scholarly journals Experimental Assessment of Sleep-Related Parameters by Passive Infrared Sensors: Measurement Setup, Feature Extraction, and Uncertainty Analysis

Sensors ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (17) ◽  
pp. 3773 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara Casaccia ◽  
Eleonora Braccili ◽  
Lorenzo Scalise ◽  
Gian Marco Revel
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Quality Parameter ◽  
Motion Sensor ◽  
Infrared Sensors ◽  
Sleep Monitoring ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Sleep Parameters ◽  
Set Up ◽  
Reference Sensor ◽  
Passive Infrared

A simple sleep monitoring measurement method is presented in this paper, based on a simple, non-invasive motion sensor, the Passive InfraRed (PIR) motion sensor. The easy measurement set-up proposed is presented and its performances are compared with the ones provided by a commercial, ballistocardiographic bed sensor, used as reference tool. Testing was conducted on 25 nocturnal acquisitions with a voluntary, healthy subject, using the PIR-based proposed method and the reference sensor, simultaneously. A dedicated algorithm was developed to correlate the bed sensor outputs with the PIR signal to extract sleep-related features: sleep latency (SL), sleep interruptions (INT), and time to wake (TTW). Such sleep parameters were automatically identified by the algorithm, and then correlated to the ones computed by the reference bed sensor. The identification of these sleep parameters allowed the computation of an important, global sleep quality parameter: the sleep efficiency (SE). It was calculated for each nocturnal acquisition and then correlated to the SE values provided by the reference sensor. Results show the correlation between the SE values monitored with the PIR and the bed sensor with a robust statistic confidence of 4.7% for the measurement of SE (coverage parameter k = 2), indicating the validity of the proposed, unobstructive approach, based on a simple, small, and low-cost sensor, for the assessment of important sleep-related parameters.

Development of a Capacitor Probe to Detect Subsurface Deterioration in Concrete

1997 ◽  
Vol 503 ◽  
Author(s):  
B. K. Diefenderfer ◽  
I. L. Al-Qadi ◽  
J. J. Yoho ◽  
S. M. Riad ◽  
A. Loulizi
Keyword(s):  
Dielectric Constant ◽  
Portland Cement ◽  
Electromagnetic Waves ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Complex Dielectric Constant ◽  
Life Cycle Costs ◽  
Parallel Plates ◽  
Portland Cement Concrete ◽  
Cement Concrete ◽  
Set Up

ABSTRACTPortland cement concrete (PCC) structures deteriorate with age and need to be maintained or replaced. Early detection of deterioration in PCC (e.g., alkali-silica reaction, freeze/thaw damage, or chloride presence) can lead to significant reductions in maintenance costs. However, it is often too late to perform low-cost preventative maintenance by the time deterioration becomes evident. By developing techniques that would enable civil engineers to evaluate PCC structures and detect deterioration at early stages (without causing further damage), optimization of life-cycle costs of the constructed facility and minimization of disturbance to the facility users can be achieved.Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods are potentially one of the most useful techniques ever developed for assessing constructed facilities. They are noninvasive and can be performed rapidly. Portland cement concrete can be nondestructively evaluated by electrically characterizing its complex dielectric constant. The real part of the dielectric constant depicts the velocity of electromagnetic waves in PCC. The imaginary part, termed the “loss factor,” describes the conductivity of PCC and the attenuation of electromagnetic waves.Dielectric properties of PCC have been investigated in a laboratory setting using a parallel plate capacitor operating in the frequency range of 0.1 to 40.1MIHz. This capacitor set-up consists of two horizontal-parallel plates with an adjustable separation for insertion of a dielectric specimen (PCC). While useful in research, this approach is not practical for field implementation. A new capacitor probe has been developed which consists of two plates, located within the same horizontal plane, for placement upon the specimen to be tested. Preliminary results show that this technique is feasible and results are promising; further testing and evaluation is currently underway.

Fault Localization of Power-Ground Short via Signal Injection and Oscilloscope Technique

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Binh Nguyen
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Short Circuit ◽  
Fault Localization ◽  
Fault Isolation ◽  
Test Apparatus ◽  
Good Working ◽  
Signal Injection ◽  
Set Up ◽  
Non Destructive ◽  
Short Circuit Condition

Abstract For those attempting fault isolation on computer motherboard power-ground short issues, the optimal technique should utilize existing test equipment available in the debug facility, requiring no specialty equipment as well as needing a minimum of training to use effectively. The test apparatus should be both easy to set up and easy to use. This article describes the signal injection and oscilloscope technique which meets the above requirements. The signal injection and oscilloscope technique is based on the application of Ohm's law in a short-circuit condition. Two experiments were conducted to prove the effectiveness of these techniques. Both experiments simulate a short-circuit condition on the VCC3 power rail of a good working PC motherboard and then apply the signal injection and oscilloscope technique to localize the short. The technique described is a simple, low cost and non-destructive method that helps to find the location of the power-ground short quickly and effectively.

scholarly journals Prediction of Fruity Aroma Intensity and Defect Presence in Virgin Olive Oil Using an Electronic Nose

Sensors ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (7) ◽  
pp. 2298
Author(s):  
Pablo Cano Marchal ◽  
Chiara Sanmartin ◽  
Silvia Satorres Martínez ◽  
Juan Gómez Ortega ◽  
Fabio Mencarelli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Olive Oil ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Virgin Olive Oil ◽  
General Purpose ◽  
Quality Parameter ◽  
Lasso Regression ◽  
Virgin Olive Oils ◽  
Electronic Noses ◽  
Olive Oils ◽  
Instrumental Technique

The organoleptic profile of a Virgin Olive Oil is a key quality parameter that is currently obtained by human sensory panels. The development of an instrumental technique capable of providing information about this profile quickly and online is of great interest. This work employed a general purpose e-nose, in lab conditions, to predict the level of fruity aroma and the presence of defects in Virgin Olive Oils. The raw data provided by the e-nose were used to extract a set of features that fed a regressor to predict the level of fruity aroma and a classifier to detect the presence of defects. The results obtained were a mean validation error of 0.5 units for the prediction of fruity aroma using lasso regression; and 88% accuracy for the defect detection using logistic regression. Finally, the identification of two out of ten specific sensors of the e-nose that can provide successful results paves the way to the design of low-cost specific electronic noses for this application.

Optimum Design for the Frame of Open Type Abrasive Flow Polish Machine

2012 ◽  
Vol 497 ◽  
pp. 89-93
Author(s):  
Liang Liang Yuan ◽  
Ke Hua Zhang ◽  
Li Min
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element ◽  
Natural Frequency ◽  
Finite Element Methods ◽  
Optimization Design ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Force Model ◽  
Optimization Analysis ◽  
Open Type ◽  
Set Up

In order to process heterotype hole of workpiece precisely, an open abrasive flow polish machine is designed, and the optimization design of machine frame is done for low cost. Firstly, basing on the parameters designed with traditional ways, three-dimensional force model is set up with the soft of SolidWorks. Secondly, the statics and modal analysis for machine body have been done in Finite element methods (FEM), and then the optimization analysis of machine frame has been done. At last, the model of rebuild machine frame has been built. Result shows that the deformation angle value of machine frame increased from 0.72′ to 1.001′, the natural frequency of the machine decreased from 75.549 Hz to 62.262 Hz, the weight of machine decreased by 74.178 Kg after optimization. It meets the strength, stiffness and angel stiffness requirement of machine, reduces the weight and cost of machine.

scholarly journals The grades and freshness assessment of eggs based on density detection using machine vision and weighing sensor

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Supakorn Harnsoongnoen ◽  
Nuananong Jaroensuk
Keyword(s):  
Machine Vision ◽  
Vision System ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Measuring System ◽  
Coefficient Of Determination ◽  
Water Displacement ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Future Potential ◽  
Non Destructive ◽  
Egg Freshness

AbstractThe water displacement and flotation are two of the most accurate and rapid methods for grading and assessing freshness of agricultural products based on density determination. However, these techniques are still not suitable for use in agricultural inspections of products such as eggs that absorb water which can be considered intrusive or destructive and can affect the result of measurements. Here we present a novel proposal for a method of non-destructive, non-invasive, low cost, simple and real—time monitoring of the grading and freshness assessment of eggs based on density detection using machine vision and a weighing sensor. This is the first proposal that divides egg freshness into intervals through density measurements. The machine vision system was developed for the measurement of external physical characteristics (length and breadth) of eggs for evaluating their volume. The weighing system was developed for the measurement of the weight of the egg. Egg weight and volume were used to calculate density for grading and egg freshness assessment. The proposed system could measure the weight, volume and density with an accuracy of 99.88%, 98.26% and 99.02%, respectively. The results showed that the weight and freshness of eggs stored at room temperature decreased with storage time. The relationship between density and percentage of freshness was linear for the all sizes of eggs, the coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9982, 0.9999, 0.9996, 0.9996 and 0.9994 for classified egg size classified 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively. This study shows that egg freshness can be determined through density without using water to test for water displacement or egg flotation which has future potential as a measuring system important for the poultry industry.

scholarly journals Innovative passive reinforcements for the gradual stabilization of a landslide according with the observational method

Landslides ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lorenzo Brezzi ◽  
Alberto Bisson ◽  
Davide Pasa ◽  
Simonetta Cola
Keyword(s):  
Monitoring System ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Economic Losses ◽  
Fe Model ◽  
Site Conditions ◽  
Observational Method ◽  
Rainy Period ◽  
Sustainable Solutions ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Set Up

AbstractA large number of landslides occur in North-Eastern Italy during every rainy period due to the particular hydrogeological conditions of this area. Even if there are no casualties, the economic losses are often significant, and municipalities frequently do not have sufficient financial resources to repair the damage and stabilize all the unstable slopes. In this regard, the research for more economically sustainable solutions is a crucial challenge. Floating composite anchors are an innovative and low-cost technique set up for slope stabilization: it consists in the use of passive sub-horizontal reinforcements, obtained by coupling a traditional self-drilling bar with some tendons cemented inside it. This work concerns the application of this technique according to the observational method described within the Italian and European technical codes and mainly recommended for the design of geotechnical works, especially when performed in highly uncertain site conditions. The observational method prescribes designing an intervention and, at the same time, using a monitoring system in order to correct and adapt the project during realization of the works on the basis of new data acquired while on site. The case study is the landslide of Cischele, a medium landslide which occurred in 2010 after an exceptional heavy rainy period. In 2015, some floating composite anchors were installed to slow down the movement, even if, due to a limited budget, they were not enough to ensure the complete stabilization of the slope. Thanks to a monitoring system installed in the meantime, it is now possible to have a comparison between the site conditions before and after the intervention. This allows the evaluation of benefits achieved with the reinforcements and, at the same time, the assessment of additional improvements. Two stabilization scenarios are studied through an FE model: the first includes the stabilization system built in 2015, while the second evaluates a new solution proposed to further increase the slope stability.

scholarly journals Hydraulic insertions of cochlear implant electrode arrays into the human cadaver cochlea: preliminary findings

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Geraldine ◽  
Thomas Lenarz ◽  
Thomas S. Rau
Keyword(s):  
Cochlear Implant ◽  
Outcome Measurement ◽  
Round Window ◽  
Handling Time ◽  
Human Cadaver ◽  
Hydraulic Actuator ◽  
Electrode Arrays ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Insertion Tool ◽  
Set Up

Abstract Objectives (1) To evaluate the feasibility of a non-invasive, novel, simple insertion tool to perform automated, slow insertions of cochlear implant electrode arrays (EA) into a human cadaver cochlea; (2) to estimate the handling time required by our tool. Methods Basic science study conducted in an experimental OR. Two previously anonymized human cadaver heads, three commercially available EAs, and our novel insertion tool were used for the experiments. Our tool operates as a hydraulic actuator that delivers an EA at continuous velocities slower than manually feasible. Intervention(s): the human cadaver heads were prepared with a round-window approach for CI surgery in a standard fashion. Twelve EA insertion trials using our tool involved: non-invasive fixation of the tool to the head; directing the tool to the round window and EA mounting onto the tool; automated EA insertion at approximately 0.1 mm/s driven by hydraulic actuation. Outcome measurement(s): handling time of the tool; post-insertion cone-beam CT scans to provide intracochlear evaluation of the EA insertions. Results Our insertion tool successfully inserted an EA into the human cadaver cochlea (n = 12) while being attached to the human cadaver head in a non-invasive fashion. Median time to set up the tool was 8.8 (7.2–9.4) min. Conclusion The first insertions into the human cochlea using our novel, simple insertion tool were successful without the need for invasive fixation. The tool requires < 10 min to set up, which is clinically acceptable. Future assessment of intracochlear trauma is needed to support its safety profile for clinical translation.

scholarly journals Specialist pneumonia intervention nurse service improves pneumonia care and outcome

2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. e000863
Author(s):  
Robert C Free ◽  
Matthew Richardson ◽  
Camilla Pillay ◽  
Kayleigh Hawkes ◽  
Julie Skeemer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
National Health Service ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Community Acquired Pneumonia ◽  
National Audit ◽  
Mortality Benefit ◽  
Model Of Care ◽  
Spin Period ◽  
National Health Service Trust ◽  
Set Up

BackgroundA specialist pneumonia intervention nursing (SPIN) service was set up across a single National Health Service Trust in an effort to improve clinical outcomes. A quality improvement evaluation was performed to assess the outcomes associated with implementing the service before (2011–2013) and after (2014–2016) service implementation.ResultsThe SPIN service reviewed 38% of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) admissions in 2014–2016. 82% of these admissions received antibiotic treatment in <4 hours (68.5% in the national audit). Compared with the pre-SPIN period, there was a significant reduction in both 30-day (OR=0.77 (0.70–0.85), p<0.0001) and in-hospital (OR=0.66 (0.60–0.73), p<0.0001) mortality after service implementation, with a review by the service showing the largest independent 30-day mortality benefit (HR=0.60 (0.53–0.67), p<0.0001). There was no change in length of stay (median 6 days).ConclusionImplementation of a SPIN service improved adherence to BTS guidelines and achieved significant reductions in CAP-associated mortality. This enhanced model of care is low cost, highly effective and readily adoptable in secondary care.

Micromolding Fabrication of Biocompatible Dry Micro-Pyramid Array Electrodes for Wearable Biopotential Monitoring

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marco Vinicio Alban ◽  
Haechang Lee ◽  
Hanul Moon ◽  
Seunghyup Yoo
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Skin Irritation ◽  
Electrode Impedance ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Solution Processes ◽  
Dry Electrodes ◽  
Array Electrode ◽  
Low Cost Manufacturing ◽  
Electromyography Signals

Abstract Thin dry electrodes are promising components in wearable healthcare devices. Assessing the condition of the human body by monitoring biopotentials facilitates the early diagnosis of diseases as well as their prevention, treatment, and therapy. Existing clinical-use electrodes have limited wearable-device usage because they use gels, require preparation steps, and are uncomfortable to wear. While dry electrodes can improve these issues and have demonstrated performance on par with gel-based electrodes, providing advantages in mobile and wearable applications; the materials and fabrication methods used are not yet at the level of disposable gel electrodes for low-cost mass manufacturing and wide adoption. Here, a low-cost manufacturing process for thin dry electrodes with a conductive micro-pyramidal array is presented for large-scale on-skin wearable applications. The electrode is fabricated using micromolding techniques in conjunction with solution processes in order to guarantee ease of fabrication, high device yield, and the possibility of mass production compatible with current semiconductor production processes. Fabricated using a conductive paste and an epoxy resin that are both biocompatible, the developed micro-pyramidal array electrode operates in a conformal, non-invasive manner, with low skin irritation, which ensures improved comfort for brief or extended use. The operation of the developed electrode was examined by analyzing electrode-skin-electrode impedance, electroencephalography, electrocardiography, and electromyography signals and comparing them with those measured simultaneously using gel electrodes.

Non-invasive intelligent monitoring system for fault detection in induction motor based on bio piezoelectric sensor using ANN

2022 ◽  
Author(s):  
Massine GANA ◽  
Hakim ACHOUR ◽  
Kamel BELAID ◽  
Zakia CHELLI ◽  
Mourad LAGHROUCHE ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Neural Network ◽  
Artificial Neural Network ◽  
Induction Motor ◽  
Vibration Analysis ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Piezoelectric Sensor ◽  
Integrated System ◽  
Easy Access ◽  
Non Invasive ◽  
Artificial Neural

Abstract This paper presents a design of a low-cost integrated system for the preventive detection of unbalance faults in an induction motor. In this regard, two non-invasive measurements have been collected then monitored in real time and transmitted via an ESP32 board. A new bio-flexible piezoelectric sensor developed previously in our laboratory, was used for vibration analysis. Moreover an infrared thermopile was used for non-contact temperature measurement. The data is transmitted via Wi-Fi to a monitoring station that intervenes to detect an anomaly. The diagnosis of the motor condition is realized using an artificial neural network algorithm implemented on the microcontroller. Besides, a Kalman filter is employed to predict the vibrations while eliminating the noise. The combination of vibration analysis, thermal signature analysis and artificial neural network provides a better diagnosis. It ensures efficiency, accuracy, easy access to data and remote control, which significantly reduces human intervention.

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