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Eng. Proc., 2024, ECSA-11

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14858 KiB  
Article
An Experimental Study for Localization Using Lidar Point Cloud Similarity
by Sai S. Reddy, Luis Jaimes and Onur Toker
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20446 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 124
Abstract
In this paper, we consider the use of high-definition maps for autonomous vehicle (AV) localization. An autonomous vehicle may have a variety of sensors, including cameras, lidars, and Global Positioning System(GPS) sensors. Each sensor technology has its own pros and cons; for example, [...] Read more.
In this paper, we consider the use of high-definition maps for autonomous vehicle (AV) localization. An autonomous vehicle may have a variety of sensors, including cameras, lidars, and Global Positioning System(GPS) sensors. Each sensor technology has its own pros and cons; for example, GPS may not be very effective in a city environment with high-rise buildings; cameras may not be very effective in poorly illuminated environments; and lidars simply generate a relatively dense local point cloud. In a typical autonomous vehicle system, all of these sensors are present and sensor fusion algorithms are used to extract the most accurate information. Using our AV research vehicle, we drove on our university campus and recorded Real Time Kinematic-GPS(RTK-GPS) (ZED-F9P) and Velodyne Lidar (VLP-16) data in a time-synchronized fashion. In other words, for every GPS location on our campus, we have lidar-generated point cloud data, resulting in a simple high-definition map of the campus. The main challenge that we look to overcome in this paper is thus: given a high-definition map of the environment and local point cloud data generated by a single lidar scan, determine the AV research vehicle’s location by using point cloud “similarity” metrics. We first propose a computationally simple similarity metric and then describe a recursive Kalman filter-like approach for localization. The effectiveness of the proposed similarity metric has been demonstrated using the experimental data. Full article
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8 pages, 8688 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development of a Low-Cost Interactive Prototype for Acquisition and Visualization of Biosignals
by Juan C. Delgado-Torres, Daniel Cuevas-González, Marco A. Reyna, Juan Pablo García-Vázquez, Eladio Altamira-Colado, Martín Aarón Sánchez-Barajas and Oscar E. Barreras
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20444 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 212
Abstract
Nowadays, some of the most severe problems faced by health institutions are related to people’s mental health. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one billion people lived with a condition that affected their mental health in 2020, where depression, anxiety, and stress [...] Read more.
Nowadays, some of the most severe problems faced by health institutions are related to people’s mental health. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one billion people lived with a condition that affected their mental health in 2020, where depression, anxiety, and stress represent the most common examples. Furthermore, according to the American Psychological Association, stress aggravates the symptoms of depression and anxiety, besides having negative effects on the cardiovascular, respiratory, muscular, nervous, reproductive, endocrine, and gastrointestinal systems. It is estimated that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of global cases of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders increased by 53.2 million and 76.2 million, respectively. Psychophysiology and other health disciplines, such as psychology, neurology, psychiatry, and physiotherapy, provide quantitative data from physiological signals. These signals are acquired through specialized systems that are often very expensive, with most being closed-source hardware and software. This work proposes the development of a low-cost prototype for the acquisition and visualization of a patient’s HR, ECG, EMG, GSR, and body temperature biosignals using the MAX30102, ECG AD8232, EMG Muscle T084, Grove GSR sensor, and LM35 AFEs breakout boards, respectively. Signal acquisition tests were performed with each sensor without post-processing or filtering. The test results prove that the biosignals acquired by the prototype present usability, correct morphology, stability, and can operate without errors for up to 12 h. This is expected to provide an affordable alternative to biosignal acquisition systems for educational and research institutions, offering users a similar experience to that provided by high-cost equipment, thus benefiting the training of studies. Full article
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6 pages, 1776 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Enhancing Explainability in Convolutional Neural Networks Using Entropy-Based Class Activation Maps
by Éric Boketsu-Boulu and Ghazal Rouhafzay
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20472 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 190
Abstract
With the emergence of visual sensors and their widespread application in intelligent systems, precise and interpretable visual explanations have become essential for ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of these systems. Sensor data, such as that from cameras operating in different spectra, LiDAR, or [...] Read more.
With the emergence of visual sensors and their widespread application in intelligent systems, precise and interpretable visual explanations have become essential for ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of these systems. Sensor data, such as that from cameras operating in different spectra, LiDAR, or other imaging modalities, are often processed using complex deep learning methods, whose decision-making processes can be unclear. Accurate interpretation of network decisions is particularly critical in domains such as autonomous vehicles, medical imaging, and security systems. Moreover, during the development and deployment of deep learning architectures, the ability to accurately interpret results is crucial for identifying and mitigating any sources of bias in the training data, thereby ensuring fairness and robustness in the model’s performance. Explainable AI (XAI) techniques have garnered significant interest for their ability to reveal the rationale behind network decisions. In this work, we propose leveraging entropy information to enhance Class Activation Maps (CAMs). We explore two novel approaches: the first replaces the traditional gradient averaging scheme with entropy values to generate feature map weights, while the second directly utilizes entropy to weigh and sum feature maps, thereby reducing reliance on gradient-based methods, which can sometimes be unreliable. Our results demonstrate that entropy-based CAMs offer significant improvements in highlighting relevant regions of the input across various scenarios. Full article
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8 pages, 5241 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
On-Device Automatic Speech Recognition for IIoT and Extended Reality Industrial Metaverse Applications
by Antón Valladares-Poncela, Paula Fraga-Lamas and Tiago M. Fernández-Caramés
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20466 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 235
Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive study on enhancing Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industrial Metaverse applications through the integration of On-Device Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) using Microsoft HoloLens 2 smart glasses. Specifically, this paper focuses on the utilization of the HoloLens 2 [...] Read more.
This paper presents a comprehensive study on enhancing Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industrial Metaverse applications through the integration of On-Device Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) using Microsoft HoloLens 2 smart glasses. Specifically, this paper focuses on the utilization of the HoloLens 2 microphone array and sound capture APIs to benchmark the performance and accuracy of on-device ASR models. The evaluation of these models includes metrics such as Character Error Rate (CER), Word Error Rate (WER) and latency. In addition, this paper explores various optimization techniques, including quantization tools and model refinement strategies, aimed at minimizing latency while maintaining high accuracy. This study also emphasizes the importance of supporting low-resource languages, using Galician—a language spoken by less than 3 million people worldwide—as a case study. By benchmarking different variations of a Wav2Vec2.0-based ASR model fine-tuned for Galician, the most effective models are identified, as well as their optimal runtime configurations. This work underscores the critical role of low-latency on-device ASR systems in real-time IIoT and Industrial Metaverse applications, highlighting how these technologies can enhance operational efficiency, privacy and user experience in industrial environments. The findings demonstrate the significant potential of the on-device ASR system developed to enhance voice interactions in emerging Metaverse applications, specially for low-resource languages. Full article
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9 pages, 877 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Gait-Driven Pose Tracking and Movement Captioning Using OpenCV and MediaPipe Machine Learning Framework
by Malathi Janapati, Leela Priya Allamsetty, Tarun Teja Potluri and Kavya Vijay Mogili
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20470 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Pose tracking and captioning are extensively employed for motion capturing and activity description in daylight vision scenarios. Activity detection through camera systems presents a complex challenge, necessitating the refinement of numerous algorithms to ensure accurate functionality. Even though there are notable characteristics, IP [...] Read more.
Pose tracking and captioning are extensively employed for motion capturing and activity description in daylight vision scenarios. Activity detection through camera systems presents a complex challenge, necessitating the refinement of numerous algorithms to ensure accurate functionality. Even though there are notable characteristics, IP cameras lack integrated models for effective human activity detection. With this motivation, this paper presents a gait-driven OpenCV and MediaPipe machine learning framework for human pose and movement captioning. This is implemented by incorporating the Generative 3D Human Shape (GHUM 3D) model which can classify human bones, while Python can classify the human movements as either usual or unusual. This model is fed into a website equipped with camera input, activity detection, and gait posture analysis for pose tracking and movement captioning. The proposed approach comprises four modules, two for pose tracking and the remaining two for generating natural language descriptions of movements. The implementation is carried out on two publicly available datasets, CASIA-A and CASIA-B. The proposed methodology emphasizes the diagnostic ability of video analysis by dividing video data available in the datasets into 15-frame segments for detailed examination, where each segment represents a time frame with detailed scrutiny of human movement. Features such as spatial-temporal descriptors, motion characteristics, or key point coordinates are derived from each frame to detect key pose landmarks, focusing on the left shoulder, elbow, and wrist. By calculating the angle between these landmarks, the proposed method classifies the activities as “Walking” (angle between −45 and 45 degrees), “Clapping” (angles below −120 or above 120 degrees), and “Running” (angles below −150 or above 150 degrees). Angles outside these ranges are categorized as “Abnormal”, indicating abnormal activities. The experimental results show that the proposed method is robust for individual activity recognition. Full article
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9 pages, 3388 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Agrivoltaics: A Digital Twin to Learn the Effect of Solar Panel Coverage on Crop Growth
by Jiawei Chen, Nicola Paciolla, Stefano Mariani and Chiara Corbari
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20486 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 180
Abstract
Agrivoltaics is defined as “the dual use of land for solar energy production and agriculture”. On this topic, a number of issues are still to be properly addressed, e.g., how the shading effect of the solar panels affects crop growth. In this work, [...] Read more.
Agrivoltaics is defined as “the dual use of land for solar energy production and agriculture”. On this topic, a number of issues are still to be properly addressed, e.g., how the shading effect of the solar panels affects crop growth. In this work, the development of a large-scale digital twin model to predict crop yield under varying solar panel coverage is discussed. A framework is proposed to exploit Internet of Things (IoT) concepts, with a sensor network to collect data on the field merged with sensor fusion to possibly handle information gathered by satellite images. The aim of the entire work is related to the synergic optimization of energy production and crop yield, and data analytics based on artificial intelligence tools are to be extensively developed. Herein, the results are reported of an experimental activity, currently under way at the Fantoli laboratory of Politecnico di Milano. Wooden panels, placed above the crops with a varying pattern, are used to study the shading effect with a specific target on the conditions typical of Northern Italy. The laboratory facility is equipped with a comprehensive sensor network to acquire the data necessary to build the targeted large-scale digital twin of the agrivoltaic system. Full article
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8 pages, 3591 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Instance Segmentation-Based Automated Detection and Thickness Estimation of Oil Spills in Aerial Imagery
by Timothy Malche, Priti Maheshwary and Sumegh Tharewal
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20521 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 143
Abstract
An oil spill at sea represents a catastrophic environmental event resulting from the release of oil into marine ecosystems. These incidents pose substantial risks to marine biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and coastal populations, often engendering enduring and widespread repercussions. Cleaning up oil spills is [...] Read more.
An oil spill at sea represents a catastrophic environmental event resulting from the release of oil into marine ecosystems. These incidents pose substantial risks to marine biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and coastal populations, often engendering enduring and widespread repercussions. Cleaning up oil spills is costly due to logistical challenges. The accurate measurement of spill characteristics like the volume, thickness, and area of the spill is crucial before deploying cleanup crews to optimize resource allocation and reduce expenses. The main objective of this research is to use computer vision to detect oil spills and estimate its thickness, helping in decision-making processes to clean up the spill area. The system architecture proposed in this study integrates a drone equipped with a camera module to inspect sea areas and capture images. These images are processed using a deployed computer vision segmentation model to detect oil spills and estimate oil thickness. Predicted results help in decision making via a dedicated application by applying predefined criteria to determine the thickness of the spill, which further help in taking actions for the removal of oil spills. The computer vision model developed in this research could detect and estimate oil thickness with an mAP of 91%. The proposed system in this study uses instance segmentation to detect and segment oil spills in drone footage. This computer vision-based approach accurately identifies and outlines oil spill areas, aiding in the selection of efficient cleanup strategies. Real-time monitoring and assessment capabilities enable quick decision making and effective response measures. Full article
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5 pages, 668 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Characterization of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Biofilms Grown on Different Substrates by Means of FT-IR Spectroscopy
by Marianna Portaccio, Alessandra Fusco, Giovanna Donnarumma and Maria Lepore
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20517 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 129
Abstract
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) is a vibrational technique largely adopted for the study of bacterial biofilms. FT-IR is a non-destructive method allowing multiple analyses of the same biofilm. Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents a class of bacteria largely investigated since it is an opportunistic [...] Read more.
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) is a vibrational technique largely adopted for the study of bacterial biofilms. FT-IR is a non-destructive method allowing multiple analyses of the same biofilm. Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents a class of bacteria largely investigated since it is an opportunistic pathogen, and it is now considered a primary infectious agent, especially for its ability to form multi-resistant biofilms. In the present investigation, we aimed to characterize P. aeruginosa biofilms grown on different substrates to better define the experimental conditions more useful for investigating the interaction of these biofilms with external agents. In particular, we investigated biofilms grown on Teflon membranes, CaF2 windows, and MirrIR slides (specific reflection FT-IR spectroscopy microscope slides). Different geometries were used for collecting spectra using the microscope stage of a Perkin Elmer Spectrum One spectrometer and a Universal Attenuated Total Reflection (UATR) device. Multiple acquisitions of spectra were conducted, and statistical criteria were applied for monitoring and comparing them. The positive and negative aspects of the different examined substrates for biofilm formation and acquisition modes are presented and discussed. Full article
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7 pages, 2181 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Characterization of Human Teeth Using Vibrational Spectroscopies
by Ines Delfino, Marianna Portaccio, Giovanni Maria Gaeta and Maria Lepore
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20518 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 152
Abstract
Dentin and enamel are the two main constituents of human teeth, and the detailed characterization of their biochemical properties is of fundamental relevance in many fields of dentistry research. Vibrational spectroscopies such as Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy can be adopted [...] Read more.
Dentin and enamel are the two main constituents of human teeth, and the detailed characterization of their biochemical properties is of fundamental relevance in many fields of dentistry research. Vibrational spectroscopies such as Fourier-Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy can be adopted to obtain precise information before and after chemical or physical teeth treatments. In the present work, the two above-mentioned spectroscopic techniques were used to investigate dentin and enamel powders and few mm thick disks cut from human molar teeth. The FT-IR and Raman spectra clearly show the contributions of different sample components. The spectra obtained from the dentin and enamel powders evidence differences due to their chemical composition. The spectra from the human tooth disks present different characteristics depending on the region of the samples from which they were collected, thus enabling a spatial characterization of the samples themselves on different scales. These results confirm that vibrational spectroscopies allow a detailed characterization of hard dental tissues at the microscopic level. Full article
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10 pages, 3489 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
LPG Smart Guard: An IoT-Based Solution for Real-Time Gas Cylinder Monitoring and Safety in Smart Homes
by Dennis Balogun, Shoaib Shamim, Uvesh Sipai, Nishant Kothari, Tapankumar Trivedi and Vatsalkumar Patel
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20471 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 578
Abstract
An advanced IoT-based Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder monitoring and safety system is presented in this work. The proposed technique provides continuous monitoring of residential gas usage and detects any potential leakage. It utilizes an MQ135 gas sensor for gas leakage detection, a [...] Read more.
An advanced IoT-based Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder monitoring and safety system is presented in this work. The proposed technique provides continuous monitoring of residential gas usage and detects any potential leakage. It utilizes an MQ135 gas sensor for gas leakage detection, a load cell to monitor the weight of the cylinder, and a DHT22 sensor for temperature sensing. The sensors are mounted on a customized trolley for domestic LPG cylinders. All the sensors are connected to a NodeMCU microcontroller, which exchanges sensor data with a cloud platform using HTTP GET and POST methods to transmit the data to a cloud-based MySQL database. Unlike other existing methods, the proposed approach does not necessitate any modifications to the existing setup, which includes the gas cylinder, regulating valve, and distribution pipe. Furthermore, a mobile application that emphasizes the needs of the user is developed to enable a wider range of functionalities using cloud data collected from the sensors. The software facilitates the real-time monitoring of gas levels, provides comprehensive usage records for daily, weekly, and monthly intervals, issues immediate alarms in the event of gas leakage and low gas levels, and detects any unauthorized movement of the LPG cylinder, such as theft. The proposed technique not only improves user safety but also streamlines gas cylinder management with predictive analytics based on gas consumption trends and projected days of usage. Moreover, the application includes functionality that automatically orders a new cylinder with the vendor when the gas level drops below a predetermined threshold, therefore ensuring continuous availability of gas supply. Full article
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8 pages, 2564 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Wearable Reflectance PPG Optical Sensor Enabling Contact Pressure and Skin Temperature Measurement
by Jiří Přibil, Anna Přibilová and Ivan Frollo
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20500 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 199
Abstract
This paper describes the design, realization, and application of a wearable sensor based on the photoplethysmography (PPG) principle supplemented with a force-sensitive resistor and a thermometer for the measurement of contact pressure force and the temperature of the skin at the point where [...] Read more.
This paper describes the design, realization, and application of a wearable sensor based on the photoplethysmography (PPG) principle supplemented with a force-sensitive resistor and a thermometer for the measurement of contact pressure force and the temperature of the skin at the point where the optical part of the PPG sensor touches the finger. The performed experiments confirmed the essential influence of the applied contact force on the amplitude and ripple of the sensed PPG signal and the stability and precision of heart rate values determined from the PPG wave. Preliminary measurements showed that the response to the applied contact force was principally different for fingers of male and female tested persons, so different scaling and pressure levels were applied in the main experiments. Contrariwise, differences between left and right hands were not significant. The influence of skin temperature changes could be ignored for these measurements due to the short time duration of the PPG signal recording (approx. 1 min). Full article
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10 pages, 4180 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
The Influence of MIM Metamaterial Absorbers on the Thermal and Electro-Optical Characteristics of Uncooled CMOS-SOI-MEMS Infrared Sensors
by Moshe Avraham, Mikhail Klinov and Yael Nemirovsky
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20442 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 185
Abstract
Uncooled infrared (IR) sensors, including bolometers, thermopiles, and pyroelectrics, have traditionally dominated the market. Nevertheless, a new innovative technology, dubbed the TMOS sensor, has emerged. It is based on CMOS-SOI-MEMS (complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor silicon-on-insulator micro-electromechanical systems) fabrication. This pioneering technology utilizes a suspended, micro-machined, thermally [...] Read more.
Uncooled infrared (IR) sensors, including bolometers, thermopiles, and pyroelectrics, have traditionally dominated the market. Nevertheless, a new innovative technology, dubbed the TMOS sensor, has emerged. It is based on CMOS-SOI-MEMS (complementary-metal-oxide-semiconductor silicon-on-insulator micro-electromechanical systems) fabrication. This pioneering technology utilizes a suspended, micro-machined, thermally insulated transistor to directly convert absorbed infrared radiation into an electrical signal. The miniaturization of IR sensors, including the TMOS, is crucial for seamless integration into wearable and mobile technologies. However, this presents a significant challenge: balancing size reduction with sensor sensitivity. Smaller sensor footprints can often lead to decreased signal capture and, consequently, diminished performance. Metamaterial advancements offer a promising solution to this challenge. These engineered materials exhibit unique electromagnetic properties that can potentially boost sensor sensitivity while enabling miniaturization. The strategic integration of metamaterials into sensor design offers a pathway towards compact, high-sensitivity IR systems with diverse applications. This study explores the impact of electro-optical metal-insulator-metal (MIM) metamaterial absorbers on the thermal and electro-optical characteristics of CMOS-SOI-MEMS sensors in the mid-IR region. We target the key thermal properties critical to IR sensor performance: thermal conductance (Gth), thermal capacitance (Cth), and thermal time constant (τth). This study shows how material selection, layer thickness, and metamaterial geometry fill-factor affect the sensor’s thermal performance. An analytical thermal model is employed alongside 3D finite element software for precise numerical simulations. Full article
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8 pages, 1173 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Accuracy of NTC Thermistor Measurements Using the Sensor to Microcontroller Direct Interface
by Marco Grossi and Martin Omaña
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20527 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 171
Abstract
Portable and wearable sensor systems are usually based on microcontrollers or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), where the sensors are measured using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). An alternative solution, with benefits in terms of cost reduction and lower power consumption, is the sensor-to-microcontroller [...] Read more.
Portable and wearable sensor systems are usually based on microcontrollers or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), where the sensors are measured using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). An alternative solution, with benefits in terms of cost reduction and lower power consumption, is the sensor-to-microcontroller direct interface (SMDI), a technique where the sensor is measured using the general purpose input output (GPIO) interface present on any microcontroller or FPGA. In this paper, the measurement accuracy of a non-linear temperature sensor (NTC 3950) using SMDI was evaluated by means of LTSpice simulations in the temperature range from −10 °C to 80 °C. The temperature was estimated using two different models and the results have shown that the most accurate model (Steinhart–Hart model) achieves an average temperature error of 0.078 °C. Full article
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8 pages, 2279 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
The Correlation of Pickled Fish and Frequency Response Using Parallel-Coupled-Lines Band-Stop Filter Microstrip
by Warakorn Karasaeng, Jitjark Nualkham, Phatsakul Thitimahatthanakusol, Niwat Angkawisittpan and Somchat Sonasang
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20508 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 143
Abstract
This research presents the development and analysis of a microwave sensor designed with a microstrip band-stop filter, aimed at applications in electrical engineering and food quality assessment. The sensor employs parallel-coupled lines within the microstrip, integrating a band-stop filter at 2.45 GHz on [...] Read more.
This research presents the development and analysis of a microwave sensor designed with a microstrip band-stop filter, aimed at applications in electrical engineering and food quality assessment. The sensor employs parallel-coupled lines within the microstrip, integrating a band-stop filter at 2.45 GHz on an FR4 substrate. The primary objective is to evaluate preserved fish samples to demonstrate the sensor’s efficacy and applicability. Measurements were conducted using a KEYSIGHT model E5063A network analyzer, covering a frequency range from 0.1 GHz to 3 GHz. The analysis focuses on the frequency response of the insertion loss (S21) across specified frequencies. The results indicate a significant correlation between the percentage shift in the transmission coefficient and the frequency, even when the sample range was meticulously adjusted. These findings underscore the potential of microwave sensors in monitoring the physical properties of preserved food, particularly within food production and quality control processes. The sensor facilitates rapid and precise assessments of food properties, highlighting its broad applicability in various sectors of the food industry. Furthermore, this research contributes to the advancement of microwave technology, suggesting new pathways for future studies and applications in engineering and industrial contexts. The integration of microstrip technology with band-stop filters in sensor design presents a novel approach that enhances the accuracy and efficiency of food quality monitoring systems. This study not only establishes a foundation for further technological developments but also emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of modern engineering solutions, combining principles of electrical engineering with practical applications in the food industry. This innovative approach could lead to more sophisticated and reliable methods for ensuring food safety and quality. Full article
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9 pages, 3729 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Numerical Simulation Analysis of a Capacitive Pressure Sensor for Wearable Medical Devices
by Kiran Keshyagol
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20348 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 169
Abstract
Wearable sensor devices have found a great deal of application in medicine on account of their small size and high sensitivity, and flexible elastomer materials are essential for their practical use. In this study we undertake CAD-assisted design of a capacitive pressure sensor [...] Read more.
Wearable sensor devices have found a great deal of application in medicine on account of their small size and high sensitivity, and flexible elastomer materials are essential for their practical use. In this study we undertake CAD-assisted design of a capacitive pressure sensor (CPS) using COMSOL-Multiphysics software (6.0) to investigate its medical capabilities. The CPS was constructed in the shape of a cylinder, where the dielectric layer consists of air sandwiched between a polysilicon base and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane. Simulations show that the CPS has a capacitance of 1.28 pF and stores 0.644 pJ of energy under an electric field of 1 kPa. The pressure sensitivity of the CSP diminished with an increase in the forward pressure, indicating that there is a non-linear dependence of pressure on the capacitance. This nonlinearity was most pronounced at lower pressures, where for small changes in pressure, the capacitance changed more significantly in correlation due to minor changes to the diaphragm. Higher pressure, however, prevented differentiation due to the large amount of diaphragm bending and changes in the properties of the materials. Dielectric capacitance grew widely in respect to applied pressure, with a low capacitance growth rate exhibited under high steady-state pressure. As expected, the stored energy was directly proportional to the pressure increase, reflecting the characteristic quadratic dependence of a capacitor on pressure. Temperature differences from 22 to 40 °C were also logged. However, the change in the dielectric constant of air remained minimal and it was noted that a 10 °C rise in temperature caused a much greater capacitance increase of about 53.28% and an energy increase of about 52.38%. Validation of the numerical approach with respect to its analytical results showed high accuracy with a margin of error less than one percent, thus proving the model’s reliability and usefulness in forecasting CPS performance under different conditions. The results of the simulations are encouraging for the further development of the CPS as it may be effectively integrated into the architecture of wearable devices for medical purposes, enhancing patient care and diagnostic processes. Full article
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9 pages, 2453 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Ring Oscillator-Based Physical Unclonable Function with Enhanced Challenge–Response Pairs to Improve the Security of Internet of Things Devices
by Marco Grossi, Martin Omaña, Cecilia Metra and Andrea Acquaviva
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20497 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 180
Abstract
Portable and wearable sensor systems implemented in the paradigm of the Internet of Things (IoT) are part of our daily activities as well as commercial and industrial products. The connection of measurement devices has led to not only a sharp increase in information [...] Read more.
Portable and wearable sensor systems implemented in the paradigm of the Internet of Things (IoT) are part of our daily activities as well as commercial and industrial products. The connection of measurement devices has led to not only a sharp increase in information sharing, but also to the frequency of cyber-attacks, in which system vulnerabilities are exploited to steal confidential information, corrupt data, or even make the system unavailable. Physical unclonable function (PUF)-based devices exploit the inherent randomness introduced during device manufacturing to create a unique fingerprint. They are widely used to generate passwords and cryptographic keys to mitigate security issues in IoT applications. Among the existing different PUF structures, ring oscillator (RO)-based PUF devices are very popular due to their simple structure and their potential easy integration onto chips. In this paper, the possibility of increasing the number of challenge–response pairs (CRPs) of RO-based PUF devices by measuring two different parameters (the oscillation frequency and the duty cycle) is investigated. The results achieved by the performed circuit level simulations and experimental measurements show that these two parameters feature a weak correlation. The proposed PUF device can be used to increase the number of CRPs to improve device security while achieving a high uniqueness value (49.77%). Full article
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7 pages, 4853 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Experimental Study of Temperature Effects on the Dynamic Response of Medium- and Low-Speed Maglev Trains
by Guofeng Zeng, Andong Zheng, Stefano Mariani and Ziping Han
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20473 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 121
Abstract
To ensure safety and passenger comfort, for the medium- and low-speed Maglev transportation system, very strict control standards were developed and set into action. The relevant high costs were therefore not conducive to the promotion of this advanced mode of transportation. Moving from [...] Read more.
To ensure safety and passenger comfort, for the medium- and low-speed Maglev transportation system, very strict control standards were developed and set into action. The relevant high costs were therefore not conducive to the promotion of this advanced mode of transportation. Moving from the above described situation, field tests were carried out at the Maglev test line located in Shanghai Lin’gang. The dynamic response of the Maglev system was studied under the influence of beams of the supporting frame with a varying stiffness and under different environmental (in terms of temperature) effects. The collected data showed that the system can guarantee good stability under relatively unfavorable ambient conditions so that the effect of temperature on the dynamic response of the system lies within an acceptable range. Full article
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8 pages, 1295 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Fault Diagnosis of Vehicle Tire Pressure Using Bayesian Networks with Real-Time Robot Operating Systems (ROS) Applications
by Tolga Bodrumlu, Murat Gozum and Batıkan Kavak
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20438 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 130
Abstract
In today’s engineering applications, model-based fault diagnosis methods are used, especially to reduce existing costs. This study is a continuation of the previous works conducted by the authors, and it fundamentally includes model-based fault diagnosis methods. Within the scope of this study, the [...] Read more.
In today’s engineering applications, model-based fault diagnosis methods are used, especially to reduce existing costs. This study is a continuation of the previous works conducted by the authors, and it fundamentally includes model-based fault diagnosis methods. Within the scope of this study, the residual value structure of tire pressure is integrated into the previously created Bayesian network structure, aiming to achieve a more accurate detection of the fault present in the tire. The updated method is first modeled and tested in the Matlab/Simulink environment. Subsequently, the algorithm structure and the resolution algorithms that allow us to obtain the tire pressure values from the vehicle are updated in an ROS environment, and the designed method is verified with real vehicle tests. Here, a test scenario for the tire pressure is created, and a real vehicle test is conducted. The faults obtained during the test are also displayed on the Human–Machine Interface. Full article
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7 pages, 2074 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Electropolymerized Dyes as Sensing Layer for Natural Phenolic Antioxidants of Essential Oils
by Alena Kalmykova, Anastasiya Zhupanova and Guzel Ziyatdinova
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20480 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 130
Abstract
Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy, food, and pharmaceutical industries. They contain a range of electroactive natural phenolic antioxidants like eugenol, trans-anethole, thymol, carvacrol, and vanillin. Therefore, the sensitive voltammetric determination of these compounds is of practical interest. Voltammetric sensors based [...] Read more.
Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy, food, and pharmaceutical industries. They contain a range of electroactive natural phenolic antioxidants like eugenol, trans-anethole, thymol, carvacrol, and vanillin. Therefore, the sensitive voltammetric determination of these compounds is of practical interest. Voltammetric sensors based on the layer-by-layer combination of carbon nanotubes and electropolymerized dyes were developed. Pyrogallol red, mixture of phenol red and p-coumaric acid, thymolphthalein, bromocresol purple were used as monomers. The created sensors were used in the quantification of target analytes using differential pulse voltammetry in a Britton–Robinson buffer. The detection limits in the range of 3.7 × 10−8–7.3 × 10−7 M were achieved. Full article
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9 pages, 1101 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development and Evaluation of a Sensor-Based Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring System Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
by Sundus Ali, Ashar Shakeel, Filza Hassan Khan, Ghulam Fiza, Khalid Kamran, Fatima Tanoli and Muhammad Imran Aslam
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20395 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 460
Abstract
Diabetes Mellitus is a significant global health issue, affecting over half a billion people worldwide. Current glucose monitoring methods are invasive, painful, and require skilled application, highlighting the need for the development of effective, non-invasive, and easy to use methods. This paper presents [...] Read more.
Diabetes Mellitus is a significant global health issue, affecting over half a billion people worldwide. Current glucose monitoring methods are invasive, painful, and require skilled application, highlighting the need for the development of effective, non-invasive, and easy to use methods. This paper presents our work on the design, development, and evaluation of a non-invasive blood glucose monitoring system, utilizing Near-Infrared Spectroscopy technique for glucose monitoring. The proposed system comprises a MAX30102 biosensor connected to an ESP32 microcontroller. The biosensor captures the photoplethysmogram signals, which are then processed by a microcontroller to evaluate blood glucose level. In order to increase the accuracy of the results, we have incorporated linear regression with Clarke Error Grid Analysis to calibrate our system. The linear regression model is trained by comparing the results obtained through the developed system with that of a commercial off-the-self invasive device. The glucose levels obtained through the developed system are displayed in real-time on an Organic LED (OLED) screen and simultaneously uploaded to a cloud server via Internet of Things for remote monitoring. To validate the performance of the proposed system, we have compared the performance metrics of our system against existing solutions published in the literature. Performance comparisons show that our system achieves a reasonably good accuracy with a root mean square error of 13.8 mg/dL and a mean absolute relative difference of 12%. The proposed system offers a painless and convenient solution, potentially improving glucose monitoring for patients. Full article
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12 pages, 660 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
NR-IQA with Gaussian Derivative Filter, Convolutional Block Attention Module, and Spatial Pyramid Pooling
by Jyothi Sri Vadlamudi and Sameeulla Khan Md
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20482 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Gaussian derivatives offer valuable capabilities for analyzing image characteristics such as structure, edges, texture, and features, which are essential aspects in the assessment of image quality. Recently, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have gained in importance in computer vision applications and also in the [...] Read more.
Gaussian derivatives offer valuable capabilities for analyzing image characteristics such as structure, edges, texture, and features, which are essential aspects in the assessment of image quality. Recently, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have gained in importance in computer vision applications and also in the image quality assessment domain. Due to the characteristics of Gaussian derivatives that perform a major role in assessing image quality, this work seeks to combine these characteristics with CNNs to better extract features for assessing the quality of an image. While CNNs have demonstrated their ability to handle distortion effectively, they are limited in their capacity to capture features at different scales, making them inadequate in dealing with significant variations in object size. Consequently, the concept of spatial pyramid pooling (SPP) is introduced to address this limitation in image quality assessment (IQA). SPP involves pooling the spatial feature maps from the highest convolutional layers into a feature representation of fixed length. Additionally, through the utilization of a convolutional block attention module (CBAM), a module designed for the interpretation of images, and local importance pooling (LIP), we propose method for no-reference image quality assessment has demonstrated improved accuracy, generalization, and efficiency on the IVC database compared to conventional or traditional IQA methods, while achieving competitive performance on other datasets. Full article
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1798 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Contrastive Learning Approach for Integrating Visuo-Tactile Representation in Textiles
by Nada Ech-chouqi and Ghazal Rouhafzay
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20422 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Vision and touch are fundamental sensory modalities that enable humans to perceive and interact with objects in their environment. Vision facilitates the perception of attributes such as shape, color, and texture from a distance, while touch provides detailed information at the contact level, [...] Read more.
Vision and touch are fundamental sensory modalities that enable humans to perceive and interact with objects in their environment. Vision facilitates the perception of attributes such as shape, color, and texture from a distance, while touch provides detailed information at the contact level, including fine textures and material properties. Despite their distinct roles, the processing of visual and tactile information shares underlying similarities, presenting a unique opportunity to enhance artificial systems that integrate these modalities. However, existing methods for combining vision and touch often rely on data fusion at the decision level, requiring extensive labeled data and facing challenges in generalizing to novel situations. In this paper, we leverage contrastive learning to train a convolutional neural network on textile data using both visual and tactile inputs. Our objective is to develop a network capable of extracting unified representations from both modalities without the need for extensive labeled datasets. We explore using a contrastive loss function to optimize the learning process. Our results demonstrate that the shared representations effectively capture critical data structures and features from both sensory modalities, enabling successful differentiation between object classes based on both vision and touch. We validate our approach through a series of experiments, optimizing hyperparameters to maximize performance. The findings suggest that extracting shared representations for vision and touch not only enhances the integration of visual and tactile information but also provides a robust framework for multimodal perception in artificial systems. Full article
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1532 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Performance Analysis of Simulated Low-Temperature Co-Fired Ceramic Diaphragm Using Finite Element Method
by Fikret Yıldız
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20357 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 101
Abstract
In this study, a low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC)-based circular diaphragm design was considered for Fabry–Pérot Interferometer (FPI) pressure sensor applications. The characteristics of the LTCC-based circular diaphragm were analyzed using FEM analysis. The selected thicknesses of the LTCC diaphragms were 50 μm, 75 [...] Read more.
In this study, a low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC)-based circular diaphragm design was considered for Fabry–Pérot Interferometer (FPI) pressure sensor applications. The characteristics of the LTCC-based circular diaphragm were analyzed using FEM analysis. The selected thicknesses of the LTCC diaphragms were 50 μm, 75 μm and 100 μm, with diameters of 3 mm, 4 mm and 5 mm, respectively. Our results showed that the sensitivity and frequency response of this structure can be designed flexibly by adjusting the parameters of the ceramic diaphragm size, including the radius and thickness. The key contribution of this work is that it demonstrates the performance of LTCC diaphragms with different sizes, which could be useful for future works. Full article
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10 pages, 1750 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Modelling, Analysis and Sensory Metrication Towards a Quantitative Understanding of Complexity in Systems
by Melissa Ball and Michael Ayomoh
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20460 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 119
Abstract
Modelling and metrication of the complexity of systems have occupied a growing and largely underdeveloped problem space in the literature of complex systems. In this research, preliminary results depicting the complexity of a service system premised on a tertiary institution of learning is [...] Read more.
Modelling and metrication of the complexity of systems have occupied a growing and largely underdeveloped problem space in the literature of complex systems. In this research, preliminary results depicting the complexity of a service system premised on a tertiary institution of learning is presented. The concept deployed focused on modelling the trio core entities viz: functional elements, physical elements and the intricacy of connectivity associated with the flow of signals in the normal systemic operations. The numerous activities depicting diversity and multiplicity were holistically enumerated prior to sensing and metrication. The outcome of this research underscores effectiveness in the proposed model. Full article
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7 pages, 2675 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
“Smart Clothing” Technology for Heart Function Monitoring During a Session of “Dry” Immersion
by Liudmila Gerasimova-Meigal, Alexander Meigal, Vyacheslav Dimitrov, Maria Gerasimova and Anna Sklyarova
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20475 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 153
Abstract
The study aimed at obtaining a precise view of the modification of heart rate variability (HRV) and respiratory rate with the help of “smart clothes” (the Hexoskin Smart Shirt, Hexoskin Smart Sensors & AI, Montreal, QC, Canada) during a 45 min session of [...] Read more.
The study aimed at obtaining a precise view of the modification of heart rate variability (HRV) and respiratory rate with the help of “smart clothes” (the Hexoskin Smart Shirt, Hexoskin Smart Sensors & AI, Montreal, QC, Canada) during a 45 min session of “dry” immersion (DI), which is considered a model of Earth-based weightlessness. Eight healthy subjects aged 19 to 21 years participated in the study. Hexoskin Smart Shirt provided a .wav sound file. For analysis, the ecg_peaks function of the neurokit2 library was applied. HRV parameters were calculated within 5 min segments with the help of the pyHRV toolbox. Time-domain (HR and SDNN) and frequency-domain (HF, LF, and VLF) HRV parameters, sample, and approximate entropy were calculated. Thus, the “smart cloth” technology appears as a reliable telemetric instrument to monitor cardiac and respiratory regulation during the DI session. Full article
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9 pages, 3505 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
AI-Driven Longitudinal Pitch Attitude Control for Enhanced Flight Control Dynamics
by Yellapragada Venkata Pavan Kumar
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20483 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 181
Abstract
The regulation of the orientation of a flying aircraft under autopilot is a multifaceted and crucial task that requires accuracy and flexibility. To do this, it is essential to have a complex control system that is furnished with an advanced controller capable of [...] Read more.
The regulation of the orientation of a flying aircraft under autopilot is a multifaceted and crucial task that requires accuracy and flexibility. To do this, it is essential to have a complex control system that is furnished with an advanced controller capable of actively monitoring and modifying the flying characteristics of the aircraft. This must possess the ability to react dynamically to a range of disturbances experienced throughout the flight, including turbulence, fluctuations in wind, and other pertinent environmental elements. Through real-time adjustment of the flying attitude, the control system guarantees that the aircraft maintains its planned trajectory, stability, and safety along the whole trajectory. Typically, PID controllers are used to regulate the longitudinal direction of flights. However, these offline tuned controllers lack automation and are unable to adjust parameters in response to inherent disturbances seen in practice. Thus, this paper proposes online tuning techniques that are created using artificial intelligence (AI) mechanisms, namely fuzzy logic and neural networks. The philosophy involved in this work is the online tuning of PID gain parameters by applying both aforementioned intelligent methods. The study also implements many classical PID tuning techniques and compares the most effective tuning method with online approaches. To evaluate the effectiveness of online controllers and the optimal classical PID controller, their performance was evaluated based on time-domain transient characteristics. The overall comprehensive analysis was conducted using MATLAB/Simulink. The analysis revealed that the intelligent fuzzy logic-based PID controller outperformed alternative tuning techniques with respect to time performance indices such as delay time, rise time, peak time, and settling time, which are improved by 5.88%, 3.26%, 8.05%, and 55.71%, respectively, when compared to classical PID tuning methods. Full article
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5 pages, 699 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Confidence Intervals for Uncertainty Quantification in Sensor Data-Driven Prognosis
by Tarek Berghout and Mohamed Benbouzid
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20501 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 163
Abstract
The reliable prediction of future system behavior using sensor data is often hindered by inherent uncertainties, especially in cases where the data undergo gradual changes over time. These uncertainties typically arise from environmental factors or system degradation, posing significant challenges to accurate prognosis [...] Read more.
The reliable prediction of future system behavior using sensor data is often hindered by inherent uncertainties, especially in cases where the data undergo gradual changes over time. These uncertainties typically arise from environmental factors or system degradation, posing significant challenges to accurate prognosis and decision making. In this study, we propose a solution to address this issue by employing confidence intervals to quantify uncertainty in prognosis based on progressively drifted sensor data. Our approach aims to establish a robust framework for evaluating the uncertainty associated with predictions derived from sensor data affected by gradual changes. To illustrate the importance of our proposed method, we mathematically model an exponentially growing sinusoidal pattern with additive noise and outliers, a pattern commonly observed in vibration signals from rotating machinery. Through various deep learning models, well trained and optimized under hyperparameter optimizations and validation, our empirical validation and analysis demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in enhancing the reliability and accuracy of prognosis models in dynamic sensor data environments. Thus, we draw important conclusions about the trustworthiness of predictions. This research study contributes to advancing the understanding and application of statistical techniques in managing uncertainty within sensor-based prognostic systems, thereby improving their effectiveness across diverse real-world applications. Full article
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1364 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Design and Optimization of Mobile Microrobots with Piezoelectric Actuation for High-Precision Manipulation
by Jitendra Adhikari
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20350 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 154
Abstract
This study delves into the design and optimization of mobile microrobots tailored for tasks requiring sub-micrometer precision, addressing key challenges in the miniaturization and efficiency of microrobotic systems. Each microrobot is composed of a mobile platform, a manipulation unit, and a specialized end [...] Read more.
This study delves into the design and optimization of mobile microrobots tailored for tasks requiring sub-micrometer precision, addressing key challenges in the miniaturization and efficiency of microrobotic systems. Each microrobot is composed of a mobile platform, a manipulation unit, and a specialized end effector, collectively enabling them to perform a diverse array of operations on various surfaces. The mobile platforms provide three degrees of freedom (DOF) and can support loads ranging from 10 g to 500 g, with actuation based on the stick-slip principle. A novel configuration of the components offers promising characteristics, notably, the low voltage required to drive the actuators, facilitating battery integration. The manipulation unit incorporates actuators that utilize a combination of electric motors and piezoelectric materials. This study reveals that ceramic-based PZT-5H exhibits superior actuation performance, achieving significantly greater displacement compared to other materials, such as PVDF. Furthermore, this research highlights the importance of platform design and material selection in enhancing actuation efficiency and optimizing voltage application. These findings contribute to the development of more efficient manipulation units, emphasizing the potential for further advancements in compact and high-performance microrobots. The insights gained are critical for the ongoing miniaturization and optimization of these systems, particularly in precision applications, where both accuracy and efficiency are paramount. Full article
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8 pages, 1139 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Artificial Intelligence-Based Effective Detection of Parkinson’s Disease Using Voice Measurements
by Gogulamudi Pradeep Reddy, Duppala Rohan, Yellapragada Venkata Pavan Kumar, Kasaraneni Purna Prakash and Mandarapu Srikanth
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20481 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 348
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative illness that affects the central nervous system and leads to a gradual degeneration of neurons that results in movement slowness, mental health problems, speaking difficulties, etc. In the past 20 years, the frequency of PD has doubled. [...] Read more.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative illness that affects the central nervous system and leads to a gradual degeneration of neurons that results in movement slowness, mental health problems, speaking difficulties, etc. In the past 20 years, the frequency of PD has doubled. Global estimates revealed that over 8.5 million cases have been identified so far. Thus, early and accurate detection of PD is crucial for treatment. Traditional detection methods are subjective and prone to delays, as they are reliant on clinical evaluation and imaging. Alternatively, artificial intelligence (AI) has recently emerged as a transformative technology in the healthcare sector, showing decent and promising results. However, an effective algorithm needs to be investigated for the most accurate prediction of a particular disease. Thus, this paper explores the ability of different machine learning algorithms in regard to the effective detection of PD. A total of 26 algorithms were implemented using the Scikit-Learn library on the Oxford PD detection dataset. This is a collection of 195 voice measurements recorded from 31 individuals, of which 23 have PD. The implemented algorithms are logistic regression, decision tree, k-nearest neighbors, random forest, support vector machine, Gaussian naïve bayes, multi-layered perceptron (MLP), extreme gradient boosting, adaptive boosting, stochastic gradient descent, gradient boosting machine, extra tree classifier, light gradient boosting machine, categorical boosting, Bernoulli naïve bayes, complement naïve bayes, multinomial naïve bayes, histogram-based gradient boosting, nearest centroid, radius neighbors classifier, logistic regression with elastic net regularization, extreme learning machine, ridge classifier, huber classifier, perceptron classifier, and voting classifier. Among them, MLP outperformed the other algorithms with a testing accuracy of 95%, precision of 94%, sensitivity of 100%, F1 score of 97%, and AUC of 98%. Thus, it successfully discriminates healthy individuals from those with PD, thereby helping for accurate early detection of PD for new patients using their voice measurements. Full article
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6 pages, 903 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Full-Body Activity Recognition Using Inertial Signals
by Eric Raymond Rodrigues, Sergio Esteban-Romero, Manuel Gil-Martín and Rubén San-Segundo
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20511 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 132
Abstract
This paper describes the development of a Human Activity Recognition (HAR) system based on deep learning for classifying full-body activities using inertial signals. The HAR system is divided into several modules: a preprocessing module for extracting relevant features from the inertial signals window-by-window, [...] Read more.
This paper describes the development of a Human Activity Recognition (HAR) system based on deep learning for classifying full-body activities using inertial signals. The HAR system is divided into several modules: a preprocessing module for extracting relevant features from the inertial signals window-by-window, a machine learning algorithm for classifying the windows and a post-processing module for integrating the information along several windows. Regarding the preprocessing module, several transformations are implemented and evaluated. For the ML module, several algorithms are evaluated, including several deep learning architectures. This evaluation has been carried out over the HARTH dataset. This public dataset contains recordings from 22 participants wearing two 3-axial Axivity AX3 accelerometers for 2 h in a free-living setting. Not all the subjects completed the whole session. Sixteen different activities were recorded and annotated accordingly. This paper describes the fine-tuning process of several machine learning algorithms and analyses their performance with different sets of activities. The best results show an accuracy of 90% and 93% for 12 and nine activities, respectively. To the author’s knowledge, these analyses provide the best state-of-the-art results over this public dataset. Additionally, this paper includes several analyses of the confusion between the different activities. Full article
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9 pages, 2207 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Embedded Intelligence for Smart Home Using TinyML Approach to Keyword Spotting
by Jyoti Mishra, Timothy Malche and Amit Hirawat
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20522 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 289
Abstract
Current research in home automation focuses on integrating emerging technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning to create smart home solutions that offer enhanced convenience, efficiency, and security. Benefits include remote control of household devices, optimized energy usage through automated systems, [...] Read more.
Current research in home automation focuses on integrating emerging technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning to create smart home solutions that offer enhanced convenience, efficiency, and security. Benefits include remote control of household devices, optimized energy usage through automated systems, and improved user experience with real-time monitoring and alerts. In this study, a TinyML (Tiny Machine Learning)-based keyword spotting machine learning model and system is proposed which enables voice-based home automation. The proposed system allows users to control household devices through voice commands with minimal computational resources and real-time performance. The main objective of this research is to develop the TinyML model for resource-constrained devices. The system enables home systems to efficiently recognize specific keywords or phrases by integrating voice control for enhanced user convenience and accessibility. In this research, the different voice keywords of users of different age groups have been collected in the home environment and trained using machine learning algorithms. An IoT-based system is then developed utilizing the TinyML model to recognize a specific voice command and perform home automation tasks. The model has achieved 98% accuracy with an F1 score of 1.00 and 92% recall. The quantized model uses Latency of 5 ms, 7.9 K of RAM and 43.7 K of flash for keyword classification, which is the best fit for any resource-constrained devices. The proposed system demonstrates the viability of deploying a keyword spotting model for home automation on resource-constrained IoT devices. The research helps in building efficient and user-friendly smart home solutions, enhancing the accessibility and functionality of home automation systems. Full article
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1015 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
ANOVA-Based Variance Analysis in Smart Home Energy Consumption Data Using a Case Study of Darmstadt Smart City, Germany
by Yamini Kodali and Yellapragada Venkata Pavan Kumar
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20354 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 184
Abstract
The evolution of smart grids (SG) has been rapid and ubiquitous with the advent of information and communication technology. SGs enable utilities and prosumers to monitor energy consumption in real-time, thereby possessing effective supply and demand management. The subsets of SGs, namely smart [...] Read more.
The evolution of smart grids (SG) has been rapid and ubiquitous with the advent of information and communication technology. SGs enable utilities and prosumers to monitor energy consumption in real-time, thereby possessing effective supply and demand management. The subsets of SGs, namely smart homes/smart buildings, are tailored to reap the benefits of SGs. These smart homes continuously record energy consumption data through smart meters, sensors, and smart appliances, and enable consumers to track and manage their energy usage in real-time. Usually, the energy consumption of renewable energy-integrated smart homes depends on consumer behavior and weather conditions. These aspects lead to deviation in the recorded energy consumption data from the desired levels. This variance in energy consumption impacts pattern-finding, forecasting, financial risk, decision-making, and several other grid functionalities. Hence, comprehension of variance in energy consumption is essential to properly manage energy. With this aim, this paper proposes the use of variance analysis on smart home energy consumption readings using a statistical method named “Analysis of Variance (ANOVA)”. It is implemented on the Tracebase dataset, which is a smart city database and contains data for ten months. The data were collected in the city of Darmstadt, Germany, in 2012. The proposed ANOVA is applied to all these months’ data. As an initial step, the energy consumption readings recorded for every month at each day and at each hour are enumerated and this information is further used to perform day-wise variance analysis using ANOVA. The results show that there is a significant variance in several days of each month. Furthermore, it is revealed that out of ten months, two months have high variability. Thus, this proposed variance analysis helps the stakeholders of SGs take the necessary precautions for smooth grid functionalities as well as properly estimate future energy requirements. Full article
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977 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Frequency Analysis and Transfer Learning Across Different Body Sensor Locations in Parkinson’s Disease Detection Using Inertial Signals
by Alejandro Rey-Díaz, Iván Martín-Fernández, Rubén San-Segundo and Manuel Gil-Martín
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20507 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 127
Abstract
A detailed analysis of the inertial signals input is required when using deep learning models for Parkinson’s Disease detection. This work explores the possibility of reducing the input size of the models by studying the most appropriate frequency range and determines if it [...] Read more.
A detailed analysis of the inertial signals input is required when using deep learning models for Parkinson’s Disease detection. This work explores the possibility of reducing the input size of the models by studying the most appropriate frequency range and determines if it is feasible to evaluate subjects with different sensor locations than those used during training. For experimentation, 3.2 s windows are used to classify signals between Parkinson’s patients and control subjects, applying Fast Fourier Transform to the inertial signals and following a Leave-One-Subject-Out Cross-Validation methodology for the PD-BioStampRC21 dataset. It has been observed that the frequency range of 0 to 5 Hz offers a classification accuracy rate of 75.75 ± 0.62% using the five available sensors for training and evaluation, which is close to the model’s performance over the entire frequency range, from 0 to 15.625 Hz, which is 77.46 ± 0.60%. Regarding the transfer learning between sensors located in different body parts, it was observed that training and evaluating the model using data from the right forearm resulted in an accuracy of 65.17 ± 0.69%. When the model was trained with data from the opposite forearm, the accuracy was similar, at 63.57 ± 0.69%. Likewise, comparable results were found when using data from the other forearm and when training and evaluating with opposite thighs, with accuracy reductions not exceeding 3%. Full article
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3908 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Automated Glaucoma Detection in Fundus Images Using Comprehensive Feature Extraction and Advanced Classification Techniques
by Vijaya Kumar Velpula, Jyothisri Vadlamudi, Purna Prakash Kasaraneni and Yellapragada Venkata Pavan Kumar
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20437 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 181
Abstract
Glaucoma, a primary cause of irreversible blindness, necessitates early detection to prevent significant vision loss. In the literature, fundus imaging is identified as a key tool in diagnosing glaucoma, which captures detailed retina images. However, the manual analysis of these images can be [...] Read more.
Glaucoma, a primary cause of irreversible blindness, necessitates early detection to prevent significant vision loss. In the literature, fundus imaging is identified as a key tool in diagnosing glaucoma, which captures detailed retina images. However, the manual analysis of these images can be time-consuming and subjective. Thus, this paper presents an automated system for glaucoma detection using fundus images, combining diverse feature extraction methods with advanced classifiers, specifically Support Vector Machine (SVM) and AdaBoost. The pre-processing step incorporated image enhancement via Contrast-Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization (CLAHE) to enhance image quality and feature extraction. This work investigated individual features such as the histogram of oriented gradients (HOG), local binary patterns (LBP), chip histogram features, and the gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM), as well as their various combinations, including HOG + LBP + chip histogram + GLCM, HOG + LBP + chip histogram, and others. These features were utilized with SVM and Adaboost classifiers to improve classification performance. For validation, the ACRIMA dataset, a public fundus image collection comprising 369 glaucoma-affected and 309 normal images, was used in this work, with 80% of the data allocated for training and 20% for testing. The results of the proposed study show that different feature sets yielded varying accuracies with the SVM and Adaboost classifiers. For instance, the combination of LBP + chip histogram achieved the highest accuracy of 99.29% with Adaboost, while the same combination yielded a 65.25% accuracy with SVM. The individual feature LBP alone achieved 97.87% with Adaboost and 98.58% with SVM. Furthermore, the combination of GLCM + LBP provided a 98.58% accuracy with Adaboost and 97.87% with SVM. The results demonstrate that CLAHE and combined feature sets significantly enhance detection accuracy, providing a reliable tool for early and precise glaucoma diagnosis, thus facilitating timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. Full article
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3663 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Design and Development of an Effective Sensing and Measurement Procedure for Tasks for System-of-Systems Engineering Management in the Agro-Seed Nurturing Industry
by Maryke F. Schoeman and Michael K. Ayomoh
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20488 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 148
Abstract
This research has quantified, through algorithmic sensing and metrication, the minimum management effort required by a System-of-Systems (SoS) overseeing entity to competitively manage the complex network of systems that form a heterogenous SoS cluster. In a bid to achieve this, a holistic and [...] Read more.
This research has quantified, through algorithmic sensing and metrication, the minimum management effort required by a System-of-Systems (SoS) overseeing entity to competitively manage the complex network of systems that form a heterogenous SoS cluster. In a bid to achieve this, a holistic and integrated framework depicting a SoS network of 35 constituent systems in the agricultural grain industry was developed. Furthermore, a quantitative mechanism via the Hybrid Structural Interaction Matrix (HSIM) concept was deployed. From this, it was realized that the effective minimum management score required for the attainment of competitiveness in holistic management herein is 0.534067. Full article
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2641 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Designing a Low-Cost Automated Mobile Robot for South African Citrus Farmers
by Philip Botha Smit and Michael K. Ayomoh
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20451 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 192
Abstract
Citrus farming in South Africa has become extremely lopsided in terms of economic opportunities. The statistics show that the wealthy large-scale farmers simultaneously control 100% of the international export market and 77.1% of the local market, hence endangering the prospect of the small- [...] Read more.
Citrus farming in South Africa has become extremely lopsided in terms of economic opportunities. The statistics show that the wealthy large-scale farmers simultaneously control 100% of the international export market and 77.1% of the local market, hence endangering the prospect of the small- and medium-scale farmers. This research presents a novel, low-cost autonomous mobile robot (AMR) designed to support small- and medium-scale citrus farmers in South Africa, enhancing their competitiveness in both local and international markets. Developed using GENESYS software 2023 University Edition for systems integration, the AMR offers real-time crop monitoring to aid phytosanitary regulations compliance, autonomous navigation with object avoidance, error alerts, GPS functionality, and auto-homing when battery levels drop to 30%. Additionally, it captures periodic snapshots of citrus crops for visual inspection and assists with proof of protocols for sustaining citrus and treating infected trees, hence increasing its credibility and accountability for export and local markets. The AMR represents a significant advancement in affordable smart technology for sustainable citrus farming. Full article
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3982 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Remote Control of ADAS Features: A Teleoperation Approach to Mitigate Autonomous Driving Challenges
by İsa Karaböcek, Batıkan Kavak and Ege Özdemir
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20449 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 181
Abstract
This paper presents a novel approach to enhancing the safety of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) by integrating teleoperation for the remote control of ADAS features in a vehicle. The primary contribution of this research is the development and implementation of a teleoperation [...] Read more.
This paper presents a novel approach to enhancing the safety of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) by integrating teleoperation for the remote control of ADAS features in a vehicle. The primary contribution of this research is the development and implementation of a teleoperation system that allows human operators to take control of the vehicle’s ADAS features, enabling timely intervention in critical situations where autonomous functions may be insufficient. While the concept of teleoperation has been explored in the literature, with several implementations focused on the direct control of vehicles, there are relatively few examples of teleoperation systems designed specifically to utilize ADAS features. This research addresses this gap by exploring teleoperation as a supplementary mechanism that allows human intervention in critical driving situations, particularly where autonomous systems may encounter limitations. The teleoperation system was tested under two critical ADAS scenarios, cruise control and lane change assist, chosen for their importance in real-world driving conditions. These scenarios demonstrate how teleoperation can complement and enhance the performance of ADAS features. The experiments reveal the effectiveness of remote control in providing precise control, allowing for swift and accurate responses in scenarios where the autonomous system might face challenges. The novelty of this work lies in its application of teleoperation to ADAS features, offering a new perspective on how human intervention can enhance vehicle safety. The findings provide valuable insights into optimizing teleoperation for real-world driving scenarios. As a result of the experiments, it was demonstrated that integrating teleoperation with ADAS features offers a more reliable solution compared to standalone ADAS driving. Full article
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978 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Textile Pressure Sensors: Innovations and Intellectual Property Landscape
by Massimo Barbieri and Giuseppe Andreoni
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20512 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 298
Abstract
Textile pressure sensors represent a recent field area of development within the field of wearable technology and smart textiles. The potential applications of these sensors are diverse, spanning healthcare, sports, and other domains. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive [...] Read more.
Textile pressure sensors represent a recent field area of development within the field of wearable technology and smart textiles. The potential applications of these sensors are diverse, spanning healthcare, sports, and other domains. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive analysis and benchmarking of the intellectual property rights (IPR) scenario for textile pressure sensors. Indeed, as the field progresses, it will be necessary to implement ongoing adaptations to IP strategies and legal frameworks in order to effectively address the emerging challenges and opportunities. A number of patent databases have been employed in order to evaluate the patent landscape pertaining to textile pressure sensors. This has involved the utilization of specific keywords. Full article
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1068 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Gesture Recognition Using Electromyography and Deep Learning
by Daniel Gómez-Verde, Sergio Esteban-Romero, Manuel Gil-Martín and Rubén San-Segundo
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20510 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 205
Abstract
Human gesture recognition using electromyography (EMG) signals holds high potential for enhancing the functionality of human–machine interfaces, prosthetic devices, and sports performance analysis. This work proposes a gesture classification system based on electromyography. This system has been designed to improve the accuracy of [...] Read more.
Human gesture recognition using electromyography (EMG) signals holds high potential for enhancing the functionality of human–machine interfaces, prosthetic devices, and sports performance analysis. This work proposes a gesture classification system based on electromyography. This system has been designed to improve the accuracy of forearm gesture classification by leveraging advanced signal processing and deep learning techniques to optimize classification accuracy. The system is composed of two main modules: a signal processing module, able to perform two main transforms (short-time Fourier transform and Constant-Q-Transform), and a classification module based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs). The dataset employed in this study, entitled “Latent Factors Limiting the Performance of sEMG-Interfaces”, comprises EMG signals collected via a bracelet equipped with 8 distinct sensors, capable of capturing a wide range of forearm muscle activities. The experimental process is composed of two main phases. Firstly, we employed a k-fold cross-validation methodology to systematically assess and validate the model’s performance across different subsets of data for hyperparameter tunning. Secondly, the best system configuration was evaluated using a new subset, reporting significant improvements. The baseline neural network architecture reported an accuracy of 85.0 ± 0.13% when classifying gestures. Through rigorous hyperparameter tuning and the application of various mathematical transformations to the EMG features, we managed to enhance the classification accuracy to 90.0 ± 0.12% (an absolute improvement of 5% compared to the baseline for a 5-class problem). When making comparisons to previous works, we significantly improved the F-score from 85.5% to 89.3% for a 4-class problem (left, right, up, and down). Full article
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3015 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Enhancing Soil Fertility Prediction Through Federated Learning on IoT-Generated Datasets with a Feature Selection Perspective
by Murali Krishna Senapaty, Abhishek Ray and Neelamadhab Padhy
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20474 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 193
Abstract
Introduction: Fertile soil has a balanced pH and nutrient profile (potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen), water retention capability, and organic substances. Fertile soil allows for better plant growth, leading to better production. The soil fertility requirements vary from crop to crop. So, it is [...] Read more.
Introduction: Fertile soil has a balanced pH and nutrient profile (potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen), water retention capability, and organic substances. Fertile soil allows for better plant growth, leading to better production. The soil fertility requirements vary from crop to crop. So, it is essential to identify the soil fertility level according to the crop type. Objective: The objective of this paper is to develop a robust model that is capable of predicting the soil fertility. The model is integrated with IoT-generated data and federated learning-based feature selection techniques to improve the accuracy of the dataset. Materials/Methods: Different feature selection techniques were applied to the dataset. Then, we applied machine learning algorithms such as logistic regression, decision tree, and naïve Bayes, as well as their combinations to analyze and improve the performance. The federated learning approach was implemented to train the local models using the individual partitioned datasets. Each local model of the client shared the cryptic output weight and bias without sharing the raw data. There was a centralized model at the server end that collected these weights and biases, preserving data privacy. These collected data were aggregated and applied to find the least square error (LSE). Then, a gradient descent curve (GDC) was applied to identify the optimized weight and bias, which were fed back again to improve the accuracy of the predictions. Result: From our experimental observations, we analyzed the performance metrics of different ML classifiers, and it was revealed that the ensemble of logistic regression and decision tree had a better performance than the other models. One of our client models generates weight and bias with a precision of 87%, an accuracy of 87%, a recall of 87%, and an F1-score of 86%. Further, we collected two of our client system model outcomes from a server model and applied the LSE to identify the optimal W and B. In future work, we wll improve the performance of our model with a recursive approach by verifying the W and B at the client model in a feedback process. Full article
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1864 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development of Crop Reflectance Sensor for Precision Agriculture
by Jejomar Bulan, Jumar Cadondon, James Roy Lesidan, Maria Cecilia Galvez, Edgar Vallar and Tatsuo Shiina
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20404 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 158
Abstract
Precision agriculture is one of the emerging technologies that is promising to solve the problem of food insecurity worldwide. These focus on collecting, analyzing, and taking actions based on data available from the crop and its environment. Building low-cost and reliable plant health-related [...] Read more.
Precision agriculture is one of the emerging technologies that is promising to solve the problem of food insecurity worldwide. These focus on collecting, analyzing, and taking actions based on data available from the crop and its environment. Building low-cost and reliable plant health-related sensors is critical and helpful in the agriculture industry. This study builds a leaf reflectance sensor comprising a white LED source and an S1133 photodiode detector. The angle between the source and detector varied from 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° to determine the angle at which it would have an optimal reflectance value. The white LED source was connected to a 3-volt and 0.3-ampere power supply, while the S1133 photodiode detector was connected to an oscilloscope to measure the response voltage. Different green intensities were used using an RGB color scheme that imitates the color of the leaf that characterizes its health status. Reflectance intensities were calibrated using white standard reflectance. The result shows that the 45° angle between the source and detector gives the highest R-squared value (R2 = 0.958). This study provides an overview of the effects of varying detection angles for crop reflectance sensors that can be used to assess plant health status and help improve crop yield in the agricultural sector. Full article
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2891 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Analysis of Multiple Emotions from Electroencephalogram Signals Using Machine Learning Models
by Jehosheba Margaret Matthew, Masoodhu Banu Noordheen Mohammad Mustafa and Madhumithaa Selvarajan
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20398 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 154
Abstract
Emotion recognition is a valuable technique to monitor the emotional well-being of human beings. It is found that around 60% of people suffer from different psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, and other mental issues. Mental health studies explore how different emotional expressions are [...] Read more.
Emotion recognition is a valuable technique to monitor the emotional well-being of human beings. It is found that around 60% of people suffer from different psychological conditions like depression, anxiety, and other mental issues. Mental health studies explore how different emotional expressions are linked to specific psychological conditions. Recognizing these patterns and identifying their emotions is complex in human beings since it varies from each individual. Emotion represents the state of mind in response to a particular situation. These emotions, that are collected using EEG electrodes, need detailed emotional analysis to contribute to clinical analysis and personalized health monitoring. Most of the research works are based on valence and arousal (VA) resulting in two, three, and four emotional classes based on their combinations. The main objective of this paper is to include dominance along with valence and arousal (VAD) resulting in the classification of 16 classes of emotional states and thereby improving the number of emotions to be identified. This paper also considers a 2-class emotion, 4-class emotion, and 16-class emotion classification problem, applies different models, and discusses the evaluation methodology in order to select the best one. Among the six machine learning models, KNN proved to be the best model with the classification accuracy of 95.8% for 2-class, 91.78% for 4-class and 89.26% for 16-class. Performance metrics like Precision, ROC, Recall, F1-Score, and Accuracy are evaluated. Additionally, statistical analysis has been performed using Friedman Chi-square test to validate the results. Full article
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1843 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Advances, Benefits, and Challenges of Wearable Sensors for Healthcare and Stress Management: A Focus on Hemodynamic Parameters and Cortisol Measurement
by Georgios V. Taskasaplidis, Konstantinos A. Liogas, Alexander M. Korsunsky, Dimitris A. Fotiadis and Panagiotis D. Bamidis
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20492 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 221
Abstract
Stress has multiple effects on human health. Sensors designed to measure stress and indicate health status by recognizing illnesses or other conditions (e.g., heart problems and blood pressure) have been widely utilized to monitor and characterize this physiological phenomenon. Stress has two response [...] Read more.
Stress has multiple effects on human health. Sensors designed to measure stress and indicate health status by recognizing illnesses or other conditions (e.g., heart problems and blood pressure) have been widely utilized to monitor and characterize this physiological phenomenon. Stress has two response mechanisms: the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. The ANS can affect heart rate, breathing rate, skin conductance, blood pressure, and other hemodynamic parameters. Continuous non-invasive blood pressure (cNIBP) measurement, pulse volume, cardiac output, and other hemodynamic parameters are important for stress measurement and health indicators. There is still room for research and the development of different approaches to measurement in this area. Very few sensor systems associated with cNIBP have been developed or are currently in progress. Photoplethysmography (PPG), impedance plethysmography (IPG), and ultrasound imaging were performed along with other non-invasive sensors, such as electrocardiography (ECG), cardioseismography (CSG), and ballistocardiography (BCG), to measure hemodynamic parameters. In the HPA axis, stress hormones are the most important measurement from the perspective of cortisol levels. This measurement is also important in general for the health of the subject, especially for good functioning of the axis itself (HPA axis). Sensors have been developed to detect cortisol levels for academic and research purposes. Cortisol levels can be measured in two ways: direct and indirect hormone measurements. Non-invasive direct hormone measurement uses a sensor to evaluate the cortisol levels in sweat. In contrast, indirect measurement uses the increase or decrease in cortisol levels in relation to other substances such as sodium or potassium. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated technologies, methods, and wearable sensors for continuous hemodynamic measurements at the ANS level and cortisol measurements at the HPA axis level. These sensors and measurements are crucial for improving healthcare applications. Full article
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2944 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Integrating Lean Six Sigma with Sensors and IoT Monitoring Technologies to Optimize Efficiency in Construction Projects
by Modiehi Mophethe and Michael Ayomoh
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20443 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 163
Abstract
This research focuses on improving construction project workflow efficiency using a hybrid scheme of Lean Six Sigma and monitoring sensors. Real-time data and automated monitoring improve project timeframes by detecting waste and eliminating inefficiencies. The study found that delays were primarily caused by [...] Read more.
This research focuses on improving construction project workflow efficiency using a hybrid scheme of Lean Six Sigma and monitoring sensors. Real-time data and automated monitoring improve project timeframes by detecting waste and eliminating inefficiencies. The study found that delays were primarily caused by long lead times, delayed order placements, and job rework. The sensor-enhanced EOQ model and CiteOps software reduced delays, highlighting the importance of continuous technology integration for long-term efficiency and sustainability in building projects. Full article
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3621 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Indoor Received Signal Strength Indicator Measurements for Device-Free Target Sensing
by Alex Zhindon-Romero, Cesar Vargas-Rosales and Fidel Rodriguez-Corbo
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20491 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 122
Abstract
For applications such as home surveillance systems and assisted living for elderly care, sensing capabilities are essential for tasks such as locating, determining the approximate position of a person, or identifying the status of a person (static or moving), since the effects caused [...] Read more.
For applications such as home surveillance systems and assisted living for elderly care, sensing capabilities are essential for tasks such as locating, determining the approximate position of a person, or identifying the status of a person (static or moving), since the effects caused by the presence of people can be captured in the power received by signals in an infrastructure deployed for these purposes. Human interference in Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) measurements between different pairs of wireless nodes can vary depending on whether the target is moving or static. To test these ideas, an experiment was conducted using four nodes equipped with the ZigBee protocol in each corner of an empty 6.9 m × 8.1 m × 3.05 m room. These nodes were configured as routers, communicating with a coordinator outside the room that instructed the nodes to send back their pairwise RSSI measurements. The coordinator was connected to a computer in order to log the measurements, as well as the time at which the measurements were generated. The code was run for every iteration of the experiment, whether the target was static, moving, or when the number of targets was increased to five. The data were then statistically analyzed to extract patterns and other target relational parameters. There was a correlation between the change in the pairwise RSSI and the path described by the target when moving through the room. The data presented by the results can aid algorithms for device-free localization and crowd classification, with a low infrastructure cost for both, and shed light on the relevant characteristics correlated with the path and crowd size in indoor settings. Full article
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3180 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Detection of Peak Intensity Using an Integrated Optical Modeling Method for Identifying Defective Apple Leaves
by Nipun Shantha Kahatapitiya, Deshan Kalupahana, Hana Mohamed, Bhagya Nathali Silva, Udaya Wijenayake, Sangyeob Han, Daewoon Seong, Mansik Jeon, Jeehyun Kim and Ruchire Eranga Wijesinghe
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20515 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 126
Abstract
The identification of defects in apple leaf specimens is crucial for mitigating crop loss and maintaining harvest quality. This study investigates the applicability of an intensity detection simulation-integrated optical cross-sectional modeling method for detecting defective apple leaf specimens. The technique utilizes a customized [...] Read more.
The identification of defects in apple leaf specimens is crucial for mitigating crop loss and maintaining harvest quality. This study investigates the applicability of an intensity detection simulation-integrated optical cross-sectional modeling method for detecting defective apple leaf specimens. The technique utilizes a customized 840 nm optical coherence tomography (OCT). The method involved using a peak-intensity detection technique to analyze OCT signal intensity variations in multi-layered leaf structures. Results demonstrate the potential of the method to identify morphological differences between leaf specimens from healthy and infected trees and, specifically, healthy leaf specimens from infected trees. Implementing this method enables cost saving through timely interventions to reduce the impact of leaf defects on crop production. Full article
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4558 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
An IoT-Based Smart Wheelchair with EEG Control and Vital Sign Monitoring
by Rowida Meligy, Anton Royanto Ahmad and Samir Mekid
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20489 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 385
Abstract
This study introduces an innovative smart wheelchair designed to improve mobility and health monitoring for individuals with disabilities. Overcoming the limitations of traditional wheelchairs, this smart wheelchair integrates a tri-wheel mechanism, enabling smooth navigation across various terrains, including stairs, thus providing greater autonomy [...] Read more.
This study introduces an innovative smart wheelchair designed to improve mobility and health monitoring for individuals with disabilities. Overcoming the limitations of traditional wheelchairs, this smart wheelchair integrates a tri-wheel mechanism, enabling smooth navigation across various terrains, including stairs, thus providing greater autonomy and flexibility. The wheelchair is equipped with two smart Internet of Things (IoT)-based subsystems for control and vital sign monitoring. Besides a joystick, the wheelchair features an electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) for hands-free control. Utilizing support vector machine (SVM) algorithms has proven effective in classifying EEG signals. This feature is especially beneficial for users with severe physical disabilities, allowing them to navigate more independently. In addition, the smart wheelchair has comprehensive health monitoring capabilities, continuously tracking vital signs such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels (SpO2), and electrocardiogram (ECG) data. The system implements an SVM algorithm to recognize premature ventricular contractions (PVC) from ECG data. These metrics are transmitted to healthcare providers through a secure IoT platform, allowing for real-time monitoring and timely interventions. In the event of an emergency, the system is programmed to automatically send alerts, including the patient’s location, to caregivers and authorized relatives. This innovation is a step forward in developing assistive technologies that support independent living and proactive health management in smart cities. Full article
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2151 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Vibration Analysis for Wind Turbine Prognosis with an Uncertainty Bayesian-Optimized Lightweight Neural Network
by Tarek Berghout and Mohamed Benbouzid
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20502 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Data-driven methods have emerged as indispensable tools for wind turbine prognosis, offering unparalleled insights into system health and performance monitoring. However, harnessing the full potential of these methods poses significant challenges, specifically when it comes to data complexity due to harsh conditions. This [...] Read more.
Data-driven methods have emerged as indispensable tools for wind turbine prognosis, offering unparalleled insights into system health and performance monitoring. However, harnessing the full potential of these methods poses significant challenges, specifically when it comes to data complexity due to harsh conditions. This absolutely necessitates innovative approaches and less computationally intensive methods to simply and effectively navigate the inherent complexities in wind turbine data analysis. Accordingly, this study presents a novel approach to wind turbine state-of-health prognosis for maintenance purposes using a realistic high-speed shaft wind turbine dataset capturing vibration run-to-failure data. Leveraging this dataset, we employ an Uncertainty Bayesian-Optimized Extreme Learning Machine (UBO-ELM) as a lightweight neural network algorithm for predictive modeling. The optimization process focuses on identifying optimal hyperparameters, including neurons, activation functions, and regularization parameters, aiming to minimize uncertainty in predictions and enhance generalization performance. To quantify uncertainty, we employ a confidence interval-based approach, computing multiple confidence interval features to provide a comprehensive numerical evaluation of uncertainty. The neural network’s performance is further evaluated using a diverse set of error metrics, including the coefficient of determination. Despite the massive scale of the dataset, our proposed methodology proves to be simple and computationally efficient, yielding impressive approximation and generalization results. Compared to advanced deep learning methods, this approach offers practical utility by leveraging existing computational resources, minimizing costs, and enabling fast validation without prolonged wait times. Full article
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2024 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
IoT-Based Detection of Blockages in Stormwater Drains
by Marlon Navia, Jessica Macías-Aguayo and Dennis Quiroz-Cordova
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20371 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 226
Abstract
Flooding is an issue that affects many cities during periods of heavy rain, especially in developing countries. This issue often happens due to the lack of timely maintenance and cleaning of rainwater drains. This work presents a proposal to detect blockages in rainwater [...] Read more.
Flooding is an issue that affects many cities during periods of heavy rain, especially in developing countries. This issue often happens due to the lack of timely maintenance and cleaning of rainwater drains. This work presents a proposal to detect blockages in rainwater drains to determine where maintenance and cleaning need to be performed promptly. An architecture that includes sensor nodes, a Gateway, and a cloud application was defined. The sensor nodes, which detect potential blockages in the drains, send data and status signals to the Gateway using LoRaWAN. The Gateway then passes the data to a cloud platform that records the data and issues an alert when a blockage is detected in a drain. The sensor node prototype is based on a Heltec LoRa WiFi board and has two sensors: an HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor to measure distance and a DHT22 sensor to measure humidity and temperature. The cloud application was developed on the Arduino Cloud platform. A decision tree is proposed to detect blockages based on the readings from these sensors, particularly the distance sensor, considering four main possible states: clear, possibly blocked, potentially blocked, and blocked. The decision tree is implemented in each node. Periodically, the node collects data from the sensors and transmits them to the cloud, and if a potential blockage is detected, it sends a message that triggers an alert on the platform. Preliminary tests of the prototype show accurate and timely results in detecting potential blockages, allowing for a better use of resources allocated for maintaining drainage systems. Full article
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264 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Comprehensive Framework for Transparent and Explainable AI Sensors in Healthcare
by Rabaï Bouderhem
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20524 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 334
Abstract
This research proposes a comprehensive framework for implementing explainable and transparent artificial intelligence (XAI) sensors in healthcare, addressing the challenges posed by AI “black boxes” while adhering to the European Union (EU) AI Act and Data Act requirements. Our approach combines interpretable machine [...] Read more.
This research proposes a comprehensive framework for implementing explainable and transparent artificial intelligence (XAI) sensors in healthcare, addressing the challenges posed by AI “black boxes” while adhering to the European Union (EU) AI Act and Data Act requirements. Our approach combines interpretable machine learning (ML), human–AI interaction, and ethical guidelines to ensure AI sensor outputs are comprehensible, auditable, and aligned with clinical decision-making. The framework consists of three core components: First, interpretable AI model architecture using techniques like attention mechanisms and symbolic reasoning. Second, an interactive interface facilitating collaboration between healthcare professionals and AI systems. And third, a robust ethical and regulatory framework addressing bias, privacy, and accountability. By tackling transparency and explainability challenges, our research aims to improve patient outcomes, support informed decision-making, and increase public acceptance of AI in healthcare. The proposed framework contributes to the responsible development of AI technologies in full compliance with EU regulations, ensuring alignment with the vision for trustworthy and human-centric AI systems. This approach paves the way for the safe and ethical adoption of AI sensors in healthcare, ultimately enhancing patient care while maintaining high standards of transparency and accountability. Full article
1462 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Efficient Battery Management and Workflow Optimization in Warehouse Robotics Through Advanced Localization and Communication Systems
by Shakeel Dhanushka, Chamoda Hasaranga, Nipun Shantha Kahatapitiya, Ruchire Eranga Wijesinghe and Akila Wijethunge
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20416 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 164
Abstract
This study presents a Warehouse Robot Localization and Communication System prototype to optimize battery management and workflow in warehouses. Autonomous mobile robots equipped with advanced localization and wireless communication technologies coordinate to prevent downtime. When the battery level of the robot drops below [...] Read more.
This study presents a Warehouse Robot Localization and Communication System prototype to optimize battery management and workflow in warehouses. Autonomous mobile robots equipped with advanced localization and wireless communication technologies coordinate to prevent downtime. When the battery level of the robot drops below a certain threshold, it communicates with the main computer to request assistance. Another robot then takes over its task, allowing the low-battery robot to reach a charging station. Using an overhead camera module and an A* algorithm for optimal pathfinding, robots navigate efficiently. A Python-based user interface enables monitoring and control. This prototype system has the potential for industrial applications with future enhancements. Full article
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400 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Ensemble Projected Gated Recurrent Units for State of Charge Estimation: A Case Study on Lithium-Ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles
by Noureddine Djemai, Ali Arif, Abderrazak Guettaf and Tarek Berghout
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20408 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 142
Abstract
State of Charge (SoC) estimation is important for improving performance and longevity of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs). Traditional methods such as voltage measurements and Coulomb counting lie in the inability to account for factors like battery aging and operational conditions variations, [...] Read more.
State of Charge (SoC) estimation is important for improving performance and longevity of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs). Traditional methods such as voltage measurements and Coulomb counting lie in the inability to account for factors like battery aging and operational conditions variations, leading to potential errors in SoC estimation. Accordingly, this work overcomes these limitations by utilizing Ensemble Projected Gated Recurrent Units (E-PGRUs) for enhancing SoC estimation. Traditional methods often struggle with the non-linear dynamics and transient behaviors of battery systems, leading to suboptimal predictions. The proposed E-PGRU model leverages the adaptability of GRU, which efficiently handles time-series data, while employing an ensemble strategy to mitigate the risks of overfitting and improve generalization. In our methodology, we employed a publicly available dataset specifically dedicated to the particular topic of real-world EV operations involving driving cycles and capturing varying operating conditions. E-PGRU architecture consists of multiple GRU networks, with projected layer features, each trained on different subsets of the data, and their outputs are aggregated to produce a more reliable SoC estimate. This ensemble technique targets specific variability in prediction (i.e., standard deviation minimization), increasing prediction confidence and allowing the model to learn complex patterns in the battery’s operational behavior. The experiments revealed a higher coefficient of determination, providing an explanation of the variance in dependent variables by independent variables in the SoC estimation model. The curve fit results also clearly demonstrate improvements in prediction performance compared to baseline models of recurrent neural networks in both the coefficient of determination (i.e., due to ensemble learning) and computational time (i.e., due to projection layers) indicating a strong alignment with SoC values. Furthermore, E-PGRU showed superior adaptability to different usage scenarios and conditions, suggesting the potential for its application in battery management systems. Full article
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3083 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
High Output Third-Order Intercept Point Low-Noise Amplifier Design Based on 0.13 μm CMOS Process for High-Precision Sensors
by Yuying Liang and Jie Cui
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20465 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 143
Abstract
This paper proposes a highly linear low-noise amplifier (LNA) using a cascode configuration. In the proposed topology, the linearity of the circuit is enhanced through the application of derivative superposition technology. The technology combines an auxiliary transistor operating in the moderate inversion region [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a highly linear low-noise amplifier (LNA) using a cascode configuration. In the proposed topology, the linearity of the circuit is enhanced through the application of derivative superposition technology. The technology combines an auxiliary transistor operating in the moderate inversion region with a main transistor operating in the strong inversion region, and two degenerative inductors are connected in series at the source nodes of both transistors. The primary objective of this design is to mitigate the negative impacts of second-order and third-order nonlinearities on the third-order input intercept point (IIP3) through their interactions, thereby enhancing the linear performance of the circuit. An on-chip active bias circuit is designed to effectively address fluctuations in the IIP3 during process and temperature variations by stabilizing the transconductance of the common-source transistor, enabling the LNA to operate reliably in complex environments. During post-layout simulation in DongBu High-Tech’s 0.13 μm CMOS process, the circuit’s output third-order intercept point (OIP3) exhibits minimal fluctuations across different process corners and temperature variations. At the typical nmos and typical pmos (TT) process corner and a temperature of 30 °C, it achieves an OIP3 of 33.9 dBm with a power consumption of 42 mW sourced from a 2.8 V power supply. Furthermore, it realizes a relatively flat gain of 16 dB, a noise figure (NF) of 0.91 dB, input return loss less than −8 dB, and output return loss less than −10 dB. Full article
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4863 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Low-Power, Fast Transient Response Low-Dropout Regulator Featuring Bi-Directional Level Shifting for Sensor Applications
by Hao Huang and Jie Cui
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20349 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 201
Abstract
Wireless sensor network (WSN) is an important component of healthcare. The design of the power management unit for WSN poses significant challenges, as it not only needs to achieve good current efficiency but also requires high power supply rejection (PSR) and good load [...] Read more.
Wireless sensor network (WSN) is an important component of healthcare. The design of the power management unit for WSN poses significant challenges, as it not only needs to achieve good current efficiency but also requires high power supply rejection (PSR) and good load transient performance. This paper presents a low-dropout regulator (LDO) with a low quiescent current and fast transient response to adequately meet the power supply requirements of WSN systems. To ensure system stability and reduce voltage spikes during load transients, an adaptive frequency compensation network is integrated into the circuit. Additionally, the LDO incorporates a level shifter that facilitates the bi-directional transmission of voltage signals across different power systems. The proposed LDO is designed and simulated in a 180 nm BCD process. It operates under a wide input voltage range from 0.8 V to 5.5 V, supports maximum load currents of up to 500 mA, and allows output voltages to vary from 0.8 V to 3.6 V by adjusting the feedback resistance. As a result of implementing the adaptive frequency compensation circuit, the overshoot and undershoot voltages at an output voltage of 1 V are measured to be only 23 mV and 5 mV, respectively. Moreover, the LDO achieves a PSR of −83 dB for bias voltage and −91 dB for input voltage at 1 kHz. The level shifter’s highest working frequency can reach 20 MHz under supply voltages (Vin = 1.65 V to 5.5 V; Vout = 3.6 V), thereby enabling high-speed data transmission. Finally, the LDO consumes a quiescent current of 42 μA while incorporating a bandgap reference circuit and other auxiliary circuits. Full article
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1788 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Discrimination of Different Human Cell Lines by Using FT-IR Spectra Spectroscopy
by Bahar Faramarzi, Marianna Portaccio, Lorenzo Manti, Maria Daniela Falco, Manuela Iezzi and Maria Lepore
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20499 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 145
Abstract
Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used to obtain molecular fingerprints of various biological samples. This study aims to compare the FT-IR spectra of three distinct cell lines, SH-SY5Y (neuroblastoma), HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma), and MCF-10A (epithelial mammary), to identify [...] Read more.
Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique used to obtain molecular fingerprints of various biological samples. This study aims to compare the FT-IR spectra of three distinct cell lines, SH-SY5Y (neuroblastoma), HepG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma), and MCF-10A (epithelial mammary), to identify characteristic features in their spectra that can be used for this purpose. The FT-IR spectra revealed significant protein, lipid, and nucleic acid content variations among the cell lines. The differences mentioned above reflect each cell type’s unique biochemical environment and metabolic states. This distinction can help identify different cell lines. Understanding these spectral differences can provide insights into the molecular basis of cellular functions and aid in the development of cell-specific therapeutic strategies. Full article
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3849 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A TinyML Approach to Real-Time Snoring Detection in Resource-Constrained Wearables Devices
by Timothy Malche, Sumegh Tharewal and Priti Maheshwary
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20352 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 177
Abstract
This study proposes a health monitoring system for snoring detection utilizing Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML) models, specifically designed for resource-constrained wearable Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This research addresses significant constraints associated with running machine learning models on IoT devices, such as latency, [...] Read more.
This study proposes a health monitoring system for snoring detection utilizing Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML) models, specifically designed for resource-constrained wearable Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This research addresses significant constraints associated with running machine learning models on IoT devices, such as latency, limited memory, and low computational resources. These parameters are essential for real-time monitoring in healthcare applications, where prompt response is critical. The research focuses on developing a TinyML model capable of identifying specific audio patterns related to snoring during sleep. Experimental evaluations conducted in real-world sleep environments with the TinyML model deployed on resource-constrained wearable IoT devices. The evaluation results show that the proposed model achieves high accuracy while utilizing minimal computational resources and without introducing latency issues. Through the integration of audio (Syntiant) and advanced audio preprocessing techniques, the proposed system improves the efficiency of the TinyML model on wearable devices. The quantized TinyML model achieved an accuracy of 95.85% with a low latency of 48 ms, utilizing only 17.0K of RAM and 34.07K of flash memory for real-time snoring classification. This study highlights the benefits of practical deployment of the TinyML model for snoring detection on resource-constrained wearable IoT devices, demonstrating that such models can operate effectively within the constraints of current wearable technology. Full article
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2328 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Temperature Sensor Based on Modal Distribution in Long-Period Fiber Gratings: A Deep Learning Approach
by Juan Soto-Perdomo, Yocer Rios Moreno, Juan Arango Moreno, Jorge Montoya-Cardona, Erick Reyes-Vera and Jorge Herrera-Ramirez
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20417 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 146
Abstract
In this study, we developed and implemented a convolutional neural network (CNN) to predict thermal variations based on the modal distribution in LPFGs. An LPFG with a period of 450 µm and length of 22.5 mm was constructed in a few-mode optical fiber [...] Read more.
In this study, we developed and implemented a convolutional neural network (CNN) to predict thermal variations based on the modal distribution in LPFGs. An LPFG with a period of 450 µm and length of 22.5 mm was constructed in a few-mode optical fiber using a CO2 laser etching technique. To train and verify the CNN-based model, a database of 355 empirically acquired near-field images corresponding to the LP11 propagation modes was used. The images were captured with a WIDY SWIR 640 vs. infrared camera and a 980 nm laser. Similarly, the model’s hyperparameters were tuned using the computational tool Optuna, which improved its overall performance. The findings show that the constructed deep learning model can predict temperature with 98.5% accuracy over a range of 24 °C to 190 °C, with a maximum error of 3.77 °C. The root mean square error (RMSE) of the forecasts was 0.94 °C, indicating that the model was accurate. Finally, the inference time for a batch of 32 images was 0.055 s, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Full article
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5734 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
IMU Sensor for In-Situ 3D Movement Monitoring of Particulate Matter
by Barbora Černilová and Jiří Kuře
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20509 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 144
Abstract
This contribution describes the prototype of a compact IMU sensor with dimensions of 30 mm × 20 mm × 10 mm. The sensor integrates a three-axis gyroscope module, LSM6DSL, along with onboard memory and a processing unit. The device was used to measure [...] Read more.
This contribution describes the prototype of a compact IMU sensor with dimensions of 30 mm × 20 mm × 10 mm. The sensor integrates a three-axis gyroscope module, LSM6DSL, along with onboard memory and a processing unit. The device was used to measure linear motion along the X-axis over a distance of 630 mm, giving a measured length of 659 mm. The absolute error was 29 mm, with a relative error of 4.6%. This error was likely attributable to manual movement during the measurement process. Full article
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1900 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Two-Step Chronoamperometric Determination of Antioxidant Capacity of Water Extracts from Medicinal Plants
by Yuliya Lukonina and Guzel Ziyatdinova
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20467 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 112
Abstract
Medicinal plants contain a wide range of bioactive compounds including antioxidants. Thus, the evaluation of the antioxidant capacity of medicinal plant extracts used in phytotherapy is of practical interest. Water extracts from 11 plants obtained by sonication for 30 min were studied by [...] Read more.
Medicinal plants contain a wide range of bioactive compounds including antioxidants. Thus, the evaluation of the antioxidant capacity of medicinal plant extracts used in phytotherapy is of practical interest. Water extracts from 11 plants obtained by sonication for 30 min were studied by cyclic voltammetry at bare glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and GCE modified with a mixture of 1 mg mL−1 CeO2 and SnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) dispersed in 0.10 mM cetylpyridinium bromide. A two-step chronoamperometric approach (at 400 and 900 mV for 75 s each one) was developed to estimate the antioxidant capacity of medicinal plant extracts. A strong and very strong correlation level was obtained between the antioxidant capacity and total phenolic contents or antioxidant capacity toward 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Full article
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3831 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Urban Growth Analysis Using Multi-Temporal Remote Sensing Image and Landscape Metrics for Smart City Planning of Lucknow District, India
by Namrata Maity and Varun Narayan Mishra
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20514 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Rapid urbanization causes a high concentration of human population and economic activities that lead to the changes in landscape and spatial growth of the cities. Landscape features play a key role in understanding the land use and land cover (LULC) dynamics of urban [...] Read more.
Rapid urbanization causes a high concentration of human population and economic activities that lead to the changes in landscape and spatial growth of the cities. Landscape features play a key role in understanding the land use and land cover (LULC) dynamics of urban areas. This work aims to analyze and quantify the changes in LULC over 24 years (1999 to 2023) in Lucknow District of India. It focuses on different land use types, including built-up area, cropland, water body, vegetation, and fallow land, using satellite imagery. Multi-temporal Landsat satellite data from the years 1999, 2008, 2015, and 2023 were employed to prepare LULC maps including major classes, namely built-up area, cropland, water body, vegetation, and fallow land. Several landscape metrics, such as number of patches (NP), patch density (PD), largest patch index (LPI), landscape shape index (LSI), edge density (ED), and total edge (TE), were calculated to analyze spatial patterns and changes in LULC categories. The study revealed significant changes in the landscape of Lucknow District, characterized by variations in the extent and distribution of the land use categories. Key findings include a remarkable increase in built-up area from 9.04% in 1999 to 25.91% in 2023 and a decrease in vegetation from 26.01% in 1999 to 11.71% in 2023. The PD and ED showed an increased fragmentation, especially in built-up areas where PD increased from 9.18 patches/100 ha in 1999 to 11.85 patches/100 ha in 2023. The LPI for built-up areas significantly grew, indicating larger continuous urban regions. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of monitoring landscape changes using multi-temporal remote sensing images over urban landscapes. Analyzing landscape metrics helps to understand the ongoing changes in LULC, providing essential information for effective sustainable land management practices. Full article
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3761 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Preservation and Archiving of Historic Murals Using a Digital Non-Metric Camera
by Suhas Muralidhar and Ashutosh Bhardwaj
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20519 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 159
Abstract
Digital non-metric cameras with high-resolution capabilities are being used in various domains such as digital heritage, artifact documentation, art conservation, and engineering applications. In this study, a novel approach consisting of the application of the combined use of close-range photogrammetry (CRP) and mapping [...] Read more.
Digital non-metric cameras with high-resolution capabilities are being used in various domains such as digital heritage, artifact documentation, art conservation, and engineering applications. In this study, a novel approach consisting of the application of the combined use of close-range photogrammetry (CRP) and mapping techniques is used to capture the depth of a mural digitally, serving as a database for the preservation and archiving of historic murals. The open hall next to the main sanctuary of the Virupaksha temple in Hampi, Karnataka, India, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, depicts cultural events on a mural-covered ceiling. A mirrorless Sony Alpha 7 III camera with a full-frame 24 MP CMOS sensor mounted with a 50 mm lens and 24 mm lens has been used to acquire digital photographs with an image size of 6000 × 6000 pixels. The suggested framework incorporates five main steps: data acquisition, color correction, image mosaicking, orthorectification, and image filtering. The results show a high level of accuracy and precision attained during the image capture and processing steps. A comparative study was performed in which the 24 mm lens orthoimage resulted in an image size of 9131 × 14,910 and a pixel size of 1.05 mm, whereas the 50 mm lens produced a 14,283 × 21,676 image size and a pixel size of 0.596 mm of the mural on the ceiling. This degree of high spatial resolution is essential for maintaining the fine details of the artwork in the digital documentation as well as its historical context, subtleties, and painting techniques. The study’s findings demonstrate the effectiveness of using digital sensors with the close-range photogrammetry (CRP) technique as a useful method for recording and preserving historical ceiling murals. Full article
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1419 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Voltammetric Sensors Based on the Mixed Metal Oxide Nanoparticles for Food Dye Determination
by Guzel Ziyatdinova, Liliya Gimadutdinova and Dar’ya Bychikhina
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20468 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 128
Abstract
Synthetic dyes of various classes are widely applied in food production. Reliable and simple methods of dye determination are in demand for food quality control. Novel, sensitive, and selective voltammetric sensors based on glassy carbon electrodes modified with mixtures of metal oxide nanoparticles [...] Read more.
Synthetic dyes of various classes are widely applied in food production. Reliable and simple methods of dye determination are in demand for food quality control. Novel, sensitive, and selective voltammetric sensors based on glassy carbon electrodes modified with mixtures of metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) dispersed in water or surfactant media have been developed for the first time for Sunset Yellow FCF, Brilliant Blue FCF, and Quinoline Yellow. Mixtures of CeO2 and SnO2 NPs dispersed in surfactants or CeO2 and Fe2O3 NPs are the best sensing layers for the determining of Sunset Yellow FCF and Quinoline Yellow or Brilliant Blue FCF. Full article
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3031 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Detection of Fusarium poae Infestation in Wheat Grain by Measurement with Two Electronic Noses
by Piotr Borowik, Przemysław Pluta, Miłosz Tkaczyk, Adam Okorski, Rafał Tarakowski and Tomasz Oszako
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20516 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 161
Abstract
Fusarium poae is a pathogen that is widespread in the temperate zone and poses a serious threat to crops due to its wide range of host plants (including cereals). Electronic nose measurements were performed on wheat grains infected with F. poae to evaluate [...] Read more.
Fusarium poae is a pathogen that is widespread in the temperate zone and poses a serious threat to crops due to its wide range of host plants (including cereals). Electronic nose measurements were performed on wheat grains infected with F. poae to evaluate the application of early detection of fungal infections. Wheat seeds were artificially inoculated to test the devices. Three same-weight but different infection level experiment variants were prepared: 3 g infected seeds with 12 g healthy seeds, 5 g infected seeds with 10 g healthy seeds, and 10 g infected seeds with only 5 g healthy seeds. The seeds were infected with fresh fragments of F. poae mycelium. Measurements were carried out for five constructive days, recording the changes in volatile odor compounds released each day. A custom-built, low-cost device based on Figaro Inc. TGS metal-oxide semiconductor gas sensors and a commercially available PEN3 electronic nose device from Airsense Analytics GmbH were used for the experiment. A non-linear sensor response for the measured sample odor was observed with both devices. Spoiled grain in a proportion of 1/15 of the sample could be detected by measuring the volatile components. However, the patterns of the sensor responses were different for the various concentrations of spoiled grain in the measured samples. Full article
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1691 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Design and Development of a Smart Pet Feeder with IoT and Deep Learning
by Oscar E. Castillo-Arceo, Raúl U. Renteria-Flores and Pedro C. Santana-Mancilla
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20487 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 736
Abstract
The well-being of pets is essential for owners. This project developed an automatic pet feeder that leverages Internet of Things technology and deep learning to address feeding challenges. The feeder integrates sensors, including a weight sensor for portion control, a camera for pet [...] Read more.
The well-being of pets is essential for owners. This project developed an automatic pet feeder that leverages Internet of Things technology and deep learning to address feeding challenges. The feeder integrates sensors, including a weight sensor for portion control, a camera for pet identification, an ultrasonic sensor for proximity detection, and a servo motor for dispensing food. A microcontroller for real-time monitoring and processing controls these components. Based on YOLOv5 and trained on a dataset of dog images, the DL model ensures accurate pet recognition and customized feeding. Results show that the system effectively identifies pets and dispenses appropriate portions based on weight, ensuring precise and personalized feeding. The sensor data fusion provides reliable information about pet characteristics. Overall, the smart feeder offers a convenient and efficient solution for managing pet nutrition, improving pet health, and increasing owner convenience. Full article
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620 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Analyte-Responsive Metal–Organic Frameworks of Polymer-Stabilized Silver Nanoparticles for Gas Sensors: A Comparative Study Using Surface Plasmon Resonance and Quartz Crystal Microbalance Techniques
by Ivanna Kruglenko and Borys Snopok
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20458 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 111
Abstract
Composite nanostructures stabilized by responsive polymers are of undoubted interest for chemical sensors. The combination of a heavy metal core with polymer functionality creates a smart nanobot in which the inertial mass of the nanoparticle enhances the initial adsorption effect of an analyte-sensitive [...] Read more.
Composite nanostructures stabilized by responsive polymers are of undoubted interest for chemical sensors. The combination of a heavy metal core with polymer functionality creates a smart nanobot in which the inertial mass of the nanoparticle enhances the initial adsorption effect of an analyte-sensitive organic nanoactuator. In this report, we discuss advanced QCM sensors in which the informative signal is due to a change in the structural organization, the triggering factor for activation of which is the adsorption of the analyte. Silver nanoparticles of a 60 nm diameter stabilized by a branched polyethyleneimine polymer (BPEI) and low-molecular-weight citric acid (CIT) were used as a sensing coating for SPR and QCM transducers (10 MHz) tested on water and ethyl alcohol vapor. SPR spectroscopy showed the behavior typical of organic sensing layers, whereas the BPEI-coated QCM sensor showed a response of the opposite sign for water and ethanol vapor. The anti-Sauerbrey behavior with an increasing loading of QCM sensors results from changes in the contacts of nanoparticles with the surface and with each other. The dynamic relaxations of the sensor architecture under alternating accelerations, initiated by adsorption on sensitive polymer nanoactuators and enhanced by the presence of “heavy” metal nanoparticles with a high inert mass open the possibility of formulating a fundamentally different approach to the detection of specific analytes than the traditional loading-based approach. Full article
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2999 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Intelligent Fault Diagnosis of Centrifugal Pump Valves in Microbreweries
by Marcio Rafael Buzoli, Matheus Luis Despirito, Fabio Romano Lofrano Dotto, Pedro de Oliveira Conceição Junior and Andre Luis Dias
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20360 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 134
Abstract
The brewing industry is expanding with the rise of many small breweries. These are typically small and medium-sized enterprises producing a few hectoliters of beer per batch, often with limited investment capacity for equipment. Centrifugal pumps play a crucial role in microbreweries, facilitating [...] Read more.
The brewing industry is expanding with the rise of many small breweries. These are typically small and medium-sized enterprises producing a few hectoliters of beer per batch, often with limited investment capacity for equipment. Centrifugal pumps play a crucial role in microbreweries, facilitating the movement of wort throughout various stages of the brewing process. Failures in these systems, such as valve positioning issues or blockages, can lead to longer production times, increased energy consumption, and potential quality issues. This study explores a soft sensor approach for developing IFDs (Intelligent Fault Detection systems) by using pump drive data—current, torque, and power factor—without the need for additional sensors. Data were collected via a managed switch, and models were trained using Support Vector Machine and Multilayer Perceptron algorithms. The results indicate that this IFD method holds great potential for enhancing automation and maintenance in small breweries. Full article
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3109 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Real-Time Monitoring of a Lithium-Ion Battery Module to Enhance Safe Operation and Lifespan
by Ioannis Christakis, Vasilios A. Orfanos, Pavlos Chalkiadakis and Dimitrios Rimpas
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20423 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 174
Abstract
Lithium batteries are characterized as the heart of every electronic device, introducing a plethora of benefits like high energy density and durability without the need for maintenance. However, lithium cells suffer from increased temperatures caused by high voltage and peak loads. These operating [...] Read more.
Lithium batteries are characterized as the heart of every electronic device, introducing a plethora of benefits like high energy density and durability without the need for maintenance. However, lithium cells suffer from increased temperatures caused by high voltage and peak loads. These operating conditions lead to lithium deposition and partial electrolyte decomposition, limiting the total capacity (state of health) or even causing possible breakdown of the batteries. Hence, consistent monitoring is essential to ensure the maximum lifespan without impacting safety. In this paper, a compact module consisting of three batteries is introduced to gather values like temperature, voltage and current, all transferred to an online server and monitored through the Grafana application. The tests indicate that the temperature is very high when the power output increases the stress on the battery components. To further project this pattern, two distinct sets of batteries were used for testing the use of different power states, revealing that a 2.5-fold increased power output results in voltage drops. The results show that a high power output, tested on the second set of batteries with a limited state of health, is increased by an additional 5%, while the battery is highly stressed within the manufacturer safety zone. Full article
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5838 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Acoustic Maps Processing with Image Enhancement Techniques in Grinding Wheel Dressing for Industry 4.0
by Matheus Luis Despirito, Marcio Rafael Buzoli, Fabio Romano Lofrano Dotto, Pedro de Oliveira Conceição Junior and Paulo Roberto de Aguiar
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20485 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 118
Abstract
In certain applications of acoustic emission sensors, acoustic maps can be generated from captured signals. The work “In-Dressing Acoustic Map by Low-Cost Piezoelectric Transducer” introduces an innovative technique using these sensors to map grinding wheel surfaces, essential for finishing machined parts. However, producing [...] Read more.
In certain applications of acoustic emission sensors, acoustic maps can be generated from captured signals. The work “In-Dressing Acoustic Map by Low-Cost Piezoelectric Transducer” introduces an innovative technique using these sensors to map grinding wheel surfaces, essential for finishing machined parts. However, producing sharp acoustic maps is challenging due to industrial interference. This study explores digital image processing techniques to enhance these maps, using cloud-based tools. Techniques such as smoothing, equalization, and edge detection (Sobel, Canny, Roberts, and Prewitt) were applied. The processed acoustic maps revealed sharper details, enabling more accurate assessments of dressing conditions. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of digital image processing when applied to acoustic maps, significantly improving the evaluation of the dressing process and contributing to the development of Industry 4.0. Full article
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1147 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Electrodeless Studies of MXenes in Aqueous and Polar Non-Aqueous Aprotonic Solvent
by Oksana Gutsul and Vsevolod Slobodyan
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20464 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 244
Abstract
MXenes attract considerable attention due to their unique properties, in particular, their high electrical conductivity. The physical processes occurring during the electrodeless study of the specific electrical conductivity σ of MXenes in distillation water and in a polar non-aqueous solvent of N-Methyl-2Pyrrolidone (NMP) [...] Read more.
MXenes attract considerable attention due to their unique properties, in particular, their high electrical conductivity. The physical processes occurring during the electrodeless study of the specific electrical conductivity σ of MXenes in distillation water and in a polar non-aqueous solvent of N-Methyl-2Pyrrolidone (NMP) at fixed resonant frequencies for five solenoids (f1 = 160 kHz, f2 = 270 kHz, f3 = 1.6 MHz, f4 = 4.8 MHz, and f5 = 23 MHz) are considered. The oscillating circuit was tuned to resonance by changing the capacitance of the BM-560 Q-factor meter. The Q factor of the oscillating circuit was measured in the range of 100–300 with a maximum relative error of ±5% and in the range of 30–100 with a maximum relative error of ±3%. The cylinder with the liquid was placed in the middle of the measuring solenoid, in the area of a homogeneous magnetic field. The measurements were performed for four control volumes of the liquids under study (1 mL, 2 mL, 3 mL, and 4 mL). The best measurement sensitivity was observed for the maximum volume of the liquid (4 mL). A difference between the experimental dependences of the introduced attenuation d of the oscillating circuit with a cylinder with MXenes in aqueous and non-aqueous polar solvent NMP was observed. The nonlinear dependence of the attenuation of the oscillatory circuit d on the volume of the studied liquids was analyzed. The maximum value of the attenuation of the oscillating circuit for the solenoid at the resonant frequency of 160 kHz was observed for the NMP-MXenes measurement, in contrast to the study of MXenes in distillation water having the highest attenuation at a frequency of 1.6 MHz. Full article
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3067 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development of an Embedded IoT Platform for Acoustic Emission Monitoring in Industry 4.0
by Lucas Zanasi Matheus, Paulo Vitor Pereira Oliveira, Fabio Romano Lofrano Dotto, Pedro de Oliveira Conceição Junior, Alessandro Roger Rodrigues and Marcio Marques da Silva
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20484 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 146
Abstract
This work presents a system combining hardware and embedded software to simplify the acquisition of acoustic emission signals using a wireless IoT sensor. Integrated into a larger ecosystem, this system supports fault diagnosis, feature extraction, pattern classification, and a cloud interface. It consolidates [...] Read more.
This work presents a system combining hardware and embedded software to simplify the acquisition of acoustic emission signals using a wireless IoT sensor. Integrated into a larger ecosystem, this system supports fault diagnosis, feature extraction, pattern classification, and a cloud interface. It consolidates complex apparatus into a single tool, enabling remote sensor configuration during tests. The system also incorporates computational models for feature extraction and failure analysis, organizing tests through forms without needing external computers. This innovation advances the use of acoustic emission sensors in line with Industry 4.0, enhancing IoT sensor applications and improving manufacturing process efficiency. Full article
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2825 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Electrostatic Surface Functionalization of Physical Transducers of (Bio)Chemical Sensors: Thiocyanate-Modified Gold Interface
by Borys A. Snopok, Arwa Laroussi, Tetyana V. Snopok and Shavkat Nizamov
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20385 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 144
Abstract
The immobilization of functional nano-blocks by means of electrostatic interactions is a promising technology for creating sensitive layers of (bio)chemical sensors. This is due to the unique ability of electrostatic interactions for directional immobilization and the uniform distribution of charged objects over the [...] Read more.
The immobilization of functional nano-blocks by means of electrostatic interactions is a promising technology for creating sensitive layers of (bio)chemical sensors. This is due to the unique ability of electrostatic interactions for directional immobilization and the uniform distribution of charged objects over the surface. This report discusses methods for introducing an electrostatically active buffer layer onto a gold surface and studies its interaction with nanoparticles carrying charges of different signs on their surface. To study the adsorption capacity of the gold surface modified with thiocyanate, silver nanoparticles of 60 nm in size, stabilized by positively charged at pH 5–6 polymer (Ag-NP&BPEI) and negatively charged coatings (Ag-NP&CIT, Ag-NP&PEG, and Ag-NP&PVP), were used as an electrostatic probe. The analysis of SPR and UV-VIS spectroscopy results, electrochemical measurements, and wide-field surface plasmon resonance microscopy imaging indicate that the gold surface modified with thiocyanate behaves as a negatively charged object in processes driven by electrostatic interactions. Full article
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5028 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Integrated Low-Cost Wearable Electrocardiograph System for Primary Assessment of Cases of Rural Residents
by Spyridon Mitropoulos, Pavlos Chalkiadakis and Ioannis Christakis
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20459 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 122
Abstract
In recent years, advances in both technology and medicine have made great progress. With the development of technology, low-cost and high-precision sensors have emerged and microcontrollers with high computing power and low power consumption have been created. In densely populated urban areas, health [...] Read more.
In recent years, advances in both technology and medicine have made great progress. With the development of technology, low-cost and high-precision sensors have emerged and microcontrollers with high computing power and low power consumption have been created. In densely populated urban areas, health care is provided by a set of hospitals and medical centers where every patient can find an immediate response to their health concerns. However, medical care, particularly in non-urban areas, remains limited as many such areas do not have a hospital or medical center nearby. This results in inadequate medical care, both diagnostic and preventive, for the inhabitants of these areas. Today, the development of microprocessors, high-speed internet, and the low-cost sensors that have been developed can enable the creation of autonomous, accessible health monitoring units. In this work, an integrated low-cost, wearable electrocardiograph system is presented. The system is able to operate wherever there is an active internet connection. The proposed system consists of two parts. Firstly, the wearable ECG which can be located in the patient’s home. Secondly, the information system, in which the data from wearable ECG are collected and visualized, so that the doctor has direct access to the patient’s condition. Health is a precious commodity, and the application of technology is imperative, especially for the health care of citizens in remote areas. Full article
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3143 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Integrated Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence System for Real-Time Multi-Nutrient Water Quality Analysis in Agriculture
by Pradeep Kumar Mahapatro, Rasmita Panigrahi and Neelamadhab Padhy
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20358 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 147
Abstract
Background: Drinking water that is clean and safe is important for everyone’s health. About 1.4 million deaths worldwide occur due to contaminated drinking water each year. Contaminated water sources are the primary cause of diarrheal infections, which account for about 505,000 deaths [...] Read more.
Background: Drinking water that is clean and safe is important for everyone’s health. About 1.4 million deaths worldwide occur due to contaminated drinking water each year. Contaminated water sources are the primary cause of diarrheal infections, which account for about 505,000 deaths every year. To overcome these challenges, this work proposes an integrated IoT- and AI-based solution for real-time multi-nutrient water quality analysis. Objective: In this paper, we aim to develop a complete integrated with an IoT-based water nutrient analysis system using advanced machine learning models that can predict multiple nutrient levels to improve crops and increase the interpretability, reliability, and security of water quality monitoring systems. Material/Method: For data collection, we deployed IoT sensors in different water sources like reservoirs, irrigation canals, and ponds for continuously monitoring parameters including phosphorus (P), potassium (K), pH, temperature, and BOD. The data that we collected from the sensors were securely transmitted to a cloud-based platform using end-to-end encryption protocols. Advanced machine learning classifiers and ensemble learning algorithms were used to analyze the real-time data to produce multi-nutrient predictions. The dataset was collected from GIETU agricultural fields over 6 months from 1 January to June 2024. We also used explainable AI (XAI) techniques to interpret the machine learning algorithms. Result: Performance metrics like accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score were calculated for the water quality prediction. Our experimental observations revealed that the RFS ensemble classifier (Random Forest + SVM) performed well in comparison to other models and had an accuracy of 90%. The hybrid classifier was significantly better than the traditional approaches. We also used XAI techniques to increase the interpretability of the classifiers to enable effective decision-making for water management. For data security, we used encryption and decryption algorithms to ensure data integrity and protection from unauthorized access. Full article
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5839 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Using Low-Cost Gas Sensors in Agriculture: A Case Study
by Domenico Suriano
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20503 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 148
Abstract
The main goal of the POREM (LIFE17 ENV/IT/000333) project consisted in demonstrating the applicability of the treated poultry manure for soil restoration or bioremediation. To perform the research activities planned for the project, a considerable amount of poultry manure was stored in a [...] Read more.
The main goal of the POREM (LIFE17 ENV/IT/000333) project consisted in demonstrating the applicability of the treated poultry manure for soil restoration or bioremediation. To perform the research activities planned for the project, a considerable amount of poultry manure was stored in a large depot located in a rural, remote, and unattended area. The use of the manure implied the emissions of odors and gases that required continuous and real-time monitoring. This task could not be accomplished by placing expensive instrumentation in such a remote and unattended location, therefore, we have investigated the use of low-cost gas sensors for monitoring such poultry manure emissions. A portable monitoring unit mainly based on chemoresistive gas sensors was used to provide indications about the concentrations of NH3, CH4, H2S, and CO2. One of these devices was deployed in the manure storage depot, while the second one was deployed far from the storage site to compare the data related to the background environment with the measures coming out from the manure. Both the monitors were wirelessly linked to the internet, even though the radio signal was weak and swinging in that location. This situation gave us the opportunity to test a particular protocol to remotely control the devices based on sending and receiving e-mails containing commands for the remote machines. This experiment proved the feasibility of the use of low-cost devices in such particular environments, and data gathered seem to indicate that, if properly stored, gases and odors emitted by poultry manure have a limited impact on the air quality of the surrounding environment. Full article
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7194 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Auto-Tuning Sync in Acoustic Emission Mapping for CFRP Milling
by Paulo Vitor Pereira de Oliveira, Lucas Zanasi Matheus, Fabio Romano Lofrano Dotto, Pedro de Oliveira Conceição Junior, Alessandro Roger Rodrigues and Dennis Brandao
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20478 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 105
Abstract
In milling applications of CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composites, acoustic emission sensors employing piezoelectric transducers have been used to generate acoustic maps. These maps are crucial for monitoring the condition of both the tool and the workpiece, providing a visual analysis of [...] Read more.
In milling applications of CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composites, acoustic emission sensors employing piezoelectric transducers have been used to generate acoustic maps. These maps are crucial for monitoring the condition of both the tool and the workpiece, providing a visual analysis of the tool–workpiece interaction that facilitates decision-making by the operator in case of failures. This study introduces a technique—implemented in the Matlab software—that uses the image generated by the acoustic map to perform automatic alignment during the map’s production, eliminating the need for an external synchronization signal. Full article
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3971 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Structural Health-Monitoring Strategy Based on Adaptive Kalman Filtering
by Haodong Qiu, Luca Rosafalco, Aldo Ghisi and Stefano Mariani
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20493 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 148
Abstract
Structures are exposed to aging and extreme events that can decrease the relevant safety margins or even lead to (partial) collapse mechanisms under unforeseen loading conditions. Structural health monitoring (SHM) therefore appears to be compulsory to avoid accidents by tracking the evolution of [...] Read more.
Structures are exposed to aging and extreme events that can decrease the relevant safety margins or even lead to (partial) collapse mechanisms under unforeseen loading conditions. Structural health monitoring (SHM) therefore appears to be compulsory to avoid accidents by tracking the evolution of the state of the system and sending out warnings as soon as critical conditions are met or drifts from the response of the undamaged structure are identified. One of the approaches to online SHM rests on Kalman filtering, which is able to build the time evolution of the structural state upon the Bayes’ rule. In a customary joint version of the filtering procedure, state variables and health parameters are joined together in an extended state vector; while state variables, e.g., lateral displacements of shear buildings, can be observed thanks to pervasive sensor networks, the health parameters usually linked to the structural stiffness cannot, leading to possible divergence issues characterized by biases in the estimates. These issues are further enhanced by difficulties in setting the covariance terms, whose initialization is required to utilize Kalman filters. In this work, we investigate an adaptive strategy to the online tuning of the aforementioned covariance terms, leading to an improvement of the filter outcomes without issues related to its instability. This procedure is then applied to the SHM of a shear building, to highlight the excellent results in terms of accuracy and robustness. Full article
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3597 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Tool for Improved Monitoring of Acoustic Beacons and Receivers of the KM3NeT Neutrino Telescope
by Letizia Stella Di Mauro, Dídac Diego-Tortosa, Giorgio Riccobene and Salvatore Viola
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20490 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 104
Abstract
KM3NeT is an underwater neutrino detector currently under construction. Since the installation of its first detection unit in 2015, it has been continuously collecting data. Due to its complex design comprising a 3D array of sensors, an Acoustic Positioning System (APS) has been [...] Read more.
KM3NeT is an underwater neutrino detector currently under construction. Since the installation of its first detection unit in 2015, it has been continuously collecting data. Due to its complex design comprising a 3D array of sensors, an Acoustic Positioning System (APS) has been developed to monitor the position of each sensor. Given the increasing number of acoustic sensors used for the APS, both receivers and emitters, a solution has been implemented to check their status. In this contribution, a monitoring tool for this instrumentation is presented, capable of evaluating its status at both the data and operational levels. For effective monitoring, it is crucial to associate the signal recorded by a receiver with the corresponding transmitter. The Acoustic Data Filter (ADF) performs a cross-correlation between the signals retained in a buffer and those emitted by each installed emitter. It saves the maximum peak value and its associated time of arrival for each expected signal. However, the growing number of beacons complicates the differentiation of corresponding transmitters due to the huge amount of data recorded by the ADF needing post-processing. To address this challenge, a monitoring tool is developed that analyzes the internal clock of each emitter to distinguish and filter the data collected by the ADF. This tool has proven to be highly effective at verifying the correct operation of all acoustic devices deployed at sea. The acoustic monitoring graphical output produced for each data slot facilitates quick failure detection, enabling a swift response. Last but not least, the tool is modular and scalable, adapting to the addition or removal of sensors from the detector. Full article
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3175 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Enhancing Fault Detection in Distributed Motor Systems Using AI-Driven Cyber-Physical Sensor Networks
by Saud Altaf, Adnan Al-Anbuky and Alireza Gheitasi
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20469 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 154
Abstract
Defect detection in distributed motors within the IoED architecture is the focus of this research. The idea of the distributed Internet of Things (DIoT) is used to build a cyber-physical system architecture. To improve sensitivity and accuracy, this approach uses fast Fourier transform [...] Read more.
Defect detection in distributed motors within the IoED architecture is the focus of this research. The idea of the distributed Internet of Things (DIoT) is used to build a cyber-physical system architecture. To improve sensitivity and accuracy, this approach uses fast Fourier transform (FFT) for signal processing and an ANN for defect detection. When it comes to motor conditions, ANNs can adapt to different situations and find complicated patterns, whereas FFT is good at extracting frequency characteristics. The experimental results confirm the system’s usefulness in various failure scenarios, highlighting its resilience and capacity to detect faults in real time. This enhances the predictability of manufacturing motor systems. Full article
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776 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Electrochemical Genosensors as a New Approach to Plant DNA Detection and Quantification for Honey Authentication
by Stephanie L. Morais, Michelle Castanheira, Marlene Santos, Valentina F. Domingues, Cristina Delerue-Matos and M. Fátima Barroso
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20353 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 117
Abstract
Honey is a natural sweet food product with multiple nutritional and medicinal properties, making it a healthy alternative to processed sugars. With the consumers’ recent interest and purchase of dietary products, the global honey market has greatly increased. To keep up with production [...] Read more.
Honey is a natural sweet food product with multiple nutritional and medicinal properties, making it a healthy alternative to processed sugars. With the consumers’ recent interest and purchase of dietary products, the global honey market has greatly increased. To keep up with production or simply for financial gain, some producers/companies are now blending pure honey with cheaper substances that possess similar physical characteristics. As there are no notable visible differences between pure and adulterated honey, it is extremely difficult to determine the purity of the available honeys. In this study, an electrochemical genosensor based on the sandwich format DNA hybridization reaction between two complementary probes was developed for the detection and quantification of Erica arborea pollen DNA in real samples. Analyzing public database platforms, a 98 base-pair DNA-target probe capable of unequivocally detecting the pollen from E. arborea was selected and designed. The complementary probe to the DNA-target oligonucleotide sequence was then cut into a 28-base-pair thiolated DNA-capture probe and a 70-base-pair fluorescein isothiocyanate-labelled DNA-signaling probe. To increase the hybridization reaction, a self-assembled monolayer formed from mixing the DNA-capture probe with mercaptohexanol was employed. Using chronoamperometry, the enzymatic amplification of the electrochemical signal was achieved with a concentration range of 0.03 to 2.00 nM. The DNA from certified E. arborea leaves was extracted using liquid nitrogen and mechanical grinding, and the targeted region was amplified by PCR. The developed genosensor was successfully applied for the detection and quantification of the DNA concentration of the extracted E. arborea plant leaves. Therefore, the developed genosensor is a promising, cost-effective, and innovative analytical method to detect and quantify the DNA concentration of plant DNA in real honey samples. Full article
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402 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Preliminary Study on Arterial Stiffness Assessment Using Photoplethysmographic Sensors
by Gianluca Diana, Francesco Scardulla, Silvia Puleo, Salvatore Pasta and Leonardo D’Acquisto
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20455 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 120
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases represent the cause of 31% of all global deaths. Unfortunately, there are many difficulties in diagnosing them in a preventive, non-invasive and inexpensive way. However, there are important risk markers, including arterial stiffness. The current reference technique for assessing aortic stiffness [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases represent the cause of 31% of all global deaths. Unfortunately, there are many difficulties in diagnosing them in a preventive, non-invasive and inexpensive way. However, there are important risk markers, including arterial stiffness. The current reference technique for assessing aortic stiffness is the measurement of Pulse Wave Velocity, and a commonly used mathematical model is the Moens–Korteweg equation, which relates Pulse Wave Velocity to arterial stiffness. A pair of photoplethysmographic sensors was used in this study to estimate Pulse Wave Velocity and, consequently, arterial stiffness on silicone phantom models with different geometric and mechanical properties. These models were placed in an experimental in vitro system that simulated the physiological conditions of a cardiovascular apparatus. The PPG sensors were positioned at three specific distances to determine a possible optimal distance for the estimation of arterial stiffness. The purpose of this study is to enhance the use of PPG sensors for monitoring the mechanical properties of blood vessels and, thus, to prevent potential cardiovascular pathologies. Full article
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1148 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Optical Detection of Cerium (Ce3+/Ce4+) Ions in Microparticles of Yttrium–Aluminum Garnet Powder (YAG:Ce3+)-Embedded Free-Standing Composite Films for Narrowband Blue to Broadband Visible Light Downconversion
by Denys N. Khmil, Irina E. Minakova, Vladimir S. Kretulis, Pavlo O. Tytarenko, Alexandr M. Kamuz and Borys A. Snopok
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20356 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 121
Abstract
A method for measuring light intensity at different depths of a strongly scattering medium (composite films of photoluminophore YAG:Ce3+) has been developed. The depth at which a collimated light source is converted into an isotropic radiation source was determined. The volumetric [...] Read more.
A method for measuring light intensity at different depths of a strongly scattering medium (composite films of photoluminophore YAG:Ce3+) has been developed. The depth at which a collimated light source is converted into an isotropic radiation source was determined. The volumetric absorption coefficient of luminophore powder microparticles, which are suspended in the suspension, was measured. The concentration of trivalent cerium ions (Ce3+) in the powder particles of composite films was determined. It is shown for the first time that bulk light absorption increases the number of absorbed light quanta in a particle by a factor of six, without increasing the concentration of cerium ions in the particle. Full article
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1117 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Development and Prototyping of Oxygen Analyzer
by Bidheyak Pokharel, Deepa Beeta Thiyam, Sachin Devkota and Devanand Kumar Sah
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20447 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 113
Abstract
In the context of developing countries, medical instruments are imported from foreign countries. To overcome this challenge, herein the design of an oxygen analyzer using ultrasonic flow sensor technology and a microcontroller while promoting local innovation and reducing dependency on imported equipment is [...] Read more.
In the context of developing countries, medical instruments are imported from foreign countries. To overcome this challenge, herein the design of an oxygen analyzer using ultrasonic flow sensor technology and a microcontroller while promoting local innovation and reducing dependency on imported equipment is presented. Moreover, this design aims to enhance patient care by ensuring accurate oxygen concentration and flow rate measurements on ventilators and oxygen concentrators. The data measured using the proposed system have been validated by comparison with data obtained using standard oxygen analyzer equipment like the VT-900 Gas Flow Analyzer from Fluke Biomedical and the Ultra Max oxygen analyzer. Measurements were conducted on hospital ventilators, with oxygen concentration (FiO2) being set to range from 21% to 100%, with increments of 5%, and the flow rate was set to range from 1 L/m to 10 L/m. The results show an error value of 2.1% for oxygen concentration measurements and a value of 0.6 L/m for flow rate measurements. Based on our analysis, it can be concluded that the proposed system works well. Additionally, it offers portability, affordability, and user-friendliness, overcoming the limitations of existing options. This project seeks to contribute to the healthcare infrastructure in developing countries like Nepal, India, Bangladesh, etc., by providing a domestically produced solution for oxygen analysis. Full article
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5167 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Wearable Sensor-Based Gait Analysis and Robotic Exoskeleton Control for Parkinson’s Patients
by Eren Bülbül
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20456 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 134
Abstract
Gait disorders are significant indicators of neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, and reduce the quality of life of patients. Soft body exoskeletons offer a therapeutic solution to address these disorders. Although the detection and classification of gait disorders is essential for treatment [...] Read more.
Gait disorders are significant indicators of neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, and reduce the quality of life of patients. Soft body exoskeletons offer a therapeutic solution to address these disorders. Although the detection and classification of gait disorders is essential for treatment and diagnosis, a single standardized gait analysis system for exoskeleton control remains absent. This study presents the design of a real-time gait analysis system using wearable sensors. This system generates real-time feedback data by evaluating kinematic, kinetic and physiological parameters of gait. The digitized data can be used for ML integration and exoskeleton control. Full article
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728 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Exploring Sleep Apnea Risk Factors with Contrast Set Mining: Findings from the Sleep Heart Health Study
by Nhung H. Hoang and Zilu Liang
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20462 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 105
Abstract
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder with potentially serious health consequences. Identifying risk factors for sleep apnea is crucial for early detection and effective management. Traditionally, this has been achieved through statistical methods such as Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation analysis, which examine [...] Read more.
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder with potentially serious health consequences. Identifying risk factors for sleep apnea is crucial for early detection and effective management. Traditionally, this has been achieved through statistical methods such as Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation analysis, which examine relationships between individual variables and sleep apnea. However, these methods often miss complex, nonlinear patterns and interactions among multiple factors. In this study, we applied contrast set mining to identify patterns in attribute–value pair combinations (contrast sets) in the Sleep Heart Health Study database that differentiate between groups with varying levels of sleep apnea severity. Our findings reveal that males and individuals aged 60 to 80 exhibit a higher risk of sleep apnea, with a confidence exceeding 75%. Moreover, male patients diagnosed with second-degree obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) between 35 and 39.9 kg/m2, show an elevated risk of severe apnea, with a lift of over 2.23, support over 16%, and confidence around 80%. In contrast, female patients with a BMI within the normal range (18–25 kg/m2) demonstrate a lower risk of sleep apnea, with a lift of 2.36, support of 17%, and confidence exceeding 90%. Contrast set mining helps uncover meaningful rules within subgroups that traditional methods might overlook. Future research will focus on developing sleep apnea screening models based on these identified contrast set rules. Full article
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16191 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Lens Distortion Measurement and Correction for Stereovision Multi-Camera System
by Grzegorz Madejski, Sebastian Zbytniewski, Mateusz Kurowski, Dawid Gradolewski, Włodzimierz Kaoka and Wlodek J. Kulesza
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20457 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 276
Abstract
In modern autonomous systems, measurement repeatability and precision are crucial for robust decision-making algorithms. Stereovision, which is widely used in safety applications, provides information about an object’s shape, orientation, and 3D localisation. The camera’s lens distortion is a common source of systematic measurement [...] Read more.
In modern autonomous systems, measurement repeatability and precision are crucial for robust decision-making algorithms. Stereovision, which is widely used in safety applications, provides information about an object’s shape, orientation, and 3D localisation. The camera’s lens distortion is a common source of systematic measurement errors, which can be estimated and then eliminated or at least reduced using a suitable correction/calibration method. In this study, a set of cameras equipped with Basler lenses (C125-0618-5M F1.8 f6mm) and Sony IMX477R matrices are calibrated using a state-of-the-art Zhang–Duda–Frese method. The resulting distortion coefficients are used to correct the images. The calibrations are evaluated with the aid of two novel methods for lens distortion measurement. The first one is based on linear regression with images of a vertical and horizontal line pattern. Based on the evaluation tests, outlying cameras are eliminated from the test set by applying the 2σ criterion. For the remaining cameras, the MSE was reduced up to 75.4 times, to 1.8 px−6.9 px. The second method is designed to evaluate the impact of lens distortion on stereovision applied to bird tracking around wind farms. A bird’s flight trajectory is synthetically generated to estimate changes in disparity and distance before and after calibration. The method shows that at the margins of the image, lens distortion might introduce errors into the object’s distance measurement of +17%−+20% for cameras with the same distortion and from −41% up to + for camera pairs with different lens distortions. These results highlight the importance of having well-calibrated cameras in systems that require precision, such as stereovision bird tracking in bird–turbine collision risk assessment systems. Full article
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1461 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Proposal of a Roadmap for the Implementation of Robots in Buildings: The Case of Peru
by Angela Gago, Jordan Romaní, Isaac Ccoyllar and Andrews A. Erazo-Rondinel
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20377 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 164
Abstract
In recent years, Construction 4.0 has integrated Industry 4.0 technologies into the construction sector, with robots playing a key role in improving productivity and safety. However, few studies address strategies for implementing robots in specific contexts, particularly in developing countries. This study proposes [...] Read more.
In recent years, Construction 4.0 has integrated Industry 4.0 technologies into the construction sector, with robots playing a key role in improving productivity and safety. However, few studies address strategies for implementing robots in specific contexts, particularly in developing countries. This study proposes a roadmap for robot implementation in the Peruvian construction sector. It identifies barriers and benefits and then validates the roadmap through expert consultation. The roadmap consists of four phases: aligning the company, evaluating technology, planning implementation, and executing while assessing practices. This provides valuable guidance for construction companies adopting robotic technology. Full article
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3062 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Glucose Prediction with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Models in Three Distinct Populations
by Cleber F. Carvalho and Zilu Liang
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20513 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 184
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the dysregulation of blood glucose, which can lead to a range of serious health complications if not properly managed. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a cutting-edge technology that tracks glucose levels in real time, [...] Read more.
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the dysregulation of blood glucose, which can lead to a range of serious health complications if not properly managed. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a cutting-edge technology that tracks glucose levels in real time, providing continuous and detailed information about glucose fluctuations throughout the day. The CGM data can be leveraged to train deep learning models forecasting blood glucose levels. Several deep learning-based glucose prediction models have been developed for diabetes populations, but their generalizability to other populations such as prediabetic individuals remains largely unknown. Prediabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a critical stage where intervention can prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes. To fill in the knowledge gap, we developed Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) glucose prediction models tailored to three distinct populations: type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and prediabetic (PRED) individuals. We evaluated the internal and external validity of these models. The results showed that the model constructed with the prediabetic dataset demonstrated the best internal and external validity in predicting glucose levels across all three test sets, achieving a normalized RMSE (NRMSE) of 0.21 mg/dL, 0.11 mg/dL, and 0.25 mg/dL when tested on the prediabetic, T1D, and T2D test sets, respectively. Full article
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Proceeding Paper
Evaluation of Modified FGSM-Based Data Augmentation Method for Convolutional Neural Network-Based Image Classification
by Paulo Monteiro de Carvalho Monson, Vinicius Augusto Dare de Almeida, Gabriel Augusto David, Pedro Oliveira Conceição Junior and Fabio Romano Lofrano Dotto
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20476 - 26 Nov 2024
Viewed by 97
Abstract
Computer vision applications demand a significant amount of data for effective training and inference in many computer vision tasks. However, data insufficiency situations usually happen due to multiple reasons, resulting in computational models whose performance is inadequate. Traditional data augmentation techniques are presented [...] Read more.
Computer vision applications demand a significant amount of data for effective training and inference in many computer vision tasks. However, data insufficiency situations usually happen due to multiple reasons, resulting in computational models whose performance is inadequate. Traditional data augmentation techniques are presented to solve this overfitting problem; however, their application is not always possible or desirable. In this context, this paper addresses a different data augmentation technique for classification methods based on adversarial images to reduce the impact of sample imbalance utilizing the Fast Gradient Sign Method (FGSM) with added noise to enhance classifier performance. To validate the method, a set of images was used for the classification of diseases in coffee plants due to the soil’s lack of nutrients. The results showed an improvement in the model performance for this classification in coffee plants proving the validity of the proposed method, which can be used as an alternative to traditional data augmentation methods. Full article
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2296 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Enhancing Precision Agriculture Efficiency Through Edge Computing-Enabled Wireless Sensor Networks: A Data Aggregation Perspective
by MD Jiabul Hoque, Md. Saiful Islam, Istiaque Ahmed and Md. Nurullah
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20412 (registering DOI) - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 97
Abstract
Precision agriculture (PA), leveraging wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for efficient data collection, is set to revolutionize intelligent farming. However, challenges such as energy efficiency, data collection time, data quality, redundant data transmission, latency, and limited WSN lifespan persist. We propose a novel edge [...] Read more.
Precision agriculture (PA), leveraging wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for efficient data collection, is set to revolutionize intelligent farming. However, challenges such as energy efficiency, data collection time, data quality, redundant data transmission, latency, and limited WSN lifespan persist. We propose a novel edge computing-driven WSN framework (ECDWF) for PA, designed to enhance network longevity by optimizing data transmission to the base station (BS) and enhancing energy dissipation by abolishing data redundancy through aggregation. This framework involves a two-step data aggregation process: within clusters, where the cluster head (CH) aggregates data, and at a central network point, where an edge computing-enabled gateway node (GN) performs further aggregation. Our MATLAB simulation evaluates the proposed ECDWF against the Low-energy adaptive clustering hierarchy (LEACH) protocol and two classic sensing strategies, Effective Node Sensing (ENS) and Periodically Sensing with All Nodes (PSAN). Results reveal significant energy efficiency, quality of data (QoD) transmission, and network lifespan improvements. Due to reduced long-range transmissions, nodes in our scheme dissipate energy over 2500 rounds, compared to 1000 rounds in LEACH. Our method sends data packets to the CH and base station (BS) for 2500 rounds at 3.6 × 1010 bits, while LEACH stops at 1000 rounds at 2 × 1010 bits data transmission rate. Our approach improves network stability and lifetime, with the first node dying at 2070 rounds, versus 999 rounds in LEACH, and the last node remaining functional until 2476 rounds compared to 1000 rounds in LEACH. Our proposed system, ECDWF, outperforms PSAN and ENS in latency, data collection time (DCT), and energy usage. At 50 Mbps, the communication latency of ECDWF is just 8 s, compared to 24 s for ENS and 45 s for PSAN. ECDWF maintains a QoD of 100% across various valid sensor and node counts, surpassing ENS and PSAN. Our contribution integrates edge computing with WSN for PA, enhancing energy utilization and data aggregation. This approach effectively tackles data redundancy, transmission efficiency, and network longevity, providing a robust solution for precision agriculture. Full article
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813 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
An Extreme Gradient Boosting Approach for Elderly Falls Classification
by Paulo Monteiro de Carvalho Monson, Vinicius Toledo Dias, Giovanni Oliveira de Sousa, Gabriel Augusto David, Fabio Romano Lofrano Dotto and Pedro de Oliveira Conceição Junior
Eng. Proc. 2024, 82(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-11-20441 - 25 Nov 2024
Viewed by 77
Abstract
Falls pose a significant threat to the elderly population, often resulting in severe health complications such as fractures and other adverse outcomes, which can drastically lower their quality of life. The early detection of fall risks is crucial in mitigating the impact of [...] Read more.
Falls pose a significant threat to the elderly population, often resulting in severe health complications such as fractures and other adverse outcomes, which can drastically lower their quality of life. The early detection of fall risks is crucial in mitigating the impact of such events. Various technologies have been developed to address this issue, including alert systems that notify users of imminent risks due to environmental factors or physiological changes. However, accurately detecting and distinguishing between normal activities, imminent fall risks, and actual falls remains a challenge. This study proposes a machine learning approach using the XGBoost algorithm to improve the fall detection accuracy among the elderly. A dataset comprising 2039 samples of data on the proximity to objects, spatial location changes, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), blood sugar levels, and pressure applied by the user, categorized into normal, imminent fall risk, and fall classes, was utilized to train and test the model. The model was trained on 70% of the data, with 30% allocated for testing. Hyperparameter optimization was performed using a randomized search with cross-validation. Previous studies have reported an accuracy of 0.9667 for the same dataset. In contrast, this study achieved an accuracy of 1.0, demonstrating a significant improvement in the overall performance compared to earlier work. The confusion matrix demonstrates the model’s ability to distinguish between all three classes with no false positives. Additionally, sensitivity tests were conducted by varying the training sample sizes and randomizing the data splits, confirming the model’s robustness in different conditions. These results show that the proposed method was able to correctly sort all the samples in the training and tests, outperforming previous studies in detecting fall-related events, reducing the likelihood of false alarms, and enhancing resource allocation for elderly care. Full article
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