Technical Specifications Research Articles

Suitability of UR5 Robot for Robotic 3D Printing

The present paper describes the measurement of the drift of unidirectional pose accuracy, repeatability, and static compliance of a collaborative robot employing a measurement methodology that relies on the description of a virtual ISO cube placed in the robot’s workspace. The measurements aimed to investigate and assess the suitability of the UR5 six-axis collaborative robot for its application in robotic 3D printing. An experimental laboratory measurement workstation was constructed to perform the measurements, and control measurements were performed. The measurements involved describing the TCP point of the robot tool at five measurement points located in a virtual ISO cube during a minimum of 30 repeated measurement cycles. A camera and six linear incremental sensors with assessment units were used for the measurements. The measurements were performed in compliance with the regulations of STN ISO 9283 standard for this type of measurement. As a result of the measurements, the technical specifications of the drift and static compliance of the controlled robotic arm were verified, and the results were compared with the values specified by the manufacturer. Following the measurements and assessment of the results, it was possible to assess the suitability of the used UR5 robotic arm for its application in robotic 3D printing and to propose possible recommendations for the calibration of the robot and the process settings of the printing system for the production of objects using FDM technology.

Identification of Technical Requirements for the Initial Design of an Autonomous Fruit-Harvesting Robot

Automation in agriculture is revolutionizing the management of field tasks. This paper focuses on identifying the essential needs and preliminary technical requirements for designing an autonomous robot specifically for fruit harvesting. The study examines the integration of advanced machine vision technologies and neural networks for the accurate detection of ripe fruits and obstacles, optimizing harvesting efficiency. Key features such as proximity and touch sensors are also evaluated to ensure the safe handling of fruits, minimizing damage during harvesting. The technical specifications, including traction, speed, and the robot’s ability to operate on uneven terrain, are analyzed to ensure adaptability across various crops and ground conditions. Perception systems, incorporating cameras and sensors, are crucial for crop inspection and route planning. The main findings of this review establish a set of technical requirements that serve as a foundation for developing efficient and economically viable fruit-harvesting robots. These systems offer significant potential to transform agriculture by addressing labor shortages and improving harvesting precision. However, challenges remain, particularly in adapting to diverse crops and environments, emphasizing the need for further research and development.

High-Precision Monitoring during the Installation of Large Steel Structures by UAV Nap-of-the-Object Photogrammetry

Abstract. This paper proposes and validates a method based on UAV nap-of-the-object photogrammetry for refined 3D digital modeling to achieve high-precision monitoring during the installation of large steel structures, offering a comparative analysis with traditional oblique photogrammetry methods. Through field tests and data processing on the steel structure of a sports stadium in Zhejiang Province, the results demonstrate that nap-of-the-object photogrammetry can capture high-resolution images, offering significant advantages in detail representation and modeling of complex structures. Experimental data reveal that the model's root mean square error (RMSE) generated by nap-of-the-object photogrammetry is 14.56mm, markedly lower than the 51.99mm achieved by traditional methods, meeting the Level II accuracy standard specified in the "Technical Specifications for Nap-of-the-Object Photogrammetry." The study further shows that, when combined with optimized flight path planning, nap-of-the-object photogrammetry enhances both the efficiency and accuracy of data collection while improving operational safety. This technique is highly applicable and flexible, making it suitable for data acquisition of complex structures and high-rise buildings. In summary, the proposed method exhibits significant advantages in terms of accuracy, efficiency, safety, and applicability, providing a practical solution for high-precision, comprehensive digital modeling of large steel structures.

An effective sizing study on PV-wind-battery hybrid renewable energy systems

Hybrid renewable energy system is the effective and efficient way of energy harvesting in remote or isolated areas having the advantage of harnessing of multiple renewable sources at a time. Solar, wind and battery-based hybrid system is one of the most promising alternatives in this field. Sizing of the system components depend on various technical and economical specifications. The research studied the effect of solar panel tilt angle and wind turbine hub height on sizing optimization of PV wind battery-based hybrid renewable energy system using HOMER software. Through empirical method, an optimal monthly, seasonal, yearly optimal tilt angle and wind turbine hub height have been computed. These values are used in addition with various other technical and economical specifications in order to determine the optimal sizing of hybrid system. At first, three different scenarios have been considered for the study of yearly, seasonal, and monthly optimal tilt angle with an optimized hub height for the wind turbine. Then, a comparative analysis of the sizing of hybrid system at unoptimized and optimized tilt angle and hub height have also been done. Furthermore, a detailed comparative and sensitivity analysis have also been performed across different scenarios and approaches. A detailed financial study for policy planning and implementation issues with other, traditional state of the art approaches significantly demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method for optimal sizing of the hybrid system.

Comparative analysis of frequently used e-learning platforms

An online e-learning platform known as a learning management system (LMS) provides an interface between trainers, students, and administrators toward a common objective of learning. In the market, diverse LMSs with extensive functionalities are available to facilitate e-learning. In this article, we selected some popular LMSs majorly used by most schools and institutions for their teaching–learning process. We compared these LMSs in a discussion based on their technical specifications, technical features, administrative features, general features, and course management-related features. This comparative analysis could help users decide which LMS suits them best, according to their requirements. We also attempted to identify the limitations of these learning management systems so that users and organizations can determine which one is best suited to their needs.

The MAXLab aggression and bystander intervention scenario set (MAXLab_ABISS): A modular scenario set for studying decision making in situations of interpersonal violence in virtual reality

Abstract Objective This Research Note describes the MAXLab Aggression and Bystander Intervention Scenario Set (MAXLab_ABISS) and provides empirical examples of its applicability. We describe the scenarios, elaborate on the production process, provide technical specifications, and explain how materials can be obtained. Method This modular stimulus set, which is currently available in the English, German and Dutch language, includes 360° videos for studying decision-making in interpersonal violence. It offers researchers a complimentary method to collect data on emotions, perceptions, and reactions to violent situations using immersive technology. Results Analysis from two samples (n = 101 and n = 55) show the immersive scenarios of the stimulus set are effective at evoking targeted emotional experiences at the moment of a crime decision. Conclusion MAXLab_ABISS is a safe and effective tool for studying decision making in real-life, emotion-laden criminogenic settings. We offer insights for how researchers can further use the materials to study decision making related to crime and violence.

Technical specification for developing a clinical practice guideline for the integration of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine.

Developing a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for integrating traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine (WM) requires the accurate identification, collation, and integration of all available evidence on TCM and WM in a comprehensive, meaningful, and resource-efficient manner. This entails framing appropriate clinical questions, retrieving and synthesizing evidence from multiple resources, and providing concise and complete recommendations for specific diseases. However, some existing CPGs for integrating TCM and WM lack deep and organic integration. As the effective preparation of a CPG for integrating TCM and WM typically involves a complex set of principles, methodology, and steps, we believe that a cohesive, step-by-step guide on how to prepare a CPG for integrating TCM and WM is essential. To facilitate the design and development of a robust CPG, we present a clear and concise methodology, outlining relevant principles and procedures, supported by references for guidance. This technical specification aims to simplify the methodology for preparing a CPG for integrating TCM and WM; provide healthcare professionals and researchers with methodologically sound tools; and enhance the quality of CPGs for integrating TCM and WM. This technical specification may help elucidate this complex process, facilitate evaluation of the quality of published CPGs for integrating TCM and WM, and improve the understanding and application of recommendations for the combined and integrated use of TCM and WM in a new system.

Strategic Integration: A Cross-Disciplinary Review of the fNIRS-EEG Dual-Modality Imaging System for Delivering Multimodal Neuroimaging to Applications.

Background: Recent years have seen a surge of interest in dual-modality imaging systems that integrate functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and electroencephalography (EEG) to probe brain function. This review aims to explore the advancements and clinical applications of this technology, emphasizing the synergistic integration of fNIRS and EEG. Methods: The review begins with a detailed examination of the fundamental principles and distinctive features of fNIRS and EEG techniques. It includes critical technical specifications, data-processing methodologies, and analysis techniques, alongside an exhaustive evaluation of 30 seminal studies that highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the fNIRS-EEG bimodal system. Results: The paper presents multiple case studies across various clinical domains-such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, infantile spasms, depth of anesthesia, intelligence quotient estimation, and epilepsy-demonstrating the fNIRS-EEG system's potential in uncovering disease mechanisms, evaluating treatment efficacy, and providing precise diagnostic options. Noteworthy research findings and pivotal breakthroughs further reinforce the developmental trajectory of this interdisciplinary field. Conclusions: The review addresses challenges and anticipates future directions for the fNIRS-EEG dual-modal imaging system, including improvements in hardware and software, enhanced system performance, cost reduction, real-time monitoring capabilities, and broader clinical applications. It offers researchers a comprehensive understanding of the field, highlighting the potential applications of fNIRS-EEG systems in neuroscience and clinical medicine.

Performance Study of Stabilized Recycled Aggregate Base Material with Two-Gray Components.

This article studies the practical road performance of recycled materials from construction waste, relying on the paving test section of the supporting project for the Qingdao Cross-Sea Bridge. The research focuses on the construction technology and road performance of using recycled construction waste materials in urban road sub-base construction. Through indoor tests such as sieving and unconfined compressive strength tests, relevant technical indicators were obtained and analyzed. Additionally, periodic core sampling, compaction tests, and rebound deflection tests were conducted on-site according to relevant standards to thoroughly investigate the specific effects of using construction waste in practice and to analyze and evaluate the actual feasibility of the materials for road use. The results indicate that the particle gradation of the construction mix in the test section aligns well with the target gradation, and the dosage of the mixing agent meets the design requirements. The 7-day unconfined compressive strength already satisfied the technical requirements for heavy and extremely heavy traffic on highways as specified in the "Technical Specifications for Construction of Highway Pavement Subbase" (JTG/T F20-2015), with the 14-day strength generally reaching 7 MPa. Core sampling revealed good aggregate gradation, smooth and straight profiles, and the thickness and strength of all parts meet the specifications. The compaction levels met the testing requirements, the surface deflection values showed a decreasing trend, and the deformation resistance was good, consistent with the general development patterns of semi-rigid sub-bases.

Measurement-Noise Filtering for Automatic Discovery of Flow Splitting Ratios in ISP Networks

Network telemetry and analytics is essential for providing highly dependable services in modern computer networks. In particular, network flow analytics for ISP networks allows operators to inspect and reason about traffic patterns in their networks in order to react to anomalies. High performance network analytics systems are designed with scalability in mind, and can consequently only observe partial information about the network traffic. Still, they need to provide a holistic view of the traffic, including the distribution of different traffic flows on each link. It is impractical to monitor such fine-grained telemetry, and in large, heterogeneous networks it is often too complex and error-prone, if not impossible, to access and maintain all technical specifications and router-specific configurations needed to determine e.g. the load balancing weights used when traffic is split onto multiple paths. The ratios by which flows are split on the possible paths must be derived indirectly from the measured flow demands and link utilizations. Motivated by a case study provided by a major European ISP, we suggest an efficient method to estimate the flow splitting ratios. Our approach, based on quadratic linear programming, is scalable and achieves robustness to the measurement noise found in a typical network analytics deployment by filtering out certain constraints in the linear program. Finally, we implement an automated tool for estimating the flow splitting ratios and document its applicability on real data from the ISP.

Refining delivery and positioning: A modified approach to FIL SSF intraocular lens implantation using the "full reverse" technique.

To present a modified surgical technique for implantation of the sutureless scleral-fixated hydrophilic intraocular lens (FIL SSF). Single surgeon retrospective case series and review of surgical videos with step-by-step technique analysis. Uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity (UCVA and BCVA), refractive error (spherical equivalent), full clinical examination with intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, endothelial cell density on corneal specular microscopy and macular optical coherence tomography (OCT) were recorded at baseline, 1, 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively. The FIL SSF IOLs were successfully implanted using the so-called "full reverse" technique, having the lens loaded in the injector in an upside-down fashion, as opposed to IOL technical specifications. In all cases, the FIL SSF IOL was properly placed in the ciliary sulcus, well-centered and without signs of tilt. Follow up figures at 2 months are consistent with published data, confirming the potential benefits of the new implantation technique. In our preliminary experience, the "full reverse" technique of the FIL SSF IOL has proven effective in preventing incorrect IOL orientation in 100% of cases. However, larger prospective controlled studies and longer follow up are required to either support or disprove our results.

Ethical Decision-Making for Self-Driving Vehicles: A Proposed Model & List of Value-Laden Terms that Warrant (Technical) Specification

Self-driving vehicles (SDVs) will need to make decisions that carry ethical dimensions and are of normative significance. For example, by choosing a specific trajectory, they determine how risks are distributed among traffic participants. Accordingly, policymakers, standardization organizations and scholars have conceptualized what (shall) constitute(s) ethical decision-making for SDVs. Eventually, these conceptualizations must be converted into specific system requirements to ensure proper technical implementation. Therefore, this article aims to translate critical requirements recently formulated in scholarly work, existing standards, regulatory drafts and guidelines into an explicit five-step ethical decision model for SDVs during hazardous situations. This model states a precise sequence of steps, indicates the guiding ethical principles that inform each step and points out a list of terms that demand further investigation and technical specification. By integrating ethical, legal and engineering considerations, we aim to contribute to the scholarly debate on computational ethics (particularly in autonomous driving) while offering practitioners in the automotive sector a decision-making process for SDVs that is technically viable, legally permissible, ethically grounded and adaptable to societal values. In the future, assessing the actual impact, effectiveness and admissibility of implementing the here sketched theories, terms and the overall decision process requires an empirical evaluation and testing of the overall decision-making model.

The effect of specimen size on the unconfined compressive strength of cement-stabilized granular mixtures made of natural and recycled aggregates

The cement-stabilization technique is employed on natural and recycled granular materials to improve their mechanical properties. The strength of these materials is assessed by the unconfined compressive strength on laboratory compacted specimens, typically after 7 days of curing. Standards and technical specifications specify different values of specimen height and diameter and different loading modes of testing. This makes the comparison between different materials and with the acceptance limits of technical specifications difficult. The research investigates the effect of specimen size and loading mode on the unconfined compressive strength of both natural and recycled cement-stabilized granular materials. The results revealed significant differences in strength due to variations in specimen size and loading mode. As expected, an increase in specimen slenderness resulted in a decrease in compressive strength. A linear regression model was developed to quantify the effect of the experimental variables on the compressive strength of the two cement-stabilized materials.

Efficiency Assessment of the Production of Alternative Fuels of High Usable Quality within the Circular Economy: An Example from the Cement Sector

This article aims to present the mechanisms regulating the waste management system of one of the European countries that affect the cement industry. This publication analyses the possibility of using selected fractions of municipal and industrial waste as alternative fuels, including an analysis of ecological costs and benefits. The methodology includes the analysis of production data and the calculation of savings resulting from the use of alternative fuels. On this basis, ecological aspects were also indicated that should be taken into account when analyzing the profitability of the investment. Production data from an example Polish cement plant were used to analyze the research problem. Based on the guidelines of environmental standards and technical specifications, the parameters that PASr alternative fuels should meet were calculated in the company laboratory. This fuel type was then calculated in terms of emission intensity and production efficiency. The research results obtained in this paper study emphasize that the change in cement clinker production technology toward the use of waste raw materials and secondary fuels does not lead to an increase in heavy metal emissions to the extent that would justify qualifying cement as a material requiring systematic control of its harmful impacts on humans and the natural environment. The conclusions show that the use of alternative fuels reduces CO2 emissions and production costs, without negatively affecting the efficiency and production volume. The average energy requirement for the production of 1 ton of cement is approximately 3.3 GJ, which corresponds to 120 kg of coal with a calorific value of 27.5 MJ per kg. Energy costs account for 30–40% of the total cement production costs. Replacing alternative fuels with fossil fuels will help reduce energy costs, providing a competitive advantage for cement plants that use it as an energy source. The presented considerations can provide an answer to all interested parties, including representatives of the executive and legislative authorities, on what path the sector should follow to fit into the idea of sustainable building materials and the circular economy.

Potential Sampling Errors in Stability Studies Due to Dead Volume in Closed System Transfer Devices

Background: Closed system transfer devices (CSTD) help to reduce the exposure of healthcare professionals to hazardous drugs. They may be used in stability studies conducted on anticancer drugs. During a stability study about polyolefin bags of gemcitabine, Tevadaptor® device was suspected of causing a bias in the evaluation of the concentrations of the first aliquots extracted from the bags. Objective: The objectives are to determine whether the use of a CSTD to prepare a drug solution and to withdraw it from a bag can interfere on the measured concentration compared to the expected one and to suggest hypothesis to explain the phenomenon. Method: In the first experiment, three polyolefin bags of gemcitabine (5.4 mg/mL) were prepared under aseptic conditions using the Tevadaptor Luer Lock Adaptor®. The day of preparation, five aliquots of 3.8 ml each were sequentially withdrawn from each polyolefin bag using the same device. After one day, a new aliquot was withdrawn from each bag. In the second experiment, three polyolefin bags of gemcitabine (5.4 mg/ml) were prepared under aseptic conditions using a needle. One aliquot was extracted using a needle after the preparation from each bag, and another aliquot was extracted after one day. The concentrations of all aliquots were measured by liquid chromatography coupled to a photodiode array detector during the same run. Results and discussion: The concentrations of the first aliquots extracted on day zero from the polyolefin bags using the Tevadaptor Luer Lock Adaptor® exhibit an overestimation of 26% ([95%CI: 23%-29%] P<0.001) compared to the others. Overestimation is not found for subsequent aliquots, or while using a needle to bypass the Tevadaptor® device. Conclusion: This case highlights the bias that may arise when using CSTDs in stability studies. They should be used with comprehensive understanding of their technical specifications.

Technical specification IEC/TS 61400-11-2: measurement of wind turbine noise characteristics in receptor position - an overview

To facilitate the development of wind energy, a Technical Specification has been developed by the IEC project team PT61400-11-2, giving guidance on how to assess the noise characteristics from a wind farm in the surroundings through measurements and assessment at the receptor position. This includes physical characteristics like sound pressure levels, wind speed, amplitude modulation, tonality, amongst others. In writing the Technical Specification, the expert group intended to collect experience and knowledge from existing methods and standards. The TS is written as an operational guideline for conducting measurements for authorities and measurement institutes, tailored to the specific intentions of the measurements. It will be of particular interest in countries where no guidance on wind farm noise measurements is available but also in countries where guidance and legislation of environmental noise measurements may not be sufficiently adapted for wind turbine noise specifics. An overview of the content of the document will be presented along with the considerations and choices made during extensive discussions by the international expert group stemming from acoustic measurement institutes, wind turbine manufacturers, wind farm developer, site operators and academia.

Perceptual attributes for soundscape assessment: translation into Portuguese

Soundscapes have been a growing tool in managing urban sounds through the ISOs series 12913 parts 1 to 3. The ISO/TS 12913-2: 2018 standard (Acoustics - Soundscape - Part 2: Data collection and reporting requirements) provides technical specifications and protocols, as well as a questionnaire for soundscape characterization with perceptual attributes based on soundscape studies. However, such attributes are provided only in the English language, which raises questions about the applicability and reliability of these attributes in regions where English is not the mother tongue. To address this gap, the Soundscape Attribute Translation Project (SATP), an international collaboration with soundscape researchers was established with the aim of validating the translation of perceptual attributes for soundscape assessment in different languages and geographic regions as a way of disseminating and promoting their widespread use, both in academia and in practice. This article presents the results of the work, realized in Brazil and Portugal, contributing to the translation of the perceptual attributes for soundscape assessments from English into Portuguese language through a cross-cultural study.

Railway noise monitoring - a tool to analyse in detail the evolution of noise over time during a rolling stock renewal period

As part of the commissioning of a rail freight project, a noise monitoring system was set up to track the increase in rail freight traffic and to monitor noise over time. Noise monitoring is done by continuous measurement stations, an analysis of the classic noise exposure indexes LAeq,6-22h and LAeq,22-6h is realized, completed by an analysis of several event acoustic indexes, with a distinction between the different traffic types (Freight, regional trains). In addition, the European Regulation EU 2019/774 on the application of the technical specification for interoperability relating to the subsystem 'rolling stock - noise' to the existing freight wagons, obliges the circulation of less noisy freight trains on certain itineraries called "Quieter routes" from 8/12/2024. The projected benefit will not be limited to the nearby residents of these routes but will, by indirect consequence, enable a gradual acoustic gain on all the French rail freight routes, due to the retrofit or renewal of the existing rolling stock. The goal of the noise monitoring system is also to quantify the acoustic gains from the indirect effects of this new regulation.

Development of a conceptual framework for a new international standard on non-acoustic factors

The human response to a sound environment is influenced by factors that interlink the person, activity, and place. These factors are often referenced as discrete elements of the "context" in soundscapes, and as "non-acoustic factors" within the noise and health community. Despite their importance, researchers and practitioners tend to use different terminology and methods for investigating them, which complicates evidence synthesis and recommendations for designing healthier sound environments. Since 2022, Working Group 68 within ISO TC 43/SC 1 has been developing a new Technical Specification to standardise the definition and use of such non acoustic factors. Part 1, due for publication in 2025, will include a definition and a conceptual framework. As part of this work, we conducted a rapid scoping literature search to assist in the development of the conceptual framework. Fourteen articles were shortlisted, which were used to draft a framework that reflects the definition of non-acoustic factors, including its main categories (personal, psychosocial, tangible/environmental, and situational) and the moderating and mediating role of non-acoustic factors on the human perceptual and affective response (emotional and behavioural) and associated health outcomes.

A semantically enabled architecture for interoperable edge‐cloud continuum applied to the e‐health scenario

AbstractThe progress made in the field of medicine and the consequent increase in the prospect of life have contributed to rise people's interest towards a healthier lifestyle. Fitness activity is becoming a must for those who aspire to live more and better. However, this should be accompanied by additional good practices to safeguard individuals' life from risks that could undermine their health. Most of these risks are linked to personal, surrounding, and contextual conditions that technology can detect and monitor. Recommender systems can adequately support fitness activity by performing data analyzes aimed at identifying possible risk factors for users, starting from their physiological data and those related to the closest context where they are. This article introduces the architecture of a recommender system called App4Health in the context related to both mobile crowd sensing and wellness. The App4Health architecture consists of a smart application platform, capable of interfacing and managing data from heterogeneous edge sources, such as mobile phones, IoT, and sensors. The analysis result consists of the semantic generation of healthy behavioral conducts to the user as Telegram BOT messages. For evaluating the proposed solution, the article also provides a case study and a testbed. The testbed consists of a comparative stress test of two edge software components of the App4Health's architecture in order to identify the performance degradation threshold of these components, assuming that they can be deployed on edge‐level hardware devices with different technical specifications and configurations.