Real-time Connections Research Articles

Adaptive Consensus Algorithms: Designing for Durability against Unstable Network Connections

In distributed systems, achieving a consensus among nodes is crucial for ensuring data integrity and operational synchronization. A prevalent obstacle in this context is the instability of network connections, which can significantly undermine system performance and reliability. This article delves into a sophisticated strategy for refining consensus algorithms, aiming to introduce adaptability and fortify resilience against the unpredictability of network conditions. It describes and proposes a new method that modifies traditional consensus mechanisms to better withstand the challenges posed by unstable network environments. The essence of the method is to solve the consensus problem by dynamically adjusting the network parameters to match the real-time connection better. Further analysis of the system operation during the time of correct functioning allows us to detect failures with the help of a timeout, which signals the loss of communication with a node with which it is not possible to exchange messages. This approach makes it possible to improve the system's conclusion about the malfunction of a particular node and avoid possible false conclusions about its malfunction. Adjusting the delay value can help maintain stable system performance under variable network conditions.

A Novel Architecture for Virtual Network Twin Deployment

In this paper, a novel architecture is proposed that enhances network connectivity by combining network virtualization and the digital twin approach. A virtual network twin (VNT) framework is designed to emulate the behavior of the original network within a virtualized environment. This framework provides an enhanced connection experience for users, mirroring the performance of the original network while avoiding the limitations of previous methods such as Telnet, SSH, and VPN. By integrating the network virtualization approach and the concept of digital twins, this framework can improve network visibility, security, and robustness in real-time connectivity through appropriate communication protocols and artificial intelligence (AI) methods. The application of this proposal can significantly impact key areas such as medical applications, autonomous driving, and space communications. This paper introduces the VNT architecture; its core components; requirements; and evaluation metrics, such as the accuracy of the VNT.

REASSURED evaluation of the Bioline HCV point-of-care testing for diagnosing hepatitis C virus infection in primary healthcare settings of Ghana: a study protocol

IntroductionHepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a silent epidemic that needs a comprehensive and contextualised approach to manage. Access to readily available, affordable and acceptable HCV point-of-care (POC) in vitro...

Open-Source Solutions for Real-Time 3D Geospatial Web Integration

Abstract. The recent development of Urban Digital Twin (UDT) structures and the spread of Internet of Things (IoT) technology have extended the concept of Digital Twin (DT) to urban environment representation, enabling real-time connections between geospatial representations and their real-world counterparts. Concurrently, advancements in surveying technologies and web geospatial services have facilitated the acquisition of extensive 2D and 3D geospatial data, making their spatial integration essential. While some proprietary software solutions have recently enabled initial examples of UDT by integrating various 3D geospatial data and real-time sensor acquisition, the development of open-source solutions for real-time web-based geospatial management remains a challenge. This work demonstrates a possible open-source solution for developing a UDT accessible via the web. The case study involves the web visualization platform of the new Faculty of ITC building at the University of Twente in Enschede (The Netherlands), which is connected in real-time with weather data services provided by Visual Crossing (1). The platform is based on an HTML5 framework and employs WebGL JavaScript graphic libraries to visualize different modules of 3D web visualization that integrate various local and remote 3D datasets. The framework adopted in this experiment can be used in the future for developing low-cost UDT web platforms beneficial for researchers, municipalities, and private companies interested in the real-time geospatial management of urban environments.

Implementasi Backup Koneksi Jaringan Menggunakan Metode Failover MikroTik pada PT Tiga Kawan Sertifikasi

The internet plays a vital role in supporting business operations in companies or organizations by accelerating the flow of information and enabling real-time connections. According to a report by We Are Social, the number of internet users in Indonesia reached 213 million in January 2023, accounting for about 77% of the total population. However, despite the numerous ISPs in Indonesia, not all internet services are affordable or of high quality, and some areas remain inaccessible to providers using fiber optic connections. PT. Tiga Kawan Sertifikasi, a company engaged in legal services in Tangerang, faces challenges with its internet connection as it relies solely on a single provider, Orbit from Telkomsel. Issues arise when the modem signal frequently drops due to the use of SIM card media instead of fiber optic cables. The proposed solution is to add another provider as an alternative and implement a failover method on a Mikrotik router to ensure a stable connection.

Characterization of damage behavior and failure mechanisms of the bonded‐bolted hybrid three‐bolt joint in composite laminates

AbstractIn this paper, the mechanical properties, damage modes, and bolt load distribution of the bonded‐bolted hybrid three‐bolt joint were investigated by a combination of experiments and numerical simulations. Acoustic emission (AE) was used to monitor the tensile process of the connection in real time, and the K‐means clustering algorithm was used to realize the cluster analysis of the damage modes. A numerical simulation model of the tensile process of the joint was established using ABAQUS simulation software. The progressive damage evolution of composite laminates, and adhesive layer was characterized by using the VUMAT subroutine, the B‐K failure criterion, and cohesive element with zero thickness, respectively. The results show that four main damage modes occur in composite laminates during tension: matrix cracking, delamination, fiber pull‐out, and fiber breakage, with corresponding peak frequency ranges of (0–80 kHz), (80–210 kHz), (210–330 kHz), and (330–375 kHz), respectively. The adhesive layer between the laminates mainly exhibits peeling failure because of the secondary bending effect. In the load‐bearing process, the adhesive layer was loaded first and failed, and the bolt loading was delayed. Meanwhile, the results of bolt load distribution showed that the bolts and the adhesive layer at both ends carried greater loads.Highlights Damage modes and damage evolution of the bonded‐bolted hybrid joint in tension were analyzed by combining acoustic emission technology and numerical simulation. The simulation of delamination damage in composite laminates was carried out by inserting zero‐thickness cohesive elements into the laminates, and the delamination damage between the carbon fiber layup and the adjacent glass fiber layup was analyzed. The effect of the inclusion of the adhesive layer on the mechanical properties of the joint and the distribution of the bolt load was analyzed.

A blockchain transaction mechanism in the delay tolerant network

Current blockchain systems have high requirements on network connection and data transmission rate, for example, nodes have to receive the latest blocks in time to update the blockchain, nodes have to immediately broadcast the generated block to other nodes for consensus, which restricts the blockchain to run only on real-time connection networks, but the existence of delay tolerant networks poses a great challenge to the deployment of blockchain systems. To address this challenge, a novel blockchain transaction mechanism is proposed. First, the block structure is modified by adding a flag, and on this basis, the definition of the extrachain is proposed. Secondly, based on the blockchain transaction process, transaction verification and consensus algorithms on the extrachain are presented. Thirdly, both the extrachain selection algorithm and appending algorithm are proposed, so that the extrachain can be appended to the blockchain fairly and safely. Finally, an extrachain transmission scheme is presented to broadcast the blocks generated in the delayed network to the normal network. Theoretical analysis and simulation experiments further illustrate the efficiency of the proposed mechanism.

Unlocking Athletic Potential The Athle-E-Team Software Solution

The "Athle-E-Team" project is an innovative collaborative sports platform designed to revolutionize the way athletes connect and engage in sports within their local communities. With a focus on enhancing the overall sports experience, the platform utilizes cutting-edge technologies to foster real-time connections and facilitate seamless play among nearby athletes. Key features include a user-friendly interface for easy navigation, integrated chat functionality for communication, and robust search capabilities for both players and nearby sports facilities. This dynamic platform not only addresses the challenges of traditional sports community engagement but also empowers athletes to organize impromptu games, locate available grounds, and build a vibrant and connected local sports community. "Athle-E-Team" represents a significant leap forward in leveraging technology to create a more accessible, interactive, and inclusive environment for sports enthusiasts.

Network Performance and Technological Feasibility of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Network Extension

The operational range of conventional and license-free radio-controlled drones is limited due to line-of-sight restrictions (LoS). There exists a definitive method for operating a drone. Consequently, in order to fly the drone beyond the visual line of sight (BVLoS), it is necessary to replace the drone's original wireless communications equipment with a device that requires a licence and is connected to a cellular network. Long-Term Evolution (LTE), a terrestrial communication technique, enables a drone to establish a real-time connection with a ground station. This connection serves the goals of command and control (C&C) as well as payload delivery. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the electromagnetic environment undergoes changes as altitude increases, which can potentially complicate the process of interfacing with drones over terrestrial cellular networks. The objective of this article is to develop a prototype control system for low-altitude microdrones using LTE technology. Additionally, it seeks to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of cellular connectivity for drones operating at various altitudes. This evaluation will be conducted by examining factors like as latency, handover, and signal strength. At a certain altitude, the received signal experiences a decrease in power level by 20 dBm and a degradation in signal quality by 10 dB. The data throughput of the downlink had a fall of 70%, while the latency exhibited an increase of 94 ms. Despite meeting the basic criteria for drone cellular connection, the existing LTE network necessitates enhancements in order to expand aerial coverage, mitigate interference, and minimise network latency.

Joyful Aging: Helping Senior Citizens Embrace Life's Golden Years with Vitality and Comfort

In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting demographics, the issue of elderly care has emerged as a critical concern globally. With aging populations on the rise, ensuring the well-being and independence of elderly individuals has become a paramount goal for societies worldwide. Many elderly individuals encounter challenges in performing daily tasks independently, such as grocery shopping, transportation, medical appointments, and companionship. Factors like mobility limitations, social isolation, and lack of immediate support networks further compound these challenges, impacting the quality of life for elderly individuals. In response to these pressing needs, this research introduces Joyful aging, a mobile application designed to provide accessible assistance and support to elderly individuals. The app aims to bridge the gap between elderly individuals in need of assistance and reliable helpers who can offer support with various daily tasks. By harnessing the power of technology, Joyful aging seeks to empower elderly individuals to maintain their independence, enhance their quality of life, and remain actively engaged in their communities. Developed with a user-centric approach, the app prioritizes usability, accessibility, and safety to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for both elderly users and helpers. By facilitating real-time connections between users and helpers, Joyful aging offers a convenient and reliable solution to address the diverse needs of elderly individuals, from basic errands to social interactions. This research paper provides a comprehensive overview of Joyful aging, including its development process, key features and functionalities, usability considerations, user testing and feedback, potential impact, challenges, and future directions. By examining the development and implementation of Joyful aging, this research contributes to the growing body of literature on technology-based solutions for elderly care, highlighting the transformative potential of mobile applications in enhancing the well-being of elderly individuals.

Advanced robotics automation for field operations: Leveraging AI and machine learning for dynamic, real-world applications

Robotic automation powered by artificial intelligence and Machine learning is revolutionalizing field operations in manufacturing, agriculture, construction, mining & defense sectors. The current paper examines the critical technologies for this change: AI, robotics, collaborative robots or robotics, and energy management. In addressing these questions, the article describes some practical uses of field robotics and the benefits these systems bring to activities/operations conducted in difficult/hostile environments. However, the following represent some challenges associated with the various implementations: Technical drawbacks, Data security issues, and high implementation costs. In the envisaged future of robotics in field operation, the paper presents some trends, including multi-bot systems, enhanced energy, and real-time connectivity, as some of the trends expected to improve Field robotics further. Last but not least, robotics automation holds the potential to revolutionize industries by enhancing human effort and enhancing productivity with ideas that are out of the box in problem-solving sensibility.

An interactive augmented reality framework to enhance the user experience and operational skills in electronics laboratories

Augmented reality (AR) stands as a widely embraced technology that significantly enhances learning experiences for students. AR offers an instructional approach supported by technological design, thereby fostering enriched learning interactions. This research proposes an interactive AR framework, intended to create an augmented reality learning environment (ARLE) for the specific needs of electronics engineering laboratory hardware operations. The ARLE functions as an active learning system designed using a user-centered methodology. It offers interactive 3D models of laboratory equipment, providing learners with preliminary training in equipment operation. The real-time connection between the laboratory apparatus and the AR environment is established using the Arduino board. This interface empowers users to control the AR simulation through the laboratory equipment seamlessly. An experimental study involving 80 engineering students was conducted to evaluate the impact of AR intervention on user experience, usability, and operational skills. The participants were divided into two groups: the experimental group (N = 40) and the control group (N = 40). The experimental group underwent electronics equipment training using ARLE, while the control group followed instructions from a standard instrument handbook. To assess the usability and user experience of ARLE, the system usability scale (SUS) and the user experience questionnaire (UEQ) were employed (N = 40). The findings revealed an SUS score of 80.9 for ARLE, categorizing it as “good” according to SUS ratings. Additionally, the UEQ results demonstrated significantly favorable scores across the six scales when compared to the benchmark dataset. The study's outcomes demonstrate that AR intervention offers learners significant pedagogical value, resulting in a substantial positive impact on operational skills in electronics laboratories.

A comprehensive digital twin framework for building environment monitoring with emphasis on real-time data connectivity and predictability

The concept of digital twins, initially developed in manufacturing, has found applications in various industries. However, its adoption in the construction field is still nascent, with a limited understanding of its benefits and implications. Existing examples of digital twin implementation in construction mainly provide general frameworks or possibilities for performance. To effectively harness the potential of digital twins in construction, establishing connectivity and predictability for data exchange between the physical and virtual realms is crucial. This research defines the essential requirements for real-time connectivity and predictability in digital twin implementation and proposes a framework and architecture based on these principles. The proposed method is evaluated through the implementation of a digital twin for monitoring the environmental performance of existing buildings, revealing its effectiveness and challenges. This study serves as a valuable exemplar for the development of a digital twin platform dedicated to construction monitoring.

Live stream of prehospital point-of-care ultrasound during cardiopulmonary resuscitation – A feasibility trial

BackgroundCurrent resuscitation guidelines recommend that skilled persons could use ultrasound to detect reversible causes during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) where the examination can be safely integrated into the Advanced Life Support (ALS) algorithm. However, in a prehospital setting performing and rapidly interpreting ultrasound can be challenging for physicians. Implementing remote, expert-guided, and real-time transmissions of ultrasound examinations offers the opportunity for tele-support, even during an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The aim of this feasibility study was to evaluate the impact of tele-supported ultrasound in ALS on hands-off time during an OHCA. MethodsIn an urban setting, physicians performed point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) on patients during OHCA using a portable device, either with tele-support (n = 30) or without tele-support (n = 12). Where tele-support was used, the ultrasound image was transmitted via a remote real-time connection to an on-call specialist in anaesthesia and intensive care medicine with an advanced level of critical care ultrasound expertise. The primary safety endpoint of this study was to evaluate whether POCUS can be safely integrated into the algorithm, and to provide an analysis of hands-off time before, during, and after POCUS during OHCA. ResultsIn all 42 cases it was possible to perform POCUS during regular rhythm analyses, and no additional hands-off time was required. In 40 of these 42 cases, the physicians were able to perform POCUS during a single regular rhythm analysis, with two periods required only in two cases. The median hands-off time during these rhythm analyses for POCUS with tele-support was 10 (8–13) seconds, and 11 (9–14) seconds for POCUS without tele-support. Furthermore, as a result of POCUS, in a quarter of all cases the physician on scene altered their diagnosis of the primary suspected cause of cardiac arrest, leading to a change in treatment strategy. ConclusionsThis feasibility study demonstrated that POCUS with tele-support can be safely performed during OHCA in an urban environment.Trial Registration (before patient enrolment): ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04817475.

A Comparative Study of Network Simulators

A network simulator is a tool that can simulate and analyze the behavior of computer networks. They are widely used by the research community to test and evaluate the performance of networks in a virtual environment before deploying them in the real world. The simulators allow the users to test the network without the need to physical hardware or any real time connections. We have studied and compared the detail features of the Network Simulators including the Qualnet simulator which we have implemented in our college.

BIM to BEM for Building Energy Analysis: A Review of Interoperability Strategies

The main objective of this review is to summarize and thoroughly investigate the most popular and promising BIM (building information modeling) and BEM (building energy modeling) interoperability strategies employed in the last years (2004–2023), highlighting pros and cons of each strategy and trying to understand the reason for the still limited BIM–BEM interaction. This review summarizes the main countries, areas, modeling tools, and interoperability strategies, with the advantages and disadvantages of each one. The methodology is based on the PRISMA protocol, and two databases were used for the research: Scopus and Google Scholar. A total of 532 publications were selected and 100 papers were deemed useful for the purposes of this review. The main findings led to the identification of four different interoperability strategies between BIM and BEM tools: (1) real-time connection; (2) standardized exchange formats and middleware corrective tools; (3) adherence to model view definitions; (4) proprietary tool-chain. These strategies were found to be characterized by different degrees of complexity, time required for information exchange, proprietary or opensource software, ability to reduce information loss, and detailed energy results. The results of this study showed that, to date, there is no better interoperability strategy, and that further efforts are needed so that interoperability between the two tools can become commonplace.

Design of a remote assistance model for truck maintenance in the mining industry

PurposeIt is well known in the mining industry that the increase in failures and breakdowns is due mainly to a poor maintenance policy for the equipment, in addition to the difficult access that specialized personnel have to combat the breakdown, which translates into more machine downtime. For this reason, this study aims to propose a remote assistance model for diagnosing and repairing critical breakdowns in mining industry trucks using augmented reality techniques and data analytics with a quality approach that considerably reduces response times, thus optimizing human resources.Design/methodology/approachIn this work, the six-phase CRIPS-DM methodology is used. Initially, the problem of fault diagnosis in trucks used in the extraction of material in the mining industry is addressed. The authors then propose a model under study that seeks a real-time connection between a service technician attending the truck at the mine site and a specialist located at a remote location, considering the data transmission requirements and the machine's characterization.FindingsIt is considered that the theoretical results obtained in the development of this study are satisfactory from the business point of view since, in the first instance, it fulfills specific objectives related to the telecare process. On the other hand, from the data mining point of view, the results manage to comply with the theoretical aspects of the establishment of failure prediction models through the application of the CRISP-DM methodology. All of the above opens the possibility of developing prediction models through machine learning and establishing the best model for the objective of failure prediction.Originality/valueThe original contribution of this work is the proposal of the design of a remote assistance model for diagnosing and repairing critical failures in the mining industry, considering augmented reality and data analytics. Furthermore, the integration of remote assistance, the characterization of the CAEX, their maintenance information and the failure prediction models allow the establishment of a quality-based model since the database with which the learning machine will work is constantly updated.

Digital Twin for Acoustics and Stage Craft Facility Management in a Multipurpose Hall

Digital twins aim to virtually replicate the static and dynamic building characteristics through real-time connectivity between virtual and physical counterparts. Despite its potential, research into digital twins for facility management (FM) in multipurpose spaces is at an early stage, especially to control and optimize the various uses and configuration layouts. One of the major barriers to the adoption of digital twin technology in multipurpose buildings is the lack of interoperability, primarily between building information modeling (BIM) and Internet of things (IoT) data sources. This paper presents a possible digital-twin architecture to enable digital-twin applications aiming to impact building performance, acting on the facility management of stagecraft and variable acoustic architectural elements to control the reverberation time in real time. The case study of Roberto De Silva Multipurpose Hall is presented, in which the indoor acoustic quality is controlled by the digital twin that returns the reverberation time output as a function of stage equipment layouts, variable acoustic elements and hall occupancy.

A Review on the Healthcare Supply Chain Management in Transforming Hospital Services

The aim of this paper is to present a novel idea to revolutionize hospital services by integrating healthcare supply chain management principles. By using a web application which enables hospitals to establish a real-time connection and streamline patient transfers. Many sectors focus on supply chain management optimization and qualifications to construct a better network of suppliers for their end consumers. Especially in healthcare sector, not only for pharmaceutical products but also for hospital materials, supply chain management gets importance for service quality and patient satisfaction. Thus, there are many studies about supply chain management in healthcare to emphasize its importance. In this study it is aim to put forward more review of existing solution on healthcare management system and patient transfer. Keywords- Supply Chain Management, Healthcare Service Delivery, MERN stack web application, Real-time data processing, Patient Transfers, Predictive Analytics, Patient-Centric Care, Efficiency, Seamless Coordination, Fast Connectivity

Beyond accuracy: leveraging ASSURED criteria for field evaluation of point-of-care tests for food animal diseases.

The growing availability of point-of-care tests (POCTs) for food-animal diseases offers opportunities for timely diagnosis, facilitating the efficient implementation of control measures. However, field assessment of new POCTs are yet to be standardized. This paper discusses the opportunity of expanding the current approach for the evaluation and validation of POCTs in food animal disease diagnosis, highlighting the limitations of traditional practice that primarily relies on estimating diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity and specificity). Here, the use of a protocol referred to as FIT-REASSURED, a modified framework combining the ASSURED and REASSURED criteria, is proposed to comprehensively assess POCTs. FIT-REASSURED encompasses key criteria such as fitness for purpose, real-time connectivity, ease of specimen collection, affordability, sensitivity, specificity, user-friendliness, rapidity and robustness, equipment-free operation, and deliverability. By incorporating these attributes, FIT-REASSURED provides a customizable approach to assess the accuracy, affordability, and utility of POCTs. Through collaborative efforts among stakeholders, the implementation of a standardized scorecard based on these FIT-REASSURED criteria can improve the reliability and practicality of POCTs in food-animal health.