The on-going work on design and construction of spike-based hardware platforms offers an alternative for running deep neural networks with significantly lower power consumption, but has to overcome hardware limitations in terms of noise and limited weight precision, as well as noise inherent in the sensor signal. This article investigates how such hardware constraints impact the performance of spiking neural network implementations of DBNs. In particular, the influence of limited bit precision during execution and training, and the impact of silicon mismatch in the synaptic weight parameters of custom hybrid VLSI implementations is studied. Furthermore, the network performance of spiking DBNs is characterized with regard to noise in the spiking input signal. Our results demonstrate that spiking DBNs can tolerate very low levels of hardware bit precision down to almost two bits, and show that their performance can be improved by at least 30% through an adapted training mechanism that takes the bit precision of the target platform into account. Spiking DBNs thus present an important use-case for large-scale hybrid analog-digital or digital neuromorphic platforms such as SpiNNaker, which can execute large but precision-constrained deep networks in real time. PMID:26217169

Validation of a new UNIX-based quantitative coronary angiographic system for the measurement of coronary artery lesions.

PubMed

Bell, M R; Britson, P J; Chu, A; Holmes, D R; Bresnahan, J F; Schwartz, R S

1997-01-01

We describe a method of validation of computerized quantitative coronary arteriography and report the results of a new UNIX-based quantitative coronary arteriography software program developed for rapid on-line (digital) and off-line (digital or cinefilm) analysis. The UNIX operating system is widely available in computer systems using very fast processors and has excellent graphics capabilities. The system is potentially compatible with any cardiac digital x-ray system for on-line analysis and has been designed to incorporate an integrated database, have on-line and immediate recall capabilities, and provide digital access to all data. The accuracy (mean signed differences of the observed minus the true dimensions) and precision (pooled standard deviations of the measurements) of the program were determined x-ray vessel phantoms. Intra- and interobserver variabilities were assessed from in vivo studies during routine clinical coronary arteriography. Precision from the x-ray phantom studies (6-In. field of view) for digital images was 0.066 mm and for digitized cine images was 0.060 mm. Accuracy was 0.076 mm (overestimation) for digital images compared to 0.008 mm for digitized cine images. Diagnostic coronary catheters were also used for calibration; accuracy.varied according to size of catheter and whether or not they were filled with iodinated contrast. Intra- and interobserver variabilities were excellent and indicated that coronary lesion measurements were relatively user-independent. Thus, this easy to use and very fast UNIX based program appears to be robust with optimal accuracy and precision for clinical and research applications.

The kinematics of the California sea lion foreflipper during forward swimming.

PubMed

Friedman, C; Leftwich, M C

2014-11-07

To determine the two-dimensional kinematics of the California sea lion foreflipper during thrust generation, a digital, high-definition video is obtained using a non-research female sea lion at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. The observational videos are used to extract maneuvers of interest--forward acceleration from rest using the foreflippers and banked turns. Single camera videos are analyzed to digitize the flipper during the motions using 10 points spanning root to tip in each frame. Digitized shapes were then fitted with an empirical function that quantitatively allows for both comparison between different claps, and for extracting kinematic data. The resulting function shows a high degree of curvature (with a camber of up to 32%). Analysis of sea lion acceleration from rest shows thrust production in the range of 150-680 N and maximum flipper angular velocity (for rotation about the shoulder joint) as high as 20 rad s⁻¹. Analysis of turning maneuvers indicate extreme agility and precision of movement driven by the foreflipper surfaces.

Estimating thumb–index finger precision grip and manipulation potential in extant and fossil primates

PubMed Central

Feix, Thomas; Kivell, Tracy L.; Pouydebat, Emmanuelle; Dollar, Aaron M.

2015-01-01

Primates, and particularly humans, are characterized by superior manual dexterity compared with other mammals. However, drawing the biomechanical link between hand morphology/behaviour and functional capabilities in non-human primates and fossil taxa has been challenging. We present a kinematic model of thumb–index precision grip and manipulative movement based on bony hand morphology in a broad sample of extant primates and fossil hominins. The model reveals that both joint mobility and digit proportions (scaled to hand size) are critical for determining precision grip and manipulation potential, but that having either a long thumb or great joint mobility alone does not necessarily yield high precision manipulation. The results suggest even the oldest available fossil hominins may have shared comparable precision grip manipulation with modern humans. In particular, the predicted human-like precision manipulation of Australopithecus afarensis, approximately one million years before the first stone tools, supports controversial archaeological evidence of tool-use in this taxon. PMID:25878134

Estimating thumb-index finger precision grip and manipulation potential in extant and fossil primates.

PubMed

Feix, Thomas; Kivell, Tracy L; Pouydebat, Emmanuelle; Dollar, Aaron M

2015-05-06

Primates, and particularly humans, are characterized by superior manual dexterity compared with other mammals. However, drawing the biomechanical link between hand morphology/behaviour and functional capabilities in non-human primates and fossil taxa has been challenging. We present a kinematic model of thumb-index precision grip and manipulative movement based on bony hand morphology in a broad sample of extant primates and fossil hominins. The model reveals that both joint mobility and digit proportions (scaled to hand size) are critical for determining precision grip and manipulation potential, but that having either a long thumb or great joint mobility alone does not necessarily yield high precision manipulation. The results suggest even the oldest available fossil hominins may have shared comparable precision grip manipulation with modern humans. In particular, the predicted human-like precision manipulation of Australopithecus afarensis, approximately one million years before the first stone tools, supports controversial archaeological evidence of tool-use in this taxon. © 2015 The Author(s) Published by the Royal Society. All rights reserved.

A precise time synchronization method for 5G based on radio-over-fiber network with SDN controller

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Linkuan; Wei, Baoguo; Yang, Hui; Yu, Ao; Wang, Zhengyong; Zhang, Jie

2018-02-01

There is an increasing demand on accurate time synchronization with the growing bandwidth of network service for 5G. In 5G network, it's necessary for base station to achieve accurate time synchronization to guarantee the quality of communication. In order to keep accuracy time for 5G network, we propose a time synchronization system for satellite ground station based on radio-over-fiber network (RoFN) with software defined optical network (SDON) controller. The advantage of this method is to improve the accuracy of time synchronization of ground station. The IEEE 1588 time synchronization protocol can solve the problems of high cost and lack of precision. However, in the process of time synchronization, distortion exists during the transmission of digital time signal. RoF uses analog optical transmission links and therefore analog transmission can be implemented among ground stations instead of digital transmission, which means distortion and bandwidth waste in the process of digital synchronization can be avoided. Additionally, the thought of SDN, software defined network, can optimize RoFN with centralized control and simplifying base station. Related simulation had been carried out to prove its superiority.

Characteristics of digital micromirror projection for 3D shape measurement at extreme speed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Höfling, Roland; Aswendt, Petra; Leischnig, Frank; Förster, Matthias

2015-03-01

3D shape measurement is one of the growing industrial applications of the Texas Instruments DLP® micro-mirror device. This paper presents investigations on precision and repeatability of that spatial light modulators output when it is driven up to its high-speed limit. The study concerns the basic switching behavior of the individual micro-mirror at different frame rates ranging over three orders of magnitude. The 3D shape measuring methodologies are focused on phase encoded triangulation, i.e. the projection of sinusoidal patterns. The DLP chip is a bi-stable device providing an on/off pattern at each certain moment in time, i.e. it has a native binary output. Sinusoidal patterns are the result of either a temporal integration of multiple on/off patterns or a spatial integration within one on/off pattern. Both approaches are studied experimentally with respect to precision and stability of the pattern output. The STAR-07 industrial projection unit, based upon the 0.7" DLP Discovery™4100 chipset, has been used for this work and the pattern frame rates cover the range from 225 frames per second (fps) to 50,000 fps. The STAR-07 output is detected by a photodiode, amplified, and analyzed in a Yokogawa digital storage oscilloscope. All results prove the very high precision and repeatability of the STAR-07 pattern projection, up to the extreme speed of 50,000 fps.

Comparison of Accuracy Between a Conventional and Two Digital Intraoral Impression Techniques.

PubMed

Malik, Junaid; Rodriguez, Jose; Weisbloom, Michael; Petridis, Haralampos

To compare the accuracy (ie, precision and trueness) of full-arch impressions fabricated using either a conventional polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) material or one of two intraoral optical scanners. Full-arch impressions of a reference model were obtained using addition silicone impression material (Aquasil Ultra; Dentsply Caulk) and two optical scanners (Trios, 3Shape, and CEREC Omnicam, Sirona). Surface matching software (Geomagic Control, 3D Systems) was used to superimpose the scans within groups to determine the mean deviations in precision and trueness (μm) between the scans, which were calculated for each group and compared statistically using one-way analysis of variance with post hoc Bonferroni (trueness) and Games-Howell (precision) tests (IBM SPSS ver 24, IBM UK). Qualitative analysis was also carried out from three-dimensional maps of differences between scans. Means and standard deviations (SD) of deviations in precision for conventional, Trios, and Omnicam groups were 21.7 (± 5.4), 49.9 (± 18.3), and 36.5 (± 11.12) μm, respectively. Means and SDs for deviations in trueness were 24.3 (± 5.7), 87.1 (± 7.9), and 80.3 (± 12.1) μm, respectively. The conventional impression showed statistically significantly improved mean precision (P < .006) and mean trueness (P < .001) compared to both digital impression procedures. There were no statistically significant differences in precision (P = .153) or trueness (P = .757) between the digital impressions. The qualitative analysis revealed local deviations along the palatal surfaces of the molars and incisal edges of the anterior teeth of < 100 μm. Conventional full-arch PVS impressions exhibited improved mean accuracy compared to two direct optical scanners. No significant differences were found between the two digital impression methods.

Challenges in mold manufacturing for high precision molded diffractive optical elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pongs, Guido; Bresseler, Bernd; Schweizer, Klaus; Bergs, Thomas

2016-09-01

Isothermal precision glass molding of imaging optics is the key technology for mass production of precise optical elements. Especially for numerous consumer applications (e.g. digital cameras, smart phones, …), high precision glass molding is applied for the manufacturing of aspherical lenses. The usage of diffractive optical elements (DOEs) can help to further reduce the number of lenses in the optical systems which will lead to a reduced weight of hand-held optical devices. But today the application of molded glass DOEs is limited due to the technological challenges in structuring the mold surfaces. Depending on the application submicrometer structures are required on the mold surface. Furthermore these structures have to be replicated very precisely to the glass lens surface. Especially the micro structuring of hard and brittle mold materials such as Tungsten Carbide is very difficult and not established. Thus a multitude of innovative approaches using diffractive optical elements cannot be realized. Aixtooling has investigated in different mold materials and different suitable machining technologies for the micro- and sub-micrometer structuring of mold surfaces. The focus of the work lays on ultra-precision grinding to generate the diffractive pattern on the mold surfaces. This paper presents the latest achievements in diffractive structuring of Tungsten Carbide mold surfaces by ultra-precision grinding.

Performance of the SIR-B digital image processing subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curlander, J. C.

1986-01-01

A ground-based system to generate digital SAR image products has been developed and implemented in support of the SIR-B mission. This system is designed to achieve the maximum throughput while meeting strict image fidelity criteria. Its capabilities include: automated radiometric and geometric correction of the output imagery; high-precision absolute location without tiepoint registration; filtering of the raw data to remove spurious signals from alien radars; and automated catologing to maintain a full set of radar and image production facility in support of the SIR-B science investigators routinely produces over 80 image frames per week.

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.

Digitally controlled analog proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller for high-speed scanning probe microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dukic, Maja; Todorov, Vencislav; Andany, Santiago; Nievergelt, Adrian P.; Yang, Chen; Hosseini, Nahid; Fantner, Georg E.

2017-12-01

Nearly all scanning probe microscopes (SPMs) contain a feedback controller, which is used to move the scanner in the direction of the z-axis in order to maintain a constant setpoint based on the tip-sample interaction. The most frequently used feedback controller in SPMs is the proportional-integral (PI) controller. The bandwidth of the PI controller presents one of the speed limiting factors in high-speed SPMs, where higher bandwidths enable faster scanning speeds and higher imaging resolution. Most SPM systems use digital signal processor-based PI feedback controllers, which require analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. These converters introduce additional feedback delays which limit the achievable imaging speed and resolution. In this paper, we present a digitally controlled analog proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller. The controller implementation allows tunability of the PID gains over a large amplification and frequency range, while also providing precise control of the system and reproducibility of the gain parameters. By using the analog PID controller, we were able to perform successful atomic force microscopy imaging of a standard silicon calibration grating at line rates up to several kHz.

Digitally controlled analog proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller for high-speed scanning probe microscopy.

PubMed

Dukic, Maja; Todorov, Vencislav; Andany, Santiago; Nievergelt, Adrian P; Yang, Chen; Hosseini, Nahid; Fantner, Georg E

2017-12-01

Nearly all scanning probe microscopes (SPMs) contain a feedback controller, which is used to move the scanner in the direction of the z-axis in order to maintain a constant setpoint based on the tip-sample interaction. The most frequently used feedback controller in SPMs is the proportional-integral (PI) controller. The bandwidth of the PI controller presents one of the speed limiting factors in high-speed SPMs, where higher bandwidths enable faster scanning speeds and higher imaging resolution. Most SPM systems use digital signal processor-based PI feedback controllers, which require analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters. These converters introduce additional feedback delays which limit the achievable imaging speed and resolution. In this paper, we present a digitally controlled analog proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller. The controller implementation allows tunability of the PID gains over a large amplification and frequency range, while also providing precise control of the system and reproducibility of the gain parameters. By using the analog PID controller, we were able to perform successful atomic force microscopy imaging of a standard silicon calibration grating at line rates up to several kHz.

High-speed 3D imaging using digital binary defocusing method vs sinusoidal method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Song; Hyun, Jae-Sang; Li, Beiwen

2017-02-01

This paper presents our research findings on high-speed 3D imaging using digital light processing (DLP) technologies. In particular, we compare two different sinusoidal fringe generation techniques using the DLP projection devices: direct projection of 8-bit computer generated sinusoidal patterns (a.k.a, the sinusoidal method), and the creation of sinusoidal patterns by defocusing binary patterns (a.k.a., the binary defocusing method). This paper mainly examines their performance on high-accuracy measurement applications under precisely controlled settings. Two different projection systems were tested in this study: the commercially available inexpensive projector, and the DLP development kit. Experimental results demonstrated that the binary defocusing method always outperforms the sinusoidal method if a sufficient number of phase-shifted fringe patterns can be used.

Digital gate pulse generator for cycloconverter control

DOEpatents

Klein, Frederick F.; Mutone, Gioacchino A.

1989-01-01

The present invention provides a digital gate pulse generator which controls the output of a cycloconverter used for electrical power conversion applications by determining the timing and delivery of the firing pulses to the switching devices in the cycloconverter. Previous gate pulse generators have been built with largely analog or discrete digital circuitry which require many precision components and periodic adjustment. The gate pulse generator of the present invention utilizes digital techniques and a predetermined series of values to develop the necessary timing signals for firing the switching device. Each timing signal is compared with a reference signal to determine the exact firing time. The present invention is significantly more compact than previous gate pulse generators, responds quickly to changes in the output demand and requires only one precision component and no adjustments.

Digital EPR with an arbitrary waveform generator and direct detection at the carrier frequency

PubMed Central

Tseitlin, Mark; Quine, Richard W.; Rinard, George A.; Eaton, Sandra S.; Eaton, Gareth R.

2011-01-01

A digital EPR spectrometer was constructed by replacing the traditional bridge with an arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) to produce excitation patterns and a high-speed digitizer for direct detection of the spin system response at the carrier frequency. Digital down-conversion produced baseband signals in quadrature with very precise orthogonality. Real-time resonator tuning was performed by monitoring the Fourier transforms of signals reflected from the resonator during frequency sweeps generated by the AWG. The capabilities of the system were demonstrated by rapid magnetic field scans at 256 MHz carrier frequency, and FID and spin echo experiments at 1 and 10 GHz carrier frequencies. For the rapid scan experiments the leakage through a cross-loop resonator was compensated by adjusting the amplitude and phase of a sinusoid at the carrier frequency that was generated with another AWG channel. PMID:21968420

BEAMing LAMP: single-molecule capture and on-bead isothermal amplification for digital detection of hepatitis C virus in plasma.

PubMed

Chen, Jiyun; Xu, Xiaomin; Huang, Zhimei; Luo, Yuan; Tang, Lijuan; Jiang, Jian-Hui

2018-01-02

A novel dNAD platform (BEAMing LAMP) by combining emulsion micro-reactors, single-molecule magnetic capture and on-bead loop-mediated isothermal amplification has been developed for DNA detection, which enables absolute and high-precision quantification of a target with a detection limit of 300 copies.

Binocular optical axis parallelism detection precision analysis based on Monte Carlo method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ying, Jiaju; Liu, Bingqi

2018-02-01

According to the working principle of the binocular photoelectric instrument optical axis parallelism digital calibration instrument, and in view of all components of the instrument, the various factors affect the system precision is analyzed, and then precision analysis model is established. Based on the error distribution, Monte Carlo method is used to analyze the relationship between the comprehensive error and the change of the center coordinate of the circle target image. The method can further guide the error distribution, optimize control the factors which have greater influence on the comprehensive error, and improve the measurement accuracy of the optical axis parallelism digital calibration instrument.

Projection displays and MEMS: timely convergence for a bright future

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hornbeck, Larry J.

1995-09-01

Projection displays and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) have evolved independently, occasionally crossing paths as early as the 1950s. But the commercially viable use of MEMS for projection displays has been illusive until the recent invention of Texas Instruments Digital Light Processing TM (DLP) technology. DLP technology is based on the Digital Micromirror DeviceTM (DMD) microchip, a MEMS technology that is a semiconductor digital light switch that precisely controls a light source for projection display and hardcopy applications. DLP technology provides a unique business opportunity because of the timely convergence of market needs and technology advances. The world is rapidly moving to an all- digital communications and entertainment infrastructure. In the near future, most of the technologies necessary for this infrastrucutre will be available at the right performance and price levels. This will make commercially viable an all-digital chain (capture, compression, transmission, reception decompression, hearing, and viewing). Unfortunately, the digital images received today must be translated into analog signals for viewing on today's televisions. Digital video is the final link in the all-digital infrastructure and DLP technoogy provides that link. DLP technology is an enabler for digital, high-resolution, color projection displays that have high contrast, are bright, seamless, and have the accuracy of color and grayscale that can be achieved only by digital control. This paper contains an introduction to DMD and DLP technology, including the historical context from which to view their developemnt. The architecture, projection operation, and fabrication are presented. Finally, the paper includes an update about current DMD business opportunities in projection displays and hardcopy.

Provably unbounded memory advantage in stochastic simulation using quantum mechanics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garner, Andrew J. P.; Liu, Qing; Thompson, Jayne; Vedral, Vlatko; Gu, mile

2017-10-01

Simulating the stochastic evolution of real quantities on a digital computer requires a trade-off between the precision to which these quantities are approximated, and the memory required to store them. The statistical accuracy of the simulation is thus generally limited by the internal memory available to the simulator. Here, using tools from computational mechanics, we show that quantum processors with a fixed finite memory can simulate stochastic processes of real variables to arbitrarily high precision. This demonstrates a provable, unbounded memory advantage that a quantum simulator can exhibit over its best possible classical counterpart.

Moving From Digitalization to Digitization in Cardiovascular Care: Why Is it Important, and What Could it Mean for Patients and Providers?

PubMed

Steinhubl, Steven R; Topol, Eric J

2015-09-29

So far, the digitization of health care is best exemplified by electronic medical records, which have been far from favorably or uniformly accepted. However, properly implemented digitization can enable better patient outcomes, improve convenience, potentially lower healthcare costs, and possibly lead to much greater physician satisfaction. Precision (also known as personalized or individualized) medicine is frequently discussed today, but, in reality, it is what physicians have attempted to do as best they could for millennia. But now we have new tools that can begin to give us a much more high-definition view of our patients; from affordable and rapid genetic testing to wearable sensors that track a wide range of important physiologic parameters continuously. Although seemingly counterintuitive, the digitization of health care can also markedly improve the physician-patient relationship, allowing more time for human interaction when care is bolstered by digital technologies that better individualize diagnostics and treatments. Copyright © 2015 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Doppler extraction with a digital VCO

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starner, E. R.; Nossen, E. J.

1977-01-01

Digitally controlled oscillator in phased-locked loop may be useful for data communications systems, or may be modified to serve as information extraction component of microwave or optical system for collision avoidance or automatic braking. Instrument is frequency-synthesizing device with output specified precisely by digital number programmed into frequency register.

Precision and Accuracy of a Digital Impression Scanner in Full-Arch Implant Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Pesce, Paolo; Pera, Francesco; Setti, Paolo; Menini, Maria

To evaluate the accuracy and precision of a digital scanner used to scan four implants positioned according to an immediate loading implant protocol and to assess the accuracy of an aluminum framework fabricated from a digital impression. Five master casts reproducing different edentulous maxillae with four tilted implants were used. Four scan bodies were screwed onto the low-profile abutments, and a digital intraoral scanner was used to perform five digital impressions of each master cast. To assess trueness, a metal framework of the best digital impression was produced with computer-aided design/computer-assisted manufacture (CAD/CAM) technology and passive fit was assessed with the Sheffield test. Gaps between the frameworks and the implant analogs were measured with a stereomicroscope. To assess precision, three-dimensional (3D) point cloud processing software was used to measure the deviations between the five digital impressions of each cast by producing a color map. The deviation values were grouped in three classes, and differences were assessed between class 2 (representing lower discrepancies) and the assembled classes 1 and 3 (representing the higher negative and positive discrepancies, respectively). The frameworks showed a mean gap of < 30 μm (range: 2 to 47 μm). A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups by the 3D point cloud software, with higher frequencies of points in class 2 than in grouped classes 1 and 3 (P < .001). Within the limits of this in vitro study, it appears that a digital impression may represent a reliable method for fabricating full-arch implant frameworks with good passive fit when tilted implants are present.

Electronic voltage and current transformers testing device.

PubMed

Pan, Feng; Chen, Ruimin; Xiao, Yong; Sun, Weiming

2012-01-01

A method for testing electronic instrument transformers is described, including electronic voltage and current transformers (EVTs, ECTs) with both analog and digital outputs. A testing device prototype is developed. It is based on digital signal processing of the signals that are measured at the secondary outputs of the tested transformer and the reference transformer when the same excitation signal is fed to their primaries. The test that estimates the performance of the prototype has been carried out at the National Centre for High Voltage Measurement and the prototype is approved for testing transformers with precision class up to 0.2 at the industrial frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz). The device is suitable for on-site testing due to its high accuracy, simple structure and low-cost hardware.

Smartphone photography utilized to measure wrist range of motion.

PubMed

Wagner, Eric R; Conti Mica, Megan; Shin, Alexander Y

2018-02-01

The purpose was to determine if smartphone photography is a reliable tool in measuring wrist movement. Smartphones were used to take digital photos of both wrists in 32 normal participants (64 wrists) at extremes of wrist motion. The smartphone measurements were compared with clinical goniometry measurements. There was a very high correlation between the clinical goniometry and smartphone measurements, as the concordance coefficients were high for radial deviation, ulnar deviation, wrist extension and wrist flexion. The Pearson coefficients also demonstrated the high precision of the smartphone measurements. The Bland-Altman plots demonstrated 29-31 of 32 smartphone measurements were within the 95% confidence interval of the clinical measurements for all positions of the wrists. There was high reliability between the photography taken by the volunteer and researcher, as well as high inter-observer reliability. Smartphone digital photography is a reliable and accurate tool for measuring wrist range of motion. II.

MuTRiG: a mixed signal Silicon Photomultiplier readout ASIC with high timing resolution and gigabit data link

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, H.; Briggl, K.; Eckert, P.; Harion, T.; Munwes, Y.; Shen, W.; Stankova, V.; Schultz-Coulon, H. C.

2017-01-01

MuTRiG is a mixed signal Silicon Photomultiplier readout ASIC designed in UMC 180 nm CMOS technology for precise timing and high event rate applications in high energy physics experiments and medical imaging. It is dedicated to the readout of the scintillating fiber detector and the scintillating tile detector of the Mu3e experiment. The MuTRiG chip extends the excellent timing performance of the STiCv3 chip with a fast digital readout for high rate applications. The high timing performance of the fully differential SiPM readout channels and 50 ps time binning TDCs are complemented by an upgraded digital readout logic and a 1.28 Gbps LVDS serial data link. The design of the chip and the characterization results of the analog front-end, TDC and the LVDS data link are presented.

A digital enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for ultrasensitive measurement of amyloid-β 1-42 peptide in human plasma with utility for studies of Alzheimer's disease therapeutics.

PubMed

Song, Linan; Lachno, D Richard; Hanlon, David; Shepro, Adam; Jeromin, Andreas; Gemani, Dipika; Talbot, Jayne A; Racke, Margaret M; Dage, Jeffrey L; Dean, Robert A

2016-12-15

Amyloid-β 1-42 peptide (Aβ 1-42 ) is associated with plaque formation in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Pharmacodynamic studies of AD therapeutics that lower the concentrations of Aβ 1-42 in peripheral blood require highly sensitive assays for its measurement. A digital enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using single molecule array (Simoa) technology has been developed that provides improved sensitivity compared with conventional ELISA methods using the same antibody reagents. A sensitive digital ELISA for measurement of Aβ 1-42 using antibodies 3D6 and 21F12 was developed. Assay performance was evaluated by repeated testing of pooled human plasma and buffer diluent quality control samples to determine relative accuracy, intra- and inter-assay precision, limit of detection (LOD), lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), dilutional linearity, and spike recovery. The optimized assay was used to quantify Aβ 1-42 in clinical samples from patients treated with the β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 inhibitor LY2886721. The prototype assay measured Aβ 1-42 with an LOD of 0.3 pg/ml and an LLOQ of 2.8 pg/ml in plasma, calibrated using an Aβ 1-42 peptide standard from Fujirebio. Assay precision was acceptable with intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation both being ≤10%. Dilutional linearity was demonstrated in sample diluent and immunodepleted human plasma. Analyte spike recovery ranged from 51% to 93% with a mean of 80%. This assay was able to quantify Aβ 1-42 in all of the 84 clinical samples tested. A rapid reduction in levels of Aβ 1-42 was detected within 1 h after drug treatment, and a dose-dependent decrease of Aβ 1-42 levels was also observed over the time course of sample collection. This digital ELISA has potential utility in clinical applications for quantification of Aβ 1-42 in plasma where high sensitivity and precision are required.

Design of an FPGA-based electronic flow regulator (EFR) for spacecraft propulsion system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manikandan, J.; Jayaraman, M.; Jayachandran, M.

2011-02-01

This paper describes a scheme for electronically regulating the flow of propellant to the thruster from a high-pressure storage tank used in spacecraft application. Precise flow delivery of propellant to thrusters ensures propulsion system operation at best efficiency by maximizing the propellant and power utilization for the mission. The proposed field programmable gate array (FPGA) based electronic flow regulator (EFR) is used to ensure precise flow of propellant to the thrusters from a high-pressure storage tank used in spacecraft application. This paper presents hardware and software design of electronic flow regulator and implementation of the regulation logic onto an FPGA.Motivation for proposed FPGA-based electronic flow regulation is on the disadvantages of conventional approach of using analog circuits. Digital flow regulation overcomes the analog equivalent as digital circuits are highly flexible, are not much affected due to noise, accurate performance is repeatable, interface is easier to computers, storing facilities are possible and finally failure rate of digital circuits is less. FPGA has certain advantages over ASIC and microprocessor/micro-controller that motivated us to opt for FPGA-based electronic flow regulator. Also the control algorithm being software, it is well modifiable without changing the hardware. This scheme is simple enough to adopt for a wide range of applications, where the flow is to be regulated for efficient operation.The proposed scheme is based on a space-qualified re-configurable field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) and hybrid micro circuit (HMC). A graphical user interface (GUI) based application software is also developed for debugging, monitoring and controlling the electronic flow regulator from PC COM port.

Digital Droplet PCR: CNV Analysis and Other Applications.

PubMed

Mazaika, Erica; Homsy, Jason

2014-07-14

Digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) is an assay that combines state-of-the-art microfluidics technology with TaqMan-based PCR to achieve precise target DNA quantification at high levels of sensitivity and specificity. Because quantification is achieved without the need for standard assays in an easy to interpret, unambiguous digital readout, ddPCR is far simpler, faster, and less error prone than real-time qPCR. The basic protocol can be modified with minor adjustments to suit a wide range of applications, such as CNV analysis, rare variant detection, SNP genotyping, and transcript quantification. This unit describes the ddPCR workflow in detail for the Bio-Rad QX100 system, but the theory and data interpretation are generalizable to any ddPCR system. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

An automatic optimum kernel-size selection technique for edge enhancement

USGS Publications Warehouse

Chavez, Pat S.; Bauer, Brian P.

1982-01-01

Edge enhancement is a technique that can be considered, to a first order, a correction for the modulation transfer function of an imaging system. Digital imaging systems sample a continuous function at discrete intervals so that high-frequency information cannot be recorded at the same precision as lower frequency data. Because of this, fine detail or edge information in digital images is lost. Spatial filtering techniques can be used to enhance the fine detail information that does exist in the digital image, but the filter size is dependent on the type of area being processed. A technique has been developed by the authors that uses the horizontal first difference to automatically select the optimum kernel-size that should be used to enhance the edges that are contained in the image. 

Automated magnification calibration in transmission electron microscopy using Fourier analysis of replica images.

PubMed

van der Laak, Jeroen A W M; Dijkman, Henry B P M; Pahlplatz, Martin M M

2006-03-01

The magnification factor in transmission electron microscopy is not very precise, hampering for instance quantitative analysis of specimens. Calibration of the magnification is usually performed interactively using replica specimens, containing line or grating patterns with known spacing. In the present study, a procedure is described for automated magnification calibration using digital images of a line replica. This procedure is based on analysis of the power spectrum of Fourier transformed replica images, and is compared to interactive measurement in the same images. Images were used with magnification ranging from 1,000 x to 200,000 x. The automated procedure deviated on average 0.10% from interactive measurements. Especially for catalase replicas, the coefficient of variation of automated measurement was considerably smaller (average 0.28%) compared to that of interactive measurement (average 3.5%). In conclusion, calibration of the magnification in digital images from transmission electron microscopy may be performed automatically, using the procedure presented here, with high precision and accuracy.

Rediscovery and Revival of Analytical Refractometry for Protein Determination: Recombining Simplicity With Accuracy in the Digital Era.

PubMed

Anderle, Heinz; Weber, Alfred

2016-03-01

Among "vintage" methods of protein determination, quantitative analytical refractometry has received far less attention than well-established pharmacopoeial techniques based on protein nitrogen content, such as Dumas combustion (1831) and Kjeldahl digestion (1883). Protein determination by quantitative refractometry dates back to 1903 and has been extensively investigated and characterized in the following 30 years, but has since vanished into a few niche applications that may not require the degree of accuracy and precision essential for pharmaceutical analysis. However, because high-resolution and precision digital refractometers have replaced manual instruments, reducing time and resource consumption, the method appears particularly attractive from an economic, ergonomic, and environmental viewpoint. The sample solution can be measured without dilution or other preparation procedures than the separation of the protein-free matrix by ultrafiltration, which might even be omitted for a constant matrix and excipient composition. Copyright © 2016 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The readout chain for the bar PANDA MVD strip detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schnell, R.; Brinkmann, K.-Th.; Di Pietro, V.; Kleines, H.; Goerres, A.; Riccardi, A.; Rivetti, A.; Rolo, M. D.; Sohlbach, H.; Zaunick, H.-G.

2015-02-01

The bar PANDA (antiProton ANnihilation at DArmstadt) experiment will study the strong interaction in annihilation reactions between an antiproton beam and a stationary gas jet target. The detector will comprise different sub-detectors for tracking, particle identification and calorimetry. The Micro-Vertex Detector (MVD) as the innermost part of the tracking system will allow precise tracking and detection of secondary vertices. For the readout of the double-sided silicon strip sensors a custom-made ASIC is being developed, employing the Time-over-Threshold (ToT) technique for digitization and utilize time-to-digital converters (TDC) to provide a high-precision time stamp of the hit. A custom-made Module Data Concentrator ASIC (MDC) will multiplex the data of all front-ends of one sensor towards the CERN-developed GBT chip set (GigaBit Transceiver). The MicroTCA-based MVD Multiplexer Board (MMB) at the off-detector site will receive and concentrate the data from the GBT links and transfer it to FPGA-based compute nodes for global event building.

Generic precise augmented reality guiding system and its calibration method based on 3D virtual model.

PubMed

Liu, Miao; Yang, Shourui; Wang, Zhangying; Huang, Shujun; Liu, Yue; Niu, Zhenqi; Zhang, Xiaoxuan; Zhu, Jigui; Zhang, Zonghua

2016-05-30

Augmented reality system can be applied to provide precise guidance for various kinds of manual works. The adaptability and guiding accuracy of such systems are decided by the computational model and the corresponding calibration method. In this paper, a novel type of augmented reality guiding system and the corresponding designing scheme are proposed. Guided by external positioning equipment, the proposed system can achieve high relative indication accuracy in a large working space. Meanwhile, the proposed system is realized with a digital projector and the general back projection model is derived with geometry relationship between digitized 3D model and the projector in free space. The corresponding calibration method is also designed for the proposed system to obtain the parameters of projector. To validate the proposed back projection model, the coordinate data collected by a 3D positioning equipment is used to calculate and optimize the extrinsic parameters. The final projecting indication accuracy of the system is verified with subpixel pattern projecting technique.

Variational calculation of second-order reduced density matrices by strong N-representability conditions and an accurate semidefinite programming solver.

PubMed

Nakata, Maho; Braams, Bastiaan J; Fujisawa, Katsuki; Fukuda, Mituhiro; Percus, Jerome K; Yamashita, Makoto; Zhao, Zhengji

2008-04-28

The reduced density matrix (RDM) method, which is a variational calculation based on the second-order reduced density matrix, is applied to the ground state energies and the dipole moments for 57 different states of atoms, molecules, and to the ground state energies and the elements of 2-RDM for the Hubbard model. We explore the well-known N-representability conditions (P, Q, and G) together with the more recent and much stronger T1 and T2(') conditions. T2(') condition was recently rederived and it implies T2 condition. Using these N-representability conditions, we can usually calculate correlation energies in percentage ranging from 100% to 101%, whose accuracy is similar to CCSD(T) and even better for high spin states or anion systems where CCSD(T) fails. Highly accurate calculations are carried out by handling equality constraints and/or developing multiple precision arithmetic in the semidefinite programming (SDP) solver. Results show that handling equality constraints correctly improves the accuracy from 0.1 to 0.6 mhartree. Additionally, improvements by replacing T2 condition with T2(') condition are typically of 0.1-0.5 mhartree. The newly developed multiple precision arithmetic version of SDP solver calculates extraordinary accurate energies for the one dimensional Hubbard model and Be atom. It gives at least 16 significant digits for energies, where double precision calculations gives only two to eight digits. It also provides physically meaningful results for the Hubbard model in the high correlation limit.

A quasi-spectral method for Cauchy problem of 2/D Laplace equation on an annulus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Katsuyoshi; Nakada, Manabu; Iijima, Kentaro; Onishi, Kazuei

2005-01-01

Real numbers are usually represented in the computer as a finite number of digits hexa-decimal floating point numbers. Accordingly the numerical analysis is often suffered from rounding errors. The rounding errors particularly deteriorate the precision of numerical solution in inverse and ill-posed problems. We attempt to use a multi-precision arithmetic for reducing the rounding error evil. The use of the multi-precision arithmetic system is by the courtesy of Dr Fujiwara of Kyoto University. In this paper we try to show effectiveness of the multi-precision arithmetic by taking two typical examples; the Cauchy problem of the Laplace equation in two dimensions and the shape identification problem by inverse scattering in three dimensions. It is concluded from a few numerical examples that the multi-precision arithmetic works well on the resolution of those numerical solutions, as it is combined with the high order finite difference method for the Cauchy problem and with the eigenfunction expansion method for the inverse scattering problem.

Real-time polarization imaging algorithm for camera-based polarization navigation sensors.

PubMed

Lu, Hao; Zhao, Kaichun; You, Zheng; Huang, Kaoli

2017-04-10

Biologically inspired polarization navigation is a promising approach due to its autonomous nature, high precision, and robustness. Many researchers have built point source-based and camera-based polarization navigation prototypes in recent years. Camera-based prototypes can benefit from their high spatial resolution but incur a heavy computation load. The pattern recognition algorithm in most polarization imaging algorithms involves several nonlinear calculations that impose a significant computation burden. In this paper, the polarization imaging and pattern recognition algorithms are optimized through reduction to several linear calculations by exploiting the orthogonality of the Stokes parameters without affecting precision according to the features of the solar meridian and the patterns of the polarized skylight. The algorithm contains a pattern recognition algorithm with a Hough transform as well as orientation measurement algorithms. The algorithm was loaded and run on a digital signal processing system to test its computational complexity. The test showed that the running time decreased to several tens of milliseconds from several thousand milliseconds. Through simulations and experiments, it was found that the algorithm can measure orientation without reducing precision. It can hence satisfy the practical demands of low computational load and high precision for use in embedded systems.

3D documentation and visualization of external injury findings by integration of simple photography in CT/MRI data sets (IprojeCT).

PubMed

Campana, Lorenzo; Breitbeck, Robert; Bauer-Kreuz, Regula; Buck, Ursula

2016-05-01

This study evaluated the feasibility of documenting patterned injury using three dimensions and true colour photography without complex 3D surface documentation methods. This method is based on a generated 3D surface model using radiologic slice images (CT) while the colour information is derived from photographs taken with commercially available cameras. The external patterned injuries were documented in 16 cases using digital photography as well as highly precise photogrammetry-supported 3D structured light scanning. The internal findings of these deceased were recorded using CT and MRI. For registration of the internal with the external data, two different types of radiographic markers were used and compared. The 3D surface model generated from CT slice images was linked with the photographs, and thereby digital true-colour 3D models of the patterned injuries could be created (Image projection onto CT/IprojeCT). In addition, these external models were merged with the models of the somatic interior. We demonstrated that 3D documentation and visualization of external injury findings by integration of digital photography in CT/MRI data sets is suitable for the 3D documentation of individual patterned injuries to a body. Nevertheless, this documentation method is not a substitution for photogrammetry and surface scanning, especially when the entire bodily surface is to be recorded in three dimensions including all external findings, and when precise data is required for comparing highly detailed injury features with the injury-inflicting tool.

Maui Optical Tracking and Identification Facility Transition Program.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

USED) 2 OFFICE 19 LASER SUPPORT ROO 35 SERVICE CELL TECHT LIBARY 20 LASLAL 5 ATA LAB 36 UNDERGROUND WATER RESERVOIR S OFFICE 21 LOBBY 37 PUMP VAULT 8...precision at a rate of 50 samples per second on the system digital recorder along with time, housekeeping and ten selected dc channels which are recorded...with 12-bit precision at a rate of 90 samples per second (45 per mirror state). The digitally recorded ac and dc data can be retrieved post-mission and

Digital PCR analysis of circulating nucleic acids.

PubMed

Hudecova, Irena

2015-10-01

Detection of plasma circulating nucleic acids (CNAs) requires the use of extremely sensitive and precise methods. The commonly used quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) poses certain technical limitations in relation to the precise measurement of CNAs whereas the costs of massively parallel sequencing are still relatively high. Digital PCR (dPCR) now represents an affordable and powerful single molecule counting strategy to detect minute amounts of genetic material with performance surpassing many quantitative methods. Microfluidic (chip) and emulsion (droplet)-based technologies have already been integrated into platforms offering hundreds to millions of nanoliter- or even picoliter-scale reaction partitions. The compelling observations reported in the field of cancer research, prenatal testing, transplantation medicine and virology support translation of this technology into routine use. Extremely sensitive plasma detection of rare mutations originating from tumor or placental cells among a large background of homologous sequences facilitates unraveling of the early stages of cancer or the detection of fetal mutations. Digital measurement of quantitative changes in plasma CNAs associated with cancer or graft rejection provides valuable information on the monitoring of disease burden or the recipient's immune response and subsequent therapy treatment. Furthermore, careful quantitative assessment of the viral load offers great value for effective monitoring of antiviral therapy for immunosuppressed or transplant patients. The present review describes the inherent features of dPCR that make it exceptionally robust in precise and sensitive quantification of CNAs. Moreover, I provide an insight into the types of potential clinical applications that have been developed by researchers to date. Copyright © 2015 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Range Reference Notebook

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-10-15

EM 61 and a Schonstedt Magnetometer . The magnetometer was used to screen locations for stakes and other intrusive activities. Digital geophysics was...patterns from direct-fire weapons, such as anti-tank rockets, are expected to form ellipses that are highly elongated parallel to the line of fire...Trajectory of Indirect Fire Weapons Historically, precision development progressed more slowly for indirect-fire weapons because hitting an unseen target

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.

A new approach to driving and controlling precision lasers for cold-atom science

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luey, Ben; Shugrue, Jeremy; Anderson, Mike

2014-05-01

Vescent's Integrated Control Electronics (ICE) Platform is a new approach to controlling and driving lasers and other electoral devices in complex atomic and optical experiments. By employing low-noise, high-bandwidth analog electronics with digital control, ICE combines the performance of analog design with the convenience of the digital world. Utilizing a simple USB COM port interface, ICE can easily be controlled via LabView, Python, or an FPGA. High-speed TTL inputs enable precise external timing or triggering. ICE is capable of generating complex timing internally, enabling ICE to drive an entire experiment or it can be directed by an external control program. The system is capable of controlling up to 8 unique ICE slave boards providing flexibility to tailor an assortment of electronics hardware to the needs of a specific experiment. Examples of ICE slave boards are: a current controller and peak-lock laser servo, a four channel temperature controller, a current controller and offset phase lock servo. A single ensemble can drive, stabilize, and frequency lock 3 lasers in addition to powering an optical amplifier, while still leaving 2 remaining slots for further control needs. Staff Scientist

Quantitative analysis of pork and chicken products by droplet digital PCR.

PubMed

Cai, Yicun; Li, Xiang; Lv, Rong; Yang, Jielin; Li, Jian; He, Yuping; Pan, Liangwen

2014-01-01

In this project, a highly precise quantitative method based on the digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) technique was developed to determine the weight of pork and chicken in meat products. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is currently used for quantitative molecular analysis of the presence of species-specific DNAs in meat products. However, it is limited in amplification efficiency and relies on standard curves based Ct values, detecting and quantifying low copy number target DNA, as in some complex mixture meat products. By using the dPCR method, we find the relationships between the raw meat weight and DNA weight and between the DNA weight and DNA copy number were both close to linear. This enabled us to establish formulae to calculate the raw meat weight based on the DNA copy number. The accuracy and applicability of this method were tested and verified using samples of pork and chicken powder mixed in known proportions. Quantitative analysis indicated that dPCR is highly precise in quantifying pork and chicken in meat products and therefore has the potential to be used in routine analysis by government regulators and quality control departments of commercial food and feed enterprises.

Signal processor for processing ultrasonic receiver signals

DOEpatents

Fasching, George E.

1980-01-01

A signal processor is provided which uses an analog integrating circuit in conjunction with a set of digital counters controlled by a precision clock for sampling timing to provide an improved presentation of an ultrasonic transmitter/receiver signal. The signal is sampled relative to the transmitter trigger signal timing at precise times, the selected number of samples are integrated and the integrated samples are transferred and held for recording on a strip chart recorder or converted to digital form for storage. By integrating multiple samples taken at precisely the same time with respect to the trigger for the ultrasonic transmitter, random noise, which is contained in the ultrasonic receiver signal, is reduced relative to the desired useful signal.

Metadata: Standards for Retrieving WWW Documents (and Other Digitized and Non-Digitized Resources)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rusch-Feja, Diann

The use of metadata for indexing digitized and non-digitized resources for resource discovery in a networked environment is being increasingly implemented all over the world. Greater precision is achieved using metadata than relying on universal search engines and furthermore, meta-data can be used as filtering mechanisms for search results. An overview of various metadata sets is given, followed by a more focussed presentation of Dublin Core Metadata including examples of sub-elements and qualifiers. Especially the use of the Dublin Core Relation element provides connections between the metadata of various related electronic resources, as well as the metadata for physical, non-digitized resources. This facilitates more comprehensive search results without losing precision and brings together different genres of information which would otherwise be only searchable in separate databases. Furthermore, the advantages of Dublin Core Metadata in comparison with library cataloging and the use of universal search engines are discussed briefly, followed by a listing of types of implementation of Dublin Core Metadata.

An Accurate Transmitting Power Control Method in Wireless Communication Transceivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Naikang; Wen, Zhiping; Hou, Xunping; Bi, Bo

2018-01-01

Power control circuits are widely used in transceivers aiming at stabilizing the transmitted signal power to a specified value, thereby reducing power consumption and interference to other frequency bands. In order to overcome the shortcomings of traditional modes of power control, this paper proposes an accurate signal power detection method by multiplexing the receiver and realizes transmitting power control in the digital domain. The simulation results show that this novel digital power control approach has advantages of small delay, high precision and simplified design procedure. The proposed method is applicable to transceivers working at large frequency dynamic range, and has good engineering practicability.

GPS Software Packages Deliver Positioning Solutions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2010-01-01

"To determine a spacecraft s position, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) developed an innovative software program called the GPS (global positioning system)-Inferred Positioning System and Orbit Analysis Simulation Software, abbreviated as GIPSY-OASIS, and also developed Real-Time GIPSY (RTG) for certain time-critical applications. First featured in Spinoff 1999, JPL has released hundreds of licenses for GIPSY and RTG, including to Longmont, Colorado-based DigitalGlobe. Using the technology, DigitalGlobe produces satellite imagery with highly precise latitude and longitude coordinates and then supplies it for uses within defense and intelligence, civil agencies, mapping and analysis, environmental monitoring, oil and gas exploration, infrastructure management, Internet portals, and navigation technology."

Advanced optical manufacturing digital integrated system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Yizheng; Li, Xinglan; Li, Wei; Tang, Dingyong

2012-10-01

It is necessarily to adapt development of advanced optical manufacturing technology with modern science technology development. To solved these problems which low of ration, ratio of finished product, repetition, consistent in big size and high precision in advanced optical component manufacturing. Applied business driven and method of Rational Unified Process, this paper has researched advanced optical manufacturing process flow, requirement of Advanced Optical Manufacturing integrated System, and put forward architecture and key technology of it. Designed Optical component core and Manufacturing process driven of Advanced Optical Manufacturing Digital Integrated System. the result displayed effective well, realized dynamic planning Manufacturing process, information integration improved ratio of production manufactory.

The Fundamentals of Using the Digital Micromirror Device (DMD(TM)) for Projection Display

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yoder, Lars A.

1995-01-01

Developed by Texas Instruments (TI) the digital micromirror device (DMD(tm)) is a quickly emerging and highly useful micro-electro-mechanical structures (MEMS) device. Using standard semiconductor fabrication technology, the DMD's simplicity in concept and design will provide advantageous solutions for many different applications. At the rudimentary level, the DMD is a precision, semiconductor light switch. In the initial commercial development of DMD technology, TI has concentrated on projection display and hardcopy. This paper will focus on how the DMD is used for projection display. Other application areas are being explored and evaluated to find appropriate and beneficial uses for the DMD.

Low-cost, portable, robust and high-resolution single-camera stereo-DIC system and its application in high-temperature deformation measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chi, Yuxi; Yu, Liping; Pan, Bing

2018-05-01

A low-cost, portable, robust and high-resolution single-camera stereo-digital image correlation (stereo-DIC) system for accurate surface three-dimensional (3D) shape and deformation measurements is described. This system adopts a single consumer-grade high-resolution digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera and a four-mirror adaptor, rather than two synchronized industrial digital cameras, for stereo image acquisition. In addition, monochromatic blue light illumination and coupled bandpass filter imaging are integrated to ensure the robustness of the system against ambient light variations. In contrast to conventional binocular stereo-DIC systems, the developed pseudo-stereo-DIC system offers the advantages of low cost, portability, robustness against ambient light variations, and high resolution. The accuracy and precision of the developed single SLR camera-based stereo-DIC system were validated by measuring the 3D shape of a stationary sphere along with in-plane and out-of-plane displacements of a translated planar plate. Application of the established system to thermal deformation measurement of an alumina ceramic plate and a stainless-steel plate subjected to radiation heating was also demonstrated.

The characterization and application of a low resource FPGA-based time to digital converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balla, Alessandro; Mario Beretta, Matteo; Ciambrone, Paolo; Gatta, Maurizio; Gonnella, Francesco; Iafolla, Lorenzo; Mascolo, Matteo; Messi, Roberto; Moricciani, Dario; Riondino, Domenico

2014-03-01

Time to Digital Converters (TDCs) are very common devices in particles physics experiments. A lot of "off-the-shelf" TDCs can be employed but the necessity of a custom DAta acQuisition (DAQ) system makes the TDCs implemented on the Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) desirable. Most of the architectures developed so far are based on the tapped delay lines with precision down to 10 ps, obtained with high FPGA resources usage and non-linearity issues to be managed. Often such precision is not necessary; in this case TDC architectures with low resources occupancy are preferable allowing the implementation of data processing systems and of other utilities on the same device. In order to reconstruct γγ physics events tagged with High Energy Tagger (HET) in the KLOE-2 (K LOng Experiment 2), we need to measure the Time Of Flight (TOF) of the electrons and positrons from the KLOE-2 Interaction Point (IP) to our tagging stations (11 m apart). The required resolution must be better than the bunch spacing (2.7 ns). We have developed and implemented on a Xilinx Virtex-5 FPGA a 32 channel TDC with a precision of 255 ps and low non-linearity effects along with an embedded data acquisition system and the interface to the online FARM of KLOE-2. The TDC is based on a low resources occupancy technique: the 4×Oversampling technique which, in this work, is pushed to its best resolution and its performances were exhaustively measured.

Impact of digital intraoral scan strategies on the impression accuracy using the TRIOS Pod scanner.

PubMed

Müller, Philipp; Ender, Andreas; Joda, Tim; Katsoulis, Joannis

2016-04-01

Little information is available on the impact of different scan strategies on the accuracy of full-arch scans with intraoral scanners. The aim of this in-vitro study was to investigate the trueness and precision of full-arch maxillary digital impressions comparing three scan strategies. Three scan strategies (A, B, and C) were applied each five times on one single model (A, first buccal surfaces, return from occlusal-palatal; B, first occlusal-palatal, return buccal; C, S-type one-way). The TRIOS Pod scanner (3shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) with a color detector was used for these digital impressions. A cast of a maxillary dentate jaw was fabricated and scanned with an industrial reference scanner. This full-arch data record was digitally superimposed with the test scans (trueness) and within-group comparison was performed for each group (precision). The values within the 90/10 percentiles from the digital superimposition were used for calculation and group comparisons with nonparametric tests (ANOVA, post-hoc Bonferroni). The trueness (mean ± standard deviation) was 17.9 ± 16.4 μm for scan strategy A, 17.1 ± 13.7 μm for B, and 26.8 ± 14.7 μm for C without statistically significant difference. The precision was lowest for scan strategy A (35.0 ± 51.1 μm) and significantly different to B (7.9 ± 5.6 μm) and C (8.5 ± 6.3 μm). Scan strategy B may be recommended as it provides the highest trueness and precision in full-arch scans and therefore minimizes inaccuracies in the final reconstruction.

QED: Experimental Evidence

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

Lincoln, Don

The theory of quantum electrodynamics (QED) is perhaps the most precisely tested physics theory ever conceived. It describes the interaction of charged particles by emitting photons. The most precise prediction of this very precise theory is the magnetic strength of the electron, what physicists call the magnetic moment. Prediction and measurement agree to 12 digits of precision. In this video, Fermilab’s Dr. Don Lincoln talks about this amazing measurement.

Study on digital closed-loop system of silicon resonant micro-sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Yefeng; He, Mengke

2008-10-01

Designing a micro, high reliability weak signal extracting system is a critical problem need to be solved in the application of silicon resonant micro-sensor. The closed-loop testing system based on FPGA uses software to replace hardware circuit which dramatically decrease the system's mass and power consumption and make the system more compact, both correlation theory and frequency scanning scheme are used in extracting weak signal, the adaptive frequency scanning arithmetic ensures the system real-time. The error model was analyzed to show the solution to enhance the system's measurement precision. The experiment results show that the closed-loop testing system based on FPGA has the personality of low power consumption, high precision, high-speed, real-time etc, and also the system is suitable for different kinds of Silicon Resonant Micro-sensor.

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.

High speed FPGA-based Phasemeter for the far-infrared laser interferometers on EAST

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Y.; Liu, H.; Zou, Z.; Li, W.; Lian, H.; Jie, Y.

2017-12-01

The far-infrared laser-based HCN interferometer and POlarimeter/INTerferometer\\break (POINT) system are important diagnostics for plasma density measurement on EAST tokamak. Both HCN and POINT provide high spatial and temporal resolution of electron density measurement and used for plasma density feedback control. The density is calculated by measuring the real-time phase difference between the reference beams and the probe beams. For long-pulse operations on EAST, the calculation of density has to meet the requirements of Real-Time and high precision. In this paper, a Phasemeter for far-infrared laser-based interferometers will be introduced. The FPGA-based Phasemeter leverages fast ADCs to obtain the three-frequency signals from VDI planar-diode Mixers, and realizes digital filters and an FFT algorithm in FPGA to provide real-time, high precision electron density output. Implementation of the Phasemeter will be helpful for the future plasma real-time feedback control in long-pulse discharge.

Femur Model Reconstruction Based on Reverse Engineering and Rapid Prototyping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Tongming; Zhang, Zheng; Ni, Hongjun; Deng, Jiawen; Huang, Mingyu

Precise reconstruction of 3D models is fundamental and crucial to the researches of human femur. In this paper we present our approach towards tackling this problem. The surface of a human femur was scanned using a hand-held 3D laser scanner. The data obtained, in the form of point cloud, was then processed using the reverse engineering software Geomagic and the CAD/CAM software CimatronE to reconstruct a digital 3D model. The digital model was then used by the rapid prototyping machine to build a physical model of human femur using 3D printing. The geometric characteristics of the obtained physical model matched that of the original femur. The process of "physical object - 3D data - digital 3D model - physical model" presented in this paper provides a foundation of precise modeling for the digital manufacturing, virtual assembly, stress analysis, and simulated surgery of artificial bionic femurs.

Precision of intraoral digital dental impressions with iTero and extraoral digitization with the iTero and a model scanner.

PubMed

Flügge, Tabea V; Schlager, Stefan; Nelson, Katja; Nahles, Susanne; Metzger, Marc C

2013-09-01

Digital impression devices are used alternatively to conventional impression techniques and materials. The aims of this study were to evaluate the precision of digital intraoral scanning under clinical conditions (iTero; Align Technologies, San Jose, Calif) and to compare it with the precision of extraoral digitization. One patient received 10 full-arch intraoral scans with the iTero and conventional impressions with a polyether impression material (Impregum Penta; 3M ESPE, Seefeld, Germany). Stone cast models manufactured from the impressions were digitized 10 times with an extraoral scanner (D250; 3Shape, Copenhagen, Denmark) and 10 times with the iTero. Virtual models provided by each method were roughly aligned, and the model edges were trimmed with cutting planes to create common borders (Rapidform XOR; Inus Technologies, Seoul, Korea). A second model alignment was then performed along the closest distances of the surfaces (Artec Studio software; Artec Group, Luxembourg, Luxembourg). To assess precision, deviations between corresponding models were compared. Repeated intraoral scanning was evaluated in group 1, repeated extraoral model scanning with the iTero was assessed in group 2, and repeated model scanning with the D250 was assessed in group 3. Deviations between models were measured and expressed as maximums, means, medians, and root mean square errors for quantitative analysis. Color-coded displays of the deviations allowed qualitative visualization of the deviations. The greatest deviations and therefore the lowest precision were in group 1, with mean deviations of 50 μm, median deviations of 37 μm, and root mean square errors of 73 μm. Group 2 showed a higher precision, with mean deviations of 25 μm, median deviations of 18 μm, and root mean square errors of 51 μm. Scanning with the D250 had the highest precision, with mean deviations of 10 μm, median deviations of 5 μm, and root mean square errors of 20 μm. Intraoral and extraoral scanning with the iTero resulted in deviations at the facial surfaces of the anterior teeth and the buccal molar surfaces. Scanning with the iTero is less accurate than scanning with the D250. Intraoral scanning with the iTero is less accurate than model scanning with the iTero, suggesting that the intraoral conditions (saliva, limited spacing) contribute to the inaccuracy of a scan. For treatment planning and manufacturing of tooth-supported appliances, virtual models created with the iTero can be used. An extended scanning protocol could improve the scanning results in some regions. Copyright © 2013 American Association of Orthodontists. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Automatic scanning and measuring using POLLY

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

Fields, T.

1993-07-01

The HPD and PEPR automatic measuring systems, which have been described by B. Powell and I. Pless at this conference, were developed in the 1960`s to be used for what would now be called {open_quotes}batch processing.{close_quotes} That is, an entire reel of bubble chamber film containing interesting events whose tracks had been rough-digitized would be processed in an extended run by a dedicated computer/precision digitizer hardware system, with no human intervention. Then, at a later time, events for which the precision measurement did not appear to be successful would be handled with some type of {open_quotes}fixup{close_quotes} station or process. Bymore » contrast, the POLLY system included from the start, not only a computer and a precision CRT measuring device, but also a human operator who could have convenient two-way interactions with the computer and could also view the picture directly. Inclusion of a human as a key part of the system had some important beneficial effects, as has been described in the original papers. In this note the author summarizes those effects, and also points out connections between the POLLY system philosophy and subsequent developments in both high energy physics data analysis and computing systems.« less

Electronic Voltage and Current Transformers Testing Device

PubMed Central

Pan, Feng; Chen, Ruimin; Xiao, Yong; Sun, Weiming

2012-01-01

A method for testing electronic instrument transformers is described, including electronic voltage and current transformers (EVTs, ECTs) with both analog and digital outputs. A testing device prototype is developed. It is based on digital signal processing of the signals that are measured at the secondary outputs of the tested transformer and the reference transformer when the same excitation signal is fed to their primaries. The test that estimates the performance of the prototype has been carried out at the National Centre for High Voltage Measurement and the prototype is approved for testing transformers with precision class up to 0.2 at the industrial frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz). The device is suitable for on-site testing due to its high accuracy, simple structure and low-cost hardware. PMID:22368510

Information storage and retrieval in a single levitating colloidal particle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myers, Christopher J.; Celebrano, Michele; Krishnan, Madhavi

2015-10-01

The binary switch is a basic component of digital information. From phase-change alloys to nanomechanical beams, molecules and atoms, new strategies for controlled bistability hold great interest for emerging technologies. We present a generic methodology for precise and parallel spatiotemporal control of nanometre-scale matter in a fluid, and demonstrate the ability to attain digital functionalities such as switching, gating and data storage in a single colloid, with further implications for signal amplification and logic operations. This fluid-phase bit can be arrayed at high densities, manipulated by either electrical or optical fields, supports low-energy, high-speed operation and marks a first step toward ‘colloidal information’. The principle generalizes to any system where spatial perturbation of a particle elicits a differential response amenable to readout.

Information storage and retrieval in a single levitating colloidal particle.

PubMed

Myers, Christopher J; Celebrano, Michele; Krishnan, Madhavi

2015-10-01

The binary switch is a basic component of digital information. From phase-change alloys to nanomechanical beams, molecules and atoms, new strategies for controlled bistability hold great interest for emerging technologies. We present a generic methodology for precise and parallel spatiotemporal control of nanometre-scale matter in a fluid, and demonstrate the ability to attain digital functionalities such as switching, gating and data storage in a single colloid, with further implications for signal amplification and logic operations. This fluid-phase bit can be arrayed at high densities, manipulated by either electrical or optical fields, supports low-energy, high-speed operation and marks a first step toward 'colloidal information'. The principle generalizes to any system where spatial perturbation of a particle elicits a differential response amenable to readout.

An Application of Close-Up Photogrammetry in Viticulture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grazia D'Urso, Maria; Marino, Costantino Luis

2016-06-01

Within the context of Geomatic-based Agriculture an application of close-up photogrammetry is illustrated with reference to precision farming. The application has been carried out in a particularly attractive archaeological site and concerns some viticulture species produced in situ by following a farming technique dated about two thousand years. Specifically we illustrate and comment the photogrammetric close-range acquisitions, carried out both outdoor and indoor, aimed at producing a digital botanic atlas that can adequately replace the traditional ones drawn by hand. High precision geometric measurements of vineyard leaves and grapes, are suitable indices of their growth rate and an objective estimate of the relevant repening degree.

Using Digital Earth to create online scientific reality tourist guides to tourist attractions in Taiwan, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Yea-Chung

2010-11-01

In recent years national parks worldwide have introduced online virtual tourism, through which potential visitors can search for tourist information. Most virtual tourism websites are a simulation of an existing location, usually composed of panoramic images, a sequence of hyperlinked still or video images, and/or virtual models of the actual location. As opposed to actual tourism, a virtual tour is typically accessed on a personal computer or an interactive kiosk. Using modern Digital Earth techniques such as high resolution satellite images, precise GPS coordinates and powerful 3D WebGIS, however, it's possible to create more realistic scenic models to present natural terrain and man-made constructions in greater detail. This article explains how to create an online scientific reality tourist guide for the Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park at Jinguashi in northern Taiwan, China. This project uses high-resolution Formosat 2 satellite images and digital aerial images in conjunction with DTM to create a highly realistic simulation of terrain, with the addition of 3DMAX to add man-made constructions and vegetation. Using this 3D Geodatabase model in conjunction with INET 3D WebGIS software, we have found Digital Earth concept can greatly improve and expand the presentation of traditional online virtual tours on the websites.

Improving the phase measurement by the apodization filter in the digital holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Shifeng; Wang, Dayong; Wang, Yunxin; Zhao, Jie; Rong, Lu

2012-11-01

Due to the finite size of the hologram aperture in digital holography, high frequency intensity and phase fluctuations along the edges of the images, which reduce the precision of phase measurement. In this paper, the apodization filters are applied to improve the phase measurement in the digital holography. Firstly, the experimental setup of the lensless Fourier transform digital holography is built, where the sample is a standard phase grating with the grating constant of 300μm and the depth of 150nm. Then, apodization filters are applied to phase measurement of the sample with three kinds of the window functions: Tukey window, Hanning window and Blackman window, respectively. Finally, the results were compared to the detection data given by the commercial white-light interferometer. It is shown that aperture diffraction effects can be reduced by the digital apodization, and the phase measurement with the apodization is more accurate than in the unapodized case. Meanwhile, the Blackman window function produces better effect than the other two window functions in the measurement of the standard phase grating.

Precision molding of advanced glass optics: innovative production technology for lens arrays and free form optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pongs, Guido; Bresseler, Bernd; Bergs, Thomas; Menke, Gert

2012-10-01

Today isothermal precision molding of imaging glass optics has become a widely applied and integrated production technology in the optical industry. Especially in consumer electronics (e.g. digital cameras, mobile phones, Blu-ray) a lot of optical systems contain rotationally symmetrical aspherical lenses produced by precision glass molding. But due to higher demands on complexity and miniaturization of optical elements the established process chain for precision glass molding is not sufficient enough. Wafer based molding processes for glass optics manufacturing become more and more interesting for mobile phone applications. Also cylindrical lens arrays can be used in high power laser systems. The usage of unsymmetrical free-form optics allows an increase of efficiency in optical laser systems. Aixtooling is working on different aspects in the fields of mold manufacturing technologies and molding processes for extremely high complex optical components. In terms of array molding technologies, Aixtooling has developed a manufacturing technology for the ultra-precision machining of carbide molds together with European partners. The development covers the machining of multi lens arrays as well as cylindrical lens arrays. The biggest challenge is the molding of complex free-form optics having no symmetrical axis. A comprehensive CAD/CAM data management along the entire process chain is essential to reach high accuracies on the molded lenses. Within a national funded project Aixtooling is working on a consistent data handling procedure in the process chain for precision molding of free-form optics.

Operation and tests of a DDC101 A/D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, H.

1994-11-01

For the KTeV PMT laser monitoring system, one needs a high resolution device with a large dynamic range to be used for digitizing PIN photodiodes. The dynamic range should be wider than or comparable to the KTeV digitizer (17-bits). The Burr-Brown DDC101 is a precision, wide dynamic range, charge digitizing A/D converter with 20-bit resolution, packaged in a 28-pin plastic, double-wide DP. Low level current output devices such as photosensors can be directly connected to its input. The digital output can be clocked-out serially from the pins. For typical operations, a relatively wide gate of 1 msec should be used. The full scale charge is 500 pC for unipolar mode. The bipolar mode scale is +/- 250 pC. The advertised integral nonlinearity is 0.003% of FSR. This document describes only the basic DDC101 operations since full detail can be found in the DDC101 manual. Tests results are given in section 3.

A simple bubble-flowmeter with quasicontinuous registration.

PubMed

Ludt, H; Herrmann, H D

1976-07-22

The construction of a simple bubble-flow-meter is described. The instrument has the following features: 1. automatic bubble injection, 2. precise measurement of the bubble passage time by a digital counter, 3. quasicontinuous registration of the flow rate, 4. alternative run with clear fluid (water) and coloured fluid (blood), 5. low volume, 6. closed measuring system for measurements in low and high pressure systems.

Time-resolved optical spectrometer based on a monolithic array of high-precision TDCs and SPADs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamborini, Davide; Markovic, Bojan; Di Sieno, Laura; Contini, Davide; Bassi, Andrea; Tisa, Simone; Tosi, Alberto; Zappa, Franco

2013-12-01

We present a compact time-resolved spectrometer suitable for optical spectroscopy from 400 nm to 1 μm wavelengths. The detector consists of a monolithic array of 16 high-precision Time-to-Digital Converters (TDC) and Single-Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPAD). The instrument has 10 ps resolution and reaches 70 ps (FWHM) timing precision over a 160 ns full-scale range with a Differential Non-Linearity (DNL) better than 1.5 % LSB. The core of the spectrometer is the application-specific integrated chip composed of 16 pixels with 250 μm pitch, containing a 20 μm diameter SPAD and an independent TDC each, fabricated in a 0.35 μm CMOS technology. In front of this array a monochromator is used to focus different wavelengths into different pixels. The spectrometer has been used for fluorescence lifetime spectroscopy: 5 nm spectral resolution over an 80 nm bandwidth is achieved. Lifetime spectroscopy of Nile blue is demonstrated.

QED: Experimental Evidence

ScienceCinema

Lincoln, Don

2018-01-16

The theory of quantum electrodynamics (QED) is perhaps the most precisely tested physics theory ever conceived. It describes the interaction of charged particles by emitting photons. The most precise prediction of this very precise theory is the magnetic strength of the electron, what physicists call the magnetic moment. Prediction and measurement agree to 12 digits of precision. In this video, Fermilab’s Dr. Don Lincoln talks about this amazing measurement.

General-purpose readout electronics for white neutron source at China Spallation Neutron Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Q.; Cao, P.; Qi, X.; Yu, T.; Ji, X.; Xie, L.; An, Q.

2018-01-01

The under-construction White Neutron Source (WNS) at China Spallation Neutron Source is a facility for accurate measurements of neutron-induced cross section. Seven spectrometers are planned at WNS. As the physical objectives of each spectrometer are different, the requirements for readout electronics are not the same. In order to simplify the development of the readout electronics, this paper presents a general method for detector signal readout. This method has advantages of expansibility and flexibility, which makes it adaptable to most detectors at WNS. In the WNS general-purpose readout electronics, signals from any kinds of detectors are conditioned by a dedicated signal conditioning module corresponding to this detector, and then digitized by a common waveform digitizer with high speed and high precision (1 GSPS at 12-bit) to obtain the full waveform data. The waveform digitizer uses a field programmable gate array chip to process the data stream and trigger information in real time. PXI Express platform is used to support the functionalities of data readout, clock distribution, and trigger information exchange between digitizers and trigger modules. Test results show that the performance of the WNS general-purpose readout electronics can meet the requirements of the WNS spectrometers.

DFB laser array driver circuit controlled by adjustable signal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Weikang; Du, Yinchao; Guo, Yu; Li, Wei; Wang, Hao

2018-01-01

In order to achieve the intelligent controlling of DFB laser array, this paper presents the design of an intelligence and high precision numerical controlling electric circuit. The system takes MCU and FPGA as the main control chip, with compact, high-efficiency, no impact, switching protection characteristics. The output of the DFB laser array can be determined by an external adjustable signal. The system transforms the analog control model into a digital control model, which improves the performance of the driver. The system can monitor the temperature and current of DFB laser array in real time. The output precision of the current can reach ± 0.1mA, which ensures the stable and reliable operation of the DFB laser array. Such a driver can benefit the flexible usage of the DFB laser array.

New real-time algorithms for arbitrary, high precision function generation with applications to acoustic transducer excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaydecki, P.

2009-07-01

A system is described for the design, downloading and execution of arbitrary functions, intended for use with acoustic and low-frequency ultrasonic transducers in condition monitoring and materials testing applications. The instrumentation comprises a software design tool and a powerful real-time digital signal processor unit, operating at 580 million multiplication-accumulations per second (MMACs). The embedded firmware employs both an established look-up table approach and a new function interpolation technique to generate the real-time signals with very high precision and flexibility. Using total harmonic distortion (THD) analysis, the purity of the waveforms have been compared with those generated using traditional analogue function generators; this analysis has confirmed that the new instrument has a consistently superior signal-to-noise ratio.

In Vivo Precision of Digital Topological Skeletonization Based Individual Trabecula Segmentation (ITS) Analysis of Trabecular Microstructure at the Distal Radius and Tibia by HR-pQCT.

PubMed

Zhou, Bin; Zhang, Zhendong; Wang, Ji; Yu, Y Eric; Liu, Xiaowei Sherry; Nishiyama, Kyle K; Rubin, Mishaela R; Shane, Elizabeth; Bilezikian, John P; Guo, X Edward

2016-06-01

Trabecular plate and rod microstructure plays a dominant role in the apparent mechanical properties of trabecular bone. With high-resolution computed tomography (CT) images, digital topological analysis (DTA) including skeletonization and topological classification was applied to transform the trabecular three-dimensional (3D) network into surface and curve skeletons. Using the DTA-based topological analysis and a new reconstruction/recovery scheme, individual trabecula segmentation (ITS) was developed to segment individual trabecular plates and rods and quantify the trabecular plate- and rod-related morphological parameters. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) is an emerging in vivo imaging technique to visualize 3D bone microstructure. Based on HR-pQCT images, ITS was applied to various HR-pQCT datasets to examine trabecular plate- and rod-related microstructure and has demonstrated great potential in cross-sectional and longitudinal clinical applications. However, the reproducibility of ITS has not been fully determined. The aim of the current study is to quantify the precision errors of ITS plate-rod microstructural parameters. In addition, we utilized three different frequently used contour techniques to separate trabecular and cortical bone and to evaluate their effect on ITS measurements. Overall, good reproducibility was found for the standard HR-pQCT parameters with precision errors for volumetric BMD and bone size between 0.2%-2.0%, and trabecular bone microstructure between 4.9%-6.7% at the radius and tibia. High reproducibility was also achieved for ITS measurements using all three different contour techniques. For example, using automatic contour technology, low precision errors were found for plate and rod trabecular number (pTb.N, rTb.N, 0.9% and 3.6%), plate and rod trabecular thickness (pTb.Th, rTb.Th, 0.6% and 1.7%), plate trabecular surface (pTb.S, 3.4%), rod trabecular length (rTb.ℓ, 0.8%), and plate-plate junction density (P-P Junc.D, 2.3%) at the tibia. The precision errors at the radius were similar to those at the tibia. In addition, precision errors were affected by the contour technique. At the tibia, precision error by the manual contour method was significantly different from automatic and standard contour methods for pTb.N, rTb.N and rTb.Th. Precision error using the manual contour method was also significantly different from the standard contour method for rod trabecular number (rTb.N), rod trabecular thickness (rTb.Th), rod-rod and plate-rod junction densities (R-R Junc.D and P-R Junc.D) at the tibia. At the radius, the precision error was similar between the three different contour methods. Image quality was also found to significantly affect the ITS reproducibility. We concluded that ITS parameters are highly reproducible, giving assurance that future cross-sectional and longitudinal clinical HR-pQCT studies are feasible in the context of limited sample sizes.

Digital PCR: A Sensitive and Precise Method for KIT D816V Quantification in Mastocytosis.

PubMed

Greiner, Georg; Gurbisz, Michael; Ratzinger, Franz; Witzeneder, Nadine; Simonitsch-Klupp, Ingrid; Mitterbauer-Hohendanner, Gerlinde; Mayerhofer, Matthias; Müllauer, Leonhard; Sperr, Wolfgang R; Valent, Peter; Hoermann, Gregor

2018-03-01

The analytically sensitive detection of KIT D816V in blood and bone marrow is important for diagnosing systemic mastocytosis (SM). Additionally, precise quantification of the KIT D816V variant allele fraction (VAF) is relevant clinically because it helps to predict multilineage involvement and prognosis in cases of advanced SM. Digital PCR (dPCR) is a promising new method for sensitive detection and accurate quantification of somatic mutations. We performed a validation study of dPCR for KIT D816V on 302 peripheral blood and bone marrow samples from 156 patients with mastocytosis for comparison with melting curve analysis after peptide nucleic acid-mediated PCR clamping (clamp-PCR) and allele-specific quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). dPCR showed a limit of detection of 0.01% VAF with a mean CV of 8.5% and identified the mutation in 90% of patients compared with 70% for clamp-PCR ( P < 0.001). Moreover, dPCR for KIT D816V was highly concordant with qPCR without systematic deviation of results, and confirmed the clinical value of KIT D816V VAF measurements. Thus, patients with advanced SM showed a significantly higher KIT D816V VAF (median, 2.43%) compared with patients with indolent SM (median, 0.14%; P < 0.001). Moreover, dPCR confirmed the prognostic significance of a high KIT D816V VAF regarding survival ( P < 0.001). dPCR for KIT D816V provides a high degree of precision and sensitivity combined with the potential for interlaboratory standardization, which is crucial for the implementation of KIT D816V allele burden measurement. Thus, dPCR is suitable as a new method for KIT D816V testing in patients with mastocytosis. © 2017 American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

Methods for applying accurate digital PCR analysis on low copy DNA samples.

PubMed

Whale, Alexandra S; Cowen, Simon; Foy, Carole A; Huggett, Jim F

2013-01-01

Digital PCR (dPCR) is a highly accurate molecular approach, capable of precise measurements, offering a number of unique opportunities. However, in its current format dPCR can be limited by the amount of sample that can be analysed and consequently additional considerations such as performing multiplex reactions or pre-amplification can be considered. This study investigated the impact of duplexing and pre-amplification on dPCR analysis by using three different assays targeting a model template (a portion of the Arabidopsis thaliana alcohol dehydrogenase gene). We also investigated the impact of different template types (linearised plasmid clone and more complex genomic DNA) on measurement precision using dPCR. We were able to demonstrate that duplex dPCR can provide a more precise measurement than uniplex dPCR, while applying pre-amplification or varying template type can significantly decrease the precision of dPCR. Furthermore, we also demonstrate that the pre-amplification step can introduce measurement bias that is not consistent between experiments for a sample or assay and so could not be compensated for during the analysis of this data set. We also describe a model for estimating the prevalence of molecular dropout and identify this as a source of dPCR imprecision. Our data have demonstrated that the precision afforded by dPCR at low sample concentration can exceed that of the same template post pre-amplification thereby negating the need for this additional step. Our findings also highlight the technical differences between different templates types containing the same sequence that must be considered if plasmid DNA is to be used to assess or control for more complex templates like genomic DNA.

Methods for Applying Accurate Digital PCR Analysis on Low Copy DNA Samples

PubMed Central

Whale, Alexandra S.; Cowen, Simon; Foy, Carole A.; Huggett, Jim F.

2013-01-01

Digital PCR (dPCR) is a highly accurate molecular approach, capable of precise measurements, offering a number of unique opportunities. However, in its current format dPCR can be limited by the amount of sample that can be analysed and consequently additional considerations such as performing multiplex reactions or pre-amplification can be considered. This study investigated the impact of duplexing and pre-amplification on dPCR analysis by using three different assays targeting a model template (a portion of the Arabidopsis thaliana alcohol dehydrogenase gene). We also investigated the impact of different template types (linearised plasmid clone and more complex genomic DNA) on measurement precision using dPCR. We were able to demonstrate that duplex dPCR can provide a more precise measurement than uniplex dPCR, while applying pre-amplification or varying template type can significantly decrease the precision of dPCR. Furthermore, we also demonstrate that the pre-amplification step can introduce measurement bias that is not consistent between experiments for a sample or assay and so could not be compensated for during the analysis of this data set. We also describe a model for estimating the prevalence of molecular dropout and identify this as a source of dPCR imprecision. Our data have demonstrated that the precision afforded by dPCR at low sample concentration can exceed that of the same template post pre-amplification thereby negating the need for this additional step. Our findings also highlight the technical differences between different templates types containing the same sequence that must be considered if plasmid DNA is to be used to assess or control for more complex templates like genomic DNA. PMID:23472156

A proposed periodic national inventory of land use land cover change

Treesearch

Hans T. Schreuder; Paul W. Snook; Raymond L. Czaplewski; Glenn P. Catts

1986-01-01

Three alternatives using digital thematic mapper (TM), analog TM, and a combination of either digital or analog TM data with low altitude photography are discussed for level I and level II land use/land cover classes for a proposed national inventory. Digital TM data should prove satisfactory for estimating acreage in level I classes, although estimates of precision...

Digital Assays Part I: Partitioning Statistics and Digital PCR.

PubMed

Basu, Amar S

2017-08-01

A digital assay is one in which the sample is partitioned into many small containers such that each partition contains a discrete number of biological entities (0, 1, 2, 3, …). A powerful technique in the biologist's toolkit, digital assays bring a new level of precision in quantifying nucleic acids, measuring proteins and their enzymatic activity, and probing single-cell genotypes and phenotypes. Part I of this review begins with the benefits and Poisson statistics of partitioning, including sources of error. The remainder focuses on digital PCR (dPCR) for quantification of nucleic acids. We discuss five commercial instruments that partition samples into physically isolated chambers (cdPCR) or droplet emulsions (ddPCR). We compare the strengths of dPCR (absolute quantitation, precision, and ability to detect rare or mutant targets) with those of its predecessor, quantitative real-time PCR (dynamic range, larger sample volumes, and throughput). Lastly, we describe several promising applications of dPCR, including copy number variation, quantitation of circulating tumor DNA and viral load, RNA/miRNA quantitation with reverse transcription dPCR, and library preparation for next-generation sequencing. This review is intended to give a broad perspective to scientists interested in adopting digital assays into their workflows. Part II focuses on digital protein and cell assays.

Digital-Analog Hybrid Scheme and Its Application to Chaotic Random Number Generators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Zeshi; Li, Hongtao; Miao, Yunchi; Hu, Wen; Zhu, Xiaohua

2017-12-01

Practical random number generation (RNG) circuits are typically achieved with analog devices or digital approaches. Digital-based techniques, which use field programmable gate array (FPGA) and graphics processing units (GPU) etc. usually have better performances than analog methods as they are programmable, efficient and robust. However, digital realizations suffer from the effect of finite precision. Accordingly, the generated random numbers (RNs) are actually periodic instead of being real random. To tackle this limitation, in this paper we propose a novel digital-analog hybrid scheme that employs the digital unit as the main body, and minimum analog devices to generate physical RNs. Moreover, the possibility of realizing the proposed scheme with only one memory element is discussed. Without loss of generality, we use the capacitor and the memristor along with FPGA to construct the proposed hybrid system, and a chaotic true random number generator (TRNG) circuit is realized, producing physical RNs at a throughput of Gbit/s scale. These RNs successfully pass all the tests in the NIST SP800-22 package, confirming the significance of the scheme in practical applications. In addition, the use of this new scheme is not restricted to RNGs, and it also provides a strategy to solve the effect of finite precision in other digital systems.

Digital core based transmitted ultrasonic wave simulation and velocity accuracy analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Wei; Shan, Rui

2016-06-01

Transmitted ultrasonic wave simulation (TUWS) in a digital core is one of the important elements of digital rock physics and is used to study wave propagation in porous cores and calculate equivalent velocity. When simulating wave propagates in a 3D digital core, two additional layers are attached to its two surfaces vertical to the wave-direction and one planar wave source and two receiver-arrays are properly installed. After source excitation, the two receivers then record incident and transmitted waves of the digital rock. Wave propagating velocity, which is the velocity of the digital core, is computed by the picked peak-time difference between the two recorded waves. To evaluate the accuracy of TUWS, a digital core is fully saturated with gas, oil, and water to calculate the corresponding velocities. The velocities increase with decreasing wave frequencies in the simulation frequency band, and this is considered to be the result of scattering. When the pore fluids are varied from gas to oil and finally to water, the velocity-variation characteristics between the different frequencies are similar, thereby approximately following the variation law of velocities obtained from linear elastic statics simulation (LESS), although their absolute values are different. However, LESS has been widely used. The results of this paper show that the transmission ultrasonic simulation has high relative precision.

Gigabit Digital Filter Bank: Digital Backend Subsystem in the VERA Data-Acquisition System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iguchi, Satoru; Kkurayama, Tomoharu; Kawaguchi, Noriyuki; Kawakami, Kazuyuki

2005-02-01

The VERA terminal is a new data-acquisition system developed for the VERA project, which is a project to construct a new Japanese VLBI array dedicated to make a 3-D map of our Milky Way Galaxy in terms of high-precision astrometry. New technology, a gigabit digital filter, was introduced in the development. The importance and advantages of a digital filter for radio astronomy have been studied as follows: (1) the digital filter can realize a variety of observation modes and maintain compatibility with different data-acquisition systems (Kiuchi et al. 1997 and Iguchi et al. 2000a), (2) the folding noise occurring in the sampling process can be reduced by combination with a higher-order sampling technique (Iguchi, Kawaguchi 2002), (3) and an ideal sharp cut-off bandedge and a flat amplitude/phase responses are approached by using a large number of taps available to use LSI of a large number of logic cells (Iguchi et al. 2000a). We developed the custom Finite Impulse Response filter chips and manufactured the Gigabit Digital Filter Banks (GDFBs) as a digital backend subsystem in the VERA terminal. In this paper, the design and development of the GDFB are presented in detail, and the performances and demonstrations of the developed GDFB are shown.

Automated landmark extraction for orthodontic measurement of faces using the 3-camera photogrammetry methodology.

PubMed

Deli, Roberto; Di Gioia, Eliana; Galantucci, Luigi Maria; Percoco, Gianluca

2010-01-01

To set up a three-dimensional photogrammetric scanning system for precise landmark measurements, without any physical contact, using a low-cost and noninvasive digital photogrammetric solution, for supporting several necessity in clinical orthodontics and/or surgery diagnosis. Thirty coded targets were directly applied onto the subject's face on the soft tissue landmarks, and then, 3 simultaneous photos were acquired using photogrammetry, at room light conditions. For comparison, a dummy head was digitized both with a photogrammetric technique and with the laser scanner Minolta Vivid 910i (Konica Minolta, Tokyo, Japan). The precise measurement of the landmarks is ranged between 0.017 and 0.029 mm. The system automatically measures spatial position of face landmarks, from which distances and angles can be obtained. The facial measurements were compared with those done using laser scanning and manual caliper. The adopted method gives higher precision than the others (0.022-mm mean value on points and 0.038-mm mean value on linear distances on a dummy head), is simple, and can be used easily as a standard routine. The study demonstrated the validity of photogrammetry for accurate digitization of human face landmarks. This research points out the potential of this low-cost photogrammetry approach for medical digitization.

Using kinematic reduction for studying grasping postures. An application to power and precision grasp of cylinders.

PubMed

Jarque-Bou, N; Gracia-Ibáñez, V; Sancho-Bru, J L; Vergara, M; Pérez-González, A; Andrés, F J

2016-09-01

The kinematic analysis of human grasping is challenging because of the high number of degrees of freedom involved. The use of principal component and factorial analyses is proposed in the present study to reduce the hand kinematics dimensionality in the analysis of posture for ergonomic purposes, allowing for a comprehensive study without losing accuracy while also enabling velocity and acceleration analyses to be performed. A laboratory study was designed to analyse the effect of weight and diameter in the grasping posture for cylinders. This study measured the hand posture from six subjects when transporting cylinders of different weights and diameters with precision and power grasps. The hand posture was measured using a Vicon(®) motion-tracking system, and the principal component analysis was applied to reduce the kinematics dimensionality. Different ANOVAs were performed on the reduced kinematic variables to check the effect of weight and diameter of the cylinders, as well as that of the subject. The results show that the original twenty-three degrees of freedom of the hand were reduced to five, which were identified as digit arching, closeness, palmar arching, finger adduction and thumb opposition. Both cylinder diameter and weight significantly affected the precision grasping posture: diameter affects closeness, palmar arching and opposition, while weight affects digit arching, palmar arching and closeness. The power-grasping posture was mainly affected by the cylinder diameter, through digit arching, closeness and opposition. The grasping posture was largely affected by the subject factor and this effect couldn't be attributed only to hand size. In conclusion, this kinematic reduction allowed identifying the effect of the diameter and weight of the cylinders in a comprehensive way, being diameter more important than weight. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

New design conception and development of the synchronizer/data buffer system in CDA station for China's GMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tong, Kai; Fan, Shiming; Gong, Derong; Lu, Zuming; Liu, Jian

The synchronizer/data buffer (SDB) in the command and data acquisition station for China's future Geostationary Meteorological Satellite is described. Several computers and special microprocessors are used in tandem with minimized hardware to fulfill all of the functions. The high-accuracy digital phase locked loop is operated by computer and by controlling the count value of the 20-MHz clock to acquire and track such signals as sun pulse, scan synchronization detection pulse, and earth pulse. Sun pulse and VISSR data are recorded precisely and economically by digitizing the time relation. The VISSR scan timing and equiangular control timing, and equal time sampling on satellite are also discussed.

Development of a digital mobile solar tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baidar, S.; Kille, N.; Ortega, I.; Sinreich, R.; Thomson, D.; Hannigan, J.; Volkamer, R.

2015-11-01

We have constructed and deployed a fast digital solar tracker aboard a moving ground-based platform. The tracker consists of two rotating mirrors, a lens, an imaging camera, and a motion compensation system that provides the Euler angles of the mobile platform in real time. The tracker can be simultaneously coupled to UV-Vis and FTIR spectrometers making it a versatile tool to measure the absorption of trace gases using solar incoming radiation. The integrated system allows the tracker to operate autonomously while the mobile laboratory is in motion. Mobile direct sun Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (mobile DS-DOAS) observations using this tracker were conducted during summer 2014 as part of the Front Range Photochemistry and Pollution Experiment (FRAPPE) in Colorado, USA. We demonstrate an angular precision of 0.052° (about 1/10 of the solar disk diameter) during research drives, and verify this tracking precision from measurements of the center to limb darkening (CLD, the changing appearance of Fraunhofer lines) in the mobile DS-DOAS spectra. The high photon flux from direct sun observation enables measurements of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) slant columns with high temporal resolution, and reveals spatial detail in the variations of NO2 vertical column densities (VCDs). The NO2 VCD from DS-DOAS is compared with a co-located MAX-DOAS instrument. Overall good agreement is observed amid a highly heterogeneous air mass.

Development of a digital mobile solar tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baidar, Sunil; Kille, Natalie; Ortega, Ivan; Sinreich, Roman; Thomson, David; Hannigan, James; Volkamer, Rainer

2016-03-01

We have constructed and deployed a fast digital solar tracker aboard a moving ground-based platform. The tracker consists of two rotating mirrors, a lens, an imaging camera, and a motion compensation system that provides the Euler angles of the mobile platform in real time. The tracker can be simultaneously coupled to UV-Vis and Fourier transform infrared spectrometers, making it a versatile tool to measure the absorption of trace gases using solar incoming radiation. The integrated system allows the tracker to operate autonomously while the mobile laboratory is in motion. Mobile direct sun differential optical absorption spectroscopy (mobile DS-DOAS) observations using this tracker were conducted during summer 2014 as part of the Front Range Air Pollution and Photochemistry Experiment (FRAPPE) in Colorado, USA. We demonstrate an angular precision of 0.052° (about 1/10 of the solar disk diameter) during research drives and verify this tracking precision from measurements of the center to limb darkening (CLD, the changing appearance of Fraunhofer lines) in the mobile DS-DOAS spectra. The high photon flux from direct sun observation enables measurements of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) slant columns with high temporal resolution and reveals spatial detail in the variations of NO2 vertical column densities (VCDs). The NO2 VCD from DS-DOAS is compared with a co-located MAX-DOAS instrument. Overall good agreement is observed amid a highly heterogeneous air mass.

Digital dermatitis in cattle: current bacterial and immunological findings

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Globally, digital dermatitis is a leading form of lameness observed in production dairy cattle. While the precise etiology remains to be determined, the disease is clearly associated with infection by numerous Treponema species in addition to other anaerobic bacteria. Multiple treponeme phylotypes, ...

Memristor-Based Analog Computation and Neural Network Classification with a Dot Product Engine.

PubMed

Hu, Miao; Graves, Catherine E; Li, Can; Li, Yunning; Ge, Ning; Montgomery, Eric; Davila, Noraica; Jiang, Hao; Williams, R Stanley; Yang, J Joshua; Xia, Qiangfei; Strachan, John Paul

2018-03-01

Using memristor crossbar arrays to accelerate computations is a promising approach to efficiently implement algorithms in deep neural networks. Early demonstrations, however, are limited to simulations or small-scale problems primarily due to materials and device challenges that limit the size of the memristor crossbar arrays that can be reliably programmed to stable and analog values, which is the focus of the current work. High-precision analog tuning and control of memristor cells across a 128 × 64 array is demonstrated, and the resulting vector matrix multiplication (VMM) computing precision is evaluated. Single-layer neural network inference is performed in these arrays, and the performance compared to a digital approach is assessed. Memristor computing system used here reaches a VMM accuracy equivalent of 6 bits, and an 89.9% recognition accuracy is achieved for the 10k MNIST handwritten digit test set. Forecasts show that with integrated (on chip) and scaled memristors, a computational efficiency greater than 100 trillion operations per second per Watt is possible. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Camera Calibration with Radial Variance Component Estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mélykuti, B.; Kruck, E. J.

2014-11-01

Camera calibration plays a more and more important role in recent times. Beside real digital aerial survey cameras the photogrammetric market is dominated by a big number of non-metric digital cameras mounted on UAVs or other low-weight flying platforms. The in-flight calibration of those systems has a significant role to enhance the geometric accuracy of survey photos considerably. It is expected to have a better precision of photo measurements in the center of images then along the edges or in the corners. With statistical methods the accuracy of photo measurements in dependency of the distance of points from image center has been analyzed. This test provides a curve for the measurement precision as function of the photo radius. A high number of camera types have been tested with well penetrated point measurements in image space. The result of the tests led to a general consequence to show a functional connection between accuracy and radial distance and to give a method how to check and enhance the geometrical capability of the cameras in respect to these results.

Precise multi-instrument data on exceptional fireballs recorded over Central Europe in the period 2012-2014

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spurny, P.; Borovicka, J.

2014-07-01

Introduction: Instrumental recordings of fireballs provide an excellent means of examining the physical and structural properties of larger meteoroids, as well as their temporal and spatial distribution in the Solar System. Except direct information about this component of interplanetary bodies this study also yields very valuable knowledge about their parent bodies, asteroids and comets. In some special and very rare cases, when such instrumentally observed fireball terminates by a meteorite fall, we have even direct information about the composition, structure and mineralogy not only of this particular meteorite but also of its parent body. The most efficient systems for systematic fireball observations are so-called fireball networks. In this work we present precise and complex data on several exceptional fireballs based on photographic and photoelectric records taken by the Czech Fireball Network, which is the longest continuously operated and the most developed part of the European Fireball Network (EN). Instruments and data processing: The Czech part of the EN has been entirely modernized in the last decade and its operation was in the large extent automatized [1]. This change significantly increased not only efficiency but also quality and complexity of our observations. However, this observing system, which provides us with photographic and photoelectric data about fireballs brighter than -4 magnitude, still uses photographic films, which brings some limitations for the data processing. Primarily it implies a non-negligible delay between data acquisition and their analysis as we had to transport photographic films physically from remote stations and only then to develop and digitize them. There is also much lower efficiency of observations during the full Moon period than during moonless nights. Taking the advantage of fast progress of digital photography, we have constructed a new generation of the Digital Autonomous Fireball Observatory (DAFO), which provides us with high-resolution digital images available immediately after their recording. This observatory, developed during the last 2 years, sorted out all the above-mentioned disadvantages. These sophisticated digital cameras are currently being deployed on the stations of the Czech Fireball Network. In this work, we present the first data from this new observing system and the comparison with the previous one. Along with this significant modernization we also improved our software for positional and photometric measurement of photographic records, which partly automatizes this time consuming work and make it much more efficient, easier, and even more precise. This observing system based on the DAFO's, provides us not only with the similarly precise dataset of fireballs as the previous large format film system but thanks to the different observing strategy and higher sensitivity limit, significantly increased effective observing time and number of recorded fireballs. Average absolute positional accuracy for the recorded fireballs stayed similar for both systems and it is about 15 m for each point on a fireball luminous trajectory. Results: To demonstrate this fact, we present complete and precise data on atmospheric trajectories, orbits, lightcurves and dynamics for several fireballs, which are in some sense exceptional and which were recorded by both systems in the last two years. This sample contains, among others the cases which very probably terminate by the fall of a small meteorite, the cases with interesting internal structure and orbital characteristics and also the cases with interesting orbits with respect to their structural properties (i.e. cometary material on a typical asteroidal orbit and vice versa). As the examples of uniqueness of our data we can mention recording of the deep penetrating Geminid fireball (EN141212) which certainly terminated by the fall of a small, only tens of grams meteorite. This unique case with very precise trajectory, dynamic and orbital data (one of the most precise Geminid ever observed) proved that in some special cases even meteoroids with a high initial velocity of 36 km/s can produce a meteorite and that there is real possibility that we could find a piece of Phaethon, the parent of Geminids. Another example is the fireball designated EN130114 which was recorded only by our new digital cameras (it was during the full Moon period). The main exceptionality of this case consists in its lowest ever observed initial velocity which we recorded for natural interplanetary body. Its initial speed of only 11.090 km/s means among others that this meteoroid orbited Sun on a very Earth-like orbit. All presented fireballs well document the high standard of our observations and their usefulness for better knowledge of properties of meteoroids and their parents as well as their distribution in the Solar System.

A telerobotic digital controller system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Richard J.

1992-01-01

This system is a network of joint mounted dual axes digital servo-controllers (DDSC), providing control of various joints and end effectors of different robotic systems. This report provides description of and user required information for the Digital Controller System Network (DSCN) and, in particular, the DDSC, Model DDSC-2, developed to perform the controller functions. The DDSC can control 3 phase brushless or brush type DC motors, requiring up to 8 amps. Only four wires, two for power and 2 for serial communication, are required, except for local sensor and motor connections. This highly capable, very flexible, programmable servo-controller, contained on a single, compact printed circuit board measuring only 4.5 x 5.1 inches, is applicable to control systems of all types from sub-arc second precision pointing to control of robotic joints and end effectors. This document concentrates on the robotic applications for the DDSC.

Loop gain stabilizing with an all-digital automatic-gain-control method for high-precision fiber-optic gyroscope.

PubMed

Zheng, Yue; Zhang, Chunxi; Li, Lijing; Song, Lailiang; Chen, Wen

2016-06-10

For a fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) using electronic dithers to suppress the dead zone, without a fixed loop gain, the deterministic compensation for the dither signals in the control loop of the FOG cannot remain accurate, resulting in the dither residuals in the FOG rotation rate output and the navigation errors in the inertial navigation system. An all-digital automatic-gain-control method for stabilizing the loop gain of the FOG is proposed. By using a perturbation square wave to measure the loop gain of the FOG and adding an automatic gain control loop in the conventional control loop of the FOG, we successfully obtain the actual loop gain and make the loop gain converge to the reference value. The experimental results show that in the case of 20% variation in the loop gain, the dither residuals are successfully eliminated and the standard deviation of the FOG sampling outputs is decreased from 2.00  deg/h to 0.62  deg/h (sampling period 2.5 ms, 10 points smoothing). With this method, the loop gain of the FOG can be stabilized over the operation temperature range and in the long-time application, which provides a solid foundation for the engineering applications of the high-precision FOG.

Experimental research of digital image correlation system in high temperature test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Li; Wang, Yonghong; Dan, Xizuo; Xiao, Ying; Yang, Lianxiang

2016-01-01

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) is a full-field technique based on white-light illumination for displacement and strain measurement. But radiation on the specimen surface at high temperature affects the quality of acquired speckle pattern images for traditional DIC measurement. In order to minimize the radiation effect in high temperature measurement, this paper proposes a two-dimensional ultraviolet digital image correlation system (2D UV-DIC) containing UV LED and UV band-pass filter. It is confirmed by experiments that images acquired by this system saturate at higher temperature in comparison with DIC using filtered blue light imaging system. And the UV-DIC remains minimally affected by radiation at the temperature which is nearing the specimen's maximum working temperature (about 1250°C). In addition, considering the heat disturbance that can't be ignored in actual high temperature measurement, this paper also proposes a method using an air controller in combination with image average algorithm, and the method was then used to obtain the thermal expansion coefficient of the Austenitic chromium-nickel stainless steel specimen at different temperatures. By comparing the coefficients with the results calculated by other method, it shows that this comprehensive method has the advantages of strong anti-interference ability and high precision.

Note: A three-dimensional calibration device for the confocal microscope.

PubMed

Jensen, K E; Weitz, D A; Spaepen, F

2013-01-01

Modern confocal microscopes enable high-precision measurement in three dimensions by collecting stacks of 2D (x-y) images that can be assembled digitally into a 3D image. It is difficult, however, to ensure position accuracy, particularly along the optical (z) axis where scanning is performed by a different physical mechanism than in x-y. We describe a simple device to calibrate simultaneously the x, y, and z pixel-to-micrometer conversion factors for a confocal microscope. By taking a known 2D pattern and positioning it at a precise angle with respect to the microscope axes, we created a 3D reference standard. The device is straightforward to construct and easy to use.

Droplet digital PCR technology promises new applications and research areas.

PubMed

Manoj, P

2016-01-01

Digital Polymerase Chain Reaction (dPCR) is used to quantify nucleic acids and its applications are in the detection and precise quantification of low-level pathogens, rare genetic sequences, quantification of copy number variants, rare mutations and in relative gene expressions. Here the PCR is performed in large number of reaction chambers or partitions and the reaction is carried out in each partition individually. This separation allows a more reliable collection and sensitive measurement of nucleic acid. Results are calculated by counting amplified target sequence (positive droplets) and the number of partitions in which there is no amplification (negative droplets). The mean number of target sequences was calculated by Poisson Algorithm. Poisson correction compensates the presence of more than one copy of target gene in any droplets. The method provides information with accuracy and precision which is highly reproducible and less susceptible to inhibitors than qPCR. It has been demonstrated in studying variations in gene sequences, such as copy number variants and point mutations, distinguishing differences between expression of nearly identical alleles, assessment of clinically relevant genetic variations and it is routinely used for clonal amplification of samples for NGS methods. dPCR enables more reliable predictors of tumor status and patient prognosis by absolute quantitation using reference normalizations. Rare mitochondrial DNA deletions associated with a range of diseases and disorders as well as aging can be accurately detected with droplet digital PCR.

Considerations for applying digital soil mapping to ecological sites

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Recent advancements in the spatial prediction of soil properties are not currently being fully utilized for ecological studies. Linking digital soil mapping (DSM) with ecological sites (ES) has the potential to better land management decisions by improving spatial resolution and precision as well as...

A Multigrasp Hand Prosthesis for Providing Precision and Conformal Grasps

PubMed Central

Bennett, Daniel A.; Dalley, Skyler A.; Truex, Don; Goldfarb, Michael

2015-01-01

This paper presents the design of an anthropomorphic prosthetic hand that incorporates four motor units in a unique configuration to explicitly provide both precision and conformal grasp capability. The paper describes the design of the hand prosthesis, and additionally describes the design of an embedded control system located in the palm of the hand that enables self-contained control of hand movement. Following the design description, the paper provides experimental characterizations of hand performance, including digit force capability, bandwidth of digit movement, physical properties such as size and mass, and electrical power measurements during activities of daily living. PMID:26167111

Droplet Digital™ PCR Next-Generation Sequencing Library QC Assay.

PubMed

Heredia, Nicholas J

2018-01-01

Digital PCR is a valuable tool to quantify next-generation sequencing (NGS) libraries precisely and accurately. Accurately quantifying NGS libraries enable accurate loading of the libraries on to the sequencer and thus improve sequencing performance by reducing under and overloading error. Accurate quantification also benefits users by enabling uniform loading of indexed/barcoded libraries which in turn greatly improves sequencing uniformity of the indexed/barcoded samples. The advantages gained by employing the Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR™) library QC assay includes the precise and accurate quantification in addition to size quality assessment, enabling users to QC their sequencing libraries with confidence.

Moving Object Detection Using Scanning Camera on a High-Precision Intelligent Holder.

PubMed

Chen, Shuoyang; Xu, Tingfa; Li, Daqun; Zhang, Jizhou; Jiang, Shenwang

2016-10-21

During the process of moving object detection in an intelligent visual surveillance system, a scenario with complex background is sure to appear. The traditional methods, such as "frame difference" and "optical flow", may not able to deal with the problem very well. In such scenarios, we use a modified algorithm to do the background modeling work. In this paper, we use edge detection to get an edge difference image just to enhance the ability of resistance illumination variation. Then we use a "multi-block temporal-analyzing LBP (Local Binary Pattern)" algorithm to do the segmentation. In the end, a connected component is used to locate the object. We also produce a hardware platform, the core of which consists of the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) platforms and the high-precision intelligent holder.

Accuracy and precision of a custom camera-based system for 2D and 3D motion tracking during speech and nonspeech motor tasks

PubMed Central

Feng, Yongqiang; Max, Ludo

2014-01-01

Purpose Studying normal or disordered motor control requires accurate motion tracking of the effectors (e.g., orofacial structures). The cost of electromagnetic, optoelectronic, and ultrasound systems is prohibitive for many laboratories, and limits clinical applications. For external movements (lips, jaw), video-based systems may be a viable alternative, provided that they offer high temporal resolution and sub-millimeter accuracy. Method We examined the accuracy and precision of 2D and 3D data recorded with a system that combines consumer-grade digital cameras capturing 60, 120, or 240 frames per second (fps), retro-reflective markers, commercially-available computer software (APAS, Ariel Dynamics), and a custom calibration device. Results Overall mean error (RMSE) across tests was 0.15 mm for static tracking and 0.26 mm for dynamic tracking, with corresponding precision (SD) values of 0.11 and 0.19 mm, respectively. The effect of frame rate varied across conditions, but, generally, accuracy was reduced at 240 fps. The effect of marker size (3 vs. 6 mm diameter) was negligible at all frame rates for both 2D and 3D data. Conclusion Motion tracking with consumer-grade digital cameras and the APAS software can achieve sub-millimeter accuracy at frame rates that are appropriate for kinematic analyses of lip/jaw movements for both research and clinical purposes. PMID:24686484

Automated full-3D digitization system for documentation of paintings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karaszewski, Maciej; Adamczyk, Marcin; Sitnik, Robert; Michoński, Jakub; Załuski, Wojciech; Bunsch, Eryk; Bolewicki, Paweł

2013-05-01

In this paper, a fully automated 3D digitization system for documentation of paintings is presented. It consists of a specially designed frame system for secure fixing of painting, a custom designed, structured light-based, high-resolution measurement head with no IR and UV emission. This device is automatically positioned in two axes (parallel to the surface of digitized painting) with additional manual positioning in third, perpendicular axis. Manual change of observation angle is also possible around two axes to re-measure even partially shadowed areas. The whole system is built in a way which provides full protection of digitized object (moving elements cannot reach its vicinity) and is driven by computer-controlled, highly precise servomechanisms. It can be used for automatic (without any user attention) and fast measurement of the paintings with some limitation to their properties: maximum size of the picture is 2000mm x 2000mm (with deviation of flatness smaller than 20mm) Measurement head is automatically calibrated by the system and its possible working volume starts from 50mm x 50mm x 20mm (10000 points per square mm) and ends at 120mm x 80mm x 60mm (2500 points per square mm). The directional measurements obtained with this system are automatically initially aligned due to the measurement head's position coordinates known from servomechanisms. After the whole painting is digitized, the measurements are fine-aligned with color-based ICP algorithm to remove any influence of possible inaccuracy of positioning devices. We present exemplary digitization results along with the discussion about the opportunities of analysis which appear for such high-resolution, 3D computer models of paintings.

Identifying images of handwritten digits using deep learning in H2O

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadhasivam, Jayakumar; Charanya, R.; Kumar, S. Harish; Srinivasan, A.

2017-11-01

Automatic digit recognition is of popular interest today. Deep learning techniques make it possible for object recognition in image data. Perceiving the digit has turned into a fundamental part as far as certifiable applications. Since, digits are composed in various styles in this way to distinguish the digit it is important to perceive and arrange it with the assistance of machine learning methods. This exploration depends on supervised learning vector quantization neural system arranged under counterfeit artificial neural network. The pictures of digits are perceived, prepared and tried. After the system is made digits are prepared utilizing preparing dataset vectors and testing is connected to the pictures of digits which are separated to each other by fragmenting the picture and resizing the digit picture as needs be for better precision.

A precision device needs precise simulation: Software description of the CBM Silicon Tracking System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malygina, Hanna; Friese, Volker; CBM Collaboration

2017-10-01

Precise modelling of detectors in simulations is the key to the understanding of their performance, which, in turn, is a prerequisite for the proper design choice and, later, for the achievement of valid physics results. In this report, we describe the implementation of the Silicon Tracking System (STS), the main tracking device of the CBM experiment, in the CBM software environment. The STS makes uses of double-sided silicon micro-strip sensors with double metal layers. We present a description of transport and detector response simulation, including all relevant physical effects like charge creation and drift, charge collection, cross-talk and digitization. Of particular importance and novelty is the description of the time behaviour of the detector, since its readout will not be externally triggered but continuous. We also cover some aspects of local reconstruction, which in the CBM case has to be performed in real-time and thus requires high-speed algorithms.

Issues in the digital implementation of control compensators. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moroney, P.

1979-01-01

Techniques developed for the finite-precision implementation of digital filters were used, adapted, and extended for digital feedback compensators, with particular emphasis on steady state, linear-quadratic-Gaussian compensators. Topics covered include: (1) the linear-quadratic-Gaussian problem; (2) compensator structures; (3) architectural issues: serialism, parallelism, and pipelining; (4) finite wordlength effects: quantization noise, quantizing the coefficients, and limit cycles; and (5) the optimization of structures.

High-performance time-resolved fluorescence by direct waveform recording.

PubMed

Muretta, Joseph M; Kyrychenko, Alexander; Ladokhin, Alexey S; Kast, David J; Gillispie, Gregory D; Thomas, David D

2010-10-01

We describe a high-performance time-resolved fluorescence (HPTRF) spectrometer that dramatically increases the rate at which precise and accurate subnanosecond-resolved fluorescence emission waveforms can be acquired in response to pulsed excitation. The key features of this instrument are an intense (1 μJ/pulse), high-repetition rate (10 kHz), and short (1 ns full width at half maximum) laser excitation source and a transient digitizer (0.125 ns per time point) that records a complete and accurate fluorescence decay curve for every laser pulse. For a typical fluorescent sample containing a few nanomoles of dye, a waveform with a signal/noise of about 100 can be acquired in response to a single laser pulse every 0.1 ms, at least 10(5) times faster than the conventional method of time-correlated single photon counting, with equal accuracy and precision in lifetime determination for lifetimes as short as 100 ps. Using standard single-lifetime samples, the detected signals are extremely reproducible, with waveform precision and linearity to within 1% error for single-pulse experiments. Waveforms acquired in 0.1 s (1000 pulses) with the HPTRF instrument were of sufficient precision to analyze two samples having different lifetimes, resolving minor components with high accuracy with respect to both lifetime and mole fraction. The instrument makes possible a new class of high-throughput time-resolved fluorescence experiments that should be especially powerful for biological applications, including transient kinetics, multidimensional fluorescence, and microplate formats.

ExpertEyes: open-source, high-definition eyetracking.

PubMed

Parada, Francisco J; Wyatte, Dean; Yu, Chen; Akavipat, Ruj; Emerick, Brandi; Busey, Thomas

2015-03-01

ExpertEyes is a low-cost, open-source package of hardware and software that is designed to provide portable high-definition eyetracking. The project involves several technological innovations, including portability, high-definition video recording, and multiplatform software support. It was designed for challenging recording environments, and all processing is done offline to allow for optimization of parameter estimation. The pupil and corneal reflection are estimated using a novel forward eye model that simultaneously fits both the pupil and the corneal reflection with full ellipses, addressing a common situation in which the corneal reflection sits at the edge of the pupil and therefore breaks the contour of the ellipse. The accuracy and precision of the system are comparable to or better than what is available in commercial eyetracking systems, with a typical accuracy of less than 0.4° and best accuracy below 0.3°, and with a typical precision (SD method) around 0.3° and best precision below 0.2°. Part of the success of the system comes from a high-resolution eye image. The high image quality results from uncasing common digital camcorders and recording directly to SD cards, which avoids the limitations of the analog NTSC format. The software is freely downloadable, and complete hardware plans are available, along with sources for custom parts.

The Wireless Data Acquisition System for the Vibration Table

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teng, Y. T.; Hu, X.

2014-12-01

The vibration table is a large-scaled tool used for inspecting the performance of seismometers. The output from a seismometer on the table can be directly monitored when the vibration table moves in certain pattern. Compared with other inspection methods, inspecting seismometers' performance indicators (frequency response, degree of linearity, sensitivity, lateral inhibition and dynamic range etc). using vibration tables is more intuitive. Therefore, the vibration tables are an essential testing part in developing new seismometers and seismometer quality control. Whereas, in practice, a cable is needed to connect the seismometer to the ground equipments for its signal outputs and power supply, that means adding a time-varying nonlinear spring between the vibration table and ground. The cable adds nonlinear feature to the table, distorts the table-board movement and bring extra errors to the inspecting work and affected the testing accuracy and precision. In face of this problem, we developed a wireless acquiring system for the vibration table. The system is consisted of a three-channel analog-to-digital conversion, an acquisition control part, local data storage, network interface, wireless router and power management, etc. The analog-to-digital conversion part uses a 24-digit high-precision converter, which has a programmable amplifier at the front end of its artificial circuit, with the function of matching outputs with different amplifier from the vibration table. The acquisition control part uses a 32 bit ARM processor, with low-power dissipation, minute extension and high performance. The application software platform is written in Linux to make the system convenient for multitasking work. Large volume local digital storage is achieved by a 32G SD card, which is used for saving real time acquired data. Data transmission is achieved by network interface and wireless router, which can simplify the application software by the supported TCP/IP protocol. Besides, the acquisition system uses built-in power supply, which provides power to the system with Li-On rechargeable battery with high capacity, then all the cable link between the vibration table and the ground equipment have been removed. With all these changes, the whole system is immobilized on board of the vibration table after being packaged.

Fluorescence lifetime plate reader: Resolution and precision meet high-throughput

PubMed Central

Petersen, Karl J.; Peterson, Kurt C.; Muretta, Joseph M.; Higgins, Sutton E.; Gillispie, Gregory D.; Thomas, David D.

2014-01-01

We describe a nanosecond time-resolved fluorescence spectrometer that acquires fluorescence decay waveforms from each well of a 384-well microplate in 3 min with signal-to-noise exceeding 400 using direct waveform recording. The instrument combines high-energy pulsed laser sources (5–10 kHz repetition rate) with a photomultiplier and high-speed digitizer (1 GHz) to record a fluorescence decay waveform after each pulse. Waveforms acquired from rhodamine or 5-((2-aminoethyl)amino) naphthalene-1-sulfonic acid dyes in a 384-well plate gave lifetime measurements 5- to 25-fold more precise than the simultaneous intensity measurements. Lifetimes as short as 0.04 ns were acquired by interleaving with an effective sample rate of 5 GHz. Lifetime measurements resolved mixtures of single-exponential dyes with better than 1% accuracy. The fluorescence lifetime plate reader enables multiple-well fluorescence lifetime measurements with an acquisition time of 0.5 s per well, suitable for high-throughput fluorescence lifetime screening applications. PMID:25430092

Evaluation of the effect scan pattern has on the trueness and precision of six intraoral digital impression systems.

PubMed

Mennito, Anthony S; Evans, Zachary P; Lauer, Abigail W; Patel, Ravi B; Ludlow, Mark E; Renne, Walter G

2018-03-01

Clinicians have been slow to adopt digital impression technologies due possibly to perceived technique sensitivities involved in data acquisition. This research has two aims: determine whether scan pattern and sequence affects the accuracy of the three-dimensional (3D) model created from this digital impression and to compare the 5 imaging systems with regards to their scanning accuracy for sextant impressions. Six digital intraoral impression systems were used to scan a typodont sextant with optical properties similar to natural teeth. The impressions were taken using five different scan patterns and the resulting digital models were overlayed on a master digital model to determine the accuracy of each scanner performing each scan pattern. Furthermore, regardless of scan pattern, each digital impression system was evaluated for accuracy to the other systems in this same manner. No differences of significance were noted in the accuracy of 3D models created using six distinct scan patterns with one exception involving the CEREC Omnicam. Planmeca Planscan was determined to be the truest scanner while 3Shape Trios was determined to be the most precise for sextant impression making. Scan pattern does not significantly affect the accuracy of the resulting digital model for sextant scanning. Companies who make digital impression systems often recommend a scan pattern specific for their system. However, every clinical scanning scenario is different and may require a different approach. Knowing how important scan pattern is with regards to accuracy would be helpful for guiding a growing number of practitioners who are utilizing this technology. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

High Resolution Airborne Digital Imagery for Precision Agriculture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herwitz, Stanley R.

1998-01-01

The Environmental Research Aircraft and Sensor Technology (ERAST) program is a NASA initiative that seeks to demonstrate the application of cost-effective aircraft and sensor technology to private commercial ventures. In 1997-98, a series of flight-demonstrations and image acquisition efforts were conducted over the Hawaiian Islands using a remotely-piloted solar- powered platform (Pathfinder) and a fixed-wing piloted aircraft (Navajo) equipped with a Kodak DCS450 CIR (color infrared) digital camera. As an ERAST Science Team Member, I defined a set of flight lines over the largest coffee plantation in Hawaii: the Kauai Coffee Company's 4,000 acre Koloa Estate. Past studies have demonstrated the applications of airborne digital imaging to agricultural management. Few studies have examined the usefulness of high resolution airborne multispectral imagery with 10 cm pixel sizes. The Kodak digital camera integrated with ERAST's Airborne Real Time Imaging System (ARTIS) which generated multiband CCD images consisting of 6 x 106 pixel elements. At the designated flight altitude of 1,000 feet over the coffee plantation, pixel size was 10 cm. The study involved the analysis of imagery acquired on 5 March 1998 for the detection of anomalous reflectance values and for the definition of spectral signatures as indicators of tree vigor and treatment effectiveness (e.g., drip irrigation; fertilizer application).

Digital frequency offset-locked He–Ne laser system with high beat frequency stability, narrow optical linewidth and optical fibre output

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sternkopf, Christian; Manske, Eberhard

2018-06-01

We report on the enhancement of a previously-presented heterodyne laser source on the basis of two phase-locked loop (PLL) frequency coupled internal-mirror He–Ne lasers. Our new system consists of two digitally controlled He–Ne lasers with slightly different wavelengths, and offers high-frequency stability and very narrow optical linewidth. The digitally controlled system has been realized by using a FPGA controller and transconductance amplifiers. The light of both lasers was coupled into separate fibres for heterodyne interferometer applications. To enhance the laser performance we observed the sensitivity of both laser tubes to electromagnetic noise from various laser power supplies and frequency control systems. Furthermore, we describe how the linewidth of a frequency-controlled He–Ne laser can be reduced during precise frequency stabilisation. The digitally controlled laser source reaches a standard beat frequency deviation of less than 20 Hz (with 1 s gate time) and a spectral full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the beat signal less than 3 kHz. The laser source has enough optical output power to serve a fibre-coupled multi axis heterodyne interferometer. The system can be adjusted to output beat frequencies in the range of 0.1 MHz–20 MHz.

Recent developments in heterodyne laser interferometry at Harbin Institute of Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, P. C.; Tan, J. B. B.; Yang, H. X. X.; Fu, H. J. J.; Wang, Q.

2013-01-01

In order to fulfill the requirements for high-resolution and high-precision heterodyne interferometric technologies and instruments, the laser interferometry group of HIT has developed some novel techniques for high-resolution and high-precision heterodyne interferometers, such as high accuracy laser frequency stabilization, dynamic sub-nanometer resolution phase interpolation and dynamic nonlinearity measurement. Based on a novel lock point correction method and an asymmetric thermal structure, the frequency stabilized laser achieves a long term stability of 1.2×10-8, and it can be steadily stabilized even in the air flowing up to 1 m/s. In order to achieve dynamic sub-nanometer resolution of laser heterodyne interferometers, a novel phase interpolation method based on digital delay line is proposed. Experimental results show that, the proposed 0.62 nm, phase interpolator built with a 64 multiple PLL and an 8-tap digital delay line achieves a static accuracy better than 0.31nm and a dynamic accuracy better than 0.62 nm over the velocity ranging from -2 m/s to 2 m/s. Meanwhile, an accuracy beam polarization measuring setup is proposed to check and ensure the light's polarization state of the dual frequency laser head, and a dynamic optical nonlinearity measuring setup is built to measure the optical nonlinearity of the heterodyne system accurately and quickly. Analysis and experimental results show that, the beam polarization measuring setup can achieve an accuracy of 0.03° in ellipticity angles and an accuracy of 0.04° in the non-orthogonality angle respectively, and the optical nonlinearity measuring setup can achieve an accuracy of 0.13°.

SAGITTARIUS STREAM THREE-DIMENSIONAL KINEMATICS FROM SLOAN DIGITAL SKY SURVEY STRIPE 82

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

Koposov, Sergey E.; Belokurov, Vasily; Evans, N. Wyn

2013-04-01

Using multi-epoch observations of the Stripe 82 region from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), we measure precise statistical proper motions of the stars in the Sagittarius (Sgr) stellar stream. The multi-band photometry and SDSS radial velocities allow us to efficiently select Sgr members and thus enhance the proper-motion precision to {approx}0.1 mas yr{sup -1}. We measure separately the proper motion of a photometrically selected sample of the main-sequence turn-off stars, as well as spectroscopically selected Sgr giants. The data allow us to determine the proper motion separately for the two Sgr streams in the south found in Koposov etmore » al. Together with the precise velocities from SDSS, our proper motions provide exquisite constraints of the three-dimensional motions of the stars in the Sgr streams.« less

Design of PH sensor signal acquisition and display system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Huifa; Zhang, Quanzhu; Deng, Yonghong

2017-06-01

With the continuous development of sensor manufacturing technology, how to better deal with the signal is particularly important. PH value of the sensor voltage generated by the signal as a signal, through the MCU acquisition A / D conversion, and ultimately through the digital display of its PH value. The system uses hardware and software to achieve the results obtained with the high-precision PH meter to strive to improve the accuracy and reduce error.

Evaluation of DCS III Transmission Alternatives. Phase 1A Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-05-26

to be used to construct the waveguide. Most commonly used measures are straight and precision tubing, dielectric lining, and helix construction. These...controlled L5E. 3-11 The broadband signal, either analog or digital, can be transmitted over a coaxial cable. Although economic reasons as well as high...or another with power capability ranging from milliwatts up to several hundred kilowatts. One kind of mm source is travelling wave tubes ( TWT ) which

Accuracy evaluation of intraoral optical impressions: A clinical study using a reference appliance.

PubMed

Atieh, Mohammad A; Ritter, André V; Ko, Ching-Chang; Duqum, Ibrahim

2017-09-01

Trueness and precision are used to evaluate the accuracy of intraoral optical impressions. Although the in vivo precision of intraoral optical impressions has been reported, in vivo trueness has not been evaluated because of limitations in the available protocols. The purpose of this clinical study was to compare the accuracy (trueness and precision) of optical and conventional impressions by using a novel study design. Five study participants consented and were enrolled. For each participant, optical and conventional (vinylsiloxanether) impressions of a custom-made intraoral Co-Cr alloy reference appliance fitted to the mandibular arch were obtained by 1 operator. Three-dimensional (3D) digital models were created for stone casts obtained from the conventional impression group and for the reference appliances by using a validated high-accuracy reference scanner. For the optical impression group, 3D digital models were obtained directly from the intraoral scans. The total mean trueness of each impression system was calculated by averaging the mean absolute deviations of the impression replicates from their 3D reference model for each participant, followed by averaging the obtained values across all participants. The total mean precision for each impression system was calculated by averaging the mean absolute deviations between all the impression replicas for each participant (10 pairs), followed by averaging the obtained values across all participants. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA (α=.05), first to assess whether a systematic difference in trueness or precision of replicate impressions could be found among participants and second to assess whether the mean trueness and precision values differed between the 2 impression systems. Statistically significant differences were found between the 2 impression systems for both mean trueness (P=.010) and mean precision (P=.007). Conventional impressions had higher accuracy with a mean trueness of 17.0 ±6.6 μm and mean precision of 16.9 ±5.8 μm than optical impressions with a mean trueness of 46.2 ±11.4 μm and mean precision of 61.1 ±4.9 μm. Complete arch (first molar-to-first molar) optical impressions were less accurate than conventional impressions but may be adequate for quadrant impressions. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation Digital Elevation Model Generated by Synthetic Aperture Radar Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makineci, H. B.; Karabörk, H.

2016-06-01

Digital elevation model, showing the physical and topographical situation of the earth, is defined a tree-dimensional digital model obtained from the elevation of the surface by using of selected an appropriate interpolation method. DEMs are used in many areas such as management of natural resources, engineering and infrastructure projects, disaster and risk analysis, archaeology, security, aviation, forestry, energy, topographic mapping, landslide and flood analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Digital elevation models, which are the fundamental components of cartography, is calculated by many methods. Digital elevation models can be obtained terrestrial methods or data obtained by digitization of maps by processing the digital platform in general. Today, Digital elevation model data is generated by the processing of stereo optical satellite images, radar images (radargrammetry, interferometry) and lidar data using remote sensing and photogrammetric techniques with the help of improving technology. One of the fundamental components of remote sensing radar technology is very advanced nowadays. In response to this progress it began to be used more frequently in various fields. Determining the shape of topography and creating digital elevation model comes the beginning topics of these areas. It is aimed in this work , the differences of evaluation of quality between Sentinel-1A SAR image ,which is sent by European Space Agency ESA and Interferometry Wide Swath imaging mode and C band type , and DTED-2 (Digital Terrain Elevation Data) and application between them. The application includes RMS static method for detecting precision of data. Results show us to variance of points make a high decrease from mountain area to plane area.

The Art of Electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horowitz, Paul; Hill, Winfield

2015-04-01

1. Foundations; 2. Bipolar transistors; 3. Field effect transistors; 4. Operational amplifiers; 5. Precision circuits; 6. Filters; 7. Oscillators and timers; 8. Low noise techniques and transimpedance; 9. Power regulation; 10. Digital electronics; 11. Programmable logic devices; 12. Logical interfacing; 13. Digital meets analog; 14. Computers, controllers, and data links; 15. Microcontrollers.

Analog VS Digital Hadron Calorimetry at a Future Electron-Positron Linear Collider

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magill, Stephen R.

2005-02-01

Precision jet measurements at a future e+e- linear collider may only be possible using so-called Particle Flow Algorithms (PFAs). While there are many possible implementations of P-flow techniques, they all have in common separation of induced calorimeter showers from charged and neutral hadrons (as well as photons) within a jet. Shower reconstruction in the calorimeter becomes more important than energy measurement of hadrons. The calorimeter cells must be highly granular both transverse to the particle trajectory and in longitudinal segmentation. It is probable that as the cell size decreases, it will be harder to get an energy measure from each cell (analog calorimetry). Using only the hit information (digital calorimetry) may be the best way to measure the neutral hadron energy contribution to jets. In this paper, comparisons of analog and digital methods of measuring the contributions of neutral hadrons to jets are made in simulation and in the context of a particular PFA, indicating that the digital method is at least equal to the analog case in jet energy resolution.

Design and implementation of a wireless (Bluetooth) four channel bio-instrumentation amplifier and digital data acquisition device with user-selectable gain, frequency, and driven reference.

PubMed

Cosmanescu, Alin; Miller, Benjamin; Magno, Terence; Ahmed, Assad; Kremenic, Ian

2006-01-01

A portable, multi-purpose Bio-instrumentation Amplifier and Data AcQuisition device (BADAQ) capable of measuring and transmitting EMG and EKG signals wirelessly via Bluetooth is designed and implemented. Common topologies for instrumentation amplifiers and filters are used and realized with commercially available, low-voltage, high precision operational amplifiers. An 8-bit PIC microcontroller performs 10-bit analog-to-digital conversion of the amplified and filtered signals and controls a Bluetooth transceiver capable of wirelessly transmitting the data to any Bluetooth enabled device. Electrical isolation between patient/subject, circuitry, and ancillary equipment is achieved by optocoupling components. The design focuses on simplicity, portability, and affordability.

Monitoring of electric-cardio signals based on DSP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Yi-xin; Sun, Hui-nan; Lv, Shuang

2008-10-01

Monitoring of electric-cardio signals is the most direct method of discovering heart diseases. This article presents an electric-cardio signal acquisition and processing system based on DSP. According to the features of electric-cardio signals, the proposed system uses the AgCl electrode as electric-cardio signals sensor, and acquires analog signals with AD620 as the prepositional amplifier, and the digital system equipped is with TMS320LF2407A DSP. The design of digital filter and the analysis of heart rate variation are realized by programming in the DSP. Finally the ECG is obtained with P and T waves along with obvious QRS multi-wave characteristics. The system has low power dissipation, low cost and high precision, which meets the requirements for medical instruments.

The Gigatracker: An ultra-fast and low-mass silicon pixel detector for the NA62 experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fiorini, M.; Carassiti, V.; Ceccucci, A.; Cortina, E.; Cotta Ramusino, A.; Dellacasa, G.; Garbolino, S.; Jarron, P.; Kaplon, J.; Kluge, A.; Mapelli, A.; Marchetto, F.; Martin, E.; Martoiu, S.; Mazza, G.; Morel, M.; Noy, M.; Nuessle, G.; Petrucci, F.; Riedler, P.; Aglieri Rinella, G.; Rivetti, A.; Tiuraniemi, S.

2011-02-01

The Gigatracker is a hybrid silicon pixel detector developed to track the highly intense NA62 hadron beam with a time resolution of 150 ps (rms). The beam spectrometer of the experiment is composed of three Gigatracker stations installed in vacuum in order to precisely measure momentum, time and direction of every traversing particle. Precise tracking demands a very low mass of the detector assembly ( <0.5% X0 per station) in order to limit multiple scattering and beam hadronic interactions. The high rate and especially the high timing precision requirements are very demanding: two R&D options are ongoing and the corresponding prototype read-out chips have been recently designed and produced in 0.13 μm CMOS technology. One solution makes use of a constant fraction discriminator and on-pixel analogue-based time-to-digital-converter (TDC); the other comprises a delay-locked loop based TDC placed at the end of each pixel column and a time-over-threshold discriminator with time-walk correction technique. The current status of the R&D program is overviewed and results from the prototype read-out chips test are presented.

A new measurement method of actual focal spot position of an x-ray tube using a high-precision carbon-interspaced grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, H. W.; Lim, H. W.; Jeon, D. H.; Park, C. K.; Cho, H. S.; Seo, C. W.; Lee, D. Y.; Kim, K. S.; Kim, G. A.; Park, S. Y.; Kang, S. Y.; Park, J. E.; Kim, W. S.; Woo, T. H.; Oh, J. E.

2018-06-01

This study investigated the effectiveness of a new method for measuring the actual focal spot position of a diagnostic x-ray tube using a high-precision antiscatter grid and a digital x-ray detector in which grid magnification, which is directly related to the focal spot position, was determined from the Fourier spectrum of the acquired x-ray grid’s image. A systematic experiment was performed to demonstrate the viability of the proposed measurement method. The hardware system used in the experiment consisted of an x-ray tube run at 50 kVp and 1 mA, a flat-panel detector with a pixel size of 49.5 µm, and a high-precision carbon-interspaced grid with a strip density of 200 lines/inch. The results indicated that the focal spot of the x-ray tube (Jupiter 5000, Oxford Instruments) used in the experiment was located approximately 31.10 mm inside from the exit flange, well agreed with the nominal value of 31.05 mm, which demonstrates the viability of the proposed measurement method. Thus, the proposed method can be utilized for system’s performance optimization in many x-ray imaging applications.

Isotope dependence of the Zeeman effect in lithium-like calcium

PubMed Central

Köhler, Florian; Blaum, Klaus; Block, Michael; Chenmarev, Stanislav; Eliseev, Sergey; Glazov, Dmitry A.; Goncharov, Mikhail; Hou, Jiamin; Kracke, Anke; Nesterenko, Dmitri A.; Novikov, Yuri N.; Quint, Wolfgang; Minaya Ramirez, Enrique; Shabaev, Vladimir M.; Sturm, Sven; Volotka, Andrey V.; Werth, Günter

2016-01-01

The magnetic moment μ of a bound electron, generally expressed by the g-factor μ=−g μB s ħ−1 with μB the Bohr magneton and s the electron's spin, can be calculated by bound-state quantum electrodynamics (BS-QED) to very high precision. The recent ultra-precise experiment on hydrogen-like silicon determined this value to eleven significant digits, and thus allowed to rigorously probe the validity of BS-QED. Yet, the investigation of one of the most interesting contribution to the g-factor, the relativistic interaction between electron and nucleus, is limited by our knowledge of BS-QED effects. By comparing the g-factors of two isotopes, it is possible to cancel most of these contributions and sensitively probe nuclear effects. Here, we present calculations and experiments on the isotope dependence of the Zeeman effect in lithium-like calcium ions. The good agreement between the theoretical predicted recoil contribution and the high-precision g-factor measurements paves the way for a new generation of BS-QED tests. PMID:26776466

High-resolution mapping of bifurcations in nonlinear biochemical circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Genot, A. J.; Baccouche, A.; Sieskind, R.; Aubert-Kato, N.; Bredeche, N.; Bartolo, J. F.; Taly, V.; Fujii, T.; Rondelez, Y.

2016-08-01

Analog molecular circuits can exploit the nonlinear nature of biochemical reaction networks to compute low-precision outputs with fewer resources than digital circuits. This analog computation is similar to that employed by gene-regulation networks. Although digital systems have a tractable link between structure and function, the nonlinear and continuous nature of analog circuits yields an intricate functional landscape, which makes their design counter-intuitive, their characterization laborious and their analysis delicate. Here, using droplet-based microfluidics, we map with high resolution and dimensionality the bifurcation diagrams of two synthetic, out-of-equilibrium and nonlinear programs: a bistable DNA switch and a predator-prey DNA oscillator. The diagrams delineate where function is optimal, dynamics bifurcates and models fail. Inverse problem solving on these large-scale data sets indicates interference from enzymatic coupling. Additionally, data mining exposes the presence of rare, stochastically bursting oscillators near deterministic bifurcations.

Robot calibration with a photogrammetric on-line system using reseau scanning cameras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diewald, Bernd; Godding, Robert; Henrich, Andreas

1994-03-01

The possibility for testing and calibration of industrial robots becomes more and more important for manufacturers and users of such systems. Exacting applications in connection with the off-line programming techniques or the use of robots as measuring machines are impossible without a preceding robot calibration. At the LPA an efficient calibration technique has been developed. Instead of modeling the kinematic behavior of a robot, the new method describes the pose deviations within a user-defined section of the robot's working space. High- precision determination of 3D coordinates of defined path positions is necessary for calibration and can be done by digital photogrammetric systems. For the calibration of a robot at the LPA a digital photogrammetric system with three Rollei Reseau Scanning Cameras was used. This system allows an automatic measurement of a large number of robot poses with high accuracy.

The modulation and demodulation module of a high resolution MOEMS accelerometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiao, Xufen; Bai, Jian; Lu, Qianbo; Lou, Shuqi

2016-02-01

A MOEMS accelerometer with high precision based on grating interferometer is demonstrated in this paper. In order to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and accuracy, a specific modulator and an orthogonal phase-lock demodulator are proposed. Phase modulation is introduced to this accelerometer by applying a sinusoidal signal to a piezoelectric translator (PZT) amounted to the accelerometer. Phase demodulation module consists of a circuit design and a digital design. In the circuit design, the modulated light intensity signal is converted to a voltage signal and processed. In the digital part, the demodulator is mainly composed of a Band Pass Filter, two Phase-Sensitive Detectors, a phase shifter, and two Low Pass Filters based on virtual instrument. Simulation results indicate that this approach can decrease the noise greatly, and the SNR of this demodulator is 50dB and the relative error is less than 4%.

The rapid terrain visualization interferometric synthetic aperture radar sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graham, Robert H.; Bickel, Douglas L.; Hensley, William H.

2003-11-01

The Rapid Terrain Visualization interferometric synthetic aperture radar was designed and built at Sandia National Laboratories as part of an Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD) to "demonstrate the technologies and infrastructure to meet the Army requirement for rapid generation of digital topographic data to support emerging crisis or contingencies." This sensor is currently being operated by Sandia National Laboratories for the Joint Precision Strike Demonstration (JPSD) Project Office to provide highly accurate digital elevation models (DEMs) for military and civilian customers, both inside and outside of the United States. The sensor achieves better than DTED Level IV position accuracy in near real-time. The system is being flown on a deHavilland DHC-7 Army aircraft. This paper outlines some of the technologies used in the design of the system, discusses the performance, and will discuss operational issues. In addition, we will show results from recent flight tests, including high accuracy maps taken of the San Diego area.

Digital Topographic Mapping in Urban Obstructed Environment Based on Multi-GNSS Network RTK Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Qiuying; Zhao, Tonglong; Zhang, Chao; Wu, Xuxiang

2017-10-01

Digital topographic mapping experiments were carried out based on network RTK technology using GPS/BEIDOU/GLONASS multi-constellation compatible GNSS receivers in urban obstructed environment. Operation scheme and technique flow were discussed. Experimental results show that the horizontal position and elevation of the points measured by RTK can reach 2cm and 3cm precision level respectively in open environment. RTK initialization time needs about 3-5s. While in obstructed environment, such as high building and tree shanding, the RTK initialization time needs about dozens of seconds or tens of seconds, and sometimes floating solutions or even differential solutions were obtained. The impact of dense and tall building on RTK measurement is more seriously. It is more likely to get RTK fixed solution in the south side of high building than the north side of the building.

Astrometric Observations of Phobos and Deimos During the 1971 Opposition of Mars

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-06

measured with the digitizer of the Royal Observatory of Belgium and reduced through an optimal process that includes image, instrumental, and spherical...measurements of planets and satellites that will be used to compute new orbital ephemerides. Since we had demonstrated that a precise digitization and...unclassified Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8-98) Prescribed by ANSI Std Z39-18 A&A proofs: manuscript no. manuscript Fig. 1. Center of the digitization

Calibration Test Set for a Phase-Comparison Digital Tracker

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boas, Amy; Li, Samuel; McMaster, Robert

2007-01-01

An apparatus that generates four signals at a frequency of 7.1 GHz having precisely controlled relative phases and equal amplitudes has been designed and built. This apparatus is intended mainly for use in computer-controlled automated calibration and testing of a phase-comparison digital tracker (PCDT) that measures the relative phases of replicas of the same X-band signal received by four antenna elements in an array. (The relative direction of incidence of the signal on the array is then computed from the relative phases.) The present apparatus can also be used to generate precisely phased signals for steering a beam transmitted from a phased antenna array. The apparatus (see figure) includes a 7.1-GHz signal generator, the output of which is fed to a four-way splitter. Each of the four splitter outputs is attenuated by 10 dB and fed as input to a vector modulator, wherein DC bias voltages are used to control the in-phase (I) and quadrature (Q) signal components. The bias voltages are generated by digital-to-analog- converter circuits on a control board that receives its digital control input from a computer running a LabVIEW program. The outputs of the vector modulators are further attenuated by 10 dB, then presented at high-grade radio-frequency connectors. The attenuation reduces the effects of changing mismatch and reflections. The apparatus was calibrated in a process in which the bias voltages were first stepped through all possible IQ settings. Then in a reverse interpolation performed by use of MATLAB software, a lookup table containing 3,600 IQ settings, representing equal amplitude and phase increments of 0.1 , was created for each vector modulator. During operation of the apparatus, these lookup tables are used in calibrating the PCDT.

Comparison of the accuracy of direct and indirect three-dimensional digitizing processes for CAD/CAM systems - An in vitro study.

PubMed

Vecsei, Bálint; Joós-Kovács, Gellért; Borbély, Judit; Hermann, Péter

2017-04-01

To compare the accuracy (trueness, precision) of direct and indirect scanning CAD/CAM methods. A master cast with prepared abutments and edentulous parts was created from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). A high-resolution industrial scanner was used to create a reference model. Polyvinyl-siloxane (PVS) impressions and digital impressions with three intraoral scanners (iTero, Cerec, Trios) were made (n=10 for each) from the PMMA model. A laboratory scanner (Scan CS2) was used to digitize the sectioned cast made from the PVS impressions. The stereolithographic (STL) files of the impressions (n=40) were exported. Each file was compared to the reference using Geomagic Verify software. Six points were assigned to enable virtual calliper measurement of three distances of varying size within the arch. Methods were compared using interquartile range regression and equality-of-variance tests for precision, and mixed-effects linear regression for trueness. The mean (SD) deviation of short distance measurements from the reference value was -40.3 (79.7) μm using the indirect, and 22.3 (40.0) μm using the direct method. For the medium distance, indirect measurements deviated by 5.2 (SD: 111.3) μm, and direct measurements by 115.8 (SD: 50.7) μm, on average; for the long distance, the corresponding estimates were -325.8 (SD: 134.1) μm with the indirect, and -163.5 (SD: 145.5) μm with the direct method. Significant differences were found between the two methods (p<0.05). With both methods, the shorter the distance, the more accurate results were achieved. Virtual models obtained by digital impressions can be more accurate than their conventional counterparts. Copyright © 2016 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Plus or Minus Game--Teaching Estimation, Precision, and Accuracy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Forringer, Edward R.; Forringer, Richard S.; Forringer, Daniel S.

2016-01-01

A quick survey of physics textbooks shows that many (Knight, Young, and Serway for example) cover estimation, significant digits, precision versus accuracy, and uncertainty in the first chapter. Estimation "Fermi" questions are so useful that there has been a column dedicated to them in "TPT" (Larry Weinstein's "Fermi…

The ultrahigh precision form measurement of small, steep-sided aspheric moulds, incorporating novel hardware and software developments; Technical Digest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, M. W.; Hutchinson, Matthew J.

2005-05-01

A variety of consumer applications, eg cellphone camera lenses, optical storage devices, digital cameras, etc, are driving the demand for small, high aspheric departure rotationally-symmetric moulded optics, manufactured both in polymer and glass materials. The mould tools for such components are manufactured by ultra-high precision techniques such as single point diamond turning and ultra-precision grinding, and must be accurate to <1/10μm levels for form, and exhibit nanometric surface finish quality. The aspheric forms of such components' optical surfaces exhibit high departure from best-fit sphere towards their outer edge, which renders this outer region especially critical for optical performance. The high slope of these components at the clear aperture has caused some restrictions on the use of profilometry in the measurement of form across their full diameter. Taylor Hobson designs and manufactures a range of ultra-precision profilometers for use in such industries as aspheric optics fabrication. In order to address the issues described, a new measurement system, Taylor Hobson Form Talysurf PGI 1250, has been developed, which contains new Aspheric Data Fusion Software, as well as Asphero-Diffractive Analysis Software, allowing the entire diametric profile to be analysed to the desired level of accuracy. This development removes the previous limitation of maximum slope for this type of measurement, thus enabling better quality control of high slope, high aspheric departure optics. Measurement data from the Form Talysurf PGI 1250 can be fed back directly to the machine tool, in order to optimize the form of the optical mould.

The ultrahigh precision form measurement of small, steep-sided aspheric moulds, incorporating novel hardware and software developments; Technical Digest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, M. W.; Hutchinson, Matthew J.

2005-05-01

A variety of consumer applications, eg cellphone camera lenses, optical storage devices, digital cameras, etc, are driving the demand for small, high aspheric departure rotationally-symmetric moulded optics, manufactured both in polymer and glass materials. The mould tools for such components are manufactured by ultra-high precision techniques such as single point diamond turning and ultra-precision grinding, and must be accurate to <1/10μm levels for form, and exhibit nanometric surface finish quality. The aspheric forms of such components" optical surfaces exhibit high departure from best-fit sphere towards their outer edge, which renders this outer region especially critical for optical performance. The high slope of these components at the clear aperture has caused some restrictions on the use of profilometry in the measurement of form across their full diameter. Taylor Hobson designs and manufactures a range of ultra-precision profilometers for use in such industries as aspheric optics fabrication. In order to address the issues described, a new measurement system, Taylor Hobson Form Talysurf PGI 1250, has been developed, which contains new Aspheric Data Fusion Software, as well as Asphero-Diffractive Analysis Software, allowing the entire diametric profile to be analysed to the desired level of accuracy. This development removes the previous limitation of maximum slope for this type of measurement, thus enabling better quality control of high slope, high aspheric departure optics. Measurement data from the Form Talysurf PGI 1250 can be fed back directly to the machine tool, in order to optimize the form of the optical mould.

Ultrafast dynamic computed tomography myelography for the precise identification of high-flow cerebrospinal fluid leaks caused by spiculated spinal osteophytes.

PubMed

Thielen, Kent R; Sillery, John C; Morris, Jonathan M; Hoxworth, Joseph M; Diehn, Felix E; Wald, John T; Rosebrock, Richard E; Yu, Lifeng; Luetmer, Patrick H

2015-03-01

Precise localization and understanding of the origin of spontaneous high-flow spinal CSF leaks is required prior to targeted treatment. This study demonstrates the utility of ultrafast dynamic CT myelography for the precise localization of high-flow CSF leaks caused by spiculated spinal osteophytes. This study reports a series of 14 patients with high-flow CSF leaks caused by spiculated spinal osteophytes who underwent ultrafast dynamic CT myelography between March 2009 and December 2010. There were 10 male and 4 female patients, with an average age of 49 years (range 37-74 years). The value of ultrafast dynamic CT myelography in depicting the CSF leak site was qualitatively assessed. In all 14 patients, ultrafast dynamic CT myelography was technically successful at precisely demonstrating the site of the CSF leak, the causative spiculated osteophyte piercing the dura, and the relationship of the implicated osteophyte to adjacent structures. Leak sites included 3 cervical, 11 thoracic, and 0 lumbar levels, with 86% of the leaks occurring from C-5 to T-7. Information obtained from the ultrafast dynamic CT myelogram was considered useful in all treated CSF leaks. Spinal osteophytes piercing the dura are a more frequent cause of high-flow CSF leaks than previously recognized. Ultrafast dynamic CT myelography adds value beyond standard dynamic myelography or digital subtraction myelography in the diagnosis and anatomical characterization of high-flow spinal CSF leaks caused by these osteophytes. This information allows for appropriate planning for percutaneous or surgical treatment.

Application of square-root filtering for spacecraft attitude control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sorensen, J. A.; Schmidt, S. F.; Goka, T.

1978-01-01

Suitable digital algorithms are developed and tested for providing on-board precision attitude estimation and pointing control for potential use in the Landsat-D spacecraft. These algorithms provide pointing accuracy of better than 0.01 deg. To obtain necessary precision with efficient software, a six state-variable square-root Kalman filter combines two star tracker measurements to update attitude estimates obtained from processing three gyro outputs. The validity of the estimation and control algorithms are established, and the sensitivity of their performance to various error sources and software parameters are investigated by detailed digital simulation. Spacecraft computer memory, cycle time, and accuracy requirements are estimated.

A search for strongly Mg-enhanced stars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang; Zhao, Gang; Chen, Yu-Qin; Li, Hai-Ning

2014-11-01

Strongly Mg-enhanced stars with [Mg/Fe] > 1.0 show peculiar abundance patterns and hence are of great interest for our understanding of stellar formation and chemical evolution of the Galaxy. A systematic search for strongly Mg-enhanced stars based on low-resolution (R ≃ 2000) spectra from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) is carried out by finding the synthetic spectrum that best matches the observed one in the region of Mg I b lines around λ5170 Å via a profile matching method. The advantage of our method is that fitting parameters are refined by reproducing the [Mg/Fe] ratios of 47 stars from the very precise high-resolution spectroscopic (HRS) analysis by Nissen & Schuster; and these parameters are crucial to the precision and validity of the derived Mg abundances. As a further check of our method, Mg abundances are estimated with our method for member stars in four Galactic globular clusters (M92, M13, M3, M71) which coverthe same metallicity range as our sample, and the results are in good agreement with those of HRS analysis in the literature. The validation of our method is also demonstrated by the agreement of [Mg/Fe] between our values and those of HRS analysis by Aoki et al. Finally, 33 candidates of strongly Mg-enhanced stars with [Mg/Fe] > 1.0 are selected from 14 850 F and G stars. Follow-up observations will be carried out on these candidates with high-resolution spectroscopy by large telescopes in the near future, so as to check our selection procedure and to perform a precise and detailed abundance analysis and to explore the origins of these stars.

Technology and techniques for parity experiments at Mainz: Past, Present and Future

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diefenbach, Juergen

2016-03-01

For almost 20 years the Mainz accelerator facility MAMI delivered polarized electron beam to the parity violation experiment A4 that measured the contributions of strange sea quarks to the proton electromagnetic factors. Parity violation asymmetries were of the order of A ~5 ppm. Currently the A1 collaboration carries out single spin asymmetry measurements at MAMI (A ~20 ppm) to prepare for a measurement of neutron skin depth on lead (A ~1 ppm). For such high precision experiments active stabilization and precise determination of beam parameters like current, energy, position, and angle are essential requirements in addition to precision electron beam polarimetry. For the future P2 experiment at the planned superconducting accelerator MESA in Mainz the requirements for beam quality will be even higher. P2 will measure the weak mixing angle with 0.15 percent total uncertainty and, in addition, the neutron skin depth of lead as well as parity violation in electron scattering off 12C. A tiny asymmetry of only -0.03 ppm creates the needs to combine digital feedback with feedforward stabilizations along with new polarimetry developments like a hydro-Moller and a double-Mott polarimeter to meet the goals for systematic uncertainty. This talk gives an overview of our experience with polarimetry, analog feedbacks and compensation techniques for apparative asymmetries at the A4 experiment. It finally leads to the requirements and new techniques for the pioneering P2 experiment at MESA. First results from beam tests currently carried out at the existing MAMI accelerator, employing high speed analog/digital conversion and FPGAs for control of beam parameters, will be presented. Supported by the cluster of excellence PRISMA and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft in the framework of the SFB1044.

Programmable optical processor chips: toward photonic RF filters with DSP-level flexibility and MHz-band selectivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Yiwei; Geng, Zihan; Zhuang, Leimeng; Burla, Maurizio; Taddei, Caterina; Hoekman, Marcel; Leinse, Arne; Roeloffzen, Chris G. H.; Boller, Klaus-J.; Lowery, Arthur J.

2017-12-01

Integrated optical signal processors have been identified as a powerful engine for optical processing of microwave signals. They enable wideband and stable signal processing operations on miniaturized chips with ultimate control precision. As a promising application, such processors enables photonic implementations of reconfigurable radio frequency (RF) filters with wide design flexibility, large bandwidth, and high-frequency selectivity. This is a key technology for photonic-assisted RF front ends that opens a path to overcoming the bandwidth limitation of current digital electronics. Here, the recent progress of integrated optical signal processors for implementing such RF filters is reviewed. We highlight the use of a low-loss, high-index-contrast stoichiometric silicon nitride waveguide which promises to serve as a practical material platform for realizing high-performance optical signal processors and points toward photonic RF filters with digital signal processing (DSP)-level flexibility, hundreds-GHz bandwidth, MHz-band frequency selectivity, and full system integration on a chip scale.

Optimal micro-mirror tilt angle and sync mark design for digital micro-mirror device based collinear holographic data storage system.

PubMed

Liu, Jinpeng; Horimai, Hideyoshi; Lin, Xiao; Liu, Jinyan; Huang, Yong; Tan, Xiaodi

2017-06-01

The collinear holographic data storage system (CHDSS) is a very promising storage system due to its large storage capacities and high transfer rates in the era of big data. The digital micro-mirror device (DMD) as a spatial light modulator is the key device of the CHDSS due to its high speed, high precision, and broadband working range. To improve the system stability and performance, an optimal micro-mirror tilt angle was theoretically calculated and experimentally confirmed by analyzing the relationship between the tilt angle of the micro-mirror on the DMD and the power profiles of diffraction patterns of the DMD at the Fourier plane. In addition, we proposed a novel chess board sync mark design in the data page to reduce the system bit error rate in circumstances of reduced aperture required to decrease noise and median exposure amount. It will provide practical guidance for future DMD based CHDSS development.

Simultaneous acquisition of 3D shape and deformation by combination of interferometric and correlation-based laser speckle metrology.

PubMed

Dekiff, Markus; Berssenbrügge, Philipp; Kemper, Björn; Denz, Cornelia; Dirksen, Dieter

2015-12-01

A metrology system combining three laser speckle measurement techniques for simultaneous determination of 3D shape and micro- and macroscopic deformations is presented. While microscopic deformations are determined by a combination of Digital Holographic Interferometry (DHI) and Digital Speckle Photography (DSP), macroscopic 3D shape, position and deformation are retrieved by photogrammetry based on digital image correlation of a projected laser speckle pattern. The photogrammetrically obtained data extend the measurement range of the DHI-DSP system and also increase the accuracy of the calculation of the sensitivity vector. Furthermore, a precise assignment of microscopic displacements to the object's macroscopic shape for enhanced visualization is achieved. The approach allows for fast measurements with a simple setup. Key parameters of the system are optimized, and its precision and measurement range are demonstrated. As application examples, the deformation of a mandible model and the shrinkage of dental impression material are measured.

Photogrammetry of a 5m Inflatable Space Antenna With Consumer Digital Cameras

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pappa, Richard S.; Giersch, Louis R.; Quagliaroli, Jessica M.

2000-01-01

This paper discusses photogrammetric measurements of a 5m-diameter inflatable space antenna using four Kodak DC290 (2.1 megapixel) digital cameras. The study had two objectives: 1) Determine the photogrammetric measurement precision obtained using multiple consumer-grade digital cameras and 2) Gain experience with new commercial photogrammetry software packages, specifically PhotoModeler Pro from Eos Systems, Inc. The paper covers the eight steps required using this hardware/software combination. The baseline data set contained four images of the structure taken from various viewing directions. Each image came from a separate camera. This approach simulated the situation of using multiple time-synchronized cameras, which will be required in future tests of vibrating or deploying ultra-lightweight space structures. With four images, the average measurement precision for more than 500 points on the antenna surface was less than 0.020 inches in-plane and approximately 0.050 inches out-of-plane.

Development of distortion measurement system for large deployable antenna via photogrammetry in vacuum and cryogenic environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Pengsong; Jiang, Shanping; Yang, Linhua; Zhang, Bolun

2018-01-01

In order to meet the requirement of high precision thermal distortion measurement foraΦ4.2m deployable mesh antenna of satellite in vacuum and cryogenic environment, based on Digital Close-range Photogrammetry and Space Environment Test Technology of Spacecraft, a large scale antenna distortion measurement system under vacuum and cryogenic environment is developed in this paper. The antenna Distortion measurement system (ADMS) is the first domestic independently developed thermal distortion measurement system for large antenna, which has successfully solved non-contact high precision distortion measurement problem in large spacecraft structure under vacuum and cryogenic environment. The measurement accuracy of ADMS is better than 50 μm/5m, which has reached international advanced level. The experimental results show that the measurement system has great advantages in large structural measurement of spacecrafts, and also has broad application prospects in space or other related fields.

Functional Laser Trimming Of Thin Film Resistors On Silicon ICs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mueller, Michael J.; Mickanin, Wes

1986-07-01

Modern Laser Wafer Trimming (LWT) technology achieves exceptional analog circuit performance and precision while maintain-ing the advantages of high production throughput and yield. Microprocessor-driven instrumentation has both emphasized the role of data conversion circuits and demanded sophisticated signal conditioning functions. Advanced analog semiconductor circuits with bandwidths over 1 GHz, and high precision, trimmable, thin-film resistors meet many of todays emerging circuit requirements. Critical to meeting these requirements are optimum choices of laser characteristics, proper materials, trimming process control, accurate modeling of trimmed resistor performance, and appropriate circuit design. Once limited exclusively to hand-crafted, custom integrated circuits, designs are now available in semi-custom circuit configurations. These are similar to those provided for digital designs and supported by computer-aided design (CAD) tools. Integrated with fully automated measurement and trimming systems, these quality circuits can now be produced in quantity to meet the requirements of communications, instrumentation, and signal processing markets.

Moving Object Detection Using Scanning Camera on a High-Precision Intelligent Holder

PubMed Central

Chen, Shuoyang; Xu, Tingfa; Li, Daqun; Zhang, Jizhou; Jiang, Shenwang

2016-01-01

During the process of moving object detection in an intelligent visual surveillance system, a scenario with complex background is sure to appear. The traditional methods, such as “frame difference” and “optical flow”, may not able to deal with the problem very well. In such scenarios, we use a modified algorithm to do the background modeling work. In this paper, we use edge detection to get an edge difference image just to enhance the ability of resistance illumination variation. Then we use a “multi-block temporal-analyzing LBP (Local Binary Pattern)” algorithm to do the segmentation. In the end, a connected component is used to locate the object. We also produce a hardware platform, the core of which consists of the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) and FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) platforms and the high-precision intelligent holder. PMID:27775671

Improvements in High Speed, High Resolution Dynamic Digital Image Correlation for Experimental Evaluation of Composite Drive System Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kohlman, Lee W.; Ruggeri, Charles R.; Roberts, Gary D.; Handschuh, Robert Frederick

2013-01-01

Composite materials have the potential to reduce the weight of rotating drive system components. However, these components are more complex to design and evaluate than static structural components in part because of limited ability to acquire deformation and failure initiation data during dynamic tests. Digital image correlation (DIC) methods have been developed to provide precise measurements of deformation and failure initiation for material test coupons and for structures under quasi-static loading. Attempts to use the same methods for rotating components (presented at the AHS International 68th Annual Forum in 2012) are limited by high speed camera resolution, image blur, and heating of the structure by high intensity lighting. Several improvements have been made to the system resulting in higher spatial resolution, decreased image noise, and elimination of heating effects. These improvements include the use of a high intensity synchronous microsecond pulsed LED lighting system, different lenses, and changes in camera configuration. With these improvements, deformation measurements can be made during rotating component tests with resolution comparable to that which can be achieved in static tests

Improvements in High Speed, High Resolution Dynamic Digital Image Correlation for Experimental Evaluation of Composite Drive System Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kohlman, Lee; Ruggeri, Charles; Roberts, Gary; Handshuh, Robert

2013-01-01

Composite materials have the potential to reduce the weight of rotating drive system components. However, these components are more complex to design and evaluate than static structural components in part because of limited ability to acquire deformation and failure initiation data during dynamic tests. Digital image correlation (DIC) methods have been developed to provide precise measurements of deformation and failure initiation for material test coupons and for structures under quasi-static loading. Attempts to use the same methods for rotating components (presented at the AHS International 68th Annual Forum in 2012) are limited by high speed camera resolution, image blur, and heating of the structure by high intensity lighting. Several improvements have been made to the system resulting in higher spatial resolution, decreased image noise, and elimination of heating effects. These improvements include the use of a high intensity synchronous microsecond pulsed LED lighting system, different lenses, and changes in camera configuration. With these improvements, deformation measurements can be made during rotating component tests with resolution comparable to that which can be achieved in static tests.

Making Microscopy Motivating, Memorable, & Manageable for Undergraduate Students with Digital Imaging Laboratories

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weeks, Andrea; Bachman. Beverly; Josway, Sarah; North, Brittany; Tsuchiya, Mirian T.N.

2013-01-01

Microscopy and precise observation are essential skills that are challenging to teach effectively to large numbers of undergraduate biology students. We implemented student-driven digital imaging assignments for microscopy in a large enrollment laboratory for organismal biology. We detail how we promoted student engagement with the material and…

Method and system for providing precise multi-function modulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davarian, Faramaz (Inventor); Sumida, Joe T. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

A method and system is disclosed which provides precise multi-function digitally implementable modulation for a communication system. The invention provides a modulation signal for a communication system in response to an input signal from a data source. A digitized time response is generated from samples of a time domain representation of a spectrum profile of a selected modulation scheme. The invention generates and stores coefficients for each input symbol in accordance with the selected modulation scheme. The output signal is provided by a plurality of samples, each sample being generated by summing the products of a predetermined number of the coefficients and a predetermined number of the samples of the digitized time response. In a specific illustrative implementation, the samples of the output signals are converted to analog signals, filtered and used to modulate a carrier in a conventional manner. The invention is versatile in that it allows for the storage of the digitized time responses and corresponding coefficient lookup table of a number of modulation schemes, any of which may then be selected for use in accordance with the teachings of the invention.

Location precision analysis of stereo thermal anti-sniper detection system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Yuqing; Lu, Ya; Zhang, Xiaoyan; Jin, Weiqi

2012-06-01

Anti-sniper detection devices are the urgent requirement in modern warfare. The precision of the anti-sniper detection system is especially important. This paper discusses the location precision analysis of the anti-sniper detection system based on the dual-thermal imaging system. It mainly discusses the following two aspects which produce the error: the digital quantitative effects of the camera; effect of estimating the coordinate of bullet trajectory according to the infrared images in the process of image matching. The formula of the error analysis is deduced according to the method of stereovision model and digital quantitative effects of the camera. From this, we can get the relationship of the detecting accuracy corresponding to the system's parameters. The analysis in this paper provides the theory basis for the error compensation algorithms which are put forward to improve the accuracy of 3D reconstruction of the bullet trajectory in the anti-sniper detection devices.

Optimization of block-floating-point realizations for digital controllers with finite-word-length considerations.

PubMed

Wu, Jun; Hu, Xie-he; Chen, Sheng; Chu, Jian

2003-01-01

The closed-loop stability issue of finite-precision realizations was investigated for digital controllers implemented in block-floating-point format. The controller coefficient perturbation was analyzed resulting from using finite word length (FWL) block-floating-point representation scheme. A block-floating-point FWL closed-loop stability measure was derived which considers both the dynamic range and precision. To facilitate the design of optimal finite-precision controller realizations, a computationally tractable block-floating-point FWL closed-loop stability measure was then introduced and the method of computing the value of this measure for a given controller realization was developed. The optimal controller realization is defined as the solution that maximizes the corresponding measure, and a numerical optimization approach was adopted to solve the resulting optimal realization problem. A numerical example was used to illustrate the design procedure and to compare the optimal controller realization with the initial realization.

Worlddem - a Novel Global Foundation Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riegler, G.; Hennig, S. D.; Weber, M.

2015-03-01

Airbus Defence and Space's WorldDEM™ provides a global Digital Elevation Model of unprecedented quality, accuracy, and coverage. The product will feature a vertical accuracy of 2m (relative) and better than 6m (absolute) in a 12m x 12m raster. The accuracy will surpass that of any global satellite-based elevation model available. WorldDEM is a game-changing disruptive technology and will define a new standard in global elevation models. The German radar satellites TerraSAR-X and TanDEM-X form a high-precision radar interferometer in space and acquire the data basis for the WorldDEM. This mission is performed jointly with the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Airbus DS refines the Digital Surface Model (e.g. editing of acquisition, processing artefacts and water surfaces) or generates a Digital Terrain Model. Three product levels are offered: WorldDEMcore (output of the processing, no editing is applied), WorldDEM™ (guarantees a void-free terrain description and hydrological consistency) and WorldDEM DTM (represents bare Earth elevation). Precise elevation data is the initial foundation of any accurate geospatial product, particularly when the integration of multi-source imagery and data is performed based upon it. Fused data provides for improved reliability, increased confidence and reduced ambiguity. This paper will present the current status of product development activities including methodologies and tool to generate these, like terrain and water bodies editing and DTM generation. In addition, the studies on verification & validation of the WorldDEM products will be presented.

Digital PCR provides absolute quantitation of viral load for an occult RNA virus.

PubMed

White, Richard Allen; Quake, Stephen R; Curr, Kenneth

2012-01-01

Using a multiplexed LNA-based Taqman assay, RT-digital PCR (RT-dPCR) was performed in a prefabricated microfluidic device that monitored absolute viral load in native and immortalized cell lines, overall precision of detection, and the absolute detection limit of an occult RNA virus GB Virus Type C (GBV-C). RT-dPCR had on average a 10% lower overall coefficient of variation (CV, a measurement of precision) for viral load testing than RT-qPCR and had a higher overall detection limit, able to quantify as low as three 5'-UTR molecules of GBV-C genome. Two commercial high-yield in vitro transcription kits (T7 Ribomax Express by Promega and Ampliscribe T7 Flash by Epicentre) were compared to amplify GBV-C RNA genome with T7-mediated amplification. The Ampliscribe T7 Flash outperformed the T7 Ribomax Express in yield of full-length GBV-C RNA genome. THP-1 cells (a model of monocytic derived cells) were transfected with GBV-C, yielding infectious virions that replicated over a 120h time course and could be infected directly. This study provides the first evidence of GBV-C replication in monocytic derived clonal cells. Thus far, it is the only study using a microfluidic device that measures directly viral load of mammalian RNA virus in a digital format without need for a standard curve. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Guide for Collecting Seismic, Acoustic, and Magnetic Data for Multiple Uses

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-01-01

time, simul- (- taneously for the analog technique or sequentially for the digital tech- nique. Both methods require that precision timing networks be...with a precise voltage proportional to the sensitivity of the magnetometer . Whenever any electronic equip- ment affecting cal.bration has to be replaced...described as precisely as possible, including (but not limited to) the following: a. Name of source b. Continuous or transient c. Distance from geophone

A sampling system for estimating the cultivation of wheat (Triticum aestivum L) from LANDSAT data. M.S. Thesis - 21 Jul. 1983

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parada, N. D. J. (Principal Investigator); Moreira, M. A.

1983-01-01

Using digitally processed MSS/LANDSAT data as auxiliary variable, a methodology to estimate wheat (Triticum aestivum L) area by means of sampling techniques was developed. To perform this research, aerial photographs covering 720 sq km in Cruz Alta test site at the NW of Rio Grande do Sul State, were visually analyzed. LANDSAT digital data were analyzed using non-supervised and supervised classification algorithms; as post-processing the classification was submitted to spatial filtering. To estimate wheat area, the regression estimation method was applied and different sample sizes and various sampling units (10, 20, 30, 40 and 60 sq km) were tested. Based on the four decision criteria established for this research, it was concluded that: (1) as the size of sampling units decreased the percentage of sampled area required to obtain similar estimation performance also decreased; (2) the lowest percentage of the area sampled for wheat estimation with relatively high precision and accuracy through regression estimation was 90% using 10 sq km s the sampling unit; and (3) wheat area estimation by direct expansion (using only aerial photographs) was less precise and accurate when compared to those obtained by means of regression estimation.

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.

A high-precision digital astrogeodetic traverse in an area of steep geoid gradients close to the coast of Perth, Western Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schack, P.; Hirt, C.; Hauk, M.; Featherstone, W. E.; Lyon, T. J.; Guillaume, S.

2018-01-01

We present results from a new vertical deflection (VD) traverse observed in Perth, Western Australia, which is the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. A digital astrogeodetic QDaedalus instrument was deployed to measure VDs with {˜ } 0.2'' precision at 39 benchmarks with a {{˜ }}1 km spacing. For the conversion of VDs to quasigeoid height differences, the method of astronomical-topographical levelling was applied, based on topographical information from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission. The astronomical quasigeoid heights are in 20-30 mm (RMS) agreement with three independent gravimetric quasigeoid models, and the astrogeodetic VDs agree to 0.2-0.3'' (north-south) and 0.6-0.9'' (east-west) RMS. Tilt-like biases of {˜ }1 mm over {˜ }1 km are present for all quasigeoid models within {˜ }20 km of the coastline, suggesting inconsistencies in the coastal zone gravity data. The VD campaign in Perth was designed as a low-cost effort, possibly allowing replication in other Southern Hemisphere countries (e.g., Asia, Africa, South America and Antarctica), where VD data are particularly scarce.

Precision electronic speed controller for an alternating-current

DOEpatents

Bolie, Victor W.

1988-01-01

A high precision controller for an alternating-current multi-phase electrical motor that is subject to a large inertial load. The controller was developed for and is particularly suitable for controlling, in a neutron chopper system, a heavy spinning rotor that must be rotated in phase-locked synchronism with a reference pulse train that is representative of an ac power supply signal having a meandering line frequency. The controller includes a shaft revolution sensor which provides a feedback pulse train representative of the actual speed of the motor. An internal digital timing signal generator provides a reference signal which is compared with the feedback signal in a computing unit to provide a motor control signal. In the preferred embodiment, the motor control signal is a weighted linear sum of a speed error voltage, a phase error voltage, and a drift error voltage, each of which is computed anew with each revolution of the motor shaft. The stator windings of the motor are driven by two amplifiers which are provided with input signals having the proper quadrature relationship by an exciter unit consisting of a voltage controlled oscillator, a binary counter, a pair of readonly memories, and a pair of digital-to-analog converters.

Forecast of Remote Underwater Sensing Technology.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-07-01

hr T. MAGNETICS (2 Replies) Q. What will be sensitivities of fluxgate , proton, optical pump, SQUID (superconducting) magnetometers ? A. Fluxgate 0.1...ft Oujtpuit Analog, digital and B3CD Cost $65.K 227 Manu factu rer EG&G Geometric Unit G-806M System Marine Search Proton Magnetometer Sensitivity...optional) Depth Range 0 to 100 m or 6000 m Precision +0.15% FS Time Constant 60 ms Output Digital display, analog and digital BCD output Cost $13.K 243

WorldView-2 and the evolution of the DigitalGlobe remote sensing satellite constellation: introductory paper for the special session on WorldView-2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, Neal T.; Marchisio, Giovanni B.

2012-06-01

Over the last decade DigitalGlobe (DG) has built and launched a series of remote sensing satellites with steadily increasing capabilities: QuickBird, WorldView-1 (WV-1), and WorldView-2 (WV-2). Today, this constellation acquires over 2.5 million km2 of imagery on a daily basis. This paper presents the configuration and performance capabilities of each of these satellites, with emphasis on the unique spatial and spectral capabilities of WV-2. WV-2 employs high-precision star tracker and inertial measurement units to achieve a geolocation accuracy of 5 m Circular Error, 90% confidence (CE90). The native resolution of WV-2 is 0.5 m GSD in the panchromatic band and 2 m GSD in 8 multispectral bands. Four of the multispectral bands match those of the Landsat series of satellites; four new bands enable novel and expanded applications. We are rapidly establishing and refreshing a global database of very high resolution (VHR) 8-band multispectral imagery. Control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) on both WV-1 and WV-2 improve collection capacity and provide the agility to capture multi-angle sequences in rapid succession. These capabilities result in a rich combination of image features that can be exploited to develop enhanced monitoring solutions. Algorithms for interpretation and analysis can leverage: 1) broader and more continuous spectral coverage at 2 m resolution; 2) textural and morphological information from the 0.5 m panchromatic band; 3) ancillary information from stereo and multi-angle collects, including high precision digital elevation models; 4) frequent revisits and time-series collects; and 5) the global reference image archives. We introduce the topic of creative fusion of image attributes, as this provides a unifying theme for many of the papers in this WV-2 Special Session.

Accurate computation of gravitational field of a tesseroid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukushima, Toshio

2018-02-01

We developed an accurate method to compute the gravitational field of a tesseroid. The method numerically integrates a surface integral representation of the gravitational potential of the tesseroid by conditionally splitting its line integration intervals and by using the double exponential quadrature rule. Then, it evaluates the gravitational acceleration vector and the gravity gradient tensor by numerically differentiating the numerically integrated potential. The numerical differentiation is conducted by appropriately switching the central and the single-sided second-order difference formulas with a suitable choice of the test argument displacement. If necessary, the new method is extended to the case of a general tesseroid with the variable density profile, the variable surface height functions, and/or the variable intervals in longitude or in latitude. The new method is capable of computing the gravitational field of the tesseroid independently on the location of the evaluation point, namely whether outside, near the surface of, on the surface of, or inside the tesseroid. The achievable precision is 14-15 digits for the potential, 9-11 digits for the acceleration vector, and 6-8 digits for the gradient tensor in the double precision environment. The correct digits are roughly doubled if employing the quadruple precision computation. The new method provides a reliable procedure to compute the topographic gravitational field, especially that near, on, and below the surface. Also, it could potentially serve as a sure reference to complement and elaborate the existing approaches using the Gauss-Legendre quadrature or other standard methods of numerical integration.

Evaluating causes of error in landmark-based data collection using scanners

PubMed Central

Shearer, Brian M.; Cooke, Siobhán B.; Halenar, Lauren B.; Reber, Samantha L.; Plummer, Jeannette E.; Delson, Eric

2017-01-01

In this study, we assess the precision, accuracy, and repeatability of craniodental landmarks (Types I, II, and III, plus curves of semilandmarks) on a single macaque cranium digitally reconstructed with three different surface scanners and a microCT scanner. Nine researchers with varying degrees of osteological and geometric morphometric knowledge landmarked ten iterations of each scan (40 total) to test the effects of scan quality, researcher experience, and landmark type on levels of intra- and interobserver error. Two researchers additionally landmarked ten specimens from seven different macaque species using the same landmark protocol to test the effects of the previously listed variables relative to species-level morphological differences (i.e., observer variance versus real biological variance). Error rates within and among researchers by scan type were calculated to determine whether or not data collected by different individuals or on different digitally rendered crania are consistent enough to be used in a single dataset. Results indicate that scan type does not impact rate of intra- or interobserver error. Interobserver error is far greater than intraobserver error among all individuals, and is similar in variance to that found among different macaque species. Additionally, experience with osteology and morphometrics both positively contribute to precision in multiple landmarking sessions, even where less experienced researchers have been trained in point acquisition. Individual training increases precision (although not necessarily accuracy), and is highly recommended in any situation where multiple researchers will be collecting data for a single project. PMID:29099867

High-coherence mid-infrared dual-comb spectroscopy spanning 2.6 to 5.2 μm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ycas, Gabriel; Giorgetta, Fabrizio R.; Baumann, Esther; Coddington, Ian; Herman, Daniel; Diddams, Scott A.; Newbury, Nathan R.

2018-04-01

Mid-infrared dual-comb spectroscopy has the potential to supplant conventional Fourier-transform spectroscopy in applications requiring high resolution, accuracy, signal-to-noise ratio and speed. Until now, mid-infrared dual-comb spectroscopy has been limited to narrow optical bandwidths or low signal-to-noise ratios. Using digital signal processing and broadband frequency conversion in waveguides, we demonstrate a mid-infrared dual-comb spectrometer covering 2.6 to 5.2 µm with comb-tooth resolution, sub-MHz frequency precision and accuracy, and a spectral signal-to-noise ratio as high as 6,500. As a demonstration, we measure the highly structured, broadband cross-section of propane from 2,840 to 3,040 cm-1, the complex phase/amplitude spectra of carbonyl sulfide from 2,000 to 2,100 cm-1, and of a methane, acetylene and ethane mixture from 2,860 to 3,400 cm-1. The combination of broad bandwidth, comb-mode resolution and high brightness will enable accurate mid-infrared spectroscopy in precision laboratory experiments and non-laboratory applications including open-path atmospheric gas sensing, process monitoring and combustion.

One way Doppler Extractor. Volume 2: Digital VCO technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nossen, E. J.; Starner, E. R.

1974-01-01

A feasibility analysis and trade-offs for a one-way Doppler extractor using digital VCO techniques is presented. The method of Doppler measurement involves the use of a digital phase lock loop; once this loop is locked to the incoming signal, the precise frequency and hence the Doppler component can be determined directly from the contents of the digital control register. The only serious error source is due to internally generated noise. Techniques are presented for minimizing this error source and achieving an accuracy of 0.01 Hz in a one second averaging period. A number of digitally controlled oscillators were analyzed from a performance and complexity point of view. The most promising technique uses an arithmetic synthesizer as a digital waveform generator.

Development of an inherently digital transducer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richard, R. R.

1972-01-01

The term digital transducer normally implies the combination of conventional analog sensors with encoders or analog-to-digital converters. Because of the objectionable characteristics of most digital transducers, a program was instituted to investigate the possibility of producing a transducer that is inherently digital, instead of a transducer that is digital in the usual sense. Such a device would have improved accuracy and reliability and would have reduced power and bulk requirements because two processes, sensing and conditioning, would be combined into one processes. A Curie-point-temperature sensor is described that represents realization of the stated goal. Also, a metal-insulator semiconductor is described that does not conform precisely to the program goals but that appears to have applications as a new and interesting transduction device.

Early Huntington's Disease Affects Movements in Transformed Sensorimotor Mappings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boulet, C.; Lemay, M.; Bedard, M.A.; Chouinard, M.J.; Chouinard, S.; Richer, F.

2005-01-01

This study examined the effect of transformed visual feedback on movement control in Huntington's disease (HD). Patients in the early stages of HD and controls performed aiming movements towards peripheral targets on a digitizing tablet and emphasizing precision. In a baseline condition, HD patients were slower but showed few precision problems in…

Digital holographic microscopy applied to measurement of a flow in a T-shaped micromixer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ooms, T. A.; Lindken, R.; Westerweel, J.

2009-12-01

In this paper, we describe measurements of a three-dimensional (3D) flow in a T-shaped micromixer by means of digital holographic microscopy. Imaging tracer particles in a microscopic flow with conventional microscopy is accompanied by a small depth-of-field, which hinders true volumetric flow measurements. In holographic microscopy, the depth of the measurement domain does not have this limitation because any desired image plane can be reconstructed after recording. Our digital holographic microscope (DHM) consists of a conventional in-line recording system with an added magnifying optical element. The measured flow velocity and the calculated vorticity illustrate four streamwise vortices in the micromixer outflow channel. Because the investigated flow is stationary and strongly 3D, the DHM performance (i.e. accuracy and resolution) can be precisely investigated. The obtained Dynamic spatial range and Dynamic velocity range are larger than 20 and 30, respectively. High-speed multiple-frame measurements illustrate the capability to simultaneously track about 80 particles in a volumetric measurement domain.

Over-the-air in-band full-duplex system with hybrid RF optical and baseband digital self-interference cancellation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yunhao; Li, Longsheng; Bi, Meihua; Xiao, Shilin

2017-12-01

In this paper, we propose a hybrid analog optical self-interference cancellation (OSIC) and baseband digital SIC (DSIC) system for over-the-air in-band full-duplex (IBFD) wireless communication. Analog OSIC system is based on optical delay line, electro-absorption modulation lasers (EMLs) and balanced photodetector (BPD), which has the properties of high adjusting precision and broad processing bandwidth. With the help of baseband DSIC, the cancellation depth limitation of OSIC can be mitigated so as to achieve deeper total SIC depth. Experimental results show about 20-dB depth by OSIC and 10-dB more depth by DSIC over 1GHz broad baseband, so that the signal of interest (SOI) overlapped by wideband self-interference (SI) signal is better recovered compared to the IBFD system with OSIC or DSIC only. The hybrid of OSIC and DSIC takes advantages of the merits of optical devices and digital processors to achieve deep cancellation depth over broad bandwidth.

DAC-board based X-band EPR spectrometer with arbitrary waveform control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaufmann, Thomas; Keller, Timothy J.; Franck, John M.; Barnes, Ryan P.; Glaser, Steffen J.; Martinis, John M.; Han, Songi

2013-10-01

We present arbitrary control over a homogenous spin system, demonstrated on a simple, home-built, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer operating at 8-10 GHz (X-band) and controlled by a 1 GHz arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) with 42 dB (i.e. 14-bit) of dynamic range. Such a spectrometer can be relatively easily built from a single DAC (digital to analog converter) board with a modest number of stock components and offers powerful capabilities for automated digital calibration and correction routines that allow it to generate shaped X-band pulses with precise amplitude and phase control. It can precisely tailor the excitation profiles "seen" by the spins in the microwave resonator, based on feedback calibration with experimental input. We demonstrate the capability to generate a variety of pulse shapes, including rectangular, triangular, Gaussian, sinc, and adiabatic rapid passage waveforms. We then show how one can precisely compensate for the distortion and broadening caused by transmission into the microwave cavity in order to optimize corrected waveforms that are distinctly different from the initial, uncorrected waveforms. Specifically, we exploit a narrow EPR signal whose width is finer than the features of any distortions in order to map out the response to a short pulse, which, in turn, yields the precise transfer function of the spectrometer system. This transfer function is found to be consistent for all pulse shapes in the linear response regime. In addition to allowing precise waveform shaping capabilities, the spectrometer presented here offers complete digital control and calibration of the spectrometer that allows one to phase cycle the pulse phase with 0.007° resolution and to specify the inter-pulse delays and pulse durations to ⩽250 ps resolution. The implications and potential applications of these capabilities will be discussed.

Integration of radar altimeter, precision navigation, and digital terrain data for low-altitude flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zelenka, Richard E.

1992-01-01

Avionic systems that depend on digitized terrain elevation data for guidance generation or navigational reference require accurate absolute and relative distance measurements to the terrain, especially as they approach lower altitudes. This is particularly exacting in low-altitude helicopter missions, where aggressive terrain hugging maneuvers create minimal horizontal and vertical clearances and demand precise terrain positioning. Sole reliance on airborne precision navigation and stored terrain elevation data for above-ground-level (AGL) positioning severely limits the operational altitude of such systems. A Kalman filter is presented which blends radar altimeter returns, precision navigation, and stored terrain elevation data for AGL positioning. The filter is evaluated using low-altitude helicopter flight test data acquired over moderately rugged terrain. The proposed Kalman filter is found to remove large disparities in predicted AGL altitude (i.e., from airborne navigation and terrain elevation data) in the presence of measurement anomalies and dropouts. Previous work suggested a minimum clearance altitude of 220 ft AGL for a near-terrain guidance system; integration of a radar altimeter allows for operation of that system below 50 ft, subject to obstacle-avoidance limitations.

High-resolution digital dosimetric system for spatial characterization of radiation fields using a thermoluminescent CaF/sub 2/:Dy crystal

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

Atari, N.A.; Svensson, G.K.

1986-05-01

A high-resolution digital dosimetric system has been developed for the spatial characterization of radiation fields. The system comprises the following: 0.5-mm-thick, 25-mm-diam CaF/sub 2/:Dy thermoluminescent crystal; intensified charge coupled device video camera; video cassette recorder; and a computerized image processing subsystem. The optically flat single crystal is used as a radiation imaging device and the subsequent thermally stimulated phosphorescence is viewed by the intensified camera for further processing and analysis. Parameters governing the performance characteristics of the system were measured. A spatial resolution limit of 31 +- 2 ..mu..m (1sigma) corresponding to 16 +- 1 line pair/mm measured at themore » 4% level of the modulation transfer function has been achieved. The full width at half maximum of the line spread function measured independently by the slit method or derived from the edge response function was found to be 69 +- 4 ..mu..m (1sigma). The high resolving power, speed of readout, good precision, wide dynamic range, and the large image storage capacity make the system suitable for the digital mapping of the relative distribution of absorbed doses for various small radiation fields and the edges of larger fields.« less

High-resolution digital dosimetric system for spatial characterization of radiation fields using a thermoluminescent CaF2:Dy crystal

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

Atari, N.A.; Svensson, G.K.

1986-05-01

A high-resolution digital dosimetric system has been developed for the spatial characterization of radiation fields. The system comprises the following: 0.5-mm-thick, 25-mm-diam CaF2:Dy thermoluminescent crystal; intensified charge coupled device video camera; video cassette recorder; and a computerized image processing subsystem. The optically flat single crystal is used as a radiation imaging device and the subsequent thermally stimulated phosphorescence is viewed by the intensified camera for further processing and analysis. Parameters governing the performance characteristics of the system were measured. A spatial resolution limit of 31 +/- 2 microns (1 sigma) corresponding to 16 +/- 1 line pairs/mm measured at themore » 4% level of the modulation transfer function has been achieved. The full width at half maximum of the line spread function measured independently by the slit method or derived from the edge response function was found to be 69 +/- 4 microns (1 sigma). The high resolving power, speed of readout, good precision, wide dynamic range, and the large image storage capacity make the system suitable for the digital mapping of the relative distribution of absorbed doses for various small radiation fields and the edges of larger fields.« less

SFM Technique and Focus Stacking for Digital Documentation of Archaeological Artifacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clini, P.; Frapiccini, N.; Mengoni, M.; Nespeca, R.; Ruggeri, L.

2016-06-01

Digital documentation and high-quality 3D representation are always more requested in many disciplines and areas due to the large amount of technologies and data available for fast, detailed and quick documentation. This work aims to investigate the area of medium and small sized artefacts and presents a fast and low cost acquisition system that guarantees the creation of 3D models with an high level of detail, making the digitalization of cultural heritage a simply and fast procedure. The 3D models of the artefacts are created with the photogrammetric technique Structure From Motion that makes it possible to obtain, in addition to three-dimensional models, high-definition images for a deepened study and understanding of the artefacts. For the survey of small objects (only few centimetres) it is used a macro lens and the focus stacking, a photographic technique that consists in capturing a stack of images at different focus planes for each camera pose so that is possible to obtain a final image with a higher depth of field. The acquisition with focus stacking technique has been finally validated with an acquisition with laser triangulation scanner Minolta that demonstrates the validity compatible with the allowable error in relation to the expected precision.

Sensory Recovery Outcome after Digital Nerve Repair in Relation to Different Reconstructive Techniques: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

PubMed Central

Wolf, Petra; Harder, Yves; Kern, Yasmin; Paprottka, Philipp M.; Machens, Hans-Günther; Lohmeyer, Jörn A.

2013-01-01

Good clinical outcome after digital nerve repair is highly relevant for proper hand function and has a significant socioeconomic impact. However, level of evidence for competing surgical techniques is low. The aim is to summarize and compare the outcomes of digital nerve repair with different methods (end-to-end and end-to-side coaptations, nerve grafts, artificial conduit-, vein-, muscle, and muscle-in-vein reconstructions, and replantations) to provide an aid for choosing an individual technique of nerve reconstruction and to create reference values of standard repair for nonrandomized clinical studies. 87 publications including 2,997 nerve repairs were suitable for a precise evaluation. For digital nerve repairs there was practically no particular technique superior to another. Only end-to-side coaptation had an inferior two-point discrimination in comparison to end-to-end coaptation or nerve grafting. Furthermore, this meta-analysis showed that youth was associated with an improved sensory recovery outcome in patients who underwent digital replantation. For end-to-end coaptations, recent publications had significantly better sensory recovery outcomes than older ones. Given minor differences in outcome, the main criteria in choosing an adequate surgical technique should be gap length and donor site morbidity caused by graft material harvesting. Our clinical experience was used to provide a decision tree for digital nerve repair. PMID:23984064

Research on the equivalence between digital core and rock physics models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Xingyao; Zheng, Ying; Zong, Zhaoyun

2017-06-01

In this paper, we calculate the elastic modulus of 3D digital cores using the finite element method, systematically study the equivalence between the digital core model and various rock physics models, and carefully analyze the conditions of the equivalence relationships. The influences of the pore aspect ratio and consolidation coefficient on the equivalence relationships are also further refined. Theoretical analysis indicates that the finite element simulation based on the digital core is equivalent to the boundary theory and Gassmann model. For pure sandstones, effective medium theory models (SCA and DEM) and the digital core models are equivalent in cases when the pore aspect ratio is within a certain range, and dry frame models (Nur and Pride model) and the digital core model are equivalent in cases when the consolidation coefficient is a specific value. According to the equivalence relationships, the comparison of the elastic modulus results of the effective medium theory and digital rock physics is an effective approach for predicting the pore aspect ratio. Furthermore, the traditional digital core models with two components (pores and matrix) are extended to multiple minerals to more precisely characterize the features and mineral compositions of rocks in underground reservoirs. This paper studies the effects of shale content on the elastic modulus in shaly sandstones. When structural shale is present in the sandstone, the elastic modulus of the digital cores are in a reasonable agreement with the DEM model. However, when dispersed shale is present in the sandstone, the Hill model cannot describe the changes in the stiffness of the pore space precisely. Digital rock physics describes the rock features such as pore aspect ratio, consolidation coefficient and rock stiffness. Therefore, digital core technology can, to some extent, replace the theoretical rock physics models because the results are more accurate than those of the theoretical models.

The digital compensation technology system for automotive pressure sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Bin; Li, Quanling; Lu, Yi; Luo, Zai

2011-05-01

Piezoresistive pressure sensor be made of semiconductor silicon based on Piezoresistive phenomenon, has many characteristics. But since the temperature effect of semiconductor, the performance of silicon sensor is also changed by temperature, and the pressure sensor without temperature drift can not be produced at present. This paper briefly describe the principles of sensors, the function of pressure sensor and the various types of compensation method, design the detailed digital compensation program for automotive pressure sensor. Simulation-Digital mixed signal conditioning is used in this dissertation, adopt signal conditioning chip MAX1452. AVR singlechip ATMEGA128 and other apparatus; fulfill the design of digital pressure sensor hardware circuit and singlechip hardware circuit; simultaneously design the singlechip software; Digital pressure sensor hardware circuit is used to implementing the correction and compensation of sensor; singlechip hardware circuit is used to implementing to controll the correction and compensation of pressure sensor; singlechip software is used to implementing to fulfill compensation arithmetic. In the end, it implement to measure the output of sensor, and contrast to the data of non-compensation, the outcome indicates that the compensation precision of compensated sensor output is obviously better than non-compensation sensor, not only improving the compensation precision but also increasing the stabilization of pressure sensor.

Quartz tuning fork-based frequency modulation atomic force spectroscopy and microscopy with all digital phase-locked loop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Sangmin; Hong, Mun-heon; Kim, Jongwoo; Kwon, Soyoung; Lee, Kunyoung; Lee, Manhee; Jhe, Wonho

2012-11-01

We present a platform for the quartz tuning fork (QTF)-based, frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM) system for quantitative study of the mechanical or topographical properties of nanoscale materials, such as the nano-sized water bridge formed between the quartz tip (˜100 nm curvature) and the mica substrate. A thermally stable, all digital phase-locked loop is used to detect the small frequency shift of the QTF signal resulting from the nanomaterial-mediated interactions. The proposed and demonstrated novel FM-AFM technique provides high experimental sensitivity in the measurement of the viscoelastic forces associated with the confined nano-water meniscus, short response time, and insensitivity to amplitude noise, which are essential for precision dynamic force spectroscopy and microscopy.

Quartz tuning fork-based frequency modulation atomic force spectroscopy and microscopy with all digital phase-locked loop.

PubMed

An, Sangmin; Hong, Mun-heon; Kim, Jongwoo; Kwon, Soyoung; Lee, Kunyoung; Lee, Manhee; Jhe, Wonho

2012-11-01

We present a platform for the quartz tuning fork (QTF)-based, frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM) system for quantitative study of the mechanical or topographical properties of nanoscale materials, such as the nano-sized water bridge formed between the quartz tip (~100 nm curvature) and the mica substrate. A thermally stable, all digital phase-locked loop is used to detect the small frequency shift of the QTF signal resulting from the nanomaterial-mediated interactions. The proposed and demonstrated novel FM-AFM technique provides high experimental sensitivity in the measurement of the viscoelastic forces associated with the confined nano-water meniscus, short response time, and insensitivity to amplitude noise, which are essential for precision dynamic force spectroscopy and microscopy.

All-digital radar architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molchanov, Pavlo A.

2014-10-01

All digital radar architecture requires exclude mechanical scan system. The phase antenna array is necessarily large because the array elements must be co-located with very precise dimensions and will need high accuracy phase processing system for aggregate and distribute T/R modules data to/from antenna elements. Even phase array cannot provide wide field of view. New nature inspired all digital radar architecture proposed. The fly's eye consists of multiple angularly spaced sensors giving the fly simultaneously thee wide-area visual coverage it needs to detect and avoid the threats around him. Fly eye radar antenna array consist multiple directional antennas loose distributed along perimeter of ground vehicle or aircraft and coupled with receiving/transmitting front end modules connected by digital interface to central processor. Non-steering antenna array allows creating all-digital radar with extreme flexible architecture. Fly eye radar architecture provides wide possibility of digital modulation and different waveform generation. Simultaneous correlation and integration of thousands signals per second from each point of surveillance area allows not only detecting of low level signals ((low profile targets), but help to recognize and classify signals (targets) by using diversity signals, polarization modulation and intelligent processing. Proposed all digital radar architecture with distributed directional antenna array can provide a 3D space vector to the jammer by verification direction of arrival for signals sources and as result jam/spoof protection not only for radar systems, but for communication systems and any navigation constellation system, for both encrypted or unencrypted signals, for not limited number or close positioned jammers.

The research of laser marking control technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Qiue; Zhang, Rong

2009-08-01

In the area of Laser marking, the general control method is insert control card to computer's mother board, it can not support hot swap, it is difficult to assemble or it. Moreover, the one marking system must to equip one computer. In the system marking, the computer can not to do the other things except to transmit marking digital information. Otherwise it can affect marking precision. Based on traditional control methods existed some problems, introduced marking graphic editing and digital processing by the computer finish, high-speed digital signal processor (DSP) control marking the whole process. The laser marking controller is mainly contain DSP2812, digital memorizer, DAC (digital analog converting) transform unit circuit, USB interface control circuit, man-machine interface circuit, and other logic control circuit. Download the marking information which is processed by computer to U disk, DSP read the information by USB interface on time, then processing it, adopt the DSP inter timer control the marking time sequence, output the scanner control signal by D/A parts. Apply the technology can realize marking offline, thereby reduce the product cost, increase the product efficiency. The system have good effect in actual unit markings, the marking speed is more quickly than PCI control card to 20 percent. It has application value in practicality.

A digital correlator upgrade for the Arcminute MicroKelvin Imager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hickish, Jack; Razavi-Ghods, Nima; Perrott, Yvette C.; Titterington, David J.; Carey, Steve H.; Scott, Paul F.; Grainge, Keith J. B.; Scaife, Anna M. M.; Alexander, Paul; Saunders, Richard D. E.; Crofts, Mike; Javid, Kamran; Rumsey, Clare; Jin, Terry Z.; Ely, John A.; Shaw, Clive; Northrop, Ian G.; Pooley, Guy; D'Alessandro, Robert; Doherty, Peter; Willatt, Greg P.

2018-04-01

The Arcminute Microkelvin Imager (AMI) telescopes located at the Mullard Radio Astronomy Observatory near Cambridge have been significantly enhanced by the implementation of a new digital correlator with 1.2 MHz spectral resolution. This system has replaced a 750-MHz resolution analogue lag-based correlator, and was designed to mitigate the effects of radio frequency interference, particularly that from geostationary satellites which are visible from the AMI site when observing at low declinations. The upgraded instrument consists of 18 ROACH2 Field Programmable Gate Array platforms used to implement a pair of real-time FX correlators - one for each of AMI's two arrays. The new system separates the down-converted RF baseband signal from each AMI receiver into two sub-bands, each of which are filtered to a width of 2.3 GHz and digitized at 5-Gsps with 8 bits of precision. These digital data streams are filtered into 2048 frequency channels and cross-correlated using FPGA hardware, with a commercial 10 Gb Ethernet switch providing high-speed data interconnect. Images formed using data from the new digital correlator show over an order of magnitude improvement in dynamic range over the previous system. The ability to observe at low declinations has also been significantly improved.

[Standardization and modeling of surgical processes].

PubMed

Strauss, G; Schmitz, P

2016-12-01

Due to the technological developments around the operating room, surgery in the twenty-first century is undergoing a paradigm shift. Which technologies have already been integrated into the surgical routine? How can a favorable cost-benefit balance be achieved by the implementation of new software-based assistance systems? This article presents the state of the art technology as exemplified by a semi-automated operation system for otorhinolaryngology surgery. The main focus is on systems for implementation of digital handbooks and navigational functions in situ. On the basis of continuous development in digital imaging, decisions may by facilitated by individual patient models thus allowing procedures to be optimized. The ongoing digitization and linking of all relevant information enable a high level of standardization in terms of operating procedures. This may be used by assistance systems as a basis for complete documentation and high process reliability. Automation of processes in the operating room results in an increase in quality, precision and standardization so that the effectiveness and efficiency of treatment can be improved; however, care must be taken that detrimental consequences, such as loss of skills and placing too much faith in technology must be avoided by adapted training concepts.

SuperState: a computer program for the control of operant behavioral experimentation.

PubMed

Zhang, Fuqiang

2006-09-15

Operant behavioral researches require precise control of experimental devices for delivering stimuli and monitoring behavioral responses. The author developed a software solution named SuperState for controlling hardware devices and running reinforcement schedules. The Microsoft Windows compatible software was written by use of an object-oriented programming language Borland Delphi 5.0, which has simplified the programming of the application. SuperState is a stand-alone easy-to-use green software, without the need for the experimenter to master any scripting languages. It features: (1) control of multiple operant cages running independent reinforcement schedules; (2) enough cage devices (16 digital inputs and 16 digital outputs for each cage) suitable for the need of most operant behavioral equipments; (3) control of most standard ISA-type digital interface cards including Med-Associates Super-port cards and a PCI-type card AC6412, and highly expandable to support other PCI-type interface cards; (4) high-resolution device control (1ms); (5) a built-in real-time cumulative recorder; (6) extensive data analyzing including event recorder, cumulative recorder, block analyzing; the summarized results can be transferred easily to Microsoft Excel spreadsheets through the Clipboard.

Integrated calibration between digital camera and laser scanner from mobile mapping system for land vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Guihua; Chen, Hong; Li, Xingquan; Zou, Xiaoliang

The paper presents the concept of lever arm and boresight angle, the design requirements of calibration sites and the integrated calibration method of boresight angles of digital camera or laser scanner. Taking test data collected by Applanix's LandMark system as an example, the camera calibration method is introduced to be piling three consecutive stereo images and OTF-Calibration method using ground control points. The laser calibration of boresight angle is proposed to use a manual and automatic method with ground control points. Integrated calibration between digital camera and laser scanner is introduced to improve the systemic precision of two sensors. By analyzing the measurement value between ground control points and its corresponding image points in sequence images, a conclusion is that position objects between camera and images are within about 15cm in relative errors and 20cm in absolute errors. By comparing the difference value between ground control points and its corresponding laser point clouds, the errors is less than 20cm. From achieved results of these experiments in analysis, mobile mapping system is efficient and reliable system for generating high-accuracy and high-density road spatial data more rapidly.

High performance MPEG-audio decoder IC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thorn, M.; Benbassat, G.; Cyr, K.; Li, S.; Gill, M.; Kam, D.; Walker, K.; Look, P.; Eldridge, C.; Ng, P.

1993-01-01

The emerging digital audio and video compression technology brings both an opportunity and a new challenge to IC design. The pervasive application of compression technology to consumer electronics will require high volume, low cost IC's and fast time to market of the prototypes and production units. At the same time, the algorithms used in the compression technology result in complex VLSI IC's. The conflicting challenges of algorithm complexity, low cost, and fast time to market have an impact on device architecture and design methodology. The work presented in this paper is about the design of a dedicated, high precision, Motion Picture Expert Group (MPEG) audio decoder.

On the Meanings of Self-Regulation: Digital Humanities in Service of Conceptual Clarity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burman, Jeremy T.; Green, Christopher D.; Shanker, Stuart

2015-01-01

Self-regulation is of interest both to psychologists and to teachers. But what the word means is unclear. To define it precisely, two studies examined the American Psychological Association's system of controlled vocabulary--specifically, the 447 associated terms it presents--and used techniques from the Digital Humanities to identify 88 closely…

SPECIAL ISSUE ON OPTICAL PROCESSING OF INFORMATION: Analysis of the precision parameters of an optoelectronic vector-matrix processor of digital information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Odinokov, S. B.; Petrov, A. V.

1995-10-01

Mathematical models of components of a vector-matrix optoelectronic multiplier are considered. Perturbing factors influencing a real optoelectronic system — noise and errors of radiation sources and detectors, nonlinearity of an analogue—digital converter, nonideal optical systems — are taken into account. Analytic expressions are obtained for relating the precision of such a multiplier to the probability of an error amounting to one bit, to the parameters describing the quality of the multiplier components, and to the quality of the optical system of the processor. Various methods of increasing the dynamic range of a multiplier are considered at the technical systems level.

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.

The Geoscience Laser Altimetry/Ranging System (GLARS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, S. C.; Degnan, J. J.; Bufton, J. L.; Garvin, J. B.; Abshire, J. B.

1986-01-01

The Geoscience Laser Altimetry Ranging System (GLARS) is a highly precise distance measurement system to be used for making extremely accurate geodetic observations from a space platform. It combines the attributes of a pointable laser ranging system making observations to cube corner retroreflectors placed on the ground with those of a nadir looking laser altimeter making height observations to ground, ice sheet, and oceanic surfaces. In the ranging mode, centimeter-level precise baseline and station coordinate determinations will be made on grids consisting of 100 to 200 targets separated by distances from a few tens of kilometers to about 1000 km. These measurements will be used for studies of seismic zone crustal deformations and tectonic plate motions. Ranging measurements will also be made to a coarser, but globally distributed array of retroreflectors for both precise geodetic and orbit determination applications. In the altimetric mode, relative height determinations will be obtained with approximately decimeter vertical precision and 70 to 100 meter horizontal resolution. The height data will be used to study surface topography and roughness, ice sheet and lava flow thickness, and ocean dynamics. Waveform digitization will provide a measure of the vertical extent of topography within each footprint. The planned Earth Observing System is an attractive candidate platform for GLARS since the GLAR data can be used both for direct analyses and for highly precise orbit determination needed in the reduction of data from other sensors on the multi-instrument platform. (1064, 532, and 355 nm)Nd:YAG laser meets the performance specifications for the system.

Exploring the dimensionality of digit span.

PubMed

Bowden, Stephen C; Petrauskas, Vilija M; Bardenhagen, Fiona J; Meade, Catherine E; Simpson, Leonie C

2013-04-01

The Digit Span subtest from the Wechsler Scales is used to measure Freedom from Distractibility or Working Memory. Some published research suggests that Digit Span forward should be interpreted differently from Digit Span backward. The present study explored the dimensionality of the Wechsler Memory Scale-III Digit Span (forward and backward) items in a sample of heterogeneous neuroscience patients (n = 267) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for dichotomous items. Results suggested that four correlated factors underlie Digit Span, reflecting easy and hard items in both forward and backward presentation orders. The model for Digit Span was then cross-validated in a seizure disorders sample (n = 223) by replication of the CFA and by examination of measurement invariance. Measurement invariance tests of the precise numerical generalization of trait estimation across groups. Results supported measurement invariance and it was concluded that forward and backward digit span scores should be interpreted as measures of the same cognitive ability.

14- by 22-Foot Subsonic Tunnel Laser Velocimeter Upgrade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyers, James F.; Lee, Joseph W.; Cavone, Angelo A.; Fletcher, Mark T.

2012-01-01

A long-focal length laser velocimeter constructed in the early 1980's was upgraded using current technology to improve usability, reliability and future serviceability. The original, free-space optics were replaced with a state-of-the-art fiber-optic subsystem which allowed most of the optics, including the laser, to be remote from the harsh tunnel environment. General purpose high-speed digitizers were incorporated in a standard modular data acquisition system, along with custom signal processing software executed on a desktop computer, served as the replacement for the signal processors. The resulting system increased optical sensitivity with real-time signal/data processing that produced measurement precisions exceeding those of the original system. Monte Carlo simulations, along with laboratory and wind tunnel investigations were used to determine system characteristics and measurement precision.

The Modernization of a Long-Focal Length Fringe-Type Laser Velocimeter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyers, James F.; Lee, Joseph W.; Cavone, Angelo A.; Fletcher, Mark T.

2012-01-01

A long-focal length laser velocimeter constructed in the early 1980's was upgraded using current technology to improve usability, reliability and future serviceability. The original, free-space optics were replaced with a state-of-the-art fiber-optic subsystem which allowed most of the optics, including the laser, to be remote from the harsh tunnel environment. General purpose high-speed digitizers were incorporated in a standard modular data acquisition system, along with custom signal processing software executed on a desktop computer, served as the replacement for the signal processors. The resulting system increased optical sensitivity with real-time signal/data processing that produced measurement precisions exceeding those of the original system. Monte Carlo simulations, along with laboratory and wind tunnel investigations were used to determine system characteristics and measurement precision.

Self-position estimation using terrain shadows for precise planetary landing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuga, Tomoki; Kojima, Hirohisa

2018-07-01

In recent years, the investigation of moons and planets has attracted increasing attention in several countries. Furthermore, recently developed landing systems are now expected to reach more scientifically interesting areas close to hazardous terrain, requiring precise landing capabilities within a 100 m range of the target point. To achieve this, terrain-relative navigation (capable of estimating the position of a lander relative to the target point on the ground surface is actively being studied as an effective method for achieving highly accurate landings. This paper proposes a self-position estimation method using shadows on the terrain based on edge extraction from image processing algorithms. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through numerical simulations using images generated from a digital elevation model of simulated terrains.

High precision radial velocities with GIANO spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carleo, I.; Sanna, N.; Gratton, R.; Benatti, S.; Bonavita, M.; Oliva, E.; Origlia, L.; Desidera, S.; Claudi, R.; Sissa, E.

2016-06-01

Radial velocities (RV) measured from near-infrared (NIR) spectra are a potentially excellent tool to search for extrasolar planets around cool or active stars. High resolution infrared (IR) spectrographs now available are reaching the high precision of visible instruments, with a constant improvement over time. GIANO is an infrared echelle spectrograph at the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG) and it is a powerful tool to provide high resolution spectra for accurate RV measurements of exoplanets and for chemical and dynamical studies of stellar or extragalactic objects. No other high spectral resolution IR instrument has GIANO's capability to cover the entire NIR wavelength range (0.95-2.45 μm) in a single exposure. In this paper we describe the ensemble of procedures that we have developed to measure high precision RVs on GIANO spectra acquired during the Science Verification (SV) run, using the telluric lines as wavelength reference. We used the Cross Correlation Function (CCF) method to determine the velocity for both the star and the telluric lines. For this purpose, we constructed two suitable digital masks that include about 2000 stellar lines, and a similar number of telluric lines. The method is applied to various targets with different spectral type, from K2V to M8 stars. We reached different precisions mainly depending on the H-magnitudes: for H ˜ 5 we obtain an rms scatter of ˜ 10 m s-1, while for H ˜ 9 the standard deviation increases to ˜ 50 ÷ 80 m s-1. The corresponding theoretical error expectations are ˜ 4 m s-1 and 30 m s-1, respectively. Finally we provide the RVs measured with our procedure for the targets observed during GIANO Science Verification.

Wideband aperture array using RF channelizers and massively parallel digital 2D IIR filterbank

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sengupta, Arindam; Madanayake, Arjuna; Gómez-García, Roberto; Engeberg, Erik D.

2014-05-01

Wideband receive-mode beamforming applications in wireless location, electronically-scanned antennas for radar, RF sensing, microwave imaging and wireless communications require digital aperture arrays that offer a relatively constant far-field beam over several octaves of bandwidth. Several beamforming schemes including the well-known true time-delay and the phased array beamformers have been realized using either finite impulse response (FIR) or fast Fourier transform (FFT) digital filter-sum based techniques. These beamforming algorithms offer the desired selectivity at the cost of a high computational complexity and frequency-dependant far-field array patterns. A novel approach to receiver beamforming is the use of massively parallel 2-D infinite impulse response (IIR) fan filterbanks for the synthesis of relatively frequency independent RF beams at an order of magnitude lower multiplier complexity compared to FFT or FIR filter based conventional algorithms. The 2-D IIR filterbanks demand fast digital processing that can support several octaves of RF bandwidth, fast analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for RF-to-bits type direct conversion of wideband antenna element signals. Fast digital implementation platforms that can realize high-precision recursive filter structures necessary for real-time beamforming, at RF radio bandwidths, are also desired. We propose a novel technique that combines a passive RF channelizer, multichannel ADC technology, and single-phase massively parallel 2-D IIR digital fan filterbanks, realized at low complexity using FPGA and/or ASIC technology. There exists native support for a larger bandwidth than the maximum clock frequency of the digital implementation technology. We also strive to achieve More-than-Moore throughput by processing a wideband RF signal having content with N-fold (B = N Fclk/2) bandwidth compared to the maximum clock frequency Fclk Hz of the digital VLSI platform under consideration. Such increase in bandwidth is achieved without use of polyphase signal processing or time-interleaved ADC methods. That is, all digital processors operate at the same Fclk clock frequency without phasing, while wideband operation is achieved by sub-sampling of narrower sub-bands at the the RF channelizer outputs.

An open-source, extensible system for laboratory timing and control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaskell, Peter E.; Thorn, Jeremy J.; Alba, Sequoia; Steck, Daniel A.

2009-11-01

We describe a simple system for timing and control, which provides control of analog, digital, and radio-frequency signals. Our system differs from most common laboratory setups in that it is open source, built from off-the-shelf components, synchronized to a common and accurate clock, and connected over an Ethernet network. A simple bus architecture facilitates creating new and specialized devices with only moderate experience in circuit design. Each device operates independently, requiring only an Ethernet network connection to the controlling computer, a clock signal, and a trigger signal. This makes the system highly robust and scalable. The devices can all be connected to a single external clock, allowing synchronous operation of a large number of devices for situations requiring precise timing of many parallel control and acquisition channels. Provided an accurate enough clock, these devices are capable of triggering events separated by one day with near-microsecond precision. We have achieved precisions of ˜0.1 ppb (parts per 109) over 16 s.

Analysis of RDSS positioning accuracy based on RNSS wide area differential technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Nan; Su, RanRan; Zhou, JianHua; Hu, XiaoGong; Gong, XiuQiang; Liu, Li; He, Feng; Guo, Rui; Ren, Hui; Hu, GuangMing; Zhang, Lei

2013-10-01

The BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) provides Radio Navigation Service System (RNSS) as well as Radio Determination Service System (RDSS). RDSS users can obtain positioning by responding the Master Control Center (MCC) inquiries to signal transmitted via GEO satellite transponder. The positioning result can be calculated with elevation constraint by MCC. The primary error sources affecting the RDSS positioning accuracy are the RDSS signal transceiver delay, atmospheric trans-mission delay and GEO satellite position error. During GEO orbit maneuver, poor orbit forecast accuracy significantly impacts RDSS services. A real-time 3-D orbital correction method based on wide-area differential technique is raised to correct the orbital error. Results from the observation shows that the method can successfully improve positioning precision during orbital maneuver, independent from the RDSS reference station. This improvement can reach 50% in maximum. Accurate calibration of the RDSS signal transceiver delay precision and digital elevation map may have a critical role in high precise RDSS positioning services.

Comparison of two viewing methods for estimating largemouth bass and walleye ages from sectioned otoliths and dorsal spines

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wegleitner, Eric J.; Isermann, Daniel A.

2017-01-01

Many biologists use digital images for estimating ages of fish, but the use of images could lead to differences in age estimates and precision because image capture can produce changes in light and clarity compared to directly viewing structures through a microscope. We used sectioned sagittal otoliths from 132 Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides and sectioned dorsal spines and otoliths from 157 Walleyes Sander vitreus to determine whether age estimates and among‐reader precision were similar when annuli were enumerated directly through a microscope or from digital images. Agreement of ages between viewing methods for three readers were highest for Largemouth Bass otoliths (75–89% among readers), followed by Walleye otoliths (63–70%) and Walleye dorsal spines (47–64%). Most discrepancies (72–96%) were ±1 year, and differences were more prevalent for age‐5 and older fish. With few exceptions, mean ages estimated from digital images were similar to ages estimated via directly viewing the structures through the microscope, and among‐reader precision did not vary between viewing methods for each structure. However, the number of disagreements we observed suggests that biologists should assess potential differences in age structure that could arise if images of calcified structures are used in the age estimation process.

Practical Applications of Digital Pathology.

PubMed

Saeed-Vafa, Daryoush; Magliocco, Anthony M

2015-04-01

Virtual microscopy and advances in machine learning have paved the way for the ever-expanding field of digital pathology. Multiple image-based computing environments capable of performing automated quantitative and morphological analyses are the foundation on which digital pathology is built. The applications for digital pathology in the clinical setting are numerous and are explored along with the digital software environments themselves, as well as the different analytical modalities specific to digital pathology. Prospective studies, case-control analyses, meta-analyses, and detailed descriptions of software environments were explored that pertained to digital pathology and its use in the clinical setting. Many different software environments have advanced platforms capable of improving digital pathology and potentially influencing clinical decisions. The potential of digital pathology is vast, particularly with the introduction of numerous software environments available for use. With all the digital pathology tools available as well as those in development, the field will continue to advance, particularly in the era of personalized medicine, providing health care professionals with more precise prognostic information as well as helping them guide treatment decisions.

Low frequency noise elimination technique for 24-bit Σ-Δ data acquisition systems.

PubMed

Qu, Shao-Bo; Robert, Olivier; Lognonné, Philippe; Zhou, Ze-Bing; Yang, Shan-Qing

2015-03-01

Low frequency 1/f noise is one of the key limiting factors of high precision measurement instruments. In this paper, digital correlated double sampling is implemented to reduce the offset and low frequency 1/f noise of a data acquisition system with 24-bit sigma delta (Σ-Δ) analog to digital converter (ADC). The input voltage is modulated by cross-coupled switches, which are synchronized to the sampling clock, and converted into digital signal by ADC. By using a proper switch frequency, the unwanted parasitic signal frequencies generated by the switches are avoided. The noise elimination processing is made through the principle of digital correlated double sampling, which is equivalent to a time shifted subtraction for the sampled voltage. The low frequency 1/f noise spectrum density of the data acquisition system is reduced to be flat down to the measurement frequency lower limit, which is about 0.0001 Hz in this paper. The noise spectrum density is eliminated by more than 60 dB at 0.0001 Hz, with a residual noise floor of (9 ± 2) nV/Hz(1/2) which is limited by the intrinsic white noise floor of the ADC above its corner frequency.

Shaping of nested potentials for electron cooling of highly-charged ions in a cooler Penning trap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paul, Stefan; Kootte, Brian; Lascar, Daniel; Gwinner, Gerald; Dilling, Jens; Titan Collaboration

2016-09-01

TRIUMF's Ion Trap for Atomic and Nuclear science (TITAN) is dedicated to mass spectrometry and decay spectroscopy of short-lived radioactive nuclides in a series of ion traps including a precision Penning trap. In order to boost the achievable precision of mass measurements TITAN deploys an Electron Beam Ion Trap (EBIT) providing Highly-Charged Ions (HCI). However, the charge breeding process in the EBIT leads to an increase in the ion bunch's energy spread which is detrimental to the overall precision gain. To reduce this effect a new cylindrical Cooler PEnning Trap (CPET) is being commissioned to sympathetically cool the HCI via a simultaneously trapped electron plasma. Simultaneous trapping of ions and electrons requires a high level of control over the nested potential landscape and sophisticated switching schemes for the voltages on CPET's multiple ring electrodes. For this purpose, we are currently setting up a new experimental control system for multi-channel voltage switching. The control system employs a Raspberry Pi communicating with a digital-to-analog board via a serial peripheral interface. We report on the implementation of the voltage control system and its performance with respect to electron and ion manipulation in CPET. University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Subpixel edge estimation with lens aberrations compensation based on the iterative image approximation for high-precision thermal expansion measurements of solids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inochkin, F. M.; Kruglov, S. K.; Bronshtein, I. G.; Kompan, T. A.; Kondratjev, S. V.; Korenev, A. S.; Pukhov, N. F.

2017-06-01

A new method for precise subpixel edge estimation is presented. The principle of the method is the iterative image approximation in 2D with subpixel accuracy until the appropriate simulated is found, matching the simulated and acquired images. A numerical image model is presented consisting of three parts: an edge model, object and background brightness distribution model, lens aberrations model including diffraction. The optimal values of model parameters are determined by means of conjugate-gradient numerical optimization of a merit function corresponding to the L2 distance between acquired and simulated images. Computationally-effective procedure for the merit function calculation along with sufficient gradient approximation is described. Subpixel-accuracy image simulation is performed in a Fourier domain with theoretically unlimited precision of edge points location. The method is capable of compensating lens aberrations and obtaining the edge information with increased resolution. Experimental method verification with digital micromirror device applied to physically simulate an object with known edge geometry is shown. Experimental results for various high-temperature materials within the temperature range of 1000°C..2400°C are presented.

Stochastic Downscaling of Digital Elevation Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rasera, Luiz Gustavo; Mariethoz, Gregoire; Lane, Stuart N.

2016-04-01

High-resolution digital elevation models (HR-DEMs) are extremely important for the understanding of small-scale geomorphic processes in Alpine environments. In the last decade, remote sensing techniques have experienced a major technological evolution, enabling fast and precise acquisition of HR-DEMs. However, sensors designed to measure elevation data still feature different spatial resolution and coverage capabilities. Terrestrial altimetry allows the acquisition of HR-DEMs with centimeter to millimeter-level precision, but only within small spatial extents and often with dead ground problems. Conversely, satellite radiometric sensors are able to gather elevation measurements over large areas but with limited spatial resolution. In the present study, we propose an algorithm to downscale low-resolution satellite-based DEMs using topographic patterns extracted from HR-DEMs derived for example from ground-based and airborne altimetry. The method consists of a multiple-point geostatistical simulation technique able to generate high-resolution elevation data from low-resolution digital elevation models (LR-DEMs). Initially, two collocated DEMs with different spatial resolutions serve as an input to construct a database of topographic patterns, which is also used to infer the statistical relationships between the two scales. High-resolution elevation patterns are then retrieved from the database to downscale a LR-DEM through a stochastic simulation process. The output of the simulations are multiple equally probable DEMs with higher spatial resolution that also depict the large-scale geomorphic structures present in the original LR-DEM. As these multiple models reflect the uncertainty related to the downscaling, they can be employed to quantify the uncertainty of phenomena that are dependent on fine topography, such as catchment hydrological processes. The proposed methodology is illustrated for a case study in the Swiss Alps. A swissALTI3D HR-DEM (with 5 m resolution) and a SRTM-derived LR-DEM from the Western Alps are used to downscale a SRTM-based LR-DEM from the eastern part of the Alps. The results show that the method is capable of generating multiple high-resolution synthetic DEMs that reproduce the spatial structure and statistics of the original DEM.

Building a Hypertextual Digital Library in the Humanities: A Case Study on London.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crane, Gregory; Smith, David A.; Wulfman, Clifford E.

This paper describes the creation of a new humanities digital library collection: 11,000,000 words and 10,000 images representing books, images, and maps on pre-twentieth century London and its environs. The London collection contained far more dense and precise information than the materials from the Greco-Roman world. The London collection thus…

DEAL annual report.

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

Misra, Shashank

2017-11-01

The digital electronics at the atomic limit (DEAL) project seeks to leverage Sandia's atomic-precision fabrication capability to realize the theorized orders-of-magnitude improvement in operating voltage for tunnel field effect transistors (TFETs) compared to CMOS. Not only are low-power digital circuits a critical element of many national security systems (e.g. satellites), TFETs can perform circuit functions inaccessible to CMOS (e.g. polymorphism).

Toward 1-mm depth precision with a solid state full-field range imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorrington, Adrian A.; Carnegie, Dale A.; Cree, Michael J.

2006-02-01

Previously, we demonstrated a novel heterodyne based solid-state full-field range-finding imaging system. This system is comprised of modulated LED illumination, a modulated image intensifier, and a digital video camera. A 10 MHz drive is provided with 1 Hz difference between the LEDs and image intensifier. A sequence of images of the resulting beating intensifier output are captured and processed to determine phase and hence distance to the object for each pixel. In a previous publication, we detailed results showing a one-sigma precision of 15 mm to 30 mm (depending on signal strength). Furthermore, we identified the limitations of the system and potential improvements that were expected to result in a range precision in the order of 1 mm. These primarily include increasing the operating frequency and improving optical coupling and sensitivity. In this paper, we report on the implementation of these improvements and the new system characteristics. We also comment on the factors that are important for high precision image ranging and present configuration strategies for best performance. Ranging with sub-millimeter precision is demonstrated by imaging a planar surface and calculating the deviations from a planar fit. The results are also illustrated graphically by imaging a garden gnome.

Deciphering the Precision of Stereo IKONOS Canopy Height Models for U.S. Forests with G-LiHT Airborne LiDAR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rudasill-Neigh, Christopher S.; Masek, Jeffrey G.; Bourget, Paul; Cook, Bruce; Huang, Chengquan; Rishmawi, Khaldoun; Zhao, Feng

2014-01-01

Few studies have evaluated the precision of IKONOS stereo data for measuring forest canopy height. The high cost of airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data collection for large area studies and the present lack of a spaceborne instrument lead to the need to explore other low cost options. The US Government currently has access to a large archive of commercial high-resolution imagery, which could be quite valuable to forest structure studies. At 1 m resolution, we here compared canopy height models (CHMs) and height data derived from Goddard's airborne LiDAR Hyper-spectral and Thermal Imager (G-LiHT) with three types of IKONOS stereo derived digital surface models (DSMs) that estimate CHMs by subtracting National Elevation Data (NED) digital terrain models (DTMs). We found the following in three different forested regions of the US after excluding heterogeneous and disturbed forest samples: (1) G-LiHT DTMs were highly correlated with NED DTMs with R (sup 2) greater than 0.98 and root mean square errors (RMSEs) less than 2.96 m; (2) when using one visually identifiable ground control point (GCP) from NED, G-LiHT DSMs and IKONOS DSMs had R (sup 2) greater than 0.84 and RMSEs of 2.7 to 4.1 m; and (3) one GCP CHMs for two study sites had R (sup 2) greater than 0.7 and RMSEs of 2.6 to 3 m where data were collected less than four years apart. Our results suggest that IKONOS stereo data are a useful LiDAR alternative where high-quality DTMs are available.

Super-resolution technique for CW lidar using Fourier transform reordering and Richardson-Lucy deconvolution.

PubMed

Campbell, Joel F; Lin, Bing; Nehrir, Amin R; Harrison, F Wallace; Obland, Michael D

2014-12-15

An interpolation method is described for range measurements of high precision altimetry with repeating intensity modulated continuous wave (IM-CW) lidar waveforms using binary phase shift keying (BPSK), where the range profile is determined by means of a cross-correlation between the digital form of the transmitted signal and the digitized return signal collected by the lidar receiver. This method uses reordering of the array elements in the frequency domain to convert a repeating synthetic pulse signal to single highly interpolated pulse. This is then enhanced further using Richardson-Lucy deconvolution to greatly enhance the resolution of the pulse. We show the sampling resolution and pulse width can be enhanced by about two orders of magnitude using the signal processing algorithms presented, thus breaking the fundamental resolution limit for BPSK modulation of a particular bandwidth and bit rate. We demonstrate the usefulness of this technique for determining cloud and tree canopy thicknesses far beyond this fundamental limit in a lidar not designed for this purpose.

Clock distribution for BaF2 readout electronics at CSNS-WNS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Bing; Cao, Ping; Zhang, De-Liang; Wang, Qi; Zhang, Ya-Xi; Qi, Xin-Cheng; An, Qi

2017-01-01

A BaF2 (Barium Fluoride) detector array is designed to precisely measure the (n, γ) cross section at the CSNS-WNS (white neutron source at China Spallation Neutron Source). It is a 4π solid angle-shaped detector array consisting of 92 BaF2 crystal elements. To discriminate signals from the BaF2 detector, a pulse shape discrimination method is used, supported by a waveform digitization technique. There are 92 channels for digitizing. The precision and synchronization of clock distribution restricts the performance of waveform digitizing. In this paper, a clock prototype for the BaF2 readout electronics at CSNS-WNS is introduced. It is based on the PXIe platform and has a twin-stage tree topology. In the first stage, clock is synchronously distributed from the tree root to each PXIe crate through a coaxial cable over a long distance, while in the second stage, the clock is further distributed to each electronic module through a PXIe dedicated differential star bus. With the help of this topology, each tree node can fan out up to 20 clocks with 3U size. Test results show the clock jitter is less than 20 ps, which meets the requirements of the BaF2 readout electronics. Besides, this clock system has the advantages of high density, simplicity, scalability and cost saving, so it can be useful for other clock distribution applications. Supported by National Research and Development plan (2016 YFA0401602) NSAF (U1530111) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (11005107)

Lossy compression of weak lensing data

DOE PAGES

Vanderveld, R. Ali; Bernstein, Gary M.; Stoughton, Chris; ...

2011-07-12

Future orbiting observatories will survey large areas of sky in order to constrain the physics of dark matter and dark energy using weak gravitational lensing and other methods. Lossy compression of the resultant data will improve the cost and feasibility of transmitting the images through the space communication network. We evaluate the consequences of the lossy compression algorithm of Bernstein et al. (2010) for the high-precision measurement of weak-lensing galaxy ellipticities. This square-root algorithm compresses each pixel independently, and the information discarded is by construction less than the Poisson error from photon shot noise. For simulated space-based images (without cosmicmore » rays) digitized to the typical 16 bits per pixel, application of the lossy compression followed by image-wise lossless compression yields images with only 2.4 bits per pixel, a factor of 6.7 compression. We demonstrate that this compression introduces no bias in the sky background. The compression introduces a small amount of additional digitization noise to the images, and we demonstrate a corresponding small increase in ellipticity measurement noise. The ellipticity measurement method is biased by the addition of noise, so the additional digitization noise is expected to induce a multiplicative bias on the galaxies measured ellipticities. After correcting for this known noise-induced bias, we find a residual multiplicative ellipticity bias of m {approx} -4 x 10 -4. This bias is small when compared to the many other issues that precision weak lensing surveys must confront, and furthermore we expect it to be reduced further with better calibration of ellipticity measurement methods.« less

Magnitude comparison with different types of rational numbers.

PubMed

DeWolf, Melissa; Grounds, Margaret A; Bassok, Miriam; Holyoak, Keith J

2014-02-01

An important issue in understanding mathematical cognition involves the similarities and differences between the magnitude representations associated with various types of rational numbers. For single-digit integers, evidence indicates that magnitudes are represented as analog values on a mental number line, such that magnitude comparisons are made more quickly and accurately as the numerical distance between numbers increases (the distance effect). Evidence concerning a distance effect for compositional numbers (e.g., multidigit whole numbers, fractions and decimals) is mixed. We compared the patterns of response times and errors for college students in magnitude comparison tasks across closely matched sets of rational numbers (e.g., 22/37, 0.595, 595). In Experiment 1, a distance effect was found for both fractions and decimals, but response times were dramatically slower for fractions than for decimals. Experiments 2 and 3 compared performance across fractions, decimals, and 3-digit integers. Response patterns for decimals and integers were extremely similar but, as in Experiment 1, magnitude comparisons based on fractions were dramatically slower, even when the decimals varied in precision (i.e., number of place digits) and could not be compared in the same way as multidigit integers (Experiment 3). Our findings indicate that comparisons of all three types of numbers exhibit a distance effect, but that processing often involves strategic focus on components of numbers. Fractions impose an especially high processing burden due to their bipartite (a/b) structure. In contrast to the other number types, the magnitude values associated with fractions appear to be less precise, and more dependent on explicit calculation. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

The development of a novel high-precision major depressive disorder screening system using transient autonomic responses induced by dual mental tasks.

PubMed

Matsui, Takemi; Shinba, Toshikazu; Sun, Guanghao

2018-02-01

12.6% of major depressive disorder (MDD) patients have suicide intent, while it has been reported that 43% of patients did not consult their doctors for MDD, automated MDD screening is eagerly anticipated. Recently, in order to achieve automated screening of MDD, biomarkers such as multiplex DNA methylation profiles or physiological method using near infra-red spectroscopy (NIRS) have been studied, however, they require inspection using 96-well DNA ELIZA kit after blood sampling or significant cost. Using a single-lead electrocardiography (ECG), we developed a high-precision MDD screening system using transient autonomic responses induced by dual mental tasks. We developed a novel high precision MDD screening system which is composed of a single-lead ECG monitor, analogue to digital (AD) converter and a personal computer with measurement and analysis program written by LabView programming language. The system discriminates MDD patients from normal subjects using heat rate variability (HRV)-derived transient autonomic responses induced by dual mental tasks, i.e. verbal fluency task and random number generation task, via linear discriminant analysis (LDA) adopting HRV-related predictor variables (hear rate (HR), high frequency (HF), low frequency (LF)/HF). The proposed system was tested for 12 MDD patients (32 ± 15 years) under antidepressant treatment from Shizuoka Saiseikai General Hospital outpatient unit and 30 normal volunteers (37 ± 17 years) from Tokyo Metropolitan University. The proposed system achieved 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in classifying 42 examinees into 12 MDD patients and 30 normal subjects. The proposed system appears promising for future HRV-based high-precision and low-cost screening of MDDs using only single-lead ECG.

The precision-processing subsystem for the Earth Resources Technology Satellite.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapelle, W. E.; Bybee, J. E.; Bedross, G. M.

1972-01-01

Description of the precision processor, a subsystem in the image-processing system for the Earth Resources Technology Satellite (ERTS). This processor is a special-purpose image-measurement and printing system, designed to process user-selected bulk images to produce 1:1,000,000-scale film outputs and digital image data, presented in a Universal-Transverse-Mercator (UTM) projection. The system will remove geometric and radiometric errors introduced by the ERTS multispectral sensors and by the bulk-processor electron-beam recorder. The geometric transformations required for each input scene are determined by resection computations based on reseau measurements and image comparisons with a special ground-control base contained within the system; the images are then printed and digitized by electronic image-transfer techniques.

Application of Intra-Oral Dental Scanners in the Digital Workflow of Implantology

PubMed Central

van der Meer, Wicher J.; Andriessen, Frank S.; Wismeijer, Daniel; Ren, Yijin

2012-01-01

Intra-oral scanners will play a central role in digital dentistry in the near future. In this study the accuracy of three intra-oral scanners was compared. Materials and methods: A master model made of stone was fitted with three high precision manufactured PEEK cylinders and scanned with three intra-oral scanners: the CEREC (Sirona), the iTero (Cadent) and the Lava COS (3M). In software the digital files were imported and the distance between the centres of the cylinders and the angulation between the cylinders was assessed. These values were compared to the measurements made on a high accuracy 3D scan of the master model. Results: The distance errors were the smallest and most consistent for the Lava COS. The distance errors for the Cerec were the largest and least consistent. All the angulation errors were small. Conclusions: The Lava COS in combination with a high accuracy scanning protocol resulted in the smallest and most consistent errors of all three scanners tested when considering mean distance errors in full arch impressions both in absolute values and in consistency for both measured distances. For the mean angulation errors, the Lava COS had the smallest errors between cylinders 1–2 and the largest errors between cylinders 1–3, although the absolute difference with the smallest mean value (iTero) was very small (0,0529°). An expected increase in distance and/or angular errors over the length of the arch due to an accumulation of registration errors of the patched 3D surfaces could be observed in this study design, but the effects were statistically not significant. Clinical relevance For making impressions of implant cases for digital workflows, the most accurate scanner with the scanning protocol that will ensure the most accurate digital impression should be used. In our study model that was the Lava COS with the high accuracy scanning protocol. PMID:22937030

Acoustic Wave Filter Technology-A Review.

PubMed

Ruppel, Clemens C W

2017-09-01

Today, acoustic filters are the filter technology to meet the requirements with respect to performance dictated by the cellular phone standards and their form factor. Around two billion cellular phones are sold every year, and smart phones are of a very high percentage of approximately two-thirds. Smart phones require a very high number of filter functions ranging from the low double-digit range up to almost triple digit numbers in the near future. In the frequency range up to 1 GHz, surface acoustic wave (SAW) filters are almost exclusively employed, while in the higher frequency range, bulk acoustic wave (BAW) and SAW filters are competing for their shares. Prerequisites for the success of acoustic filters were the availability of high-quality substrates, advanced and highly reproducible fabrication technologies, optimum filter techniques, precise simulation software, and advanced design tools that allow the fast and efficient design according to customer specifications. This paper will try to focus on innovations leading to high volume applications of intermediate frequency (IF) and radio frequency (RF) acoustic filters, e.g., TV IF filters, IF filters for cellular phones, and SAW/BAW RF filters for the RF front-end of cellular phones.

The potential of small unmanned aircraft systems and structure-from-motion for topographic surveys: A test of emerging integrated approaches at Cwm Idwal, North Wales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tonkin, T. N.; Midgley, N. G.; Graham, D. J.; Labadz, J. C.

2014-12-01

Novel topographic survey methods that integrate both structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) are a rapidly evolving investigative technique. Due to the diverse range of survey configurations available and the infancy of these new methods, further research is required. Here, the accuracy, precision and potential applications of this approach are investigated. A total of 543 images of the Cwm Idwal moraine-mound complex were captured from a light (< 5 kg) semi-autonomous multi-rotor unmanned aircraft system using a consumer-grade 18 MP compact digital camera. The images were used to produce a DSM (digital surface model) of the moraines. The DSM is in good agreement with 7761 total station survey points providing a total vertical RMSE value of 0.517 m and vertical RMSE values as low as 0.200 m for less densely vegetated areas of the DSM. High-precision topographic data can be acquired rapidly using this technique with the resulting DSMs and orthorectified aerial imagery at sub-decimetre resolutions. Positional errors on the total station dataset, vegetation and steep terrain are identified as the causes of vertical disagreement. Whilst this aerial survey approach is advocated for use in a range of geomorphological settings, care must be taken to ensure that adequate ground control is applied to give a high degree of accuracy.

Fast words boundaries localization in text fields for low quality document images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilin, Dmitry; Novikov, Dmitriy; Polevoy, Dmitry; Nikolaev, Dmitry

2018-04-01

The paper examines the problem of word boundaries precise localization in document text zones. Document processing on a mobile device consists of document localization, perspective correction, localization of individual fields, finding words in separate zones, segmentation and recognition. While capturing an image with a mobile digital camera under uncontrolled capturing conditions, digital noise, perspective distortions or glares may occur. Further document processing gets complicated because of its specifics: layout elements, complex background, static text, document security elements, variety of text fonts. However, the problem of word boundaries localization has to be solved at runtime on mobile CPU with limited computing capabilities under specified restrictions. At the moment, there are several groups of methods optimized for different conditions. Methods for the scanned printed text are quick but limited only for images of high quality. Methods for text in the wild have an excessively high computational complexity, thus, are hardly suitable for running on mobile devices as part of the mobile document recognition system. The method presented in this paper solves a more specialized problem than the task of finding text on natural images. It uses local features, a sliding window and a lightweight neural network in order to achieve an optimal algorithm speed-precision ratio. The duration of the algorithm is 12 ms per field running on an ARM processor of a mobile device. The error rate for boundaries localization on a test sample of 8000 fields is 0.3

Accuracy and precision of two indirect methods for estimating canopy fuels

Treesearch

Abran Steele-Feldman; Elizabeth Reinhardt; Russell A. Parsons

2006-01-01

We compared the accuracy and precision of digital hemispherical photography and the LI-COR LAI-2000 plant canopy analyzer as predictors of canopy fuels. We collected data on 12 plots in western Montana under a variety of lighting and sky conditions, and used a variety of processing methods to compute estimates. Repeated measurements from each method displayed...

Precise Interval Timer for Software Defined Radio

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pozhidaev, Aleksey (Inventor)

2014-01-01

A precise digital fractional interval timer for software defined radios which vary their waveform on a packet-by-packet basis. The timer allows for variable length in the preamble of the RF packet and allows to adjust boundaries of the TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) Slots of the receiver of an SDR based on the reception of the RF packet of interest.

Non-interferometric quantitative phase imaging of yeast cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poola, Praveen K.; Pandiyan, Vimal Prabhu; John, Renu

2015-12-01

Real-time imaging of live cells is quite difficult without the addition of external contrast agents. Various methods for quantitative phase imaging of living cells have been proposed like digital holographic microscopy and diffraction phase microscopy. In this paper, we report theoretical and experimental results of quantitative phase imaging of live yeast cells with nanometric precision using transport of intensity equations (TIE). We demonstrate nanometric depth sensitivity in imaging live yeast cells using this technique. This technique being noninterferometric, does not need any coherent light sources and images can be captured through a regular bright-field microscope. This real-time imaging technique would deliver the depth or 3-D volume information of cells and is highly promising in real-time digital pathology applications, screening of pathogens and staging of diseases like malaria as it does not need any preprocessing of samples.

Experimental investigation of strain errors in stereo-digital image correlation due to camera calibration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shao, Xinxing; Zhu, Feipeng; Su, Zhilong; Dai, Xiangjun; Chen, Zhenning; He, Xiaoyuan

2018-03-01

The strain errors in stereo-digital image correlation (DIC) due to camera calibration were investigated using precisely controlled numerical experiments and real experiments. Three-dimensional rigid body motion tests were conducted to examine the effects of camera calibration on the measured results. For a fully accurate calibration, rigid body motion causes negligible strain errors. However, for inaccurately calibrated camera parameters and a short working distance, rigid body motion will lead to more than 50-μɛ strain errors, which significantly affects the measurement. In practical measurements, it is impossible to obtain a fully accurate calibration; therefore, considerable attention should be focused on attempting to avoid these types of errors, especially for high-accuracy strain measurements. It is necessary to avoid large rigid body motions in both two-dimensional DIC and stereo-DIC.

Digital LED Pixels: Instructions for use and a characterization of their properties.

PubMed

Jones, Pete R; Garcia, Sara E; Nardini, Marko

2016-12-01

This article details how to control light emitting diodes (LEDs) using an ordinary desktop computer. By combining digitally addressable LEDs with an off-the-shelf microcontroller (Arduino), multiple LEDs can be controlled independently and with a high degree of temporal, chromatic, and luminance precision. The proposed solution is safe (can be powered by a 5-V battery), tested (has been used in published research), inexpensive (∼ $60 + $2 per LED), highly interoperable (can be controlled by any type of computer/operating system via a USB or Bluetooth connection), requires no prior knowledge of electrical engineering (components simply require plugging together), and uses widely available components for which established help forums already exist. Matlab code is provided, including a 'minimal working example' of use suitable for use by beginners. Properties of the recommended LEDs are also characterized, including their response time, luminance profile, and color gamut. Based on these, it is shown that the LEDs are highly stable in terms of both luminance and chromaticity, and do not suffer from issues of warm-up, chromatic shift, and slow response times associated with traditional CRT and LCD monitor technology.

Beams of particles and papers: How digital preprint archives shape authorship and credit.

PubMed

Delfanti, Alessandro

2016-08-01

In high energy physics, scholarly papers circulate primarily through online preprint archives based on a centralized repository, arXiv, that physicists simply refer to as 'the archive'. The archive is not just a tool for preservation and memory but also a space of flows where written objects are detected and their authors made available for scrutiny. In this article, I analyze the reading and publishing practices of two subsets of high energy physicists: theorists and experimentalists. In order to be recognized as legitimate and productive members of their community, they need to abide by the temporalities and authorial practices structured by the archive. Theorists live in a state of accelerated time that shapes their reading and publishing practices around precise cycles. Experimentalists turn to tactics that allow them to circumvent the slowed-down time and invisibility they experience as members of large collaborations. As digital platforms for the exchange of scholarly articles emerge in other fields, high energy physics could help shed light on general transformations of contemporary scholarly communication systems.

NASA/BLM APT, phase 2. Volume 2: Technology demonstration. [Arizona

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

Techniques described include: (1) steps in the preprocessing of LANDSAT data; (2) the training of a classifier; (3) maximum likelihood classification and precision; (4) geometric correction; (5) class description; (6) digitizing; (7) digital terrain data; (8) an overview of sample design; (9) allocation and selection of primary sample units; (10) interpretation of secondary sample units; (11) data collection ground plots; (12) data reductions; (13) analysis for productivity estimation and map verification; (14) cost analysis; and (150) LANDSAT digital products. The evaluation of the pre-inventory planning for P.J. is included.

Behavioral study and design of a digital interpolator filter for wireless reconfigurable transmitters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferragina, V.; Frassone, A.; Ghittori, N.; Malcovati, P.; Vigna, A.

2005-06-01

The behavioral analysis and the design in a 0.13 μm CMOS technology of a digital interpolator filter for wireless applications are presented. The proposed block is designed to be embedded in the baseband part of a reconfigurable transmitter (WLAN 802.11a, UMTS) to operate as a sampling frequency boost between the digital signal processor (DSP) and the digital-to-analog converter (DAC). In recent trends the DAC of such transmitters usually operates at high conversion frequencies (to allow a relaxed implementation of the following analog reconstruction filter), while the DSP output flows at low frequencies (typically Nyquist rate). Thus a block able to increase the digital data rate, like the one proposed, is needed before the DAC. For example, in the WLAN case, an interpolation factor of 4 has been used, allowing the digital data frequency to raise from 20 MHz to 80 MHz. Using a time-domain model of the TX chain, a behavioral analysis has been performed to determine the impact of the filter performance on the quality of the signal at the antenna. This study has led to the evaluation of the z-domain filter transfer function, together with the specifications concerning a finite precision implementation. A VHDL description has allowed an automatic synthesis of the circuit in a 0.13 μm CMOS technology (with a supply voltage of 1.2 V). Post-synthesis simulations have confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed study.

Moving objects with clumsy fingers: how predictive is grip force control in patients with impaired manual sensibility?

PubMed

Nowak, Dennis A; Hermsdörfer, Joachim; Marquardt, Christian; Topka, Helge

2003-03-01

Anticipatory grip force adjustments to movement-induced load fluctuations of a hand-held object suggest that motion planning is based on an internal forward model of both the external object properties and the dynamics of the own motor apparatus. However, the central nervous system also refers to real time sensory feedback from the grasping digits in order to achieve a highly economical coupling between grip force and the actual loading requirements. We analyzed grip force control during vertical point-to-point arm movements with a hand-held instrumented object in 9 patients with moderately impaired tactile sensibility of the grasping digits due to chronic median nerve compression (n = 3), axonal (n = 3) and demyelinating sensory polyneuropathy (n = 3) in comparison to 9 healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects. Point-to-point arm movements started and ended with the object being held stationary at rest. Load force changes arose from inertial loads related to the movement. A maximum of load force occurred early in upward and near the end of downward movements. Compared to healthy controls, patients with impaired manual sensibility generated similar static grip forces during stationary holding of the object and similar force ratios between maximum grip and load force. These findings reflect effective grip force scaling in relation to the movement-induced loads despite reduced afferent feedback from the grasping digits. For both groups the maxima of grip and load force coincided very closely in time, indicating that the temporal regulation of the grip force profile with the load profile was processed with a similar high precision. In addition, linear regression analyses between grip and load forces during movement-related load increase and load decrease phases revealed a similar precise temporo-spatial coupling between grip and load forces for patients and controls. Our results suggest that the precise and anticipatory adjustment of the grip force profile to the load force profile arising from voluntary arm movements with a hand-held object is centrally mediated and less under sensory feedback control. As suggested by previous investigations, the efficient scaling of the grip force magnitude in relation to the movement-induced loads may be intact when deficits of tactile sensibility from the grasping fingers are moderate.

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.

The potential of 3D techniques for cultural heritage object documentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bitelli, Gabriele; Girelli, Valentina A.; Remondino, Fabio; Vittuari, Luca

2007-01-01

The generation of 3D models of objects has become an important research point in many fields of application like industrial inspection, robotics, navigation and body scanning. Recently the techniques for generating photo-textured 3D digital models have interested also the field of Cultural Heritage, due to their capability to combine high precision metrical information with a qualitative and photographic description of the objects. In fact this kind of product is a fundamental support for documentation, studying and restoration of works of art, until a production of replicas by fast prototyping techniques. Close-range photogrammetric techniques are nowadays more and more frequently used for the generation of precise 3D models. With the advent of automated procedures and fully digital products in the 1990s, it has become easier to use and cheaper, and nowadays a wide range of commercial software is available to calibrate, orient and reconstruct objects from images. This paper presents the complete process for the derivation of a photorealistic 3D model of an important basalt stela (about 70 x 60 x 25 cm) discovered in the archaeological site of Tilmen Höyük, in Turkey, dating back to 2nd mill. BC. We will report the modeling performed using passive and active sensors and the comparison of the achieved results.

Current trends in geomorphological mapping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seijmonsbergen, A. C.

2012-04-01

Geomorphological mapping is a world currently in motion, driven by technological advances and the availability of new high resolution data. As a consequence, classic (paper) geomorphological maps which were the standard for more than 50 years are rapidly being replaced by digital geomorphological information layers. This is witnessed by the following developments: 1. the conversion of classic paper maps into digital information layers, mainly performed in a digital mapping environment such as a Geographical Information System, 2. updating the location precision and the content of the converted maps, by adding more geomorphological details, taken from high resolution elevation data and/or high resolution image data, 3. (semi) automated extraction and classification of geomorphological features from digital elevation models, broadly separated into unsupervised and supervised classification techniques and 4. New digital visualization / cartographic techniques and reading interfaces. Newly digital geomorphological information layers can be based on manual digitization of polygons using DEMs and/or aerial photographs, or prepared through (semi) automated extraction and delineation of geomorphological features. DEMs are often used as basis to derive Land Surface Parameter information which is used as input for (un) supervised classification techniques. Especially when using high-res data, object-based classification is used as an alternative to traditional pixel-based classifications, to cluster grid cells into homogeneous objects, which can be classified as geomorphological features. Classic map content can also be used as training material for the supervised classification of geomorphological features. In the classification process, rule-based protocols, including expert-knowledge input, are used to map specific geomorphological features or entire landscapes. Current (semi) automated classification techniques are increasingly able to extract morphometric, hydrological, and in the near future also morphogenetic information. As a result, these new opportunities have changed the workflows for geomorphological mapmaking, and their focus have shifted from field-based techniques to using more computer-based techniques: for example, traditional pre-field air-photo based maps are now replaced by maps prepared in a digital mapping environment, and designated field visits using mobile GIS / digital mapping devices now focus on gathering location information and attribute inventories and are strongly time efficient. The resulting 'modern geomorphological maps' are digital collections of geomorphological information layers consisting of georeferenced vector, raster and tabular data which are stored in a digital environment such as a GIS geodatabase, and are easily visualized as e.g. 'birds' eye' views, as animated 3D displays, on virtual globes, or stored as GeoPDF maps in which georeferenced attribute information can be easily exchanged over the internet. Digital geomorphological information layers are increasingly accessed via web-based services distributed through remote servers. Information can be consulted - or even build using remote geoprocessing servers - by the end user. Therefore, it will not only be the geomorphologist anymore, but also the professional end user that dictates the applied use of digital geomorphological information layers.

Less precise representation of numerical magnitude in high math-anxious individuals: an ERP study of the size and distance effects.

PubMed

Núñez-Peña, M Isabel; Suárez-Pellicioni, Macarena

2014-12-01

Numerical comparison tasks are widely used to study the mental representation of numerical magnitude. In study, event-related brain potentials (ERPs) were recorded while 26 high math-anxious (HMA) and 27 low math-anxious (LMA) individuals were presented with pairs of single-digit Arabic numbers and were asked to decide which one had the larger numerical magnitude. The size of the numbers and the distance between them were manipulated in order to study the size and the distance effects. The results showed that both distance and size effects were larger for the HMA group. As for ERPs, results showed that the ERP distance effect had larger amplitude for both the size and distance effects in the HMA group than among their LMA counterparts. Since this component has been taken as a marker of the processing of numerical magnitude, this result suggests that HMA individuals have a less precise representation of numerical magnitude. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Performance Evaluation of a UWB-RFID System for Potential Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Phan, Chan T.; Arndt, D.; Ngo, P.; Gross, J.; Ni, Jianjun; Rafford, Melinda

2006-01-01

This talk presents a brief overview of the ultra-wideband (UWB) RFID system with emphasis on the performance evaluation of a commercially available UWB-RFID system. There are many RFID systems available today, but many provide just basic identification for auditing and inventory tracking. For applications that require high precision real time tracking, UWB technology has been shown to be a viable solution. The use of extremely short bursts of RF pulses offers high immunity to interference from other RF systems, precise tracking due to sub-nanosecond time resolution, and robust performance in multipath environments. The UWB-RFID system Sapphire DART (Digital Active RFID & Tracking) will be introduced in this talk. Laboratory testing using Sapphire DART is performed to evaluate its capability such as coverage area, accuracy, ease of operation, and robustness. Performance evaluation of this system in an operational environment (a receiving warehouse) for inventory tracking is also conducted. Concepts of using the UWB-RFID technology to track astronauts and assets are being proposed for space exploration.

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.

Ultramap v3 - a Revolution in Aerial Photogrammetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reitinger, B.; Sormann, M.; Zebedin, L.; Schachinger, B.; Hoefler, M.; Tomasi, R.; Lamperter, M.; Gruber, B.; Schiester, G.; Kobald, M.; Unger, M.; Klaus, A.; Bernoegger, S.; Karner, K.; Wiechert, A.; Ponticelli, M.; Gruber, M.

2012-07-01

In the last years, Microsoft has driven innovation in the aerial photogrammetry community. Besides the market leading camera technology, UltraMap has grown to an outstanding photogrammetric workflow system which enables users to effectively work with large digital aerial image blocks in a highly automated way. Best example is the project-based color balancing approach which automatically balances images to a homogeneous block. UltraMap V3 continues innovation, and offers a revolution in terms of ortho processing. A fully automated dense matching module strives for high precision digital surface models (DSMs) which are calculated either on CPUs or on GPUs using a distributed processing framework. By applying constrained filtering algorithms, a digital terrain model can be derived which in turn can be used for fully automated traditional ortho texturing. By having the knowledge about the underlying geometry, seamlines can be generated automatically by applying cost functions in order to minimize visual disturbing artifacts. By exploiting the generated DSM information, a DSMOrtho is created using the balanced input images. Again, seamlines are detected automatically resulting in an automatically balanced ortho mosaic. Interactive block-based radiometric adjustments lead to a high quality ortho product based on UltraCam imagery. UltraMap v3 is the first fully integrated and interactive solution for supporting UltraCam images at best in order to deliver DSM and ortho imagery.

Reconstruction of measurable three-dimensional point cloud model based on large-scene archaeological excavation sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chun-Sen; Zhang, Meng-Meng; Zhang, Wei-Xing

2017-01-01

This paper outlines a low-cost, user-friendly photogrammetric technique with nonmetric cameras to obtain excavation site digital sequence images, based on photogrammetry and computer vision. Digital camera calibration, automatic aerial triangulation, image feature extraction, image sequence matching, and dense digital differential rectification are used, combined with a certain number of global control points of the excavation site, to reconstruct the high precision of measured three-dimensional (3-D) models. Using the acrobatic figurines in the Qin Shi Huang mausoleum excavation as an example, our method solves the problems of little base-to-height ratio, high inclination, unstable altitudes, and significant ground elevation changes affecting image matching. Compared to 3-D laser scanning, the 3-D color point cloud obtained by this method can maintain the same visual result and has advantages of low project cost, simple data processing, and high accuracy. Structure-from-motion (SfM) is often used to reconstruct 3-D models of large scenes and has lower accuracy if it is a reconstructed 3-D model of a small scene at close range. Results indicate that this method quickly achieves 3-D reconstruction of large archaeological sites and produces heritage site distribution of orthophotos providing a scientific basis for accurate location of cultural relics, archaeological excavations, investigation, and site protection planning. This proposed method has a comprehensive application value.

Use of a digital camera to monitor the growth and nitrogen status of cotton.

PubMed

Jia, Biao; He, Haibing; Ma, Fuyu; Diao, Ming; Jiang, Guiying; Zheng, Zhong; Cui, Jin; Fan, Hua

2014-01-01

The main objective of this study was to develop a nondestructive method for monitoring cotton growth and N status using a digital camera. Digital images were taken of the cotton canopies between emergence and full bloom. The green and red values were extracted from the digital images and then used to calculate canopy cover. The values of canopy cover were closely correlated with the normalized difference vegetation index and the ratio vegetation index and were measured using a GreenSeeker handheld sensor. Models were calibrated to describe the relationship between canopy cover and three growth properties of the cotton crop (i.e., aboveground total N content, LAI, and aboveground biomass). There were close, exponential relationships between canopy cover and three growth properties. And the relationships for estimating cotton aboveground total N content were most precise, the coefficients of determination (R(2)) value was 0.978, and the root mean square error (RMSE) value was 1.479 g m(-2). Moreover, the models were validated in three fields of high-yield cotton. The result indicated that the best relationship between canopy cover and aboveground total N content had an R(2) value of 0.926 and an RMSE value of 1.631 g m(-2). In conclusion, as a near-ground remote assessment tool, digital cameras have good potential for monitoring cotton growth and N status.

Digital holography applications in ophthalmology, biometry, and optical trapping characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Potcoava, Mariana Camelia

This dissertation combines various holographic techniques with application on the two- and three-dimensional imaging of ophthalmic tissue, fingerprints, and microsphere samples with micrometer resolution. Digital interference holography (DIH) uses scanned wavelengths to synthesize short-coherence interference tomographic images. We used DIH for in vitro imaging of human optic nerve head and retina. Tomographic images were produced by superposition of holograms. Holograms were obtained with a signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 50 dB. Optic nerve head characteristics (shape, diameter, cup depth, and cup width) were quantified with a few micron resolution (4.06--4.8mum). Multiple layers were distinguishable in cross-sectional images of the macula. To our knowledge, this is the first report of DIH use to image human macular and optic nerve tissue. Holographic phase microscopy is used to produce images of thin film patterns left by latent fingerprints. Two or more holographic phase images with different wavelengths are combined for optical phase unwrapping of images of patent prints. We demonstrated digital interference holography images of a plastic print, and latent prints. These demonstrations point to significant contributions to biometry by using digital interference holography to identify and quantify Level 1 (pattern), Level 2 (minutia points), and Level 3 (pores and ridge contours). Quantitative studies of physical and biological processes and precise non-contact manipulation of nanometer/micrometer trapped objects can be effectuated with nanometer accuracy due to the development of optical tweezers. A three-dimensional gradient trap is produced at the focus position of a high NA microscope objective. Particles are trapped axially and laterally due to the gradient force. The particle is confined in a potential well and the trap acts as a harmonic spring. The elastic constant or the stiffness along any axis is determined from the particle displacements in time along each specific axis. Thus, we report the sensing of small particles using optical trapping in combination with the digital Gabor holography to calibrate the optical force and the position and of the copolymer microsphere in the x, y, z direction with nm precision.

Precision and Fast Wavelength Tuning of a Dynamically Phase-Locked Widely-Tunable Laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Numata, Kenji; Chen, Jeffrey R.; Wu, Stewart T.

2012-01-01

We report a precision and fast wavelength tuning technique demonstrated for a digital-supermode distributed Bragg reflector laser. The laser was dynamically offset-locked to a frequency-stabilized master laser using an optical phase-locked loop, enabling precision fast tuning to and from any frequencies within a 40-GHz tuning range. The offset frequency noise was suppressed to the statically offset-locked level in less than 40 s upon each frequency switch, allowing the laser to retain the absolute frequency stability of the master laser. This technique satisfies stringent requirements for gas sensing lidars and enables other applications that require such well-controlled precision fast tuning.

Development of Γ-ray tracking detectors

DOE PAGES

Lieder, R. M.; Gast, W.; Jäger, H. M.; ...

2001-12-01

The next generation of 4π arrays for high-precision γ-ray spectroscopy AGATA will consist of γ-ray tracking detectors. They represent high-fold segmented Ge detectors and a front-end electronics, based on digital signal processing techniques, which allows to extract energy, timing and spatial information on the interactions of a γ-ray in the Ge detector by pulse shape analysis of its signals. Utilizing the information on the positions of the interaction points and the energies released at each point the tracks of the γ-rays in a Ge shell can be reconstructed in three dimensions on the basis of the Compton-scattering formula.

Single-snapshot 2D color measurement by plenoptic imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masuda, Kensuke; Yamanaka, Yuji; Maruyama, Go; Nagai, Sho; Hirai, Hideaki; Meng, Lingfei; Tosic, Ivana

2014-03-01

Plenoptic cameras enable capture of directional light ray information, thus allowing applications such as digital refocusing, depth estimation, or multiband imaging. One of the most common plenoptic camera architectures contains a microlens array at the conventional image plane and a sensor at the back focal plane of the microlens array. We leverage the multiband imaging (MBI) function of this camera and develop a single-snapshot, single-sensor high color fidelity camera. Our camera is based on a plenoptic system with XYZ filters inserted in the pupil plane of the main lens. To achieve high color measurement precision of this system, we perform an end-to-end optimization of the system model that includes light source information, object information, optical system information, plenoptic image processing and color estimation processing. Optimized system characteristics are exploited to build an XYZ plenoptic colorimetric camera prototype that achieves high color measurement precision. We describe an application of our colorimetric camera to color shading evaluation of display and show that it achieves color accuracy of ΔE<0.01.

Development and assessment of a digital X-ray software tool to determine vertebral rotation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

PubMed

Eijgenraam, Susanne M; Boselie, Toon F M; Sieben, Judith M; Bastiaenen, Caroline H G; Willems, Paul C; Arts, Jacobus J; Lataster, Arno

2017-02-01

The amount of vertebral rotation in the axial plane is of key importance in the prognosis and treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Current methods to determine vertebral rotation are either designed for use in analogue plain radiographs and not useful in digital images, or lack measurement precision and are therefore less suitable for the follow-up of rotation in AIS patients. This study aimed to develop a digital X-ray software tool with high measurement precision to determine vertebral rotation in AIS, and to assess its (concurrent) validity and reliability. In this study a combination of basic science and reliability methodology applied in both laboratory and clinical settings was used. Software was developed using the algorithm of the Perdriolle torsion meter for analogue AP plain radiographs of the spine. Software was then assessed for (1) concurrent validity and (2) intra- and interobserver reliability. Plain radiographs of both human cadaver vertebrae and outpatient AIS patients were used. Concurrent validity was measured by two independent observers, both experienced in the assessment of plain radiographs. Reliability-measurements were performed by three independent spine surgeons. Pearson correlation of the software compared with the analogue Perdriolle torsion meter for mid-thoracic vertebrae was 0.98, for low-thoracic vertebrae 0.97 and for lumbar vertebrae 0.97. Measurement exactness of the software was within 5° in 62% of cases and within 10° in 97% of cases. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for inter-observer reliability was 0.92 (0.91-0.95), ICC for intra-observer reliability was 0.96 (0.94-0.97). We developed a digital X-ray software tool to determine vertebral rotation in AIS with a substantial concurrent validity and reliability, which may be useful for the follow-up of vertebral rotation in AIS patients. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Precision electronic speed controller for an alternating-current motor

DOEpatents

Bolie, V.W.

A high precision controller for an alternating-current multi-phase electrical motor that is subject to a large inertial load. The controller was developed for controlling, in a neutron chopper system, a heavy spinning rotor that must be rotated in phase-locked synchronism with a reference pulse train that is representative of an ac power supply signal having a meandering line frequency. The controller includes a shaft revolution sensor which provides a feedback pulse train representative of the actual speed of the motor. An internal digital timing signal generator provides a reference signal which is compared with the feedback signal in a computing unit to provide a motor control signal. The motor control signal is a weighted linear sum of a speed error voltage, a phase error voltage, and a drift error voltage, each of which is computed anew with each revolution of the motor shaft. The speed error signal is generated by a novel vernier-logic circuit which is drift-free and highly sensitive to small speed changes. The phase error is also computed by digital logic, with adjustable sensitivity around a 0 mid-scale value. The drift error signal, generated by long-term counting of the phase error, is used to compensate for any slow changes in the average friction drag on the motor. An auxillary drift-byte status sensor prevents any disruptive overflow or underflow of the drift-error counter. An adjustable clocked-delay unit is inserted between the controller and the source of the reference pulse train to permit phase alignment of the rotor to any desired offset angle. The stator windings of the motor are driven by two amplifiers which are provided with input signals having the proper quadrature relationship by an exciter unit consisting of a voltage controlled oscillator, a binary counter, a pair of read-only memories, and a pair of digital-to-analog converters.

Designed cell consortia as fragrance-programmable analog-to-digital converters.

PubMed

Müller, Marius; Ausländer, Simon; Spinnler, Andrea; Ausländer, David; Sikorski, Julian; Folcher, Marc; Fussenegger, Martin

2017-03-01

Synthetic biology advances the rational engineering of mammalian cells to achieve cell-based therapy goals. Synthetic gene networks have nearly reached the complexity of digital electronic circuits and enable single cells to perform programmable arithmetic calculations or to provide dynamic remote control of transgenes through electromagnetic waves. We designed a synthetic multilayered gaseous-fragrance-programmable analog-to-digital converter (ADC) allowing for remote control of digital gene expression with 2-bit AND-, OR- and NOR-gate logic in synchronized cell consortia. The ADC consists of multiple sampling-and-quantization modules sensing analog gaseous fragrance inputs; a gas-to-liquid transducer converting fragrance intensity into diffusible cell-to-cell signaling compounds; a digitization unit with a genetic amplifier circuit to improve the signal-to-noise ratio; and recombinase-based digital expression switches enabling 2-bit processing of logic gates. Synthetic ADCs that can remotely control cellular activities with digital precision may enable the development of novel biosensors and may provide bioelectronic interfaces synchronizing analog metabolic pathways with digital electronics.

Design and implementation of the modified signed digit multiplication routine on a ternary optical computer.

PubMed

Xu, Qun; Wang, Xianchao; Xu, Chao

2017-06-01

Multiplication with traditional electronic computers is faced with a low calculating accuracy and a long computation time delay. To overcome these problems, the modified signed digit (MSD) multiplication routine is established based on the MSD system and the carry-free adder. Also, its parallel algorithm and optimization techniques are studied in detail. With the help of a ternary optical computer's characteristics, the structured data processor is designed especially for the multiplication routine. Several ternary optical operators are constructed to perform M transformations and summations in parallel, which has accelerated the iterative process of multiplication. In particular, the routine allocates data bits of the ternary optical processor based on digits of multiplication input, so the accuracy of the calculation results can always satisfy the users. Finally, the routine is verified by simulation experiments, and the results are in full compliance with the expectations. Compared with an electronic computer, the MSD multiplication routine is not only good at dealing with large-value data and high-precision arithmetic, but also maintains lower power consumption and fewer calculating delays.

Digital encoding of cellular mRNAs enabling precise and absolute gene expression measurement by single-molecule counting.

PubMed

Fu, Glenn K; Wilhelmy, Julie; Stern, David; Fan, H Christina; Fodor, Stephen P A

2014-03-18

We present a new approach for the sensitive detection and accurate quantitation of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) gene transcripts in single cells. First, the entire population of mRNAs is encoded with molecular barcodes during reverse transcription. After amplification of the gene targets of interest, molecular barcodes are counted by sequencing or scored on a simple hybridization detector to reveal the number of molecules in the starting sample. Since absolute quantities are measured, calibration to standards is unnecessary, and many of the relative quantitation challenges such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) bias are avoided. We apply the method to gene expression analysis of minute sample quantities and demonstrate precise measurements with sensitivity down to sub single-cell levels. The method is an easy, single-tube, end point assay utilizing standard thermal cyclers and PCR reagents. Accurate and precise measurements are obtained without any need for cycle-to-cycle intensity-based real-time monitoring or physical partitioning into multiple reactions (e.g., digital PCR). Further, since all mRNA molecules are encoded with molecular barcodes, amplification can be used to generate more material for multiple measurements and technical replicates can be carried out on limited samples. The method is particularly useful for small sample quantities, such as single-cell experiments. Digital encoding of cellular content preserves true abundance levels and overcomes distortions introduced by amplification.

Digital quantification of fibrosis in liver biopsy sections: description of a new method by Photoshop software.

PubMed

Dahab, Gamal M; Kheriza, Mohamed M; El-Beltagi, Hussien M; Fouda, Abdel-Motaal M; El-Din, Osama A Sharaf

2004-01-01

The precise quantification of fibrous tissue in liver biopsy sections is extremely important in the classification, diagnosis and grading of chronic liver disease, as well as in evaluating the response to antifibrotic therapy. Because the recently described methods of digital image analysis of fibrosis in liver biopsy sections have major flaws, including the use of out-dated techniques in image processing, inadequate precision and inability to detect and quantify perisinusoidal fibrosis, we developed a new technique in computerized image analysis of liver biopsy sections based on Adobe Photoshop software. We prepared an experimental model of liver fibrosis involving treatment of rats with oral CCl4 for 6 weeks. After staining liver sections with Masson's trichrome, a series of computer operations were performed including (i) reconstitution of seamless widefield images from a number of acquired fields of liver sections; (ii) image size and solution adjustment; (iii) color correction; (iv) digital selection of a specified color range representing all fibrous tissue in the image and; (v) extraction and calculation. This technique is fully computerized with no manual interference at any step, and thus could be very reliable for objectively quantifying any pattern of fibrosis in liver biopsy sections and in assessing the response to antifibrotic therapy. It could also be a valuable tool in the precise assessment of antifibrotic therapy to other tissue regardless of the pattern of tissue or fibrosis.

Removing Distortion of Periapical Radiographs in Dental Digital Radiography Using Embedded Markers in an External frame.

PubMed

Kafieh, Rahele; Shahamoradi, Mahdi; Hekmatian, Ehsan; Foroohandeh, Mehrdad; Emamidoost, Mostafa

2012-10-01

To carry out in vivo and in vitro comparative pilot study to evaluate the preciseness of a newly proposed digital dental radiography setup. This setup was based on markers placed on an external frame to eliminate the measurement errors due to incorrect geometry in relative positioning of cone, teeth and the sensor. Five patients with previous panoramic images were selected to undergo the proposed periapical digital imaging for in vivo phase. For in vitro phase, 40 extracted teeth were replanted in dry mandibular sockets and periapical digital images were prepared. The standard reference for real scales of the teeth were obtained through extracted teeth measurements for in vitro application and were calculated through panoramic imaging for in vivo phases. The proposed image processing thechnique was applied on periapical digital images to distinguish the incorrect geometry. The recognized error was inversely applied on the image and the modified images were compared to the correct values. The measurement findings after the distortion removal were compared to our gold standards (results of panoramic imaging or measurements from extracted teeth) and showed the accuracy of 96.45% through in vivo examinations and 96.0% through in vitro tests. The proposed distortion removal method is perfectly able to identify the possible inaccurate geometry during image acquisition and is capable of applying the inverse transform to the distorted radiograph to obtain the correctly modified image. This can be really helpful in applications like root canal therapy, implant surgical procedures and digital subtraction radiography, which are essentially dependent on precise measurements.

Removing Distortion of Periapical Radiographs in Dental Digital Radiography Using Embedded Markers in an External frame

PubMed Central

Kafieh, Rahele; Shahamoradi, Mahdi; Hekmatian, Ehsan; Foroohandeh, Mehrdad; Emamidoost, Mostafa

2012-01-01

To carry out in vivo and in vitro comparative pilot study to evaluate the preciseness of a newly proposed digital dental radiography setup. This setup was based on markers placed on an external frame to eliminate the measurement errors due to incorrect geometry in relative positioning of cone, teeth and the sensor. Five patients with previous panoramic images were selected to undergo the proposed periapical digital imaging for in vivo phase. For in vitro phase, 40 extracted teeth were replanted in dry mandibular sockets and periapical digital images were prepared. The standard reference for real scales of the teeth were obtained through extracted teeth measurements for in vitro application and were calculated through panoramic imaging for in vivo phases. The proposed image processing thechnique was applied on periapical digital images to distinguish the incorrect geometry. The recognized error was inversely applied on the image and the modified images were compared to the correct values. The measurement findings after the distortion removal were compared to our gold standards (results of panoramic imaging or measurements from extracted teeth) and showed the accuracy of 96.45% through in vivo examinations and 96.0% through in vitro tests. The proposed distortion removal method is perfectly able to identify the possible inaccurate geometry during image acquisition and is capable of applying the inverse transform to the distorted radiograph to obtain the correctly modified image. This can be really helpful in applications like root canal therapy, implant surgical procedures and digital subtraction radiography, which are essentially dependent on precise measurements. PMID:23724372

Electronic readout system for the Belle II imaging Time-Of-Propagation detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotchetkov, Dmitri

2017-07-01

The imaging Time-Of-Propagation (iTOP) detector, constructed for the Belle II experiment at the SuperKEKB e+e- collider, is an 8192-channel high precision Cherenkov particle identification detector with timing resolution below 50 ps. To acquire data from the iTOP, a novel front-end electronic readout system was designed, built, and integrated. Switched-capacitor array application-specific integrated circuits are used to sample analog signals. Triggering, digitization, readout, and data transfer are controlled by Xilinx Zynq-7000 system on a chip devices.

Updating the Synchrotron Radiation Monitor at TLS

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

Kuo, C. H.; Hsu, S. Y.; Wang, C. J.

2007-01-19

The synchrotron radiation monitor provides useful information to support routine operation and physics experiments using the beam. Precisely knowing the profile of the beam helps to improve machine performance. The synchrotron radiation monitor at the Taiwan Light Source (TLS) was recently upgraded. The optics and modeling were improved to increase the accuracy of measurement in the small beam size. A high-performance IEEE-1394 digital CCD camera was used to improve the quality of images and extend the dynamic range of measurement. The image analysis is also improved. This report summarizes status and results.

Self-Calibrated In-Process Photogrammetry for Large Raw Part Measurement and Alignment before Machining

PubMed Central

Mendikute, Alberto; Zatarain, Mikel; Bertelsen, Álvaro; Leizea, Ibai

2017-01-01

Photogrammetry methods are being used more and more as a 3D technique for large scale metrology applications in industry. Optical targets are placed on an object and images are taken around it, where measuring traceability is provided by precise off-process pre-calibrated digital cameras and scale bars. According to the 2D target image coordinates, target 3D coordinates and camera views are jointly computed. One of the applications of photogrammetry is the measurement of raw part surfaces prior to its machining. For this application, post-process bundle adjustment has usually been adopted for computing the 3D scene. With that approach, a high computation time is observed, leading in practice to time consuming and user dependent iterative review and re-processing procedures until an adequate set of images is taken, limiting its potential for fast, easy-to-use, and precise measurements. In this paper, a new efficient procedure is presented for solving the bundle adjustment problem in portable photogrammetry. In-process bundle computing capability is demonstrated on a consumer grade desktop PC, enabling quasi real time 2D image and 3D scene computing. Additionally, a method for the self-calibration of camera and lens distortion has been integrated into the in-process approach due to its potential for highest precision when using low cost non-specialized digital cameras. Measurement traceability is set only by scale bars available in the measuring scene, avoiding the uncertainty contribution of off-process camera calibration procedures or the use of special purpose calibration artifacts. The developed self-calibrated in-process photogrammetry has been evaluated both in a pilot case scenario and in industrial scenarios for raw part measurement, showing a total in-process computing time typically below 1 s per image up to a maximum of 2 s during the last stages of the computed industrial scenes, along with a relative precision of 1/10,000 (e.g., 0.1 mm error in 1 m) with an error RMS below 0.2 pixels at image plane, ranging at the same performance reported for portable photogrammetry with precise off-process pre-calibrated cameras. PMID:28891946

Self-Calibrated In-Process Photogrammetry for Large Raw Part Measurement and Alignment before Machining.

PubMed

Mendikute, Alberto; Yagüe-Fabra, José A; Zatarain, Mikel; Bertelsen, Álvaro; Leizea, Ibai

2017-09-09

Photogrammetry methods are being used more and more as a 3D technique for large scale metrology applications in industry. Optical targets are placed on an object and images are taken around it, where measuring traceability is provided by precise off-process pre-calibrated digital cameras and scale bars. According to the 2D target image coordinates, target 3D coordinates and camera views are jointly computed. One of the applications of photogrammetry is the measurement of raw part surfaces prior to its machining. For this application, post-process bundle adjustment has usually been adopted for computing the 3D scene. With that approach, a high computation time is observed, leading in practice to time consuming and user dependent iterative review and re-processing procedures until an adequate set of images is taken, limiting its potential for fast, easy-to-use, and precise measurements. In this paper, a new efficient procedure is presented for solving the bundle adjustment problem in portable photogrammetry. In-process bundle computing capability is demonstrated on a consumer grade desktop PC, enabling quasi real time 2D image and 3D scene computing. Additionally, a method for the self-calibration of camera and lens distortion has been integrated into the in-process approach due to its potential for highest precision when using low cost non-specialized digital cameras. Measurement traceability is set only by scale bars available in the measuring scene, avoiding the uncertainty contribution of off-process camera calibration procedures or the use of special purpose calibration artifacts. The developed self-calibrated in-process photogrammetry has been evaluated both in a pilot case scenario and in industrial scenarios for raw part measurement, showing a total in-process computing time typically below 1 s per image up to a maximum of 2 s during the last stages of the computed industrial scenes, along with a relative precision of 1/10,000 (e.g. 0.1 mm error in 1 m) with an error RMS below 0.2 pixels at image plane, ranging at the same performance reported for portable photogrammetry with precise off-process pre-calibrated cameras.

Note: Directly measuring the direct digital synthesizer frequency chirp-rate for an atom interferometer

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

Tao, Juan-Juan; Zhou, Min-Kang, E-mail: zkhu@hust.edu.cn, E-mail: zmk@hust.edu.cn; Zhang, Qiao-Zhen

2015-09-15

During gravity measurements with Raman type atom interferometry, the frequency of the laser used to drive Raman transition is scanned by chirping the frequency of a direct digital synthesizer (DDS), and the local gravity is determined by precisely measuring the chip rate α of DDS. We present an effective method that can directly evaluate the frequency chirp rate stability of our DDS. By mixing a pair of synchronous linear sweeping signals, the chirp rate fluctuation is precisely measured with a frequency counter. The measurement result shows that the relative α instability can reach 5.7 × 10{sup −11} in 1 s,more » which is neglectable in a 10{sup −9} g level atom interferometry gravimeter.« less

Multichannel low power time-to-digital converter card with 21 ps precision and full scale range up to 10 μs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamborini, D.; Portaluppi, D.; Villa, F.; Tisa, S.; Tosi, A.

2014-11-01

We present a Time-to-Digital Converter (TDC) card with a compact form factor, suitable for multichannel timing instruments or for integration into more complex systems. The TDC Card provides 10 ps timing resolution over the whole measurement range, which is selectable from 160 ns up to 10 μs, reaching 21 ps rms precision, 1.25% LSB rms differential nonlinearity, up to 3 Mconversion/s with 400 mW power consumption. The I/O edge card connector provides timing data readout through either a parallel bus or a 100 MHz serial interface and further measurement information like input signal rate and valid conversion rate (typically useful for time-correlated single-photon counting application) through an independent serial link.

Multichannel low power time-to-digital converter card with 21 ps precision and full scale range up to 10 μs.

PubMed

Tamborini, D; Portaluppi, D; Villa, F; Tisa, S; Tosi, A

2014-11-01

We present a Time-to-Digital Converter (TDC) card with a compact form factor, suitable for multichannel timing instruments or for integration into more complex systems. The TDC Card provides 10 ps timing resolution over the whole measurement range, which is selectable from 160 ns up to 10 μs, reaching 21 ps rms precision, 1.25% LSB rms differential nonlinearity, up to 3 Mconversion/s with 400 mW power consumption. The I/O edge card connector provides timing data readout through either a parallel bus or a 100 MHz serial interface and further measurement information like input signal rate and valid conversion rate (typically useful for time-correlated single-photon counting application) through an independent serial link.

New technologies for radiation-hardening analog to digital converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gauthier, M. K.

1982-01-01

Surveys of available Analog to Digital Converters (ADC) suitable for precision applications showed that none have the proper combination of accuracy and radiation hardness to meet space and/or strategic weapon requirements. A development program which will result in an ADC device which will serve a number of space and strategic applications. Emphasis was placed on approaches that could be integrated onto a single chip within three to five years.

Adaptive thresholding and dynamic windowing method for automatic centroid detection of digital Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor.

PubMed

Yin, Xiaoming; Li, Xiang; Zhao, Liping; Fang, Zhongping

2009-11-10

A Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor (SWHS) splits the incident wavefront into many subsections and transfers the distorted wavefront detection into the centroid measurement. The accuracy of the centroid measurement determines the accuracy of the SWHS. Many methods have been presented to improve the accuracy of the wavefront centroid measurement. However, most of these methods are discussed from the point of view of optics, based on the assumption that the spot intensity of the SHWS has a Gaussian distribution, which is not applicable to the digital SHWS. In this paper, we present a centroid measurement algorithm based on the adaptive thresholding and dynamic windowing method by utilizing image processing techniques for practical application of the digital SHWS in surface profile measurement. The method can detect the centroid of each focal spot precisely and robustly by eliminating the influence of various noises, such as diffraction of the digital SHWS, unevenness and instability of the light source, as well as deviation between the centroid of the focal spot and the center of the detection area. The experimental results demonstrate that the algorithm has better precision, repeatability, and stability compared with other commonly used centroid methods, such as the statistical averaging, thresholding, and windowing algorithms.

Digital image analysis in pathology: benefits and obligation.

PubMed

Laurinavicius, Arvydas; Laurinaviciene, Aida; Dasevicius, Darius; Elie, Nicolas; Plancoulaine, Benoît; Bor, Catherine; Herlin, Paulette

2012-01-01

Pathology has recently entered the era of personalized medicine. This brings new expectations for the accuracy and precision of tissue-based diagnosis, in particular, when quantification of histologic features and biomarker expression is required. While for many years traditional pathologic diagnosis has been regarded as ground truth, this concept is no longer sufficient in contemporary tissue-based biomarker research and clinical use. Another major change in pathology is brought by the advancement of virtual microscopy technology enabling digitization of microscopy slides and presenting new opportunities for digital image analysis. Computerized vision provides an immediate benefit of increased capacity (automation) and precision (reproducibility), but not necessarily the accuracy of the analysis. To achieve the benefit of accuracy, pathologists will have to assume an obligation of validation and quality assurance of the image analysis algorithms. Reference values are needed to measure and control the accuracy. Although pathologists' consensus values are commonly used to validate these tools, we argue that the ground truth can be best achieved by stereology methods, estimating the same variable as an algorithm is intended to do. Proper adoption of the new technology will require a new quantitative mentality in pathology. In order to see a complete and sharp picture of a disease, pathologists will need to learn to use both their analogue and digital eyes.

Digital Copy of the Pulkovo Plate Collection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanaev, I.; Kanaeva, N.; Poliakow, E.; Pugatch, T.

Report is devoted to a problem of saving of the Pulkovo plate collection. In total more than 50 thousand astronegatives are stored in the observatory. First of them are dated back to 1893. A risk of emulsion corrupting raises with current of time. Since 1996 the operation on digitization and record of the images of plates on electronic media (HDD, CD) are carried out in the observatory. The database ECSIP - Electronic Collection of the Star Images of the Pulkovo is created. There are recorded in it both complete, and extracted (separate areas) images of astronegatives. The plates as a whole are scanned on the photoscanner with rather rough optical resolution 600-2400 dpi. The matrixes with the separate images are digitized on the precision measuring machine "Fantasy" with high (6000-25400 dpi) resolution. The DB ECSIP allows to accept and to store different types of data of a matrix structure, including, CCD-frames. Structure of the ECSIP's software includes systems of visualization, processing and manipulation by the images, and also programs for position and photometric measurements. To the present time more than 40% completed and 10% extracted images from its total amount are digitized and recorded in DB ECSIP. The project is fulfilled at financial support by the Ministry of Science of Russian Federation, grant 01-54 "The coordinate -measuring astrographic machine "Fantasy".

Design and Theoretical Analysis of a Resonant Sensor for Liquid Density Measurement

PubMed Central

Zheng, Dezhi; Shi, Jiying; Fan, Shangchun

2012-01-01

In order to increase the accuracy of on-line liquid density measurements, a sensor equipped with a tuning fork as the resonant sensitive component is designed in this paper. It is a quasi-digital sensor with simple structure and high precision. The sensor is based on resonance theory and composed of a sensitive unit and a closed-loop control unit, where the sensitive unit consists of the actuator, the resonant tuning fork and the detector and the closed-loop control unit comprises precondition circuit, digital signal processing and control unit, analog-to-digital converter and digital-to-analog converter. An approximate parameters model of the tuning fork is established and the impact of liquid density, position of the tuning fork, temperature and structural parameters on the natural frequency of the tuning fork are also analyzed. On this basis, a tuning fork liquid density measurement sensor is developed. In addition, experimental testing on the sensor has been carried out on standard calibration facilities under constant 20 °C, and the sensor coefficients are calibrated. The experimental results show that the repeatability error is about 0.03% and the accuracy is about 0.4 kg/m3. The results also confirm that the method to increase the accuracy of liquid density measurement is feasible. PMID:22969378

Design and theoretical analysis of a resonant sensor for liquid density measurement.

PubMed

Zheng, Dezhi; Shi, Jiying; Fan, Shangchun

2012-01-01

In order to increase the accuracy of on-line liquid density measurements, a sensor equipped with a tuning fork as the resonant sensitive component is designed in this paper. It is a quasi-digital sensor with simple structure and high precision. The sensor is based on resonance theory and composed of a sensitive unit and a closed-loop control unit, where the sensitive unit consists of the actuator, the resonant tuning fork and the detector and the closed-loop control unit comprises precondition circuit, digital signal processing and control unit, analog-to-digital converter and digital-to-analog converter. An approximate parameters model of the tuning fork is established and the impact of liquid density, position of the tuning fork, temperature and structural parameters on the natural frequency of the tuning fork are also analyzed. On this basis, a tuning fork liquid density measurement sensor is developed. In addition, experimental testing on the sensor has been carried out on standard calibration facilities under constant 20 °C, and the sensor coefficients are calibrated. The experimental results show that the repeatability error is about 0.03% and the accuracy is about 0.4 kg/m(3). The results also confirm that the method to increase the accuracy of liquid density measurement is feasible.

Multiplex newborn screening for Pompe, Fabry, Hunter, Gaucher, and Hurler diseases using a digital microfluidic platform.

PubMed

Sista, Ramakrishna S; Wang, Tong; Wu, Ning; Graham, Carrie; Eckhardt, Allen; Winger, Theodore; Srinivasan, Vijay; Bali, Deeksha; Millington, David S; Pamula, Vamsee K

2013-09-23

New therapies for lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) have generated interest in screening newborns for these conditions. We present performance validation data on a digital microfluidic platform that performs multiplex enzymatic assays for Pompe, Fabry, Hunter, Gaucher, and Hurler diseases. We developed an investigational disposable digital microfluidic cartridge that uses a single dried blood spot (DBS) punch for performing a 5-plex fluorometric enzymatic assay on up to 44 DBS samples. Precision and linearity of the assays were determined by analyzing quality control DBS samples; clinical performance was determined by analyzing 600 presumed normal and known affected samples (12 for Pompe, 7 for Fabry and 10 each for Hunter, Gaucher and Hurler). Overall coefficient of variation (CV) values between cartridges, days, instruments, and operators ranged from 2 to 21%; linearity correlation coefficients were ≥0.98 for all assays. The multiplex enzymatic assay performed from a single DBS punch was able to discriminate presumed normal from known affected samples for 5 LSDs. Digital microfluidic technology shows potential for rapid, high-throughput screening for 5 LSDs in a newborn screening laboratory environment. Sample preparation to enzymatic activity on each cartridge is less than 3h. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

European roadmap on superconductive electronics - status and perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anders, S.; Blamire, M. G.; Buchholz, F.-Im.; Crété, D.-G.; Cristiano, R.; Febvre, P.; Fritzsch, L.; Herr, A.; Il'ichev, E.; Kohlmann, J.; Kunert, J.; Meyer, H.-G.; Niemeyer, J.; Ortlepp, T.; Rogalla, H.; Schurig, T.; Siegel, M.; Stolz, R.; Tarte, E.; ter Brake, H. J. M.; Toepfer, H.; Villegier, J.-C.; Zagoskin, A. M.; Zorin, A. B.

2010-12-01

Executive SummaryFor four decades semiconductor electronics has followed Moore’s law: with each generation of integration the circuit features became smaller, more complex and faster. This development is now reaching a wall so that smaller is no longer any faster. The clock rate has saturated at about 3-5 GHz and the parallel processor approach will soon reach its limit. The prime reason for the limitation the semiconductor electronics experiences is not the switching speed of the individual transistor, but its power dissipation and thus heat. Digital superconductive electronics is a circuit- and device-technology that is inherently faster at much less power dissipation than semiconductor electronics. It makes use of superconductors and Josephson junctions as circuit elements, which can provide extremely fast digital devices in a frequency range - dependent on the material - of hundreds of GHz: for example a flip-flop has been demonstrated that operated at 750 GHz. This digital technique is scalable and follows similar design rules as semiconductor devices. Its very low power dissipation of only 0.1 μW per gate at 100 GHz opens the possibility of three-dimensional integration. Circuits like microprocessors and analogue-to-digital converters for commercial and military applications have been demonstrated. In contrast to semiconductor circuits, the operation of superconducting circuits is based on naturally standardized digital pulses the area of which is exactly the flux quantum Φ0. The flux quantum is also the natural quantization unit for digital-to-analogue and analogue-to-digital converters. The latter application is so precise, that it is being used as voltage standard and that the physical unit ‘Volt’ is defined by means of this standard. Apart from its outstanding features for digital electronics, superconductive electronics provides also the most sensitive sensor for magnetic fields: the Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID). Amongst many other applications SQUIDs are used as sensors for magnetic heart and brain signals in medical applications, as sensor for geological surveying and food-processing and for non-destructive testing. As amplifiers of electrical signals, SQUIDs can nearly reach the theoretical limit given by Quantum Mechanics. A further important field of application is the detection of very weak signals by ‘transition-edge’ bolometers, superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, and superconductive tunnel junctions. Their application as radiation detectors in a wide frequency range, from microwaves to X-rays is now standard. The very low losses of superconductors have led to commercial microwave filter designs that are now widely used in the USA in base stations for cellular phones and in military communication applications. The number of demonstrated applications is continuously increasing and there is no area in professional electronics, in which superconductive electronics cannot be applied and surpasses the performance of classical devices. Superconductive electronics has to be cooled to very low temperatures. Whereas this was a bottleneck in the past, cooling techniques have made a huge step forward in recent years: very compact systems with high reliability and a wide range of cooling power are available commercially, from microcoolers of match-box size with milli-Watt cooling power to high-reliability coolers of many Watts of cooling power for satellite applications. Superconductive electronics will not replace semiconductor electronics and similar room-temperature techniques in standard applications, but for those applications which require very high speed, low-power consumption, extreme sensitivity or extremely high precision, superconductive electronics is superior to all other available techniques. To strengthen the European competitiveness in superconductor electronics research projects have to be set-up in the following field: Ultra-sensitive sensing and imaging. Quantum measurement instrumentation. Advanced analogue-to-digital converters. Superconductive electronics technology.

Ultra-low power high precision magnetotelluric receiver array based customized computer and wireless sensor network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, R.; Xi, X.; Zhao, X.; He, L.; Yao, H.; Shen, R.

2016-12-01

Dense 3D magnetotelluric (MT) data acquisition owns the benefit of suppressing the static shift and topography effect, can achieve high precision and high resolution inversion for underground structure. This method may play an important role in mineral exploration, geothermal resources exploration, and hydrocarbon exploration. It's necessary to reduce the power consumption greatly of a MT signal receiver for large-scale 3D MT data acquisition while using sensor network to monitor data quality of deployed MT receivers. We adopted a series of technologies to realized above goal. At first, we designed an low-power embedded computer which can couple with other parts of MT receiver tightly and support wireless sensor network. The power consumption of our embedded computer is less than 1 watt. Then we designed 4-channel data acquisition subsystem which supports 24-bit analog-digital conversion, GPS synchronization, and real-time digital signal processing. Furthermore, we developed the power supply and power management subsystem for MT receiver. At last, a series of software, which support data acquisition, calibration, wireless sensor network, and testing, were developed. The software which runs on personal computer can monitor and control over 100 MT receivers on the field for data acquisition and quality control. The total power consumption of the receiver is about 2 watts at full operation. The standby power consumption is less than 0.1 watt. Our testing showed that the MT receiver can acquire good quality data at ground with electrical dipole length as 3 m. Over 100 MT receivers were made and used for large-scale geothermal exploration in China with great success.

A precise clock distribution network for MRPC-based experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, S.; Cao, P.; Shang, L.; An, Q.

2016-06-01

In high energy physics experiments, the MRPC (Multi-Gap Resistive Plate Chamber) detectors are widely used recently which can provide higher-resolution measurement for particle identification. However, the application of MRPC detectors leads to a series of challenges in electronics design with large number of front-end electronic channels, especially for distributing clock precisely. To deal with these challenges, this paper presents a universal scheme of clock transmission network for MRPC-based experiments with advantages of both precise clock distribution and global command synchronization. For precise clock distributing, the clock network is designed into a tree architecture with two stages: the first one has a point-to-multipoint long range bidirectional distribution with optical channels and the second one has a fan-out structure with copper link inside readout crates. To guarantee the precision of clock frequency or phase, the r-PTP (reduced Precision Time Protocol) and the DDMTD (digital Dual Mixer Time Difference) methods are used for frequency synthesis, phase measurement and adjustment, which is implemented by FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) in real-time. In addition, to synchronize global command execution, based upon this clock distribution network, synchronous signals are coded with clock for transmission. With technique of encoding/decoding and clock data recovery, signals such as global triggers or system control commands, can be distributed to all front-end channels synchronously, which greatly simplifies the system design. The experimental results show that both the clock jitter (RMS) and the clock skew can be less than 100 ps.

Digital cross-mounting: A new opportunity in prosthetic dentistry.

PubMed

Venezia, Pietro; Torsello, Ferruccio; D'Amato, Salvatore; Cavalcanti, Raffaele

2017-01-01

The prosthodontic management of complex rehabilitations requires several stages of treatment including one or more provisional restorations. The design and adjustments of the provisional are made to achieve an optimal functional and esthetic outcome for the patient. However, the adjustments needed are both time and cost consuming. Therefore, once a satisfactory provisional is made, the information should not be lost during the following stages of treatment. The purpose of this clinical case is to illustrate "digital cross-mounting," a procedure used to precisely transfer information from the provisional to the final fixed rehabilitation in a digital workflow.

Sloan Digital Sky Survey III photometric quasar clustering: Probing the initial conditions of the Universe

DOE PAGES

Ho, Shirley; Agarwal, Nishant; Myers, Adam D.; ...

2015-05-22

Here, the Sloan Digital Sky Survey has surveyed 14,555 square degrees of the sky, and delivered over a trillion pixels of imaging data. We present the large-scale clustering of 1.6 million quasars between z=0.5 and z=2.5 that have been classified from this imaging, representing the highest density of quasars ever studied for clustering measurements. This data set spans 0~ 11,00 square degrees and probes a volume of 80 h –3 Gpc 3. In principle, such a large volume and medium density of tracers should facilitate high-precision cosmological constraints. We measure the angular clustering of photometrically classified quasars using an optimalmore » quadratic estimator in four redshift slices with an accuracy of ~ 25% over a bin width of δ l ~ 10–15 on scales corresponding to matter-radiation equality and larger (0ℓ ~ 2–3).« less

Design of video processing and testing system based on DSP and FPGA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Hong; Lv, Jun; Chen, Xi'ai; Gong, Xuexia; Yang, Chen'na

2007-12-01

Based on high speed Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a video capture, processing and display system is presented, which is of miniaturization and low power. In this system, a triple buffering scheme was used for the capture and display, so that the application can always get a new buffer without waiting; The Digital Signal Processor has an image process ability and it can be used to test the boundary of workpiece's image. A video graduation technology is used to aim at the position which is about to be tested, also, it can enhance the system's flexibility. The character superposition technology realized by DSP is used to display the test result on the screen in character format. This system can process image information in real time, ensure test precision, and help to enhance product quality and quality management.

[Feasibility Study on Digital Signal Processor and Gear Pump of Uroflowmeter Calibration Device].

PubMed

Yuan, Qing; Ji, Jun; Gao, Jiashuo; Wang, Lixin; Xiao, Hong

2016-08-01

It will cause hidden trouble on clinical application if the uroflowmeter is out of control.This paper introduces a scheme of uroflowmeter calibration device based on digital signal processor(DSP)and gear pump and shows studies of its feasibility.According to the research plan,we analyzed its stability,repeatability and linearity by building a testing system and carried out experiments on it.The flow test system is composed of DSP,gear pump and other components.The test results showed that the system could produce a stable water flow with high precision of repeated measurement and different flow rate.The test system can calibrate the urine flow rate well within the range of 9~50mL/s which has clinical significance,and the flow error is less than 1%,which meets the technical requirements of the calibration apparatus.The research scheme of uroflowmeter calibration device on DSP and gear pump is feasible.

Time stretch and its applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahjoubfar, Ata; Churkin, Dmitry V.; Barland, Stéphane; Broderick, Neil; Turitsyn, Sergei K.; Jalali, Bahram

2017-06-01

Observing non-repetitive and statistically rare signals that occur on short timescales requires fast real-time measurements that exceed the speed, precision and record length of conventional digitizers. Photonic time stretch is a data acquisition method that overcomes the speed limitations of electronic digitizers and enables continuous ultrafast single-shot spectroscopy, imaging, reflectometry, terahertz and other measurements at refresh rates reaching billions of frames per second with non-stop recording spanning trillions of consecutive frames. The technology has opened a new frontier in measurement science unveiling transient phenomena in nonlinear dynamics such as optical rogue waves and soliton molecules, and in relativistic electron bunching. It has also created a new class of instruments that have been integrated with artificial intelligence for sensing and biomedical diagnostics. We review the fundamental principles and applications of this emerging field for continuous phase and amplitude characterization at extremely high repetition rates via time-stretch spectral interferometry.

Measuring the radio emission of cosmic ray air showers with LOPES

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schröder, F. G.; Apel, W. D.; Arteaga, J. C.; Asch, T.; Badea, F.; Bähren, L.; Bekk, K.; Bertaina, M.; Biermann, P. L.; Blümer, J.; Bozdog, H.; Brancus, I. M.; Brüggemann, M.; Buchholz, P.; Buitink, S.; Cantoni, E.; Chiavassa, A.; Cossavella, F.; Daumiller, K.; de Souza, V.; Di Pierro, F.; Doll, P.; Engel, R.; Falcke, H.; Finger, M.; Fuhrmann, D.; Gemmeke, H.; Ghia, P. L.; Glasstetter, R.; Grupen, C.; Haungs, A.; Heck, D.; Hörandel, J. R.; Horneffer, A.; Huege, T.; Isar, P. G.; Kampert, K.-H.; Kang, D.; Kickelbick, D.; Krömer, O.; Kuijpers, J.; Lafebre, S.; łuczak, P.; Ludwig, M.; Mathes, H. J.; Mayer, H. J.; Melissas, M.; Mitrica, B.; Morello, C.; Navarra, G.; Nehls, S.; Nigl, A.; Oehlschläger, J.; Over, S.; Palmieri, N.; Petcu, M.; Pierog, T.; Rautenberg, J.; Rebel, H.; Roth, M.; Saftoiu, A.; Schieler, H.; Schmidt, A.; Sima, O.; Singh, K.; Toma, G.; Trinchero, G. C.; Ulrich, H.; Weindl, A.; Wochele, J.; Wommer, M.; Zabierowski, J.; Zensus, J. A.

2010-05-01

When ultra high energy cosmic rays hit the atmosphere, they produce a shower of millions of secondary particles. Thereby the charged particles in the shower emit a radio pulse whilst deflected in the Earth's magnetic field. LOPES is a digital antenna array measuring these radio pulses in the frequency range from 40 to 80 MHz. It is located at the site of and triggered by the air shower experiment KASCADE-Grande at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany. In its present configuration, it consists of 15 east-west-polarized and 15 north-south-polarized, absolutely calibrated short dipole antennas, as well as 10 LPDAs (with two channels each). Furthermore, it serves as a test bench for technological developments, like new antenna types or a radio-based self-triggering ( LOPESSTAR). To achieve a good angular reconstruction and to digitally form a beam into the arrival direction of the shower, it has a precise time calibration.

Simultaneous digital quantification and fluorescence-based size characterization of massively parallel sequencing libraries.

PubMed

Laurie, Matthew T; Bertout, Jessica A; Taylor, Sean D; Burton, Joshua N; Shendure, Jay A; Bielas, Jason H

2013-08-01

Due to the high cost of failed runs and suboptimal data yields, quantification and determination of fragment size range are crucial steps in the library preparation process for massively parallel sequencing (or next-generation sequencing). Current library quality control methods commonly involve quantification using real-time quantitative PCR and size determination using gel or capillary electrophoresis. These methods are laborious and subject to a number of significant limitations that can make library calibration unreliable. Herein, we propose and test an alternative method for quality control of sequencing libraries using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). By exploiting a correlation we have discovered between droplet fluorescence and amplicon size, we achieve the joint quantification and size determination of target DNA with a single ddPCR assay. We demonstrate the accuracy and precision of applying this method to the preparation of sequencing libraries.

Dithering Digital Ripple Correlation Control for Photovoltaic Maximum Power Point Tracking

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

Barth, C; Pilawa-Podgurski, RCN

This study demonstrates a new method for rapid and precise maximum power point tracking in photovoltaic (PV) applications using dithered PWM control. Constraints imposed by efficiency, cost, and component size limit the available PWM resolution of a power converter, and may in turn limit the MPP tracking efficiency of the PV system. In these scenarios, PWM dithering can be used to improve average PWM resolution. In this study, we present a control technique that uses ripple correlation control (RCC) on the dithering ripple, thereby achieving simultaneous fast tracking speed and high tracking accuracy. Moreover, the proposed method solves some ofmore » the practical challenges that have to date limited the effectiveness of RCC in solar PV applications. We present a theoretical derivation of the principles behind dithering digital ripple correlation control, as well as experimental results that show excellent tracking speed and accuracy with basic hardware requirements.« less

Precision Voltage Referencing Techniques in MOS Technology.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Bang-Sup

With the increasing complexity of functions on a single MOS chip, precision analog cicuits implemented in the same technology are in great demand so as to be integrated together with digital circuits. The future development of MOS data acquisition systems will require precision on-chip MOS voltage references. This dissertation will probe two most promising configurations of on-chip voltage references both in NMOS and CMOS technologies. In NMOS, an ion-implantation effect on the temperature behavior of MOS devices is investigated to identify the fundamental limiting factors of a threshold voltage difference as an NMOS voltage source. For this kind of voltage reference, the temperature stability on the order of 20ppm/(DEGREES)C is achievable with a shallow single-threshold implant and a low-current, high-body bias operation. In CMOS, a monolithic prototype bandgap reference is designed, fabricated and tested which embodies a curvature compensation and exhibits a minimized sensitivity to the process parameter variation. Experimental results imply that an average temperature stability on the order of 10ppm/(DEGREES)C with a production spread of less than 10ppm/(DEGREES)C feasible over the commercial temperature range.

Emerging Themes in Image Informatics and Molecular Analysis for Digital Pathology.

PubMed

Bhargava, Rohit; Madabhushi, Anant

2016-07-11

Pathology is essential for research in disease and development, as well as for clinical decision making. For more than 100 years, pathology practice has involved analyzing images of stained, thin tissue sections by a trained human using an optical microscope. Technological advances are now driving major changes in this paradigm toward digital pathology (DP). The digital transformation of pathology goes beyond recording, archiving, and retrieving images, providing new computational tools to inform better decision making for precision medicine. First, we discuss some emerging innovations in both computational image analytics and imaging instrumentation in DP. Second, we discuss molecular contrast in pathology. Molecular DP has traditionally been an extension of pathology with molecularly specific dyes. Label-free, spectroscopic images are rapidly emerging as another important information source, and we describe the benefits and potential of this evolution. Third, we describe multimodal DP, which is enabled by computational algorithms and combines the best characteristics of structural and molecular pathology. Finally, we provide examples of application areas in telepathology, education, and precision medicine. We conclude by discussing challenges and emerging opportunities in this area.

Emerging Themes in Image Informatics and Molecular Analysis for Digital Pathology

PubMed Central

Bhargava, Rohit; Madabhushi, Anant

2017-01-01

Pathology is essential for research in disease and development, as well as for clinical decision making. For more than 100 years, pathology practice has involved analyzing images of stained, thin tissue sections by a trained human using an optical microscope. Technological advances are now driving major changes in this paradigm toward digital pathology (DP). The digital transformation of pathology goes beyond recording, archiving, and retrieving images, providing new computational tools to inform better decision making for precision medicine. First, we discuss some emerging innovations in both computational image analytics and imaging instrumentation in DP. Second, we discuss molecular contrast in pathology. Molecular DP has traditionally been an extension of pathology with molecularly specific dyes. Label-free, spectroscopic images are rapidly emerging as another important information source, and we describe the benefits and potential of this evolution. Third, we describe multimodal DP, which is enabled by computational algorithms and combines the best characteristics of structural and molecular pathology. Finally, we provide examples of application areas in telepathology, education, and precision medicine. We conclude by discussing challenges and emerging opportunities in this area. PMID:27420575

High-precision radiocarbon dating and historical biblical archaeology in southern Jordan

PubMed Central

Levy, Thomas E.; Higham, Thomas; Bronk Ramsey, Christopher; Smith, Neil G.; Ben-Yosef, Erez; Robinson, Mark; Münger, Stefan; Knabb, Kyle; Schulze, Jürgen P.; Najjar, Mohammad; Tauxe, Lisa

2008-01-01

Recent excavations and high-precision radiocarbon dating from the largest Iron Age (IA, ca. 1200–500 BCE) copper production center in the southern Levant demonstrate major smelting activities in the region of biblical Edom (southern Jordan) during the 10th and 9th centuries BCE. Stratified radiocarbon samples and artifacts were recorded with precise digital surveying tools linked to a geographic information system developed to control on-site spatial analyses of archaeological finds and model data with innovative visualization tools. The new radiocarbon dates push back by 2 centuries the accepted IA chronology of Edom. Data from Khirbat en-Nahas, and the nearby site of Rujm Hamra Ifdan, demonstrate the centrality of industrial-scale metal production during those centuries traditionally linked closely to political events in Edom's 10th century BCE neighbor ancient Israel. Consequently, the rise of IA Edom is linked to the power vacuum created by the collapse of Late Bronze Age (LB, ca. 1300 BCE) civilizations and the disintegration of the LB Cypriot copper monopoly that dominated the eastern Mediterranean. The methodologies applied to the historical IA archaeology of the Levant have implications for other parts of the world where sacred and historical texts interface with the material record. PMID:18955702

Temporal Control and Hand Movement Efficiency in Skilled Music Performance

PubMed Central

Goebl, Werner; Palmer, Caroline

2013-01-01

Skilled piano performance requires considerable movement control to accomplish the high levels of timing and force precision common among professional musicians, who acquire piano technique over decades of practice. Finger movement efficiency in particular is an important factor when pianists perform at very fast tempi. We document the finger movement kinematics of highly skilled pianists as they performed a five-finger melody at very fast tempi. A three-dimensional motion-capture system tracked the movements of finger joints, the hand, and the forearm of twelve pianists who performed on a digital piano at successively faster tempi (7–16 tones/s) until they decided to stop. Joint angle trajectories computed for all adjacent finger phalanges, the hand, and the forearm (wrist angle) indicated that the metacarpophalangeal joint contributed most to the vertical fingertip motion while the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints moved slightly opposite to the movement goal (finger extension). An efficiency measure of the combined finger joint angles corresponded to the temporal accuracy and precision of the pianists’ performances: Pianists with more efficient keystroke movements showed higher precision in timing and force measures. Keystroke efficiency and individual joint contributions remained stable across tempo conditions. Individual differences among pianists supported the view that keystroke efficiency is required for successful fast performance. PMID:23300946

Bit Grooming: statistically accurate precision-preserving quantization with compression, evaluated in the netCDF Operators (NCO, v4.4.8+)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zender, Charles S.

2016-09-01

Geoscientific models and measurements generate false precision (scientifically meaningless data bits) that wastes storage space. False precision can mislead (by implying noise is signal) and be scientifically pointless, especially for measurements. By contrast, lossy compression can be both economical (save space) and heuristic (clarify data limitations) without compromising the scientific integrity of data. Data quantization can thus be appropriate regardless of whether space limitations are a concern. We introduce, implement, and characterize a new lossy compression scheme suitable for IEEE floating-point data. Our new Bit Grooming algorithm alternately shaves (to zero) and sets (to one) the least significant bits of consecutive values to preserve a desired precision. This is a symmetric, two-sided variant of an algorithm sometimes called Bit Shaving that quantizes values solely by zeroing bits. Our variation eliminates the artificial low bias produced by always zeroing bits, and makes Bit Grooming more suitable for arrays and multi-dimensional fields whose mean statistics are important. Bit Grooming relies on standard lossless compression to achieve the actual reduction in storage space, so we tested Bit Grooming by applying the DEFLATE compression algorithm to bit-groomed and full-precision climate data stored in netCDF3, netCDF4, HDF4, and HDF5 formats. Bit Grooming reduces the storage space required by initially uncompressed and compressed climate data by 25-80 and 5-65 %, respectively, for single-precision values (the most common case for climate data) quantized to retain 1-5 decimal digits of precision. The potential reduction is greater for double-precision datasets. When used aggressively (i.e., preserving only 1-2 digits), Bit Grooming produces storage reductions comparable to other quantization techniques such as Linear Packing. Unlike Linear Packing, whose guaranteed precision rapidly degrades within the relatively narrow dynamic range of values that it can compress, Bit Grooming guarantees the specified precision throughout the full floating-point range. Data quantization by Bit Grooming is irreversible (i.e., lossy) yet transparent, meaning that no extra processing is required by data users/readers. Hence Bit Grooming can easily reduce data storage volume without sacrificing scientific precision or imposing extra burdens on users.

A digital, constant-frequency pulsed phase-locked-loop instrument for real-time, absolute ultrasonic phase measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haldren, H. A.; Perey, D. F.; Yost, W. T.; Cramer, K. E.; Gupta, M. C.

2018-05-01

A digitally controlled instrument for conducting single-frequency and swept-frequency ultrasonic phase measurements has been developed based on a constant-frequency pulsed phase-locked-loop (CFPPLL) design. This instrument uses a pair of direct digital synthesizers to generate an ultrasonically transceived tone-burst and an internal reference wave for phase comparison. Real-time, constant-frequency phase tracking in an interrogated specimen is possible with a resolution of 0.000 38 rad (0.022°), and swept-frequency phase measurements can be obtained. Using phase measurements, an absolute thickness in borosilicate glass is presented to show the instrument's efficacy, and these results are compared to conventional ultrasonic pulse-echo time-of-flight (ToF) measurements. The newly developed instrument predicted the thickness with a mean error of -0.04 μm and a standard deviation of error of 1.35 μm. Additionally, the CFPPLL instrument shows a lower measured phase error in the absence of changing temperature and couplant thickness than high-resolution cross-correlation ToF measurements at a similar signal-to-noise ratio. By showing higher accuracy and precision than conventional pulse-echo ToF measurements and lower phase errors than cross-correlation ToF measurements, the new digitally controlled CFPPLL instrument provides high-resolution absolute ultrasonic velocity or path-length measurements in solids or liquids, as well as tracking of material property changes with high sensitivity. The ability to obtain absolute phase measurements allows for many new applications than possible with previous ultrasonic pulsed phase-locked loop instruments. In addition to improved resolution, swept-frequency phase measurements add useful capability in measuring properties of layered structures, such as bonded joints, or materials which exhibit non-linear frequency-dependent behavior, such as dispersive media.

Picoliter Well Array Chip-Based Digital Recombinase Polymerase Amplification for Absolute Quantification of Nucleic Acids.

PubMed

Li, Zhao; Liu, Yong; Wei, Qingquan; Liu, Yuanjie; Liu, Wenwen; Zhang, Xuelian; Yu, Yude

2016-01-01

Absolute, precise quantification methods expand the scope of nucleic acids research and have many practical applications. Digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) is a powerful method for nucleic acid detection and absolute quantification. However, it requires thermal cycling and accurate temperature control, which are difficult in resource-limited conditions. Accordingly, isothermal methods, such as recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), are more attractive. We developed a picoliter well array (PWA) chip with 27,000 consistently sized picoliter reactions (314 pL) for isothermal DNA quantification using digital RPA (dRPA) at 39°C. Sample loading using a scraping liquid blade was simple, fast, and required small reagent volumes (i.e., <20 μL). Passivating the chip surface using a methoxy-PEG-silane agent effectively eliminated cross-contamination during dRPA. Our creative optical design enabled wide-field fluorescence imaging in situ and both end-point and real-time analyses of picoliter wells in a 6-cm(2) area. It was not necessary to use scan shooting and stitch serial small images together. Using this method, we quantified serial dilutions of a Listeria monocytogenes gDNA stock solution from 9 × 10(-1) to 4 × 10(-3) copies per well with an average error of less than 11% (N = 15). Overall dRPA-on-chip processing required less than 30 min, which was a 4-fold decrease compared to dPCR, requiring approximately 2 h. dRPA on the PWA chip provides a simple and highly sensitive method to quantify nucleic acids without thermal cycling or precise micropump/microvalve control. It has applications in fast field analysis and critical clinical diagnostics under resource-limited settings.

Picoliter Well Array Chip-Based Digital Recombinase Polymerase Amplification for Absolute Quantification of Nucleic Acids

PubMed Central

Li, Zhao; Liu, Yong; Wei, Qingquan; Liu, Yuanjie; Liu, Wenwen; Zhang, Xuelian; Yu, Yude

2016-01-01

Absolute, precise quantification methods expand the scope of nucleic acids research and have many practical applications. Digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) is a powerful method for nucleic acid detection and absolute quantification. However, it requires thermal cycling and accurate temperature control, which are difficult in resource-limited conditions. Accordingly, isothermal methods, such as recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), are more attractive. We developed a picoliter well array (PWA) chip with 27,000 consistently sized picoliter reactions (314 pL) for isothermal DNA quantification using digital RPA (dRPA) at 39°C. Sample loading using a scraping liquid blade was simple, fast, and required small reagent volumes (i.e., <20 μL). Passivating the chip surface using a methoxy-PEG-silane agent effectively eliminated cross-contamination during dRPA. Our creative optical design enabled wide-field fluorescence imaging in situ and both end-point and real-time analyses of picoliter wells in a 6-cm2 area. It was not necessary to use scan shooting and stitch serial small images together. Using this method, we quantified serial dilutions of a Listeria monocytogenes gDNA stock solution from 9 × 10-1 to 4 × 10-3 copies per well with an average error of less than 11% (N = 15). Overall dRPA-on-chip processing required less than 30 min, which was a 4-fold decrease compared to dPCR, requiring approximately 2 h. dRPA on the PWA chip provides a simple and highly sensitive method to quantify nucleic acids without thermal cycling or precise micropump/microvalve control. It has applications in fast field analysis and critical clinical diagnostics under resource-limited settings. PMID:27074005

Digital pathology in nephrology clinical trials, research, and pathology practice.

PubMed

Barisoni, Laura; Hodgin, Jeffrey B

2017-11-01

In this review, we will discuss (i) how the recent advancements in digital technology and computational engineering are currently applied to nephropathology in the setting of clinical research, trials, and practice; (ii) the benefits of the new digital environment; (iii) how recognizing its challenges provides opportunities for transformation; and (iv) nephropathology in the upcoming era of kidney precision and predictive medicine. Recent studies highlighted how new standardized protocols facilitate the harmonization of digital pathology database infrastructure and morphologic, morphometric, and computer-aided quantitative analyses. Digital pathology enables robust protocols for clinical trials and research, with the potential to identify previously underused or unrecognized clinically useful parameters. The integration of digital pathology with molecular signatures is leading the way to establishing clinically relevant morpho-omic taxonomies of renal diseases. The introduction of digital pathology in clinical research and trials, and the progressive implementation of the modern software ecosystem, opens opportunities for the development of new predictive diagnostic paradigms and computer-aided algorithms, transforming the practice of renal disease into a modern computational science.

Absolute determination of single-stranded and self-complementary adeno-associated viral vector genome titers by droplet digital PCR.

PubMed

Lock, Martin; Alvira, Mauricio R; Chen, Shu-Jen; Wilson, James M

2014-04-01

Accurate titration of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector genome copies is critical for ensuring correct and reproducible dosing in both preclinical and clinical settings. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) is the current method of choice for titrating AAV genomes because of the simplicity, accuracy, and robustness of the assay. However, issues with qPCR-based determination of self-complementary AAV vector genome titers, due to primer-probe exclusion through genome self-annealing or through packaging of prematurely terminated defective interfering (DI) genomes, have been reported. Alternative qPCR, gel-based, or Southern blotting titering methods have been designed to overcome these issues but may represent a backward step from standard qPCR methods in terms of simplicity, robustness, and precision. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) is a new PCR technique that directly quantifies DNA copies with an unparalleled degree of precision and without the need for a standard curve or for a high degree of amplification efficiency; all properties that lend themselves to the accurate quantification of both single-stranded and self-complementary AAV genomes. Here we compare a ddPCR-based AAV genome titer assay with a standard and an optimized qPCR assay for the titration of both single-stranded and self-complementary AAV genomes. We demonstrate absolute quantification of single-stranded AAV vector genomes by ddPCR with up to 4-fold increases in titer over a standard qPCR titration but with equivalent readout to an optimized qPCR assay. In the case of self-complementary vectors, ddPCR titers were on average 5-, 1.9-, and 2.3-fold higher than those determined by standard qPCR, optimized qPCR, and agarose gel assays, respectively. Droplet digital PCR-based genome titering was superior to qPCR in terms of both intra- and interassay precision and is more resistant to PCR inhibitors, a desirable feature for in-process monitoring of early-stage vector production and for vector genome biodistribution analysis in inhibitory tissues.

Comparison of microfluidic digital PCR and conventional quantitative PCR for measuring copy number variation.

PubMed

Whale, Alexandra S; Huggett, Jim F; Cowen, Simon; Speirs, Valerie; Shaw, Jacqui; Ellison, Stephen; Foy, Carole A; Scott, Daniel J

2012-06-01

One of the benefits of Digital PCR (dPCR) is the potential for unparalleled precision enabling smaller fold change measurements. An example of an assessment that could benefit from such improved precision is the measurement of tumour-associated copy number variation (CNV) in the cell free DNA (cfDNA) fraction of patient blood plasma. To investigate the potential precision of dPCR and compare it with the established technique of quantitative PCR (qPCR), we used breast cancer cell lines to investigate HER2 gene amplification and modelled a range of different CNVs. We showed that, with equal experimental replication, dPCR could measure a smaller CNV than qPCR. As dPCR precision is directly dependent upon both the number of replicate measurements and the template concentration, we also developed a method to assist the design of dPCR experiments for measuring CNV. Using an existing model (based on Poisson and binomial distributions) to derive an expression for the variance inherent in dPCR, we produced a power calculation to define the experimental size required to reliably detect a given fold change at a given template concentration. This work will facilitate any future translation of dPCR to key diagnostic applications, such as cancer diagnostics and analysis of cfDNA.

Precision and fast wavelength tuning of a dynamically phase-locked widely-tunable laser.

PubMed

Numata, Kenji; Chen, Jeffrey R; Wu, Stewart T

2012-06-18

We report a precision and fast wavelength tuning technique demonstrated for a digital-supermode distributed Bragg reflector laser. The laser was dynamically offset-locked to a frequency-stabilized master laser using an optical phase-locked loop, enabling precision fast tuning to and from any frequencies within a ~40-GHz tuning range. The offset frequency noise was suppressed to the statically offset-locked level in less than ~40 μs upon each frequency switch, allowing the laser to retain the absolute frequency stability of the master laser. This technique satisfies stringent requirements for gas sensing lidars and enables other applications that require such well-controlled precision fast tuning.

High resolution multispectral photogrammetric imagery: enhancement, interpretation and evaluations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roberts, Arthur; Haefele, Martin; Bostater, Charles; Becker, Thomas

2007-10-01

A variety of aerial mapping cameras were adapted and developed into simulated multiband digital photogrammetric mapping systems. Direct digital multispectral, two multiband cameras (IIS 4 band and Itek 9 band) and paired mapping and reconnaissance cameras were evaluated for digital spectral performance and photogrammetric mapping accuracy in an aquatic environment. Aerial films (24cm X 24cm format) tested were: Agfa color negative and extended red (visible and near infrared) panchromatic, and; Kodak color infrared and B&W (visible and near infrared) infrared. All films were negative processed to published standards and digitally converted at either 16 (color) or 10 (B&W) microns. Excellent precision in the digital conversions was obtained with scanning errors of less than one micron. Radiometric data conversion was undertaken using linear density conversion and centered 8 bit histogram exposure. This resulted in multiple 8 bit spectral image bands that were unaltered (not radiometrically enhanced) "optical count" conversions of film density. This provided the best film density conversion to a digital product while retaining the original film density characteristics. Data covering water depth, water quality, surface roughness, and bottom substrate were acquired using different measurement techniques as well as different techniques to locate sampling points on the imagery. Despite extensive efforts to obtain accurate ground truth data location errors, measurement errors, and variations in the correlation between water depth and remotely sensed signal persisted. These errors must be considered endemic and may not be removed through even the most elaborate sampling set up. Results indicate that multispectral photogrammetric systems offer improved feature mapping capability.

Enhanced optical alignment of a digital micro mirror device through Bayesian adaptive exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wynne, Kevin B.; Knuth, Kevin H.; Petruccelli, Jonathan

2017-12-01

As the use of Digital Micro Mirror Devices (DMDs) becomes more prevalent in optics research, the ability to precisely locate the Fourier "footprint" of an image beam at the Fourier plane becomes a pressing need. In this approach, Bayesian adaptive exploration techniques were employed to characterize the size and position of the beam on a DMD located at the Fourier plane. It couples a Bayesian inference engine with an inquiry engine to implement the search. The inquiry engine explores the DMD by engaging mirrors and recording light intensity values based on the maximization of the expected information gain. Using the data collected from this exploration, the Bayesian inference engine updates the posterior probability describing the beam's characteristics. The process is iterated until the beam is located to within the desired precision. This methodology not only locates the center and radius of the beam with remarkable precision but accomplishes the task in far less time than a brute force search. The employed approach has applications to system alignment for both Fourier processing and coded aperture design.

The Impact of Acquisition Dose on Quantitative Breast Density Estimation with Digital Mammography: Results from ACRIN PA 4006.

PubMed

Chen, Lin; Ray, Shonket; Keller, Brad M; Pertuz, Said; McDonald, Elizabeth S; Conant, Emily F; Kontos, Despina

2016-09-01

Purpose To investigate the impact of radiation dose on breast density estimation in digital mammography. Materials and Methods With institutional review board approval and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliance under waiver of consent, a cohort of women from the American College of Radiology Imaging Network Pennsylvania 4006 trial was retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent breast screening with a combination of dose protocols, including standard full-field digital mammography, low-dose digital mammography, and digital breast tomosynthesis. A total of 5832 images from 486 women were analyzed with previously validated, fully automated software for quantitative estimation of density. Clinical Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) density assessment results were also available from the trial reports. The influence of image acquisition radiation dose on quantitative breast density estimation was investigated with analysis of variance and linear regression. Pairwise comparisons of density estimations at different dose levels were performed with Student t test. Agreement of estimation was evaluated with quartile-weighted Cohen kappa values and Bland-Altman limits of agreement. Results Radiation dose of image acquisition did not significantly affect quantitative density measurements (analysis of variance, P = .37 to P = .75), with percent density demonstrating a high overall correlation between protocols (r = 0.88-0.95; weighted κ = 0.83-0.90). However, differences in breast percent density (1.04% and 3.84%, P < .05) were observed within high BI-RADS density categories, although they were significantly correlated across the different acquisition dose levels (r = 0.76-0.92, P < .05). Conclusion Precision and reproducibility of automated breast density measurements with digital mammography are not substantially affected by variations in radiation dose; thus, the use of low-dose techniques for the purpose of density estimation may be feasible. (©) RSNA, 2016 Online supplemental material is available for this article.

The Impact of Acquisition Dose on Quantitative Breast Density Estimation with Digital Mammography: Results from ACRIN PA 4006

PubMed Central

Chen, Lin; Ray, Shonket; Keller, Brad M.; Pertuz, Said; McDonald, Elizabeth S.; Conant, Emily F.

2016-01-01

Purpose To investigate the impact of radiation dose on breast density estimation in digital mammography. Materials and Methods With institutional review board approval and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliance under waiver of consent, a cohort of women from the American College of Radiology Imaging Network Pennsylvania 4006 trial was retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent breast screening with a combination of dose protocols, including standard full-field digital mammography, low-dose digital mammography, and digital breast tomosynthesis. A total of 5832 images from 486 women were analyzed with previously validated, fully automated software for quantitative estimation of density. Clinical Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) density assessment results were also available from the trial reports. The influence of image acquisition radiation dose on quantitative breast density estimation was investigated with analysis of variance and linear regression. Pairwise comparisons of density estimations at different dose levels were performed with Student t test. Agreement of estimation was evaluated with quartile-weighted Cohen kappa values and Bland-Altman limits of agreement. Results Radiation dose of image acquisition did not significantly affect quantitative density measurements (analysis of variance, P = .37 to P = .75), with percent density demonstrating a high overall correlation between protocols (r = 0.88–0.95; weighted κ = 0.83–0.90). However, differences in breast percent density (1.04% and 3.84%, P < .05) were observed within high BI-RADS density categories, although they were significantly correlated across the different acquisition dose levels (r = 0.76–0.92, P < .05). Conclusion Precision and reproducibility of automated breast density measurements with digital mammography are not substantially affected by variations in radiation dose; thus, the use of low-dose techniques for the purpose of density estimation may be feasible. © RSNA, 2016 Online supplemental material is available for this article. PMID:27002418

Precision digital pulse phase generator

DOEpatents

McEwan, T.E.

1996-10-08

A timing generator comprises a crystal oscillator connected to provide an output reference pulse. A resistor-capacitor combination is connected to provide a variable-delay output pulse from an input connected to the crystal oscillator. A phase monitor is connected to provide duty-cycle representations of the reference and variable-delay output pulse phase. An operational amplifier drives a control voltage to the resistor-capacitor combination according to currents integrated from the phase monitor and injected into summing junctions. A digital-to-analog converter injects a control current into the summing junctions according to an input digital control code. A servo equilibrium results that provides a phase delay of the variable-delay output pulse to the output reference pulse that linearly depends on the input digital control code. 2 figs.

Precision digital pulse phase generator

DOEpatents

McEwan, Thomas E.

1996-01-01

A timing generator comprises a crystal oscillator connected to provide an output reference pulse. A resistor-capacitor combination is connected to provide a variable-delay output pulse from an input connected to the crystal oscillator. A phase monitor is connected to provide duty-cycle representations of the reference and variable-delay output pulse phase. An operational amplifier drives a control voltage to the resistor-capacitor combination according to currents integrated from the phase monitor and injected into summing junctions. A digital-to-analog converter injects a control current into the summing junctions according to an input digital control code. A servo equilibrium results that provides a phase delay of the variable-delay output pulse to the output reference pulse that linearly depends on the input digital control code.

Implementation of the Domino Sampling Waveform digitizer in the PIBETA experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ying

The Domino Sampling Chip(DSC)-Waveform digitization system is a significant addition to electronics arsenal of PIBETA experiment. It is used to digitize waveforms from every photo tube in the detector. Through carefully programmed offline analysis of its raw data collected during regular runtime, better timing and energy resolution are achieved compared with feast's results. And more importantly, the geometric character of the digitized waveform which contains information of energy deposition of particle decays can be utilized for particle identification, a great advantage that regular unit could not possess. In addition to fastbus, incorporate DSC data through its offline analysis including timing and energy offset, scale calibration will contribute a final more precise result of PIBETA experiment.

An advanced real-time digital signal processing system for linear systems emulation, with special emphasis on network and acoustic response characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaydecki, Patrick; Fernandes, Bosco

2003-11-01

A fast digital signal processing (DSP) system is described that can perform real-time emulation of a wide variety of linear audio-bandwidth systems and networks, such as reverberant spaces, musical instrument bodies and very high order filter networks. The hardware design is based upon a Motorola DSP56309 operating at 110 million multiplication-accumulations per second and a dual-channel 24 bit codec with a maximum sampling frequency of 192 kHz. High level software has been developed to express complex vector frequency responses as both infinite impulse response (IIR) and finite impulse response (FIR) coefficients, in a form suitable for real-time convolution by the firmware installed in the DSP system memory. An algorithm has also been devised to express IIR filters as equivalent FIR structures, thereby obviating the potential instabilities associated with recursive equations and negating the traditional deficiencies of FIR filters respecting equivalent analogue designs. The speed and dynamic range of the system is such that, when sampling at 48 kHz, the frequency response can be specified to a spectral precision of 22 Hz when sampling at 10 kHz, this resolution increases to 0.9 Hz. Moreover, it is also possible to control the phase of any frequency band with a theoretical precision of 10-5 degrees in all cases. The system has been applied in the study of analogue filter networks, real-time Hilbert transformation, phase-shift systems and musical instrument body emulation, where it is providing valuable new insights into the understanding of psychoacoustic mechanisms.

PathEdEx – Uncovering High-explanatory Visual Diagnostics Heuristics Using Digital Pathology and Multiscale Gaze Data

PubMed Central

Shin, Dmitriy; Kovalenko, Mikhail; Ersoy, Ilker; Li, Yu; Doll, Donald; Shyu, Chi-Ren; Hammer, Richard

2017-01-01

Background: Visual heuristics of pathology diagnosis is a largely unexplored area where reported studies only provided a qualitative insight into the subject. Uncovering and quantifying pathology visual and nonvisual diagnostic patterns have great potential to improve clinical outcomes and avoid diagnostic pitfalls. Methods: Here, we present PathEdEx, an informatics computational framework that incorporates whole-slide digital pathology imaging with multiscale gaze-tracking technology to create web-based interactive pathology educational atlases and to datamine visual and nonvisual diagnostic heuristics. Results: We demonstrate the capabilities of PathEdEx for mining visual and nonvisual diagnostic heuristics using the first PathEdEx volume of a hematopathology atlas. We conducted a quantitative study on the time dynamics of zooming and panning operations utilized by experts and novices to come to the correct diagnosis. We then performed association rule mining to determine sets of diagnostic factors that consistently result in a correct diagnosis, and studied differences in diagnostic strategies across different levels of pathology expertise using Markov chain (MC) modeling and MC Monte Carlo simulations. To perform these studies, we translated raw gaze points to high-explanatory semantic labels that represent pathology diagnostic clues. Therefore, the outcome of these studies is readily transformed into narrative descriptors for direct use in pathology education and practice. Conclusion: PathEdEx framework can be used to capture best practices of pathology visual and nonvisual diagnostic heuristics that can be passed over to the next generation of pathologists and have potential to streamline implementation of precision diagnostics in precision medicine settings. PMID:28828200

PathEdEx - Uncovering High-explanatory Visual Diagnostics Heuristics Using Digital Pathology and Multiscale Gaze Data.

PubMed

Shin, Dmitriy; Kovalenko, Mikhail; Ersoy, Ilker; Li, Yu; Doll, Donald; Shyu, Chi-Ren; Hammer, Richard

2017-01-01

Visual heuristics of pathology diagnosis is a largely unexplored area where reported studies only provided a qualitative insight into the subject. Uncovering and quantifying pathology visual and nonvisual diagnostic patterns have great potential to improve clinical outcomes and avoid diagnostic pitfalls. Here, we present PathEdEx, an informatics computational framework that incorporates whole-slide digital pathology imaging with multiscale gaze-tracking technology to create web-based interactive pathology educational atlases and to datamine visual and nonvisual diagnostic heuristics. We demonstrate the capabilities of PathEdEx for mining visual and nonvisual diagnostic heuristics using the first PathEdEx volume of a hematopathology atlas. We conducted a quantitative study on the time dynamics of zooming and panning operations utilized by experts and novices to come to the correct diagnosis. We then performed association rule mining to determine sets of diagnostic factors that consistently result in a correct diagnosis, and studied differences in diagnostic strategies across different levels of pathology expertise using Markov chain (MC) modeling and MC Monte Carlo simulations. To perform these studies, we translated raw gaze points to high-explanatory semantic labels that represent pathology diagnostic clues. Therefore, the outcome of these studies is readily transformed into narrative descriptors for direct use in pathology education and practice. PathEdEx framework can be used to capture best practices of pathology visual and nonvisual diagnostic heuristics that can be passed over to the next generation of pathologists and have potential to streamline implementation of precision diagnostics in precision medicine settings.

Magnetophoretic circuits for digital control of single particles and cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Byeonghwa; Reddy, Venu; Hu, Xinghao; Kim, Kunwoo; Jadhav, Mital; Abedini-Nassab, Roozbeh; Noh, Young-Woock; Lim, Yong Taik; Yellen, Benjamin B.; Kim, Cheolgi

2014-05-01

The ability to manipulate small fluid droplets, colloidal particles and single cells with the precision and parallelization of modern-day computer hardware has profound applications for biochemical detection, gene sequencing, chemical synthesis and highly parallel analysis of single cells. Drawing inspiration from general circuit theory and magnetic bubble technology, here we demonstrate a class of integrated circuits for executing sequential and parallel, timed operations on an ensemble of single particles and cells. The integrated circuits are constructed from lithographically defined, overlaid patterns of magnetic film and current lines. The magnetic patterns passively control particles similar to electrical conductors, diodes and capacitors. The current lines actively switch particles between different tracks similar to gated electrical transistors. When combined into arrays and driven by a rotating magnetic field clock, these integrated circuits have general multiplexing properties and enable the precise control of magnetizable objects.

Ultra-narrow pulse generator with precision-adjustable pulse width

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Zaiming; Liu, Hanglin

2018-05-01

In this paper, a novel ultra-narrow pulse generation approach is proposed. It is based on the decomposition and synthesis of pulse edges. Through controlling their relative delay, an ultra-narrow pulse could be generated. By employing field programmable gate array digital synthesis technology, the implemented pulse generator is with programmable ability. The amplitude of pulse signals is controlled by the radio frequency amplifiers and bias tees, and high precision can be achieved. More importantly, the proposed approach can break through the limitation of device's propagation delay and optimize the resolution and the accuracy of the pulse width significantly. The implemented pulse generator has two channels, whose minimum pulse width, frequency range, and amplitude range are 100 ps, 15 MHz-1.5 GHz, and 0.1 Vpp-1.8 Vpp, respectively. Both resolution of pulse width and channel delay are 1 ps, and amplitude resolution is 10 mVpp.

New-style defect inspection system of film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yan; Liu, Wenyao; Liu, Ming; Lee, Ronggang

2002-09-01

An inspection system has been developed for on-line detection of film defects, which bases on combination of photoelectric imaging and digital image processing. The system runs in high speed of maximum 60m/min. Moving film is illuminated by LED array which emits even infrared (peak wavelength λp=940nm), and infrared images are obtained with a high quality and high speed CCD camera. The application software based on Visual C++6.0 under Windows processes images in real time by means of such algorithms as median filter, edge detection and projection, etc. The system is made up of four modules, which are introduced in detail in the paper. On-line experiment results shows that the inspection system can recognize defects precisely in high speed and run reliably in practical application.

A Closed-Loop Proportional-Integral (PI) Control Software for Fully Mechanically Controlled Automated Electron Microscopic Tomography

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

REN, GANG; LIU, JINXIN; LI, HONGCHANG

A closed-loop proportional-integral (PI) control software is provided for fully mechanically controlled automated electron microscopic tomography. The software is developed based on Gatan DigitalMicrograph, and is compatible with Zeiss LIBRA 120 transmission electron microscope. However, it can be expanded to other TEM instrument with modification. The software consists of a graphical user interface, a digital PI controller, an image analyzing unit, and other drive units (i.e.: image acquire unit and goniometer drive unit). During a tomography data collection process, the image analyzing unit analyzes both the accumulated shift and defocus value of the latest acquired image, and provides the resultsmore » to the digital PI controller. The digital PI control compares the results with the preset values and determines the optimum adjustments of the goniometer. The goniometer drive unit adjusts the spatial position of the specimen according to the instructions given by the digital PI controller for the next tilt angle and image acquisition. The goniometer drive unit achieves high precision positioning by using a backlash elimination method. The major benefits of the software are: 1) the goniometer drive unit keeps pre-aligned/optimized beam conditions unchanged and achieves position tracking solely through mechanical control; 2) the image analyzing unit relies on only historical data and therefore does not require additional images/exposures; 3) the PI controller enables the system to dynamically track the imaging target with extremely low system error.« less

[Colorimetric characterization of LCD based on wavelength partition spectral model].

PubMed

Liu, Hao-Xue; Cui, Gui-Hua; Huang, Min; Wu, Bing; Xu, Yan-Fang; Luo, Ming

2013-10-01

To establish a colorimetrical characterization model of LCDs, an experiment with EIZO CG19, IBM 19, DELL 19 and HP 19 LCDs was designed and carried out to test the interaction between RGB channels, and then to test the spectral additive property of LCDs. The RGB digital values of single channel and two channels were given and the corresponding tristimulus values were measured, then a chart was plotted and calculations were made to test the independency of RGB channels. The results showed that the interaction between channels was reasonably weak and spectral additivity property was held well. We also found that the relations between radiations and digital values at different wavelengths varied, that is, they were the functions of wavelength. A new calculation method based on piecewise spectral model, in which the relation between radiations and digital values was fitted by a cubic polynomial in each piece of wavelength with measured spectral radiation curves, was proposed and tested. The spectral radiation curves of RGB primaries with any digital values can be found out with only a few measurements and fitted cubic polynomial in this way and then any displayed color can be turned out by the spectral additivity property of primaries at given digital values. The algorithm of this method was discussed in detail in this paper. The computations showed that the proposed method was simple and the number of measurements needed was reduced greatly while keeping a very high computation precision. This method can be used as a colorimetrical characterization model.

BIG DATA ANALYTICS AND PRECISION ANIMAL AGRICULTURE SYMPOSIUM: Machine learning and data mining advance predictive big data analysis in precision animal agriculture.

PubMed

Morota, Gota; Ventura, Ricardo V; Silva, Fabyano F; Koyama, Masanori; Fernando, Samodha C

2018-04-14

Precision animal agriculture is poised to rise to prominence in the livestock enterprise in the domains of management, production, welfare, sustainability, health surveillance, and environmental footprint. Considerable progress has been made in the use of tools to routinely monitor and collect information from animals and farms in a less laborious manner than before. These efforts have enabled the animal sciences to embark on information technology-driven discoveries to improve animal agriculture. However, the growing amount and complexity of data generated by fully automated, high-throughput data recording or phenotyping platforms, including digital images, sensor and sound data, unmanned systems, and information obtained from real-time noninvasive computer vision, pose challenges to the successful implementation of precision animal agriculture. The emerging fields of machine learning and data mining are expected to be instrumental in helping meet the daunting challenges facing global agriculture. Yet, their impact and potential in "big data" analysis have not been adequately appreciated in the animal science community, where this recognition has remained only fragmentary. To address such knowledge gaps, this article outlines a framework for machine learning and data mining and offers a glimpse into how they can be applied to solve pressing problems in animal sciences.

Multichannel low power time-to-digital converter card with 21 ps precision and full scale range up to 10 μs

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

Tamborini, D., E-mail: davide.tamborini@polimi.it; Portaluppi, D.; Villa, F.

We present a Time-to-Digital Converter (TDC) card with a compact form factor, suitable for multichannel timing instruments or for integration into more complex systems. The TDC Card provides 10 ps timing resolution over the whole measurement range, which is selectable from 160 ns up to 10 μs, reaching 21 ps rms precision, 1.25% LSB rms differential nonlinearity, up to 3 Mconversion/s with 400 mW power consumption. The I/O edge card connector provides timing data readout through either a parallel bus or a 100 MHz serial interface and further measurement information like input signal rate and valid conversion rate (typically usefulmore » for time-correlated single-photon counting application) through an independent serial link.« less

Fundamentals of multiplexing with digital PCR.

PubMed

Whale, Alexandra S; Huggett, Jim F; Tzonev, Svilen

2016-12-01

Over the past decade numerous publications have demonstrated how digital PCR (dPCR) enables precise and sensitive quantification of nucleic acids in a wide range of applications in both healthcare and environmental analysis. This has occurred in parallel with the advances in partitioning fluidics that enable a reaction to be subdivided into an increasing number of partitions. As the majority of dPCR systems are based on detection in two discrete optical channels, most research to date has focused on quantification of one or two targets within a single reaction. Here we describe 'higher order multiplexing' that is the unique ability of dPCR to precisely measure more than two targets in the same reaction. Using examples, we describe the different types of duplex and multiplex reactions that can be achieved. We also describe essential experimental considerations to ensure accurate quantification of multiple targets.

Efficient road geometry identification from digital vector data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrášik, Richard; Bíl, Michal

2016-07-01

A new method for the automatic identification of road geometry from digital vector data is presented. The method is capable of efficiently identifying circular curves with their radii and tangents (straight sections). The average error of identification ranged from 0.01 to 1.30 % for precisely drawn data and 4.81 % in the case of actual road data with noise in the location of vertices. The results demonstrate that the proposed method is faster and more precise than commonly used techniques. This approach can be used by road administrators to complete their databases with information concerning the geometry of roads. It can also be utilized by transport engineers or traffic safety analysts to investigate the possible dependence of traffic accidents on road geometries. The method presented is applicable as well to railroads and rivers or other line features.

Multispectral mapping of the lunar surface using groundbased telescopes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccord, T. B.; Pieters, C.; Feirberg, M. A.

1976-01-01

Images of the lunar surface were obtained at several wavelengths using a silicon vidicon imaging system and groundbased telescopes. These images were recorded and processed in digital form so that quantitative information is preserved. The photometric precision of the images is shown to be better than 1 percent. Ratio images calculated by dividing images obtained at two wavelengths (0.40/0.56 micrometer) and 0.95/0.56 micrometer are presented for about 50 percent of the lunar frontside. Spatial resolution is about 2 km at the sub-earth point. A complex of distinct units is evident in the images. Earlier work with the reflectance spectrum of lunar materials indicates that for the most part these units are compositionally distinct. Digital images of this precision are extremely useful to lunar geologists in disentangling the history of the lunar surface.

A parts-per-billion measurement of the antiproton magnetic moment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smorra, C.; Sellner, S.; Borchert, M. J.; Harrington, J. A.; Higuchi, T.; Nagahama, H.; Tanaka, T.; Mooser, A.; Schneider, G.; Bohman, M.; Blaum, K.; Matsuda, Y.; Ospelkaus, C.; Quint, W.; Walz, J.; Yamazaki, Y.; Ulmer, S.

2017-10-01

Precise comparisons of the fundamental properties of matter-antimatter conjugates provide sensitive tests of charge-parity-time (CPT) invariance, which is an important symmetry that rests on basic assumptions of the standard model of particle physics. Experiments on mesons, leptons and baryons have compared different properties of matter-antimatter conjugates with fractional uncertainties at the parts-per-billion level or better. One specific quantity, however, has so far only been known to a fractional uncertainty at the parts-per-million level: the magnetic moment of the antiproton, . The extraordinary difficulty in measuring with high precision is caused by its intrinsic smallness; for example, it is 660 times smaller than the magnetic moment of the positron. Here we report a high-precision measurement of in units of the nuclear magneton μN with a fractional precision of 1.5 parts per billion (68% confidence level). We use a two-particle spectroscopy method in an advanced cryogenic multi-Penning trap system. Our result  = -2.7928473441(42)μN (where the number in parentheses represents the 68% confidence interval on the last digits of the value) improves the precision of the previous best measurement by a factor of approximately 350. The measured value is consistent with the proton magnetic moment, μp = 2.792847350(9)μN, and is in agreement with CPT invariance. Consequently, this measurement constrains the magnitude of certain CPT-violating effects to below 1.8 × 10-24 gigaelectronvolts, and a possible splitting of the proton-antiproton magnetic moments by CPT-odd dimension-five interactions to below 6 × 10-12 Bohr magnetons.

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

Ferreras, Ignacio; Trujillo, Ignacio, E-mail: i.ferreras@ucl.ac.uk

At the core of the standard cosmological model lies the assumption that the redshift of distant galaxies is independent of photon wavelength. This invariance of cosmological redshift with wavelength is routinely found in all galaxy spectra with a precision of Δ z ∼ 10{sup −4}. The combined use of approximately half a million high-quality galaxy spectra from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) allows us to explore this invariance down to a nominal precision in redshift of 10{sup −6} (statistical). Our analysis is performed over the redshift interval 0.02 < z < 0.25. We use the centroids of spectral linesmore » over the 3700–6800 Å rest-frame optical window. We do not find any difference in redshift between the blue and red sides down to a precision of 10{sup −6} at z ≲ 0.1 and 10{sup −5} at 0.1 ≲ z ≲ 0.25 (i.e., at least an order of magnitude better than with single galaxy spectra). This is the first time the wavelength-independence of the (1 + z ) redshift law is confirmed over a wide spectral window at this precision level. This result holds independently of the stellar population of the galaxies and their kinematical properties. This result is also robust against wavelength calibration issues. The limited spectral resolution ( R ∼ 2000) of the SDSS data, combined with the asymmetric wavelength sampling of the spectral features in the observed restframe due to the (1 + z ) stretching of the lines, prevent our methodology from achieving a precision higher than 10{sup −5}, at z > 0.1. Future attempts to constrain this law will require high quality galaxy spectra at higher resolution ( R ≳ 10,000).« less

A parts-per-billion measurement of the antiproton magnetic moment.

PubMed

Smorra, C; Sellner, S; Borchert, M J; Harrington, J A; Higuchi, T; Nagahama, H; Tanaka, T; Mooser, A; Schneider, G; Bohman, M; Blaum, K; Matsuda, Y; Ospelkaus, C; Quint, W; Walz, J; Yamazaki, Y; Ulmer, S

2017-10-18

Precise comparisons of the fundamental properties of matter-antimatter conjugates provide sensitive tests of charge-parity-time (CPT) invariance, which is an important symmetry that rests on basic assumptions of the standard model of particle physics. Experiments on mesons, leptons and baryons have compared different properties of matter-antimatter conjugates with fractional uncertainties at the parts-per-billion level or better. One specific quantity, however, has so far only been known to a fractional uncertainty at the parts-per-million level: the magnetic moment of the antiproton, . The extraordinary difficulty in measuring with high precision is caused by its intrinsic smallness; for example, it is 660 times smaller than the magnetic moment of the positron. Here we report a high-precision measurement of in units of the nuclear magneton μ N with a fractional precision of 1.5 parts per billion (68% confidence level). We use a two-particle spectroscopy method in an advanced cryogenic multi-Penning trap system. Our result  = -2.7928473441(42)μ N (where the number in parentheses represents the 68% confidence interval on the last digits of the value) improves the precision of the previous best measurement by a factor of approximately 350. The measured value is consistent with the proton magnetic moment, μ p  = 2.792847350(9)μ N , and is in agreement with CPT invariance. Consequently, this measurement constrains the magnitude of certain CPT-violating effects to below 1.8 × 10 -24 gigaelectronvolts, and a possible splitting of the proton-antiproton magnetic moments by CPT-odd dimension-five interactions to below 6 × 10 -12 Bohr magnetons.

SURFACE RUPTURE OF THE NORMAL SEISMIC FAULTS AND SLOPE FAILURES APPEARED IN APRIL 11th, 2011 FUKUSHIMA-PREFECTURE HAMADOORI EARTHQUAKE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazmi, Zaheer Abbas; Konagai, Kazuo; Kyokawa, Hiroyuki; Tetik, Cigdem

On April 11th, 2011, Iwaki region of Fukushima prefecture was jolted by Fukushima-Prefecture Hamadoori Earthquake. Surface ruptures were observed along causative Idosawa and Yunotake normal faults. In addition to numerous small slope failures, a coherent landslide and building structures of Tabito Junior High School, bisected by Idosawa Fault, were found along the causative faults. A precise digital elevation model of the coherent landslide was obtained through the ground and air-born LiDAR surveys. The measurements of perimeters of the gymnasium building and the swimming pool of Tabito Junior High School have shown that ground undergoes a slow and steady/continual deformation.

Evaluation of High Dynamic Range Photography as a Luminance Mapping Technique

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

Inanici, Mehlika; Galvin, Jim

2004-12-30

The potential, limitations, and applicability of the High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography technique is evaluated as a luminance mapping tool. Multiple exposure photographs of static scenes are taken with a Nikon 5400 digital camera to capture the wide luminance variation within the scenes. The camera response function is computationally derived using the Photosphere software, and is used to fuse the multiple photographs into HDR images. The vignetting effect and point spread function of the camera and lens system is determined. Laboratory and field studies have shown that the pixel values in the HDR photographs can correspond to the physical quantitymore » of luminance with reasonable precision and repeatability.« less

Optical head tracking for functional magnetic resonance imaging using structured light.

PubMed

Zaremba, Andrei A; MacFarlane, Duncan L; Tseng, Wei-Che; Stark, Andrew J; Briggs, Richard W; Gopinath, Kaundinya S; Cheshkov, Sergey; White, Keith D

2008-07-01

An accurate motion-tracking technique is needed to compensate for subject motion during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) procedures. Here, a novel approach to motion metrology is discussed. A structured light pattern specifically coded for digital signal processing is positioned onto a fiduciary of the patient. As the patient undergoes spatial transformations in 6 DoF (degrees of freedom), a high-resolution CCD camera captures successive images for analysis on a computing platform. A high-speed image processing algorithm is used to calculate spatial transformations in a time frame commensurate with patient movements (10-100 ms) and with a precision of at least 0.5 microm for translations and 0.1 deg for rotations.

Digital Processing Of Young's Fringes In Speckle Photography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, D. J.; Chiang, F. P.

1989-01-01

A new technique for fully automatic diffraction fringe measurement in point-wise speckle photograph analysis is presented in this paper. The fringe orientation and spacing are initially estimated with the help of 1-D FFT. A 2-D convolution filter is then applied to enhance the estimated image . High signal-to-noise rate (SNR) fringe pattern is achieved which makes it feasible for precise determination of the displacement components. The halo-effect is also optimally eliminated in a new way. With the computation time compared favorably with those of 2-D autocorrelation method and the iterative 2-D FFT method. High reliability and accurate determination of displacement components are achieved over a wide range of fringe density.

Comparison of the spatial landmark scatter of various 3D digitalization methods.

PubMed

Boldt, Florian; Weinzierl, Christian; Hertrich, Klaus; Hirschfelder, Ursula

2009-05-01

The aim of this study was to compare four different three-dimensional digitalization methods on the basis of the complex anatomical surface of a cleft lip and palate plaster cast, and to ascertain their accuracy when positioning 3D landmarks. A cleft lip and palate plaster cast was digitalized with the SCAN3D photo-optical scanner, the OPTIX 400S laser-optical scanner, the Somatom Sensation 64 computed tomography system and the MicroScribe MLX 3-axis articulated-arm digitizer. First, four examiners appraised by individual visual inspection the surface detail reproduction of the three non-tactile digitalization methods in comparison to the reference plaster cast. The four examiners then localized the landmarks five times at intervals of 2 weeks. This involved simply copying, or spatially tracing, the landmarks from a reference plaster cast to each model digitally reproduced by each digitalization method. Statistical analysis of the landmark distribution specific to each method was performed based on the 3D coordinates of the positioned landmarks. Visual evaluation of surface detail conformity assigned the photo-optical digitalization method an average score of 1.5, the highest subjectively-determined conformity (surpassing computer tomographic and laser-optical methods). The tactile scanning method revealed the lowest degree of 3D landmark scatter, 0.12 mm, and at 1.01 mm the lowest maximum 3D landmark scatter; this was followed by the computer tomographic, photo-optical and laser-optical methods (in that order). This study demonstrates that the landmarks' precision and reproducibility are determined by the complexity of the reference-model surface as well as the digital surface quality and individual ability of each evaluator to capture 3D spatial relationships. The differences in the 3D-landmark scatter values and lowest maximum 3D-landmark scatter between the best and the worst methods showed minor differences. The measurement results in this study reveal that it is not the method's precision but rather the complexity of the object analysis being planned that should determine which method is ultimately employed.

Can Satellite Remote Sensing be Applied in Geological Mapping in Tropics?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magiera, Janusz

2018-03-01

Remote sensing (RS) techniques are based on spectral data registered by RS scanners as energy reflected from the Earth's surface or emitted by it. In "geological" RS the reflectance (or emittence) should come from rock or sediment. The problem in tropical and subtropical areas is a dense vegetation. Spectral response from the rocks and sediments is gathered only from the gaps among the trees and shrubs. Images of high resolution are appreciated here, therefore. New generation of satellites and scanners (Digital Globe WV2, WV3 and WV4) yield imagery of spatial resolution of 2 m and up to 16 spectral bands (WV3). Images acquired by Landsat (TM, ETM+, OLI) and Sentinel 2 have good spectral resolution too (6-12 bands in visible and infrared) and, despite lower spatial resolution (10-60 m of pixel size) are useful in extracting lithological information too. Lithological RS map may reveal good precision (down to a single rock or outcrop of a meter size). Supplemented with the analysis of Digital Elevation Model and high resolution ortophotomaps (Google Maps, Bing etc.) allows for quick and cheap mapping of unsurveyed areas.

Thermal Inkjet Printing in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

PubMed Central

Cui, Xiaofeng; Boland, Thomas; D’Lima, Darryl D.; Lotz, Martin K.

2013-01-01

With the advantages of high throughput, digital control, and highly accurate placement of cells and biomaterial scaffold to the desired 2D and 3D locations, bioprinting has great potential to develop promising approaches in translational medicine and organ replacement. The most recent advances in organ and tissue bioprinting based on the thermal inkjet printing technology are described in this review. Bioprinting has no or little side effect to the printed mammalian cells and it can conveniently combine with gene transfection or drug delivery to the ejected living systems during the precise placement for tissue construction. With layer-by-layer assembly, 3D tissues with complex structures can be printed using scanned CT or MRI images. Vascular or nerve systems can be enabled simultaneously during the organ construction with digital control. Therefore, bioprinting is the only solution to solve this critical issue in thick and complex tissues fabrication with vascular system. Collectively, bioprinting based on thermal inkjet has great potential and broad applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. This review article introduces some important patents related to bioprinting living systems and the bioprinting in tissue engineering field. PMID:22436025

Deployment of an inductance-based quasi-digital sensor to detect metallic wear debris in lubricant oil of rotating machinery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanga, Ramesh; Srinivasan, V. S.; Sivaramakrishna, M.; Prabhakara Rao, G.

2018-07-01

In rotating machinery due to continuous rotational induced wear and tear, metallic debris will be produced and mixes with the in-service lubricant oil over the course of time. This debris gives the sign of potential machine failure due to the aging of critical parts like gears and bearings. The size and type of wear debris has a direct relationship with the degree of wear in the machine and gives information about the healthiness of equipment. This article presents an inductive quasi-digital sensor to detect the metallic debris, its type; size in the lubrication oil of rotating machinery. A microcontroller based low cost, low power, high resolution and high precise instrument with alarm indication and LCD is developed to detect ferrous debris of sizes from 30 µm and non-ferrous debris of 50 µm. It is thoroughly tested and calibrated with ferrous, non-ferrous debris of different sizes in the air environment. Finally, an experiment is conducted to check the performance of the instrument by circulating lubricant oil containing ferrous, non-ferrous debris through the sensor.

A research of a high precision multichannel data acquisition system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Ling-na; Tang, Xiao-ping; Yan, Wei

2013-08-01

The output signals of the focusing system in lithography are analog. To convert the analog signals into digital ones which are more flexible and stable to process, a desirable data acquisition system is required. The resolution of data acquisition, to some extent, affects the accuracy of focusing. In this article, we first compared performance between the various kinds of analog-to-digital converters (ADC) available on the market at the moment. Combined with the specific requirements (sampling frequency, converting accuracy, numbers of channels etc) and the characteristics (polarization, amplitude range etc) of the analog signals, the model of the ADC to be used as the core chip in our hardware design was determined. On this basis, we chose other chips needed in the hardware circuit that would well match with ADC, then the overall hardware design was obtained. Validation of our data acquisition system was verified through experiments and it can be demonstrated that the system can effectively realize the high resolution conversion of the multi-channel analog signals and give the accurate focusing information in lithography.

Gamma watermarking

DOEpatents

Ishikawa, Muriel Y.; Wood, Lowell L.; Lougheed, Ronald W.; Moody, Kenton J.; Wang, Tzu-Fang

2004-05-25

A covert, gamma-ray "signature" is used as a "watermark" for property identification. This new watermarking technology is based on a unique steganographic or "hidden writing" digital signature, implemented in tiny quantities of gamma-ray-emitting radioisotopic material combinations, generally covertly emplaced on or within an object. This digital signature may be readily recovered at distant future times, by placing a sensitive, high energy-resolution gamma-ray detecting instrument reasonably precisely over the location of the watermark, which location may be known only to the object's owner; however, the signature is concealed from all ordinary detection means because its exceedingly low level of activity is obscured by the natural radiation background (including the gamma radiation naturally emanating from the object itself, from cosmic radiation and material surroundings, from human bodies, etc.). The "watermark" is used in object-tagging for establishing object identity, history or ownership. It thus may serve as an aid to law enforcement officials in identifying stolen property and prosecuting theft thereof. Highly effective, potentially very low cost identification-on demand of items of most all types is thus made possible.

Three-axis electron-beam test facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dayton, J. A., Jr.; Ebihara, B. T.

1981-01-01

An electron beam test facility, which consists of a precision multidimensional manipulator built into an ultra-high-vacuum bell jar, was designed, fabricated, and operated at Lewis Research Center. The position within the bell jar of a Faraday cup which samples current in the electron beam under test, is controlled by the manipulator. Three orthogonal axes of motion are controlled by stepping motors driven by digital indexers, and the positions are displayed on electronic totalizers. In the transverse directions, the limits of travel are approximately + or - 2.5 cm from the center with a precision of 2.54 micron (0.0001 in.); in the axial direction, approximately 15.0 cm of travel are permitted with an accuracy of 12.7 micron (0.0005 in.). In addition, two manually operated motions are provided, the pitch and yaw of the Faraday cup with respect to the electron beam can be adjusted to within a few degrees. The current is sensed by pulse transformers and the data are processed by a dual channel box car averager with a digital output. The beam tester can be operated manually or it can be programmed for automated operation. In the automated mode, the beam tester is controlled by a microcomputer (installed at the test site) which communicates with a minicomputer at the central computing facility. The data are recorded and later processed by computer to obtain the desired graphical presentations.

Design and Verification of a Digital Controller for a 2-Piece Hemispherical Resonator Gyroscope.

PubMed

Lee, Jungshin; Yun, Sung Wook; Rhim, Jaewook

2016-04-20

A Hemispherical Resonator Gyro (HRG) is the Coriolis Vibratory Gyro (CVG) that measures rotation angle or angular velocity using Coriolis force acting the vibrating mass. A HRG can be used as a rate gyro or integrating gyro without structural modification by simply changing the control scheme. In this paper, differential control algorithms are designed for a 2-piece HRG. To design a precision controller, the electromechanical modelling and signal processing must be pre-performed accurately. Therefore, the equations of motion for the HRG resonator with switched harmonic excitations are derived with the Duhamel Integral method. Electromechanical modeling of the resonator, electric module and charge amplifier is performed by considering the mode shape of a thin hemispherical shell. Further, signal processing and control algorithms are designed. The multi-flexing scheme of sensing, driving cycles and x, y-axis switching cycles is appropriate for high precision and low maneuverability systems. The differential control scheme is easily capable of rejecting the common mode errors of x, y-axis signals and changing the rate integrating mode on basis of these studies. In the rate gyro mode the controller is composed of Phase-Locked Loop (PLL), amplitude, quadrature and rate control loop. All controllers are designed on basis of a digital PI controller. The signal processing and control algorithms are verified through Matlab/Simulink simulations. Finally, a FPGA and DSP board with these algorithms is verified through experiments.

Duplicate document detection in DocBrowse

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chalana, Vikram; Bruce, Andrew G.; Nguyen, Thien

1998-04-01

Duplicate documents are frequently found in large databases of digital documents, such as those found in digital libraries or in the government declassification effort. Efficient duplicate document detection is important not only to allow querying for similar documents, but also to filter out redundant information in large document databases. We have designed three different algorithm to identify duplicate documents. The first algorithm is based on features extracted from the textual content of a document, the second algorithm is based on wavelet features extracted from the document image itself, and the third algorithm is a combination of the first two. These algorithms are integrated within the DocBrowse system for information retrieval from document images which is currently under development at MathSoft. DocBrowse supports duplicate document detection by allowing (1) automatic filtering to hide duplicate documents, and (2) ad hoc querying for similar or duplicate documents. We have tested the duplicate document detection algorithms on 171 documents and found that text-based method has an average 11-point precision of 97.7 percent while the image-based method has an average 11- point precision of 98.9 percent. However, in general, the text-based method performs better when the document contains enough high-quality machine printed text while the image- based method performs better when the document contains little or no quality machine readable text.

Absolute Enumeration of Probiotic Strains Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bl-04 ® via Chip-Based Digital PCR.

PubMed

Hansen, Sarah J Z; Morovic, Wesley; DeMeules, Martha; Stahl, Buffy; Sindelar, Connie W

2018-01-01

The current standard for enumeration of probiotics to obtain colony forming units by plate counts has several drawbacks: long time to results, high variability and the inability to discern between bacterial strains. Accurate probiotic cell counts are important to confirm the delivery of a clinically documented dose for its associated health benefits. A method is described using chip-based digital PCR (cdPCR) to enumerate Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bl-04 and Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM both as single strains and in combination. Primers and probes were designed to differentiate the target strains against other strains of the same species using known single copy, genetic differences. The assay was optimized to include propidium monoazide pre-treatment to prevent amplification of DNA associated with dead probiotic cells as well as liberation of DNA from cells with intact membranes using bead beating. The resulting assay was able to successfully enumerate each strain whether alone or in multiplex. The cdPCR method had a 4 and 5% relative standard deviation (RSD) for Bl-04 and NCFM, respectively, making it more precise than plate counts with an industry accepted RSD of 15%. cdPCR has the potential to replace traditional plate counts because of its precision, strain specificity and the ability to obtain results in a matter of hours.

Recent technology and usage of plastic lenses in image taking objectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamaguchi, Susumu; Sato, Hiroshi; Mori, Nobuyoshi; Kiriki, Toshihiko

2005-09-01

Recently, plastic lenses produced by injection molding are widely used in image taking objectives for digital cameras, camcorders, and mobile phone cameras, because of their suitability for volume production and ease of obtaining an advantage of aspherical surfaces. For digital camera and camcorder objectives, it is desirable that there is no image point variation with the temperature change in spite of employing several plastic lenses. At the same time, due to the shrinking pixel size of solid-state image sensor, there is now a requirement to assemble lenses with high accuracy. In order to satisfy these requirements, we have developed 16 times compact zoom objective for camcorder and 3 times class folded zoom objectives for digital camera, incorporating cemented plastic doublet consisting of a positive lens and a negative lens. Over the last few years, production volumes of camera-equipped mobile phones have increased substantially. Therefore, for mobile phone cameras, the consideration of productivity is more important than ever. For this application, we have developed a 1.3-mega pixels compact camera module with macro function utilizing the advantage of a plastic lens that can be given mechanically functional shape to outer flange part. Its objective consists of three plastic lenses and all critical dimensions related to optical performance can be determined by high precise optical elements. Therefore this camera module is manufactured without optical adjustment in automatic assembling line, and achieves both high productivity and high performance. Reported here are the constructions and the technical topics of image taking objectives described above.

Joint Tomographic Imaging of 3-­-D Density Structure Using Cosmic Ray Muons and High-­-Precision Gravity Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rowe, C. A.; Guardincerri, E.; Roy, M.; Dichter, M.

2015-12-01

As part of the CO2 reservoir muon imaging project headed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboraory (PNNL) under the U.S. Department of Energy Subsurface Technology and Engineering Research, Development, and Demonstration (SubTER) iniative, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and the University of New Mexico (UNM) plan to leverage the recently decommissioned and easily accessible Tunnel Vault on LANL property to test the complementary modeling strengths of muon radiography and high-precision gravity surveys. This tunnel extends roughly 300 feet into the hillside, with a maximum depth below the surface of approximately 300 feet. We will deploy LANL's Mini Muon Tracker (MMT), a detector consisting of 576 drift tubes arranged in alternating parallel planes of orthogonally oriented tubes. This detector is capable of precise determination of trajectories for incoming muons with angular resolution of a few milliradians. We will deploy the MMT at several locations within the tunnel, to obtain numerous crossing muon trajectories and permit a 3D tomographic image of the overburden to be built. In the same project, UNM will use a Scintrex digital gravimeter to collect high-precision gravity data from a dense grid on the hill slope above the tunnel as well as within the tunnel itself. This will provide both direct and differential gravity readings for density modeling of the overburden. By leveraging detailed geologic knowledge of the canyon and the lithology overlying the tunnel, as well as the structural elements, elevations and blueprints of the tunnel itself, we will evaluate the muon and gravity data both independently and in a simultaneous, joint inversion to build a combined 3D density model of the overburden.

The digital implementation of control compensators: The coefficient wordlength issue

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moroney, P.; Willsky, A. S.; Houpt, P. K.

1979-01-01

There exists a number of mathematical procedures for designing discrete-time compensators. However, the digital implementation of these designs, with a microprocessor for example, has not received nearly as thorough an investigation. The finite-precision nature of the digital hardware makes it necessary to choose an algorithm (computational structure) that will perform 'well-enough' with regard to the initial objectives of the design. This paper describes a procedure for estimating the required fixed-point coefficient wordlength for any given computational structure for the implementation of a single-input single-output LOG design. The results are compared to the actual number of bits necessary to achieve a specified performance index.

Precision Diagnosis Of Melanoma And Other Skin Lesions From Digital Images.

PubMed

Bhattacharya, Abhishek; Young, Albert; Wong, Andrew; Stalling, Simone; Wei, Maria; Hadley, Dexter

2017-01-01

Melanoma will affect an estimated 73,000 new cases this year and result in 9,000 deaths, yet precise diagnosis remains a serious problem. Without early detection and preventative care, melanoma can quickly spread to become fatal (Stage IV 5-year survival rate is 20-10%) from a once localized skin lesion (Stage IA 5- year survival rate is 97%). There is no biomarker for melanoma in clinical use, and the current diagnostic criteria for skin lesions remains subjective and imprecise. Accurate diagnosis of melanoma relies on a histopathologic gold standard; thus, aggressive excision of melanocytic skin lesions has been the mainstay of treatment. It is estimated that 36 biopsies are performed for every melanoma confirmed by pathology among excised lesions. There is significant morbidity in misdiagnosing melanoma such as progression of the disease for a false negative prediction vs the risks of unnecessary surgery for a false positive prediction. Every year, poor diagnostic precision adds an estimated $673 million in overall cost to manage the disease. Currently, manual dermatoscopic imaging is the standard of care in selecting atypical skin lesions for biopsy, and at best it achieves 90% sensitivity but only 59% specificity when performed by an expert dermatologist. Many computer vision (CV) algorithms perform better than dermatologists in classifying skin lesions although not significantly so in clinical practice. Meanwhile, open source deep learning (DL) techniques in CV have been gaining dominance since 2012 for image classification, and today DL can outperform humans in classifying millions of digital images with less than 5% error rates. Moreover, DL algorithms are readily run on commoditized hardware and have a strong online community of developers supporting their rapid adoption. In this work, we performed a successful pilot study to show proof of concept to DL skin pathology from images. However, DL algorithms must be trained on very large labelled datasets of images to achieve high accuracy. Here, we begin to assemble a large imageset of skin lesions from the UCSF and the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) dermatology clinics that are well characterized by their underlying pathology, on which to train DL algorithms. If trained on sufficient data, we hypothesize that our approach will significantly outperform general dermatologists in predicting skin lesion pathology. We posit that our work will allow for precision diagnosis of melanoma from widely available digital photography, which may optimize the management of the disease by decreasing unnecessary office visits and the significant morbidity and cost of melanoma misdiagnosis.

Near instantaneous production of digital terrain models in the field using smartphone and Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Micheletti, Natan; Chandler, Jim; Lane, Stuart

2013-04-01

Whilst high-resolution topographic and terrain data is essential in many geoscience applications, its acquisition has traditionally required either specific expertise (e.g. applications of photogrammetry) or expensive equipment (e.g. ground-based laser altimetric systems). Recent work in geomorphology (e.g. James and Robson, 2012; Carbonneau et al., 2012) has demonstrated the potential of Structure-from-Motion photogrammetry as a low cost, low expertise alternative for Digital Elevation Model (DEM) generation. These methods have geomorphological appeal because the more sophisticated image matching approaches remove many of the geometrical constraints associated with image acquisition: traditionally, vertical and "normal" image pairs acquired with a metric camera. This increases both the number of potential applications and the efficacy of image acquisition in the field. It also allows for genuine 3D (where the same (x,y) can have multiple z values) rather than 2.5D (where each (x,y) must have a unique z value) representation of the terrain surface. In this paper, we progress this technology further, by testing what can be acquired using hand-held smartphone technology, where the acquired images can be uploaded in the field to Open Source technology freely available to the research community. This is achieved by evaluating the quality of DEMs generated with a fully automated, open-source, Structure-from-Motion package and a smartphone (Apple Iphone 4) integrated camera (5 megapixels) using terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data as benchmark. To allow a more objective assessment, it is necessary to compare both device and package with traditional approaches. Accordingly, we compare the error in the smartphone DEMs with the errors associated with data derived using a 16.2 megapixel digital camera and processed using the more traditional, commercial, close-range and semi-automated software PhotoModeler. Results demonstrate that centimeter precision DTMs can be achieved at close range, using a smartphone camera and a fully automated package, here illustrated for river bank survey. Results improve to sub-centimeter precision with either higher resolution images or by applying specific post-processing techniques to the smartphone DEMs. Extension to the survey of an entire Alpine alluvial fan system shows that the degradation of precision scales linearly with image scale, but that the quality: maintains a good level of precision; and is influenced equally with the difficulties of separating vegetation and sediment cover, typical of laser scanning systems.

High-resolution MR imaging for dental impressions: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Boldt, Julian; Rottner, Kurt; Schmitter, Marc; Hopfgartner, Andreas; Jakob, Peter; Richter, Ernst-Jürgen; Tymofiyeva, Olga

2018-04-01

Magnetic resonance imaging is an emerging technology in dental medicine. While low-resolution MRI has especially provided means to examine the temporomandibular joint due to its anatomic inaccessibility, it was the goal of this study to assess whether high-resolution MRI is capable of delivering a dataset sufficiently precise enough to serve as digital impression of human teeth. An informed and consenting patient in need of dental restoration with fixed partial dentures was chosen as subject. Two prepared teeth were measured using MRI and the dataset subjected to mathematical processing before Fourier transformation. After reconstruction, a 3D file was generated which was fed into an existing industry standard CAD/CAM process. A framework for a fixed dental prosthesis was digitally modeled and manufactured by laser-sintering. The fit in situ was found to be acceptable by current clinical standards, which allowed permanent placement of the fixed prosthesis. Using a clinical whole-body MR scanner with the addition of custom add-on hardware, contrast enhancement, and data post-processing, resolution and signal-to-noise ratio were sufficiently achieved to allow fabrication of a dental restoration in an acquisition time comparable to the setting time of common dental impression materials. Furthermore, the measurement was well tolerated. The herein described method can be regarded as proof of principle that MRI is a promising option for digital impressions when fixed partial dentures are required.

Digital Assays Part II: Digital Protein and Cell Assays.

PubMed

Basu, Amar S

2017-08-01

A digital assay is one in which the sample is partitioned into many containers such that each partition contains a discrete number of biological entities (0, 1, 2, 3, . . .). A powerful technique in the biologist's toolkit, digital assays bring a new level of precision in quantifying nucleic acids, measuring proteins and their enzymatic activity, and probing single-cell genotype and phenotype. Where part I of this review focused on the fundamentals of partitioning and digital PCR, part II turns its attention to digital protein and cell assays. Digital enzyme assays measure the kinetics of single proteins with enzymatic activity. Digital enzyme-linked immunoassays (ELISAs) quantify antigenic proteins with 2 to 3 log lower detection limit than conventional ELISA, making them well suited for low-abundance biomarkers. Digital cell assays probe single-cell genotype and phenotype, including gene expression, intracellular and surface proteins, metabolic activity, cytotoxicity, and transcriptomes (scRNA-seq). These methods exploit partitioning to 1) isolate single cells or proteins, 2) detect their activity via enzymatic amplification, and 3) tag them individually by coencapsulating them with molecular barcodes. When scaled, digital assays reveal stochastic differences between proteins or cells within a population, a key to understanding biological heterogeneity. This review is intended to give a broad perspective to scientists interested in adopting digital assays into their workflows.

France’s War in Mali: Lessons for an Expeditionary Army

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-01

is digitizing its logistics operations with the aim of achieving significant efficiencies by enabling it to antici- pate precisely how much of a given...complete integration of the GTIA in a digital envi- ronment will without doubt contribute to its ability to endure without wearing out.”14 Regional...Boilley, and Jean Clauzel, Nomades et commandants: Administration et sociétés nomades dans l’ancienne A.O.F., Paris: Karthala, 1993; J. Clauzel

An Automatic System for Global Monitoring of ELF and VLF Radio Noise Phenomena.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-06-01

second low-jitter synchronization signal is also provided for precise triggering of analog-to- digital conversion samples. Both the clock and the...building in 1985 are two riometers (30 MHz and 51.4 MHz), a 3-axis fluxgate magnetometer , a 3-axis micropulsation magnetometer , an all-sky camera, and...of these filters 1s continuously sampled by a computerized recording system, and statistical averages are computed on-site and recorded on digital tape

[Reliability of three dimensional resin model by rapid prototyping manufacturing and digital modeling].

PubMed

Zeng, Fei-huang; Xu, Yuan-zhi; Fang, Li; Tang, Xiao-shan

2012-02-01

To describe a new technique for fabricating an 3D resin model by 3D reconstruction and rapid prototyping, and to analyze the precision of this method. An optical grating scanner was used to acquire the data of silastic cavity block , digital dental cast was reconstructed with the data through Geomagic Studio image processing software. The final 3D reconstruction was saved in the pattern of Stl. The 3D resin model was fabricated by fuse deposition modeling, and was compared with the digital model and gypsum model. The data of three groups were statistically analyzed using SPSS 16.0 software package. No significant difference was found in gypsum model,digital dental cast and 3D resin model (P>0.05). Rapid prototyping manufacturing and digital modeling would be helpful for dental information acquisition, treatment design, appliance manufacturing, and can improve the communications between patients and doctors.

Crystal gazing. Part 2: Implications of advanced in digital data storage technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wells, D. C.

1984-01-01

During the next 5-10 years it is likely that the bit density available in digital mass storage systems (magnetic tapes, optical and magnetic disks) will be increased to such an extent that it will greatly exceed that of the conventional photographic emulsions like IIIaJ which are used in astronomy. These developments imply that it will soon be advantageous for astronomers to use microdensitometers to completely digitize all photographic plates soon after they are developed. Distribution of digital copies of sky surveys and the contents of plate vaults will probably become feasible within ten years. Copies of other astronomical archieves (e.g., Space Telescope) could also be distributed with the same techniques. The implications for designers of future microdensitometers are: (1) there will be a continuing need for precision digitization of large-format photographic imagery, and (2) that the need for real-time analysis of the output of microdensitometers will decrease.

A digital image-based method for determining of total acidity in red wines using acid-base titration without indicator.

PubMed

Tôrres, Adamastor Rodrigues; Lyra, Wellington da Silva; de Andrade, Stéfani Iury Evangelista; Andrade, Renato Allan Navarro; da Silva, Edvan Cirino; Araújo, Mário César Ugulino; Gaião, Edvaldo da Nóbrega

2011-05-15

This work proposes the use of digital image-based method for determination of total acidity in red wines by means of acid-base titration without using an external indicator or any pre-treatment of the sample. Digital images present the colour of the emergent radiation which is complementary to the radiation absorbed by anthocyanines present in wines. Anthocyanines change colour depending on the pH of the medium, and from the variation of colour in the images obtained during titration, the end point can be localized with accuracy and precision. RGB-based values were employed to build titration curves, and end points were localized by second derivative curves. The official method recommends potentiometric titration with a NaOH standard solution, and sample dilution until the pH reaches 8.2-8.4. In order to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed method, titrations of ten red wines were carried out. Results were compared with the reference method, and no statistically significant difference was observed between the results by applying the paired t-test at the 95% confidence level. The proposed method yielded more precise results than the official method. This is due to the trivariate nature of the measurements (RGB), associated with digital images. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study on portable optical 3D coordinate measuring system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Tongqun; Zhu, Jigui; Guo, Yinbiao

2009-05-01

A portable optical 3D coordinate measuring system based on digital Close Range Photogrammetry (CRP) technology and binocular stereo vision theory is researched. Three ultra-red LED with high stability is set on a hand-hold target to provide measuring feature and establish target coordinate system. Ray intersection based field directional calibrating is done for the intersectant binocular measurement system composed of two cameras by a reference ruler. The hand-hold target controlled by Bluetooth wireless communication is free moved to implement contact measurement. The position of ceramic contact ball is pre-calibrated accurately. The coordinates of target feature points are obtained by binocular stereo vision model from the stereo images pair taken by cameras. Combining radius compensation for contact ball and residual error correction, object point can be resolved by transfer of axes using target coordinate system as intermediary. This system is suitable for on-field large-scale measurement because of its excellent portability, high precision, wide measuring volume, great adaptability and satisfying automatization. It is tested that the measuring precision is near to +/-0.1mm/m.

Novel method for measuring a dense 3D strain map of robotic flapping wings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Beiwen; Zhang, Song

2018-04-01

Measuring dense 3D strain maps of the inextensible membranous flapping wings of robots is of vital importance to the field of bio-inspired engineering. Conventional high-speed 3D videography methods typically reconstruct the wing geometries through measuring sparse points with fiducial markers, and thus cannot obtain the full-field mechanics of the wings in detail. In this research, we propose a novel system to measure a dense strain map of inextensible membranous flapping wings by developing a superfast 3D imaging system and a computational framework for strain analysis. Specifically, first we developed a 5000 Hz 3D imaging system based on the digital fringe projection technique using the defocused binary patterns to precisely measure the dynamic 3D geometries of rapidly flapping wings. Then, we developed a geometry-based algorithm to perform point tracking on the precisely measured 3D surface data. Finally, we developed a dense strain computational method using the Kirchhoff-Love shell theory. Experiments demonstrate that our method can effectively perform point tracking and measure a highly dense strain map of the wings without many fiducial markers.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: 42 millisecond pulsars high-precision timing (Desvignes+, 2016)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desvignes, G.; Caballero, R. N.; Lentati, L.; Verbiest, J. P. W.; Champion, D. J.; Stappers, B. W.; Janssen, G. H.; Lazarus, P.; Oslowski, S.; Babak, S.; Bassa, C. G.; Brem, P.; Burgay, M.; Cognard, I.; Gair, J. R.; Graikou, E.; Guillemot, L.; Hessels, J. W. T.; Jessner, A.; Jordan, C.; Karuppusamy, R.; Kramer, M.; Lassus, A.; Lazaridis, K.; Lee, K. J.; Liu, K.; Lyne, A. G.; McKee, J.; Mingarelli, C. M. F.; Perrodin, D.; Petiteau, A.; Possenti, A.; Purver, M. B.; Rosado, P. A.; Sanidas, S.; Sesana, A.; Shaifullah, G.; Smits, R.; Taylor, S. R.; Theureau, G.; Tiburzi, C.; van Haasteren, R.; Vecchio, A.

2017-02-01

This paper presents the EPTA data set, up to mid-2014, that was gathered from the 'historical' pulsar instrumentations at EFF, JBO, NRT and WSRT with, respectively, the EBPP (Effelsberg-Berkeley Pulsar Processor), DFB (Digital FilterBank), BON (Berkeley-Orleans-Nancay) and PuMa (Pulsar Machine) backends. The data recorded with the newest generation of instrumentations, e.g. PSRIX at EFF (Lazarus et al., 2016MNRAS.458..868L) and PuMaII at WSRT (Karuppusamy, Stappers & van Straten 2008PASP..120..191K), will be part of a future EPTA data release. (8 data files).

Comparing the accuracy (trueness and precision) of models of fixed dental prostheses fabricated by digital and conventional workflows.

PubMed

Sim, Ji-Young; Jang, Yeon; Kim, Woong-Chul; Kim, Hae-Young; Lee, Dong-Hwan; Kim, Ji-Hwan

2018-03-31

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the accuracy. A reference model was prepared with three prepared teeth for three types of restorations: single crown, 3-unit bridge, and inlay. Stone models were fabricated from conventional impressions. Digital impressions of the reference model were created using an intraoral scanner (digital models). Physical models were fabricated using a three-dimensional (3D) printer. Reference, stone, and 3D printed models were subsequently scanned using an industrial optical scanner; files were exported in a stereolithography file format. All datasets were superimposed using 3D analysis software to evaluate the accuracy of the complete arch and trueness of the preparations. One-way and two-way analyses of variance (ANOVA) were performed to compare the accuracy among the three model groups and evaluate the trueness among the three types of preparation. For the complete arch, significant intergroup differences in precision were observed for the three groups (p<.001). However, no significant difference in trueness was found between the stone and digital models (p>.05). 3D printed models had the poorest accuracy. A two-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in trueness among the model groups (p<.001) and types of preparation (p<.001). Digital models had smaller root mean square values of trueness of the complete arch and preparations than stone models. However, the accuracy of the complete arch and trueness of the preparations of 3D printed models were inferior to those of the other groups. Copyright © 2018 Japan Prosthodontic Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

On the Rapid Computation of Various Polylogarithmic Constants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, David H.; Borwein, Peter; Plouffe, Simon

1996-01-01

We give algorithms for the computation of the d-th digit of certain transcendental numbers in various bases. These algorithms can be easily implemented (multiple precision arithmetic is not needed), require virtually no memory, and feature run times that scale nearly linearly with the order of the digit desired. They make it feasible to compute, for example, the billionth binary digit of log(2) or pi on a modest workstation in a few hours run time. We demonstrate this technique by computing the ten billionth hexadecimal digit of pi, the billionth hexadecimal digits of pi-squared, log(2) and log-squared(2), and the ten billionth decimal digit of log(9/10). These calculations rest on the observation that very special types of identities exist for certain numbers like pi, pi-squared, log(2) and log-squared(2). These are essentially polylogarithmic ladders in an integer base. A number of these identities that we derive in this work appear to be new, for example a critical identity for pi.

How Advances in Imaging Will Affect Precision Radiation Oncology.

PubMed

Jaffray, David A; Das, Shiva; Jacobs, Paula M; Jeraj, Robert; Lambin, Philippe

2018-06-01

Radiation oncology is 1 of the most structured disciplines in medicine. It is of a highly technical nature with reliance on robotic systems to deliver intervention, engagement of diverse expertise, and early adoption of digital approaches to optimize and execute the application of this highly effective cancer treatment. As a localized intervention, the dependence on sensitive, specific, and accurate imaging to define the extent of disease, its heterogeneity, and adjacency to normal tissues directly affects the therapeutic ratio. Image-based in vivo temporal monitoring of the response to treatment enables adaptation and further affects the therapeutic ratio. Thus, more precise intervention will enable fractionation schedules that better interoperate with advances such as immunotherapy. In the data set-rich era that promises precision and personalized medicine, the radiation oncology field will integrate these new data into highly protocoled pathways of care that begin with multimodality prediction and enable patient-specific adaptation of therapy based on quantitative measures of the individual's dose-volume temporal trajectory and midtherapy predictions of response. In addition to advancements in computed tomography imaging, emerging technologies, such as ultra-high-field magnetic resonance and molecular imaging will bring new information to the design of treatments. Next-generation image guided radiation therapy systems will inject high specificity and sensitivity data and stimulate adaptive replanning. In addition, a myriad of pre- and peritherapeutic markers derived from advances in molecular pathology (eg, tumor genomics), automated and comprehensive imaging analytics (eg, radiomics, tumor microenvironment), and many other emerging biomarkers (eg, circulating tumor cell assays) will need to be integrated to maximize the benefit of radiation therapy for an individual patient. We present a perspective on the promise and challenges of fully exploiting imaging data in the pursuit of personalized radiation therapy, drawing from the presentations and broader discussions at the 2016 American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology-National Cancer Institute workshop on Precision Medicine in Radiation Oncology (Bethesda, MD). Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Acquisition of thin coronal sectional dataset of cadaveric liver.

PubMed

Lou, Li; Liu, Shu Wei; Zhao, Zhen Mei; Tang, Yu Chun; Lin, Xiang Tao

2014-04-01

To obtain the thin coronal sectional anatomic dataset of the liver by using digital freezing milling technique. The upper abdomen of one Chinese adult cadaver was selected as the specimen. After CT and MRI examinations verification of absent liver lesions, the specimen was embedded with gelatin in stand erect position and frozen under profound hypothermia, and the specimen was then serially sectioned from anterior to posterior layer by layer with digital milling machine in the freezing chamber. The sequential images were captured by means of a digital camera and the dataset was imported to imaging workstation. The thin serial section of the liver added up to 699 layers with each layer being 0.2 mm in thickness. The shape, location, structure, intrahepatic vessels and adjacent structures of the liver was displayed clearly on each layer of the coronal sectional slice. CT and MR images through the body were obtained at 1.0 and 3.0 mm intervals, respectively. The methodology reported here is an adaptation of the milling methods previously described, which is a new data acquisition method for sectional anatomy. The thin coronal sectional anatomic dataset of the liver obtained by this technique is of high precision and good quality.

Aquarius Digital Processing Unit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Forgione, Joshua; Winkert, George; Dobson, Norman

2009-01-01

Three documents provide information on a digital processing unit (DPU) for the planned Aquarius mission, in which a radiometer aboard a spacecraft orbiting Earth is to measure radiometric temperatures from which data on sea-surface salinity are to be deduced. The DPU is the interface between the radiometer and an instrument-command-and-data system aboard the spacecraft. The DPU cycles the radiometer through a programmable sequence of states, collects and processes all radiometric data, and collects all housekeeping data pertaining to operation of the radiometer. The documents summarize the DPU design, with emphasis on innovative aspects that include mainly the following: a) In the radiometer and the DPU, conversion from analog voltages to digital data is effected by means of asynchronous voltage-to-frequency converters in combination with a frequency-measurement scheme implemented in field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). b) A scheme to compensate for aging and changes in the temperature of the DPU in order to provide an overall temperature-measurement accuracy within 0.01 K includes a high-precision, inexpensive DC temperature measurement scheme and a drift-compensation scheme that was used on the Cassini radar system. c) An interface among multiple FPGAs in the DPU guarantees setup and hold times.

A time-based front-end ASIC for the silicon micro strip sensors of the bar PANDA Micro Vertex Detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Pietro, V.; Brinkmann, K.-Th.; Riccardi, A.; Ritman, J.; Rivetti, A.; Rolo, M. D.; Stockmanns, T.; Zambanini, A.

2016-03-01

The bar PANDA (Antiproton Annihilation at Darmstadt) experiment foresees many detectors for tracking, particle identification and calorimetry. Among them, the innermost is the MVD (Micro Vertex Detector) responsible for a precise tracking and the reconstruction of secondary vertices. This detector will be built from both hybrid pixel (two inner barrels and six forward disks) and double-sided micro strip (two outer barrels and outer rim of the last two disks) silicon sensors. A time-based approach has been chosen for the readout ASIC of the strip sensors. The PASTA (bar PANDA Strip ASIC) chip aims at high resolution time-stamping and charge information through the Time over Threshold (ToT) technique. It benefits from a Time to Digital Converter (TDC) allowing a time bin width down to 50 ps. The analog front-end was designed to serve both n-type and p-type strips and the performed simulations show remarkable performances in terms of linearity and electronic noise. The TDC consists of an analog interpolator, a digital local controller, and a digital global controller as the common back-end for all of the 64 channels.

High Resolution Digital Surface Model For Production Of Airport Obstruction Charts Using Spaceborne SAR Sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oliveira, Henrique; Rodrigues, Marco; Radius, Andrea

2012-01-01

Airport Obstruction Charts (AOCs) are graphical representations of natural or man-made obstructions (its locations and heights) around airfields, according to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annexes 4, 14 and 15. One of the most important types of data used in AOCs production/update tasks is a Digital Surface Model (first reflective surface) of the surveyed area. The development of advanced remote sensing technologies provide the available tools for obstruction data acquisition, while Geographic Information Systems (GIS) present the perfect platform for storing and analyzing this type of data, enabling the production of digital ACOs, greatly contributing to the increase of the situational awareness of pilots and enhancing the air navigation safety level [1]. Data acquisition corresponding to the first reflective surface can be obtained through the use of Airborne Laser-Scanning and Light Detection and Ranging (ALS/LIDAR) or Spaceborne SAR Systems. The need of surveying broad areas, like the entire territory of a state, shows that Spaceborne SAR systems are the most adequate in economic and feasibility terms of the process, to perform the monitoring and producing a high resolution Digital Surface Model (DSM). The high resolution DSM generation depends on many factors: the available data set, the used technique and the setting parameters. To increase the precision and obtain high resolution products, two techniques are available using a stack of data: the PS (Permanent Scatterers) technique [2], that uses large stack of data to identify many stable and coherent targets through multi- temporal analysis, removing the atmospheric contribution and to minimize the estimation errors, and the Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) technique ([3],[4]), that relies on the use of small baseline SAR interferograms and on the application of the so called singular value decomposition (SVD) method, in order to link independent SAR acquisition data sets, separated by large baselines, thus increasing the number of data used for the analysis.

Drawing for Traffic Marking Using Bidirectional Gradient-Based Detection with MMS LIDAR Intensity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, G.; Takeda, H.; Nakamura, K.

2016-06-01

Recently, the development of autonomous cars is accelerating on the integration of highly advanced artificial intelligence, which increases demand for a digital map with high accuracy. In particular, traffic markings are required to be precisely digitized since automatic driving utilizes them for position detection. To draw traffic markings, we benefit from Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS) equipped with high-density Laser imaging Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanners, which produces large amount of data efficiently with XYZ coordination along with reflectance intensity. Digitizing this data, on the other hand, conventionally has been dependent on human operation, which thus suffers from human errors, subjectivity errors, and low reproductivity. We have tackled this problem by means of automatic extraction of traffic marking, which partially accomplished to draw several traffic markings (G. Takahashi et al., 2014). The key idea of the method was extracting lines using the Hough transform strategically focused on changes in local reflection intensity along scan lines. However, it failed to extract traffic markings properly in a densely marked area, especially when local changing points are close each other. In this paper, we propose a bidirectional gradient-based detection method where local changing points are labelled with plus or minus group. Given that each label corresponds to the boundary between traffic markings and background, we can identify traffic markings explicitly, meaning traffic lines are differentiated correctly by the proposed method. As such, our automated method, a highly accurate and non-human-operator-dependent method using bidirectional gradient-based algorithm, can successfully extract traffic lines composed of complex shapes such as a cross walk, resulting in minimizing cost and obtaining highly accurate results.

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

Bailey, David

In the January 2002 edition of SIAM News, Nick Trefethen announced the '$100, 100-Digit Challenge'. In this note he presented ten easy-to-state but hard-to-solve problems of numerical analysis, and challenged readers to find each answer to ten-digit accuracy. Trefethen closed with the enticing comment: 'Hint: They're hard! If anyone gets 50 digits in total, I will be impressed.' This challenge obviously struck a chord in hundreds of numerical mathematicians worldwide, as 94 teams from 25 nations later submitted entries. Many of these submissions exceeded the target of 50 correct digits; in fact, 20 teams achieved a perfect score of 100more » correct digits. Trefethen had offered $100 for the best submission. Given the overwhelming response, a generous donor (William Browning, founder of Applied Mathematics, Inc.) provided additional funds to provide a $100 award to each of the 20 winning teams. Soon after the results were out, four participants, each from a winning team, got together and agreed to write a book about the problems and their solutions. The team is truly international: Bornemann is from Germany, Laurie is from South Africa, Wagon is from the USA, and Waldvogel is from Switzerland. This book provides some mathematical background for each problem, and then shows in detail how each of them can be solved. In fact, multiple solution techniques are mentioned in each case. The book describes how to extend these solutions to much larger problems and much higher numeric precision (hundreds or thousands of digit accuracy). The authors also show how to compute error bounds for the results, so that one can say with confidence that one's results are accurate to the level stated. Numerous numerical software tools are demonstrated in the process, including the commercial products Mathematica, Maple and Matlab. Computer programs that perform many of the algorithms mentioned in the book are provided, both in an appendix to the book and on a website. In the process, the authors take the reader on a wide-ranging tour of modern numerical mathematics, with enough background material so that even readers with little or no training in numerical analysis can follow. Here is a list of just a few of the topics visited: numerical quadrature (i.e., numerical integration), series summation, sequence extrapolation, contour integration, Fourier integrals, high-precision arithmetic, interval arithmetic, symbolic computing, numerical linear algebra, perturbation theory, Euler-Maclaurin summation, global minimization, eigenvalue methods, evolutionary algorithms, matrix preconditioning, random walks, special functions, elliptic functions, Monte-Carlo methods, and numerical differentiation.« less

High-Accuracy Tidal Flat Digital Elevation Model Construction Using TanDEM-X Science Phase Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Seung-Kuk; Ryu, Joo-Hyung

2017-01-01

This study explored the feasibility of using TanDEM-X (TDX) interferometric observations of tidal flats for digital elevation model (DEM) construction. Our goal was to generate high-precision DEMs in tidal flat areas, because accurate intertidal zone data are essential for monitoring coastal environment sand erosion processes. To monitor dynamic coastal changes caused by waves, currents, and tides, very accurate DEMs with high spatial resolution are required. The bi- and monostatic modes of the TDX interferometer employed during the TDX science phase provided a great opportunity for highly accurate intertidal DEM construction using radar interferometry with no time lag (bistatic mode) or an approximately 10-s temporal baseline (monostatic mode) between the master and slave synthetic aperture radar image acquisitions. In this study, DEM construction in tidal flat areas was first optimized based on the TDX system parameters used in various TDX modes. We successfully generated intertidal zone DEMs with 57-m spatial resolutions and interferometric height accuracies better than 0.15 m for three representative tidal flats on the west coast of the Korean Peninsula. Finally, we validated these TDX DEMs against real-time kinematic-GPS measurements acquired in two tidal flat areas; the correlation coefficient was 0.97 with a root mean square error of 0.20 m.

Integration of aerial remote sensing imaging data in a 3D-GIS environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moeller, Matthias S.

2003-03-01

For some years sensor systems have been available providing digital images of a new quality. Especially aerial stereo scanners acquire digital multispectral images with an extremely high ground resolution of about 0.10 - 0.15m and provide in addition a Digital Surface Models (DSM). These imaging products both can be used for a detailed monitoring at scales up to 1:500. The processed georeferenced multispectral orthoimages can be readily integrated into GIS making them useful for a number of applications. The DSM, derived from forward and backward facing sensors of an aerial imaging system provides a ground resolution of 0.5 m and can be used for 3D visualization purposes. In some cases it is essential, to store the ground elevation as a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) and also the height of 3-dimensional objects in a separated database. Existing automated algorithms do not work precise for the extraction of DTM from aerial scanner DSM. This paper presents a new approach which combines the visible image data and the DSM data for the generation of DTM with a reliable geometric accuracy. Already existing cadastral data can be used as a knowledge base for the extraction of building heights in cities. These elevation data is the essential source for a GIS based urban information system with a 3D visualization component.

A Macintosh-Based Scientific Images Video Analysis System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Groleau, Nicolas; Friedland, Peter (Technical Monitor)

1994-01-01

A set of experiments was designed at MIT's Man-Vehicle Laboratory in order to evaluate the effects of zero gravity on the human orientation system. During many of these experiments, the movements of the eyes are recorded on high quality video cassettes. The images must be analyzed off-line to calculate the position of the eyes at every moment in time. To this aim, I have implemented a simple inexpensive computerized system which measures the angle of rotation of the eye from digitized video images. The system is implemented on a desktop Macintosh computer, processes one play-back frame per second and exhibits adequate levels of accuracy and precision. The system uses LabVIEW, a digital output board, and a video input board to control a VCR, digitize video images, analyze them, and provide a user friendly interface for the various phases of the process. The system uses the Concept Vi LabVIEW library (Graftek's Image, Meudon la Foret, France) for image grabbing and displaying as well as translation to and from LabVIEW arrays. Graftek's software layer drives an Image Grabber board from Neotech (Eastleigh, United Kingdom). A Colour Adapter box from Neotech provides adequate video signal synchronization. The system also requires a LabVIEW driven digital output board (MacADIOS II from GW Instruments, Cambridge, MA) controlling a slightly modified VCR remote control used mainly to advance the video tape frame by frame.