The Siegen automatic measuring system for nuclear track detectors: New developments

Abstract

Starting ten years ago we developed completely automatic scanning and measuring systems for nuclear track detectors. The hardware and software of these systems was described in several papers 1–7 . The systems were used in different heavy ion and cosmic ray experiments 8–11 . In this paper we describe some new developments. Our autofocus systems based on the contrast of the video picture and on a laser autofocus were improved in speed and in reliability. Based on new algorithms faster programs were developed to scan for nuclear tracks in plastic detectors. Methods for separation of overlapping tracks were improved. Interactive programs for track measurements were developed which are very helpful for space biophysics experiments. Finally new methods for track measurements in nuclear emulsions irradiated with a beam perpendicular to the detector surface are described in this paper.