Rapid Prototyping Environment Research Articles

Benchmarking signal quality and spatiotemporal distribution of interictal spikes in prolonged human iEEG recordings using CorTec wireless brain interchange

Neuromodulation through implantable pulse generators (IPGs) represents an important treatment approach for neurological disorders. While the field has observed the success of state-of-the-art interventions, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or responsive neurostimulation (RNS), implantable systems face various technical challenges, including the restriction of recording from a limited number of brain sites, power management, and limited external access to the assessed neural data in a continuous fashion. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time in this study, we investigated the feasibility of recording human intracranial EEG (iEEG) using a benchtop version of the Brain Interchange (BIC) unit of CorTec, which is a portable, wireless, and externally powered implant with sensing and stimulation capabilities. We developed a MATLAB/SIMULINK-based rapid prototyping environment and a graphical user interface (GUI) to acquire and visualize the iEEG captured from all 32 channels of the BIC unit. We recorded prolonged iEEG (~ 24 h) from three human subjects with externalized depth leads using the BIC and commercially available clinical amplifiers simultaneously in the epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU). The iEEG signal quality of both streams was compared, and the results demonstrated a comparable power spectral density (PSD) in all the systems in the low-frequency band (< 80 Hz). However, notable differences were primarily observed above 100 Hz, where the clinical amplifiers were associated with lower noise floor (BIC-17 dB vs. clinical amplifiers < − 25 dB). We employed an established spike detector to assess and compare the spike rates in each iEEG stream. We observed over 90% conformity between the spikes rates and their spatial distribution captured with BIC and clinical systems. Additionally, we quantified the packet loss characteristic in the iEEG signal during the wireless data transfer and conducted a series of simulations to compare the performance of different interpolation methods for recovering the missing packets in signals at different frequency bands. We noted that simple linear interpolation has the potential to recover the signal and reduce the noise floor with modest packet loss levels reaching up to 10%. Overall, our results indicate that while tethered clinical amplifiers exhibited noticeably better noise floor above 80 Hz, epileptic spikes can still be detected successfully in the iEEG recorded with the externally powered wireless BIC unit opening the road for future closed-loop neuromodulation applications with continuous access to brain activity.

Using Gesture Recognition for AGV Control: Preliminary Research.

In this paper, we present our investigation of the 2D Hand Gesture Recognition (HGR) which may be suitable for the control of the Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV). In real conditions, we deal with, among others, a complex background, changing lighting conditions, and different distances of the operator from the AGV. For this reason, in the article, we describe the database of 2D images created during the research. We tested classic algorithms and modified them by us ResNet50 and MobileNetV2 which were retrained partially using the transfer learning approach, as well as proposed a simple and effective Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). As part of our work, we used a closed engineering environment for rapid prototyping of vision algorithms, i.e., Adaptive Vision Studio (AVS), currently Zebra Aurora Vision, as well as an open Python programming environment. In addition, we shortly discuss the results of preliminary work on 3D HGR, which seems to be very promising for future work. The results show that, in our case, from the point of view of implementing the gesture recognition methods in AGVs, better results may be expected for RGB images than grayscale ones. Also using 3D imaging and a depth map may give better results.

Fast, Scalable, and Interactive Software for Landau-de Gennes Numerical Modeling of Nematic Topological Defects

Numerical modeling of nematic liquid crystals using the tensorial Landau-de Gennes (LdG) theory provides detailed insights into the structure and energetics of the enormous variety of possible topological defect configurations that may arise when the liquid crystal is in contact with colloidal inclusions or structured boundaries. However, these methods can be computationally expensive, making it challenging to predict (meta)stable configurations involving several colloidal particles, and they are often restricted to system sizes well below the experimental scale. Here we present an open-source software package that exploits the embarrassingly parallel structure of the lattice discretization of the LdG approach. Our implementation, combining CUDA/C++ and OpenMPI, allows users to accelerate simulations using both CPU and GPU resources in either single- or multiple-core configurations. We make use of an efficient minimization algorithm, the Fast Inertial Relaxation Engine (FIRE) method, that is well-suited to large-scale parallelization, requiring little additional memory or computational cost while offering performance competitive with other commonly used methods. In multi-core operation we are able to scale simulations up to supra-micron length scales of experimental relevance, and in single-core operation the simulation package includes a user-friendly GUI environment for rapid prototyping of interfacial features and the multifarious defect states they can promote. To demonstrate this software package, we examine in detail the competition between curvilinear disclinations and point-like hedgehog defects as size scale, material properties, and geometric features are varied. We also study the effects of an interface patterned with an array of topological point-defects.

Software environment for rapid prototyping of graph and network algorithms

The article presents an innovative software environment for rapid prototyping of graph and network algorithms. The environment consists of two main components: an editor of graphs &amp; networks and an editor of algorithms’ code. The presented environment enables interactive visualization of algorithms implemented therein, which in turn allows quick verification of algorithms results as well as its correctness. The aim of the environment construction was to provide a solution for rapid prototyping of novel algorithms. The developed tool can also be successfully used for educational purposes.

Evaluation of an open-source collaborative web-GIS prototype in risk management with students

Over the past decades, advancements in web services and web-based geospatial technologies have led to increasing delivery, access and analysis of rich spatial information over the web. With the use of open access data and open-source technology, it has become possible for policy and decision makers to make more transparent and informed decisions. Under the framework of the CHANGES project, a prototype web-based collaborative decision support platform was developed for the evaluation and selection of risk management measures, mainly targeting flood and landslide hazards. The design of the conceptual framework was based on the initial observations obtained from field visits and stakeholders’ meetings at the case study areas of the project. A three-tier client–server architecture backed up by Boundless (OpenGeo) was applied with its client side development environment for rapid prototyping. This developed prototype was tested with university students to obtain feedback on the conceptual and technical aspects of the platform as well as to analyse how the application of interactive tools during an exercise could assist students in studying and understanding risk management. During the exercise, different roles (authorities, technicians, community) were assigned to each group of students for identification and selection of risk mitigation measures in a study area: Cucco village located in Malborghetto-Valbruna municipality of North-Eastern Italy. Data were collected by means of written feedback forms on specific aspects of the platform and the exercise. The subsequent analysis of the feedback reveals that students with previous experience in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) responded positively and showed interests in performing exercises with such kinds of interactive tools for learning, compared to the ones with fewer or no GIS experience. These results also show that the prototype is useful and supportive as a decision support tool in risk management while user-friendliness, interactivity and practical aspects of the platform could be further improved.

Reversing the General One-Trailer System: Asymptotic Curvature Stabilization and Path Tracking

Backing up a trailer can be a challenge, particularly for inexperienced recreational drivers. We therefore develop two feedback controllers, which support the driver with automatic steering inputs in various situations. Based on the kinematics of the general one-trailer system, we first derive an input/output-linearizing control law that asymptotically stabilizes a given curvature for the trailer. This enables the driver to directly steer the trailer, e.g., by means of a turning knob, such that the trailer will automatically be prevented from jackknifing. The control task is then modified and solved so that the vehicle can also take over the complete stabilization task along given paths. In combination with a path-planning algorithm, this enables automated parallel parking for example. The complete system is implemented on a rapid-prototyping environment and evaluated in real-world scenarios.

MITK-US: real-time ultrasound support within MITK

Intra-procedural acquisition of the patient anatomy is a key technique in the context of computer-assisted interventions (CAI). Ultrasound (US) offers major advantages as an interventional imaging modality because it is real time and low cost and does not expose the patient or physician to harmful radiation. To advance US-related research, the purpose of this paper was to develop and evaluate an open-source framework for US-based CAI applications. We developed the open-source software module MITK-US for acquiring and processing US data as part of the well-known medical imaging interaction toolkit (MITK). To demonstrate its utility, we applied the module to implement a new concept for US-guided needle insertion. Performance of the US module was assessed by determining frame rate and latency for both a simple sample application and a more complex needle guidance system. MITK-US has successfully been used to implement both sample applications. Modern laptops achieve frame rates above 24 frames per second. Latency is measured to be approximately 250 ms or less. MITK-US can be considered a viable rapid prototyping environment for US-based CAI applications.

Digital Controller Development Methodology Based on Real-Time Simulations with LabVIEW FPGAc Hardware-Software Toolset

In this paper, we exemplify the use of NI Lab-VIEW FPGA as a rapid prototyping environment for digitalcontrollers. In our power electronics laboratory, it has beensuccessfully employed in the development, debugging, and test ofdifferent power converter controllers for microgrid applications.The paper shows how this high level programming language,together with its target hardware platforms, including CompactRIO and Single Board RIO systems, allows researchers andstudents to develop even complex applications in reasonabletimes. The availability of efficient drivers for the consideredhardware platforms frees the users from the burden of low levelprogramming. At the same time, the high level programmingapproach facilitates software re-utilization, allowing the laboratoryknow-how to steadily grow along time. Furthermore, itallows hardware-in-the-loop real-time simulation, that proved tobe effective, and safe, in debugging even complex hardware andsoftware co-designed controllers. To illustrate the effectiveness ofthese hardware-software toolsets and of the methodology basedupon them, two case studies are presented.

Aerodynamics and Stealth of the Low-observability RQ-3 DarkStar

Marques P. (2013). Aerodynamics and stealth of the low- observability DarkStar vehicle. International Journal of Unmanned Systems Engineering. 1(S3): 1-5. The RQ-3 DarkStar high-altitude endurance UAV has an unusual shape that represents a compromise between aerodynamic efficiency and stealth constraints for low detectability in heavily guarded airspace. This technical note examines the aerodynamic and stealth characteristics of the rare RQ-3 DarkStar configuration. The distinctive flying-saucer fuselage and slightly-forward-swept rectangular wings present a challenge in aerodynamic design. The vehicle's lifting body sheds a leading edge vortex that triggers flow separation in the wing root region at high angles of attack. Also, the disk-shaped body generates upwash in the inboard wing area, increasing the angle of attack and the likelihood of flow separation. CFD played an integral role in the rapid prototyping environment in which the DarkStar was designed, built, and fight- tested. A wing root insert was devised using CFD that decreased the lift generated by the body, and attenuated the strength of the leading edge vortex and flow separation. Therefore, CFD was essential in diagnosing the complex aerodynamics and preventing the pitch up tendency of the initial DarkStar prototype. The turbo engine is mounted above the fuselage to shield the compressor and exhaust noise and heat signatures. The small size and low-profile airframe of the DarkStar is the result of shaping for radar concealment at the expense of downgraded aerodynamic performance. © Marques Aviation Ltd - Press.

Evaluation and exploration of RFID systems by rapid prototyping

Today's RFID systems exhibit relatively little functionality, while future systems and ubiquitous computing applications require an ample set of general purpose features, like wide communication ranges, high data rates, high reliability, and many more. In order to meet these high-performance goals, several challenges in state of the art RFID systems need to be managed: (1) the compatibility of RFID equipment, working according to different standards in various frequency domains, (2) the thorough understanding of the performance impact of physical layer system parameters, (3) the venture of novel wireless technologies in the context of RFID, and finally, (4) to deal with the increased complexity of high-performance RFID systems. Therefore, designers desire a highly configurable, flexible, and high-performance RFID environment to experimentally explore the underlying physical conditions and to evaluate novel RFID technologies and designs. This paper introduces the concept of rapid prototyping in RFID and provides a survey of system simulators, demonstrators, and rapid prototyping environments. A guideline for the setup for such a rapid prototyping system applicable for RFID is presented, and its implementation is demonstrated. Finally, some exemplary measurements carried out with this rapid prototyping system are presented.

Evaluation of voltage source IGBT converters for three-phase induction motor drives

Modern induction machine (IM) drives are subject to a variety of system perturbations, i.e., weak grid conditions and the resulting DC-link voltage fluctuations, that could possibly compromise machine performance characteristics such as speed, torque, and load current. This paper investigates such circumstances, specifically the influence of DC-link variations on the IM drive under different control and modulation strategies and addresses the timely issues of power loss calculation methods in the most common voltage source three-phase PWM converters (VSC) with active front-end unit (AFE). The AFE converts the AC line input into a controlled DC-link voltage, which is then used as input into a three-phase IM drive, based on an IGBT voltage source inverter (VSI). It should be noted that within this work an AFE is used to control the DC link voltage, ultimately mimicking weak grid conditions. The AFE of the IM drive adopts the hysteresis-based modulation technique and the VSI is controlled by space vector PWM-based methods. The IM drive will be evaluated using different control strategies and verified based on the test-bed using a control system rapid prototyping environment such as dSPACE.

Design of PM Motor Drive Course and DSP Based Robot Traction System Laboratory

This paper presents a part of North Africa/Europe collaboration results in education to develop project-oriented courses in power electronics and motor drive field. The course aims to teach Permanent Magnet motor drives close to a real world project of significant size and depth so as to be motivational, namely mobile robot project. Particular skills, student will acquire, are those relative to the detailed design and implementation of PM motor controllers in DSP based rapid prototyping environment. Simulation work is completed using graphical modeling tools in Simulink/Plecs, while real-time implementation is achieved by means of eZdspF2812 board and Simulink/TI C2000 Embedded Target tools. This flexible development environment fit the robot traction system very well and provides exactly the functionality necessary for an efficient PM motor drives teaching as demonstrated by a set of simulation and experiments.

Winning the Usability War: A Long-Term Approach to Success in Rapid-Prototyping Environments

A panel of experienced usability professionals discusses the challenges of working in a rapid-prototyping environment and lessons learned during the system development of a wide range of military equipment. The panelists will provide examples, “war stories” and recommendations for implementing a variety of methods and approaches that foster collaboration among design team members as well as the creation of usable designs that meet targeted end-users' needs. Discussion topics will include: prioritizing design options effectively, cultivating multidisciplinary working relationships, selecting usability methods that work best, building strategies to address human system integration requirements for different milestones, and taking advantage of spiral development in a rapid-prototyping environment. The panel discussions will reveal key success factors and insights that are generalizable across a wide array of product domains and businesses.

Nurturing Creativity and Innovation Through FabKids: A Case Study

This paper will report on a case study that was conducted involving Grade 10 learners who were exposed to a high-tech rapid-prototyping environment of a Fabrication Laboratory as part of a FabKids experience. This project must be viewed in the context of a global shortage of key skills placing a higher priority on the initiation and development of a pipeline to attract youth into science, engineering and technology careers. Creativity and innovation feature high on the skills agenda but more importantly preliminary results indicate that learners from a broad range of schools were able to operate effectively in this post constructivist environment. Participants had to apply their knowledge, skill, attitudes and values in order to produce a solution to the challenges provided. The fundamentals of the design process of investigate, design, make, evaluate and communicate were emphasized where the FabKids had to draw on their own collective knowledge using a range of technologies available to them.

Voreen: a rapid-prototyping environment for ray-casting-based volume visualizations.

By splitting a complex ray-casting process into different tasks performed on different processors, Voreen provides a lot of flexibility because users can intervene at different points during ray casting. Voreen's object-oriented design lets users easily create customized processor classes that cooperate seamlessly with existing classes. A user-friendly GUI supports rapid prototyping of visualization ideas. We've implemented several applications based on our library. In the future, we'd like to further extend Voreen's capabilities to make visualization prototyping even easier on all abstraction levels. Thus, we plan to realize a set of dedicated processor skeletons, which are solely configured through shader programs and can thus be modified at runtime.

Guest Editor Introduction: Special Issue on High Performance Computing for High Productivity Environments

Rapid prototyping and application development environments are often the tool of choice for many developers and users. These environments and languages include MATLAB®, perl, python, R and Ruby. They are popular, in large part, because theymake computing accessible to “accidental programmers” (scientists, statisticians, economists and others not specifically trained as programmers) and because they deliver on their promise of rapid prototyping to more seasoned programmers. Users of these systems often face a dilemma as their problems grow: livewithin the performance and resource constraints of these systems, or leave these comfortable environments behind and take up tools that are traditionally associated with high(er) performance computing (C/C++/FORTRAN, MPI, OpenMP). This special issue presents six projects aimed at resolving this dilemma in favor of remaining in the environment of choice, but augmenting it so that larger problems can be handled with relative ease (although, perhaps, not with absolutely optimal performance). The projects presented cover a good sampling of popular environments: MATLAB, python, R and Ruby, with a touch of Perl on the side. The enhancement strategies span a range of approaches: easy to use interfaces for accessing high performance libraries that were written the “old fashioned” way, parallel versions of apply/map functions, data parallel frameworks, cleanly wrapped RPC systems, and virtual shared memory. Some approaches are specific to one environment; others are applicable to many or most. Taken together, they are indicative of the interest in and the importance of creative responses to the challenge of making HPC accessible to a broad range of users. Sharma and Martin discuss parallel constructs for MATLAB, one of the most popular commercial systems in this area. They address two related challenges: (i) develop parallel functionality that fits well with the MATLAB computational model;

The Experiences of Girls in a Fabrication Engineering Environment

The article reports on an effort to address the issue of inequality in girls’ and women’s access to science, engineering and technology (SET) education and careers through raising an awareness on SET among school girls in South Africa. Secondary school girls were exposed to a hands-on rapid-prototyping environment of a fabrication laboratory with the aim of imparting knowledge and familiarity with the nature and possibilities of the engineering field. The girls were exposed to various skills including electronics, computer-aided design, media ability, management, team-work, and problem-solving, peer-mentoring and communicating ideas. Exposure to technology enhanced the girls’ confidence in being able to handle technology-related tasks

Design and Implementation of Parallel Fuzzy PID Controller for High-Performance Brushless Motor Drives: An Integrated Environment for Rapid Control Prototyping

This paper presents an integrated environment for the rapid prototyping of a robust fuzzy proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller that allows rapid realization of novel designs. Both the design of the fuzzy PID controller and its integration with the classical PID in a global control system are developed. The architecture of the fuzzy PID controller is basically composed of three parallel fuzzy subcontrollers. Then, the parallel subcontrollers are grouped together to form the overall fuzzy PID controller. The fuzzy proportional, integral, and derivative gains are direct output from the parallel fuzzy subcontrollers and are derived in the error domain. Thus, the proposed architecture presents an alternative to control schemes employed so far. The integrated controller is formulated and implemented in real time, using the speed control of a brushless drive system as a test bed. The design, analysis, and implementation stages are carried out entirely using a dSPACE DS1104 digital-signal-processor-based real-time data acquisition control system and MATLAB/Simulink environment. Experimental results show that the proposed hybrid fuzzy PID controller produces superior control performance than the conventional PID controllers, particularly in handling nonlinearities and external disturbances.

Supply chain optimisation and protocol environment (SCOPE) for rapid prototyping and analysis of complex supply chains

There is a strong need for modelling tools that allow decision makers to rapidly develop aggregate models of supply chains, including both material and information flow, that they can use to gain insights and assess alternative configurations. We present a prototype implementation of such a system and apply it to a simple supply chain for validation purposes, and to a real world case study from the consumer packaged goods industry.

Guest Editor's Introduction: Rapid System Prototyping

The March, April, and May 2007 issues of IEEE Distributed Systems Online feature revised versions of the best papers presented at the 17th International IEEE Workshop on Rapid System Prototyping (RSP 06). These articles were selected by reviewers from a large selection of excellent submissions. "Gaining Insight into Executable Models during Runtime: Architecture and Mappings" by Philipp Graf and Klaus D. Muller-Glaser appears in the March issue. The article describes an extension to a model-based development approach that provides an architecture for debugging models that execute on target systems or in dedicated rapid-prototyping environments.