Semi-automatic Operation Research Articles

Automatic, semi-automatic and manual validation of urban drainage data

Advances in sensor technology and the possibility of automated long distance data transmission have made continuous measurements the preferable way of monitoring urban drainage processes. Usually, the collected data have to be processed by an expert in order to detect and mark the wrong data, remove them and replace them with interpolated data. In general, the first step in detecting the wrong, anomaly data is called the data quality assessment or data validation. Data validation consists of three parts: data preparation, validation scores generation and scores interpretation. This paper will present the overall framework for the data quality improvement system, suitable for automatic, semi-automatic or manual operation. The first two steps of the validation process are explained in more detail, using several validation methods on the same set of real-case data from the Belgrade sewer system. The final part of the validation process, which is the scores interpretation, needs to be further investigated on the developed system.

Peptizer, a Tool for Assessing False Positive Peptide Identifications and Manually Validating Selected Results

False positive peptide identifications are a major concern in the field of peptidecentric, mass spectrometry-driven gel-free proteomics. They occur in regions where the score distributions of true positives and true negatives overlap. Removal of these false positive identifications necessarily involves a trade-off between sensitivity and specificity. Existing postprocessing tools typically rely on a fixed or semifixed set of assumptions in their attempts to optimize both the sensitivity and the specificity of peptide and protein identification using MS/MS spectra. Because of the expanding diversity in available proteomics technologies, however, these postprocessing tools often struggle to adapt to emerging technology-specific peculiarity. Here we present a novel tool named Peptizer that solves this adaptability issue by making use of pluggable assumptions. This research-oriented postprocessing tool also includes a graphical user interface to perform efficient manual validation of suspect identifications for optimal sensitivity recovery. Peptizer is open source software under the Apache2 license and is written in Java.

Consistency constraints and 3D building reconstruction

Virtual architectural (indoor) scenes are often modeled in 3D for various types of simulation systems. For instance, some authors propose methods dedicated to lighting, heat transfer, acoustic or radio-wave propagation simulations. These methods rely in most cases on a volumetric representation of the environment, with adjacency and incidence relationships. Unfortunately, many buildings data are only given by 2D plans and the 3D needs varies from one application to another. To face these problems, we propose a formal representation of consistency constraints dedicated to building interiors and associated with a topological model. We show that such a representation can be used for: (i) reconstructing 3D models from 2D architectural plans (ii) detecting automatically geometrical, topological and semantical inconsistencies (iii) designing automatic and semi-automatic operations to correct and enrich a 2D plan. All our constraints are homogeneously defined in 2D and 3D, implemented with generalized maps and used in modeling operations. We explain how this model can be successfully used for lighting and radio-wave propagation simulations.

A hybrid measurement approach for close-range photogrammetry

Full automation in close-range photogrammetric measurement has long been a practical reality. However, constraints apply to the process such that automated 3D measurement is generally confined to targeted points in an environment of controlled illumination. The ready availability of consumer-grade digital cameras has made photogrammetric measurement accessible and more widely employed for a host of new applications, the majority of which call for 3D measurement of other than signalized object features. Process automation is therefore typically precluded. This paper discusses a hybrid measurement approach which involves fully automatic network orientation with targets, while at the same time supporting follow-up semi-automatic and manual operations such as feature point and line extraction and surface measurement via image matching. The topics discussed include camera calibration, the metric exploitation of colour attributes, issues related to image point correspondence determination, operator assisted feature measurement and surface extraction. All are important to the practical realisation of the hybrid measurement approach.

Pulp moulding machines for the production of packing paper elements

Paper pulp molds are now commonly applied in the technology of modern packing for a wide range of products. The technological process of producing the paper molds has three basic phases: paper pulp preparation, in which water and waste paper are the basic raw materials, the formation of product in tool pulp moulding machines and process drying. The firm "SERVOTEH" from Belgrade has developed various pulp moulding machines for different operating conditions (manual, semiautomatic and automatic operation), different manufacturing capacities and an alternative number of tools. The system of "SERVOTEH" pulp moulding machines covers several construction solutions: a sinking system, veer system and rotation system. This paper presents the technological process, as well as the integral and concept approach to the design of pulp moulding machines and system tools.

Establishment of publicly available cDNA material and information resource of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Chlorophyta) to facilitate gene function analysis

A large-scale analysis of expressed sequence tags (EST) was conducted in a unicellular green alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. To complement the previously published EST sequences obtained from photoautotrophically grown cells and cells under CO2 stress condition, a mixture of cells grown under various stress conditions including light, temperature, salt and limited nutrient was used as a material to construct the complementary DNA library. We have generated 12,842 5′ end sequences from this library, making the collection 50,832 in its entirety. To speed up the data processing step, an internal semiautomatic operation pipeline was constructed. Using this system, quality check of the generated sequences, trimming, and database search for primary annotation was performed. Clustering of the EST sequences by BLAST followed by Phrap has produced 3748 consensus sequences and 7721 singletons. To make this high-quality set of assemblage information as well as clones available to the research community, a Web database with useful services was created at http://www.kazusa.or.jp/en/plant/chlamy/EST/.

A Digital Motion Picture Restoration System for Film Archives

A new semi-automatic digital motion picture restoration system for film archives (DIMORF) is introduced, including all stages of restoration, such as scanning, processing and recording. The featured automatism is controlled by occasional operator interactions. All main components are designed and manufactured to meet the special needs of film archive specialists. The film scanner, as well as the laser recorder, reaches a resolution of 6K. The scanner contains a line camera and is able to scan the entire surface of the film, including perforation. The laser recorder, under construction at the time of this proposal, uses a rotating mirror to reflect light onto the film positioned on the inner surface of the recorder drum. The PC-based digital processing unit includes a standalone framework and has a plug-inbased modular interface ready for forthcoming restoration algorithms. Built-in film correction includes stabilization, de-flicker, blotch detection, scratch removal, de-noising, color manipulation, and de-fade effects. Interactive user-support and adaptive algorithms are designed to help semi-automatic operation and thus reduce manpower costs.

동적 윤곽 모델을 이용한 이동 물체 추적

In this paper, the visual tracking system for arbitrary shaped moving object is proposed. The established tracking system can be divided into model based method that needs previous model for target object and image based method that uses image feature. In the model based method, the reliable tracking is possible, but<br/> simplification of the shape is necessary and the application is restricted to definite target mod el. On the other hand, in the image based method, the process speed can be increased, but the shape information is lost and the<br/> tracking system is sensitive to image noise. The proposed tracking system is composed of the extraction process that recognizes the existence of moving object and tracking process that extracts dynamic characteristics and shape information of the target objects. Specially, active contour model is used to effectively track the object that is undergoing shape change. In initializatio n process of the contour model, the semi-automatic operation can be avoided and the convergence speed of the contour can be increased by the proposed effective initialization method. Also, for the efficient solution of the correspondence problem in multiple objects tracking, the variation function that uses the variation of position structure in image frame and snake energy level is proposed. In order to verify the validity and effectiveness of the proposed tracking system, real time tracking experiment for multiple moving objects is implemented.<br/>

IMAGE-BASED EVALUATION OF VASCULAR RESIDUAL STRAIN

We propose a method that aids in the evaluation of residual strain in blood vessels. Strain measurement is important in stress analysis of cardiovascular tissues. Since its introduction in 1983, arterial residual strain is evaluated manually which is a lengthy process. This involved photography, film development, printing of large photographs, and finally digitization of the edges of the vascular rings before and after cut using a flatbed digitizing tablet. These processes are highly labor intensive and time consuming, in the order of days. In this paper we introduce an image analysis and processing technique in which arterial residual strain can be evaluated efficiently and reliably. To insure portability, a JAVA-based application is developed which is designed for a semi-automatic operation in evaluating residual strain values. The use of the image-based evaluation technique is validated by comparison of arterial residual strain evaluated using photographs and digitizing tablet.

Comparison of combustion and Kjeldahl methods for determination of nitrogen in oilseeds

AbstractThe recent development of combustion‐type nitrogen analyzers capable of handling relatively large samples with semi automatic operation offers a potential replacement for the Kjeldahl method for direct determination of nitrogen. Nitrogen analyses for canola seed, flaxseed, sunflower seed, mustard seed and soybeans on a LECO (St. Joseph, MI) FP‐428 Nitrogen Analyzer were evaluated against results from the Grain Research Laboratory's (GRL) Kjeldahl system. The nitrogen analyzer gave significantly higher values than the Kjeldahl method, resulting in a correction of low values in the GRL Kjeldahl, caused by the inability to use mercury as catalyst. The standard error for results from the analyzer was comparable to that for the Kjeldahl method. The nitrogen analyzer also was faster than the Kjeldahl method and had less environmental impact. The combustion method has replaced the Kjeldahl method for routine nitrogen determinations in oilseed surveys conducted by the GRL.

Evaluation of combined GC/MS/FTIR data sets of strawberry aroma

Multivariate Data Analysis was used for the characterization of different Likens-Nickerson pentane extracts of strawberry. The basis for this analysis was the combination of gas chromatographic-spectroscopic data recorded by serial GC/MS and GC/FTIR detection. A ‘sample mapping’ for lactones and acids is given on the basis of both the classical profiles and the cluster analysis as well as a short description of the theoretical basis of Multivariate Data Analysis of combined data sets, which may be applied in semiautomatic operation.

Automatic working primary standard of emf in the 1 to 10 V range

An automatic emf working primary standard in the 1 to 10 V range developed at the Scientific Production Association of the D. N. Mendeleev All-Union Scientific Research Institute of Metrology is described. The primary standard complies with GOST8.027-89 and its design is based on two groups often saturated standard cells each mounted in a single thermostat. The field of application, the construction, and the operation of the primary standard in automatic, semiautomatic, and manual operation modes are described. The equipment constituting the primary standard has been analyzed and put into practical use.

Clustering of coincident site lattice boundaries in polycrystals

The distribution of coincident site lattice (CSL) and other geometrically special boundaries have been analysed in the form of “grain misorientation texture” (GMT) plots for several systems (pure nickel, a number of austenitic stainless steels and a complex superalloy, 1-5). Several heat treatment conditions have been investigated for each system. Principally, electron back scattering (EBS) in a scanning electron microscope has been used to collect the “microtexture” (i.e. grain specific) data which combines the considerable advantages of bulk specimen texture analysis, grain environment specification with semi-automatic operation. These data are currently being supplemented with thin foil transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses which permit more detailed investigation of the grain boundary parameters (especially grain boundary planes).Conventional texture measurement shave akey role in assessing the overall changes which occur during thermomechanical processing. However, the very detailed orientation measurements give only a statistical picture and this means that neither the geometry of individual boundaries (the GMT) nor ary tendency for clustering of particular texture types or boundary types may be detected.

The electrolytic removal of gold from spent electroplating liquors

SummaryA recently developed electrolytic system is described for the cathodic removal of metal from dilute process solutions. The cell comprises a static cylindrical cathode concentrically arranged around an anode; flow through the annulus is turbulent with a superimposed helical pattern, promoting a high rate of mass transport. A laboratory evaluation of a prototype device is described, assessing the removal of gold from two spent metal finishing process liquors. Despite low initial gold levels (360 and 140mg dm−3), the device is effective in removing metal from solution. During batch trials, the gold concentration decayed in an essentially exponential fashion. Final gold concentration as low as 0.55 and 1.2mg dm−3 could be obtained. The design philosophy of this cell is discussed and comparison is made with other electrolytic reactors. Its simple, stationary, 2-dimensional cathode in a cell without moving parts has advantages over certain more elaborate designs. Features of the cell include rapid, convenient metal product removal, a compact modular, robust design and semi-automatic operation.

A microcomputer system for mass spectrometer control and data acquisition

A microcomputer system has been designed for semi-automatic operation of a solid source mass spectrometer used for geochronological studies. It sequentially steps the magnetic field through pre-selected values, reads the digitized ion currents for a given time and temporarily stores the data which can be transferred to a paper tape or directly to a desk top calculator for further analysis. The unit is relatively inexpensive, made of readily available components and can be adapted to many laboratory automation tasks

An operator-directed control system for N.C. drilling machines

This paper describes an interactive part-programming system intended as an integral part of an N.C. controller for drilling machines. The system uses shop-floor terminology to facilitate rapid programming of parts by the machine operator. It includes the following novel features: 1. (a) automatic calculation of metal-cutting conditions; 2. (b) semi-automatic hole-making operation sequencing; 3. (c) optimisation of tool-change sequencing, independent of the order in which part features are programmed; 4. (d) optimisation of tool motion between holes within a pattern. In addition, the system provides a variety of geometric pattern definitions with the facility for omission of selected holes. Once defined, a pattern may be used again without re-specifying the parameters. Programming takes the form of a sequence of “macro” operations each defining a single hole or a geometric pattern. The programming sequence for each macro is in the general sequence: 1. (a) select the type of hole required, e.g. reamed, tapped; 2. (b) specify the sequence of hole-making operations required; 3. (c) define the pattern of holes required Since the system computes the spindle-speeds and feedrates to be used itself, the part programmes generated are essentially machine-tool independent and could run equally well on any other machine with different spindle H.P., etc. Machines fitted with such controllers would give the machine-shop manager an added dimension of flexibility in the allocation of work and speed of response.

Low Cost Production of Terrestrial Solar Arrays Utilizing EFG Silicon Ribbon Crystal

A new production line has been investigated for low cost terrestrial solar arrays using EFG silicon ribbon crystal. This paper describes the recent technical progress on EFG ribbon growth, wafer fabrication process for silicon ribbon, electrical output performance of ribbon solar cells and modules and also commercial solar arrays. EFG silicon ribbons with 50 mm width and 0.3∼0.5 mm thickness are grown continuously up to 50 meters long. Semi-automatic growth operation with ribbon width control by utilizing TV camera watching system is developed to achieve simultaneous and stable production from several growth stations. From this ribbon, 50×76 mm large area rectangular solar cells are successfully produced using screen printed metallization technology with an average conversion efficiency of 8%.

Dixième groupe de Vianden : problèmes particuliers posés par l'installation d'un groupe réversible de 200 MW : solutions adoptées

REASONS FOR THE EXTENSION (Figures 1-5). The Vianden pumped-storage station in Luxembourg is presently equipped with nine l00-MW sets with separate 70-MW pumps commissionned in 1964. Initially the power station was designed for a daily closed reversing cycle of 4 1/4 hours of generating and 8 hours of pumping and a yearly production of 1,350,000,000 kWh. In fact, the pumping period was progressively reduced to about 6 hours due to modifications of the load diagram, so that full use of the reservoirs can only be made by increasing the pumping capacity. CIVIL ENGINEERING ASPECTS (Figures 6-9). The new vertical reversible 200-MW unit, called the 10th machine, will be installed in a separate power station at a second location where the distance between the two reservoirs is relatively short (1,300 m). As the upper 63-m section of the pressure shaft was already constructed when the reservoirs were built, the works can be carried out without interferring with the operation of the present pumped storage station. The steel-lined pressure tunnel is in three sections (vertical, horizontal and inclined at 30°). As in the case of one machine, the per-unit costs of an access tunnel for the transport of the machinery exceed those of the lined pressure shaft, we were interested in placing the powerhouse as near as possible to the lower reservoir. Two solutions were studied, an underground power station (Figure 7) and a shaft power station (Figure 8), right beside the outlet in the Our valley. Finally, the latter type of construction was preferred for economic reasons. Its most important technical advantages are improved accessibility and more favourable hydraulic conditions due to the short length of the tailrace tunnel. STARTING FOR PUMPING OPERATION (Figures 10-15). For reasons of economy and simplification, a synchronous starting with partial voltage was selected. To reduce the voltage drop in the 220-kV system to the specified maximum value of 3 , a reactor is switched into the main circuit during running-up. Nevertheless the machine and the auxiliaries are designed in such a way that later on, when conditions in the system allow it, it is possible to go over to direct starting with full voltage. As shown in Figures 1l and 12, direct starting is possible with the filled pump-turbine, whereas starting with reduced voltage requires the dewatering of the impeller. In this case, filling is carried out after synchronization, simultanously from the draft side and from the head water. The damping winding which had to support current, of 45 kA during 30 sec is placed by solid poles with flexible copper connexions. By different constructive measures, it was possible to limit the temperature rise in the pole shoes to a maximum of 215 °C. AUTOMATISM (Figure 16). The control equipment transmits orders to the machine, protects the unit and informs the personnel of its state. Only the first of these functions is described in this article. In normal service, there are five types of set operation. These are standstill, turbine operation, pumping and synchronous condenser operation in both directions. Change-over from one of these final states to another is effected by 50 programmes which are subdivided into sequences and individual orders. For the execution of the programmes, four operation modes are possible : Remote automatic control used in normal service, local automatic control, semi-automatic and manual operation. The three latter modes of operation arc mainly used during tests or when the control apparatus is disturbed. Since there are no operating personnel on site, electronic components requiring no maintenance are used. except in those outlying parts of the equipment which are the most sensitive to interference. For data-logging, especially for the daily reports and the recording breakdowns, a small computer will be installed.

Corona stabilizer for Van De Graaff accelerators

The corona stabilizer as used on the EN tandem is analyzed. The predicted limitations due to the time delay and dispersion of the charge carriers in high pressure gas are in good agreement with the measured performance figures. The two loop stabilizer is described with the auxiliary generating voltmeter stabilizer facilitating semi-automatic operation. The resolution of the system measured by using 28Si(p,p)28Si resonance was ± 1 keV.Multiple breakdowns were prevented during operation and conditioning by the introduction of a protection circuit. The circuit design was based upon the analysis of the breakdown behaviour of the generator and its stabilizer. The recorded behaviour of the generator after total breakdown is in good agreement with the predicted performance.

An Improved Sulphur Hexafluoride Gas Handling System for a Potential Drop Partical Accelerator

An improved sulphur hexafloride (SF6) gas handling system has been designed and built for the Lewis Research Center 3.0 Mev Dynamitron Accelerator1 utilizing the original components provided with the accelerator. The purpose of the system is to remove the gas from the accelerator when opening is necessary, purify and store it, and return it to the vessel. The advantages are; reduction in cycle time from 7 hours to about 3 hours, reduction in unretrieved gas from 7% to as little as 0.02%, compactness and improved purification resulting from liquefaction and additional filtering, and safe, reliable semiautomatic operation. Design considerations, fabrication techniques, and performance evaluation of the system are given.