Automated Generation of Operations Level Construction Animations in Outdoor Augmented Reality

Three-dimensional (3D) visualization is an effective tool for communicating, verifying, and validating the results of a simulated operation. Traditional visualization tools used for this purpose are typically based on the paradigm of virtual reality. Augmented reality (AR) is a relatively newer visualization paradigm whose engineering applications have been explored by a limited number of researchers. In this paper, the problem of generating smooth and continuous AR animations from the results of running discrete event simulation models and a general purpose methodology to overcome this challenge are discussed. The structure of an AR animation authoring language developed by the writers to create a logical link between a running simulation model and its corresponding 3D visualization in AR is described. In order to validate the functionality and effectiveness of the designed methods and animation language, an AR-based visualization application was developed and the designed algorithms were successfully tested using different simulation scenarios of varying visual and operational complexity.     

Development and Application of an Integrated Optimization-Simulation Model for Major Irrigation Projects

A nonlinear, constrained multivariable optimization routine is developed for deciding the optimal canal water release and linked to a canal hydraulic module (MIKE 11) and command hydrological module (MIKE SHE). The optimization routine is solved using the sequential quadratic programming (SQP) technique. The hydraulic and the hydrological modules are calibrated and validated independently, and the results are found to be satisfactory. The integrated optimization-simulation model is applied to the Right Bank Main Canal System of Kangsabati Irrigation Project, West Bengal, India. An improved rotational delivery schedule based on long-term field data analysis is also developed. Three simulation scenarios are considered. These are (1) MIKE 11 and MIKE SHE simulation, (3) integrated optimization simulation, and (3) integrated optimization-simulation with improved schedule. Simulations were performed for Kharif (rainy) irrigation periods for 3 different years (1995–1997). The intercomparison of the three simulation scenarios showed that the application of the integrated optimization-simulation model reduced the gap between irrigation water supply and crop water demand and improved the spatial distribution of supply, thereby, minimizing the tail-end deprivation.     

基于C/S架构的矿山编录系统设计与应用

矿山编录是矿山生产中重要的地质技术工作之一,编录工作的规范性和严谨性、编录资料的真实性和准确性,直接影响到后期地质工作研究的精度。面对井下工作环境差、重复工作量大、效率低和成果利用不便等问题,亟待采用信息技术进行解决。本文阐述选择采用C/S架构搭建矿山编录系统,分析系统架构、业务功能和关键技术后对系统进行设计,通过规范编录数据采集标准,利用移动端APP离线采集编录数据,实现编录信息快速采集、自动成图和数据集中管理,实时动态模拟展示采掘工程控制下编录地质体的三维空间状态。实例研究表明：基于C/S架构的矿山编录系统开发、使用便捷,具有实时性好、安全性高等特点,编录结果具有三维可视性,可以方便、灵活、全面地展示编录成果及地质信息,指导矿山地质探勘和安全生产。     

A small angle light scattering device for planar connective tissue microstructural analysis

The planar fibrous connective tissues of the body are composed of a dense extracellular network of collagen and elastin fibers embedded in a ground matrix, and thus can be thought of as biocomposites. Thus, the quantification of fiber architecture is an important step in developing an understanding of the mechanics of planar tissues in health and disease. We have used small angle light scattering (SALS) to map the gross fiber orientation of several soft membrane connective tissues. However, the device and analysis methods used in these studies required extensive manual intervention and were unsuitable for large-scale fiber architectural mapping studies. We have developed an improved SALS device that allows for rapid data acquisition, automated high spatial resolution specimen positioning, and new analysis methods suitable for large-scale mapping studies. Extensive validation experiments revealed that the SALS device can accurately measure fiber orientation for up to a tissue thickness of at least 500 microns to an angular resolution of approximately 1 degree and a spatial resolution of +/-254 microns. To demonstrate the new device's capabilities, structural measurements from porcine aortic valve leaflets are presented. Results indicate that the new SALS device provides an accurate method for rapid quantification of the gross fiber structure of planar connective tissues.     

基于商用CFD软件的双层皮幕墙热工性能模拟程序的开发

Double-skin facade （DSF） is widely used in commercial buildings for its excellent performance in saving energy. But it＇s very difficult for the ordinary designers to predict the thermal performance of DSF due to the complexity of the energy transmitting through the DSF and the difficulty of manipulating the complicated commercial CFD （computational fluid dynamic） simulation software. This paper take an effort in the foundation of the DSF analysis code with VC ＋ ＋ 6. 0 based on the commercial CFD software. This code is complied to analyze and predict the thermal behaviorof the ‘standard＇geometry natural ventilation DSF. The analyzer can gain the thermal behavior and the air flow characteristics of DSF after entered the relevant parameters of the model. This code gives the designer a tool to make quick design decisions in analyzing and optimizing DSF.     

Recovery of 3-D structure from motion is neither euclidean nor affine.

The relationship between simulated and judged depth separations for pairs of probe dots on planar surface patches was examined in a series of 6 experiments. The simulated slant of the patches was varied without varying the simulated depth separation of the probe dots by varying the depth gradient orthogonal to the direction determined by the probe dots on the image plane. Judged depth separation varied with mean slant for constant simulated depth separations. When observers judged depth separations along a closed path, the integral of the signed depths did not sum to zero, as would be required in Euclidean geometry. These results are inconsistent with the view that the mapping between simulated and perceived 3-D structure is affine and indicate that, in general, the perceived structure cannot be represented in either a Euclidean space or an affine space. Moreover, these results are consistent with a first-order temporal analysis of the optic flow. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2011 APA, all rights reserved)     

Promoting Efficient Use of Visualization Tools through Education

Three-dimensional visualization is getting increasingly popular. However, for realizing the full benefits of information technology (IT), we need to go beyond visualization and adopt modeling techniques that allow reuse of information for other tasks in the project life cycle. Already it is possible to use visualization models for tasks such as simulation. However, widespread use of these integrated systems is hindered by the lack of education in the fundamentals of IT in the engineering curriculum. This paper analyzes the dependencies between concepts related to visualization and lists a minimum set of topics that should be part of the curriculum. Experiences in teaching these in a new course module related to visualization are described. Feedback data collected shows that most students appreciated the use of IT tools in education. However, comments by many students indicated inherent problems related to IT and visualization. Nevertheless, it is expected that when more universities start teaching fundamentals we should see more IT adoption in the industry.     

地下矿水灾场一体化构模及可视化仿真技术

针对地下矿突水三维可视化仿真,基于矿山复合场理论,通过对水灾漫延过程中各场量参数的空间几何性、分布性、矢量性和时序性进行分析,给出属性空间的拓扑关系,构建了地下矿突水仿真的一体化动态模型,提出了相关属性的可视化仿真方法.通过对空间场量进行体素化和场量化处理,以时间为步长,实现了水灾漫延过程的动态可视化表达.以某典型地下矿山为例,通过对相关数据进行整理分析,实现了水灾漫延过程的动态可视化仿真,验证了地下矿突水一体化模型的可行性和有效性.      

Cerebral cartography--a method for visualizing cortical structures

We present a method for visualizing the human cortex on one planar map. The data are taken from a 3D MRI study. Ray tracing with non-parallel rays is used to project the cortical relief onto a non-planar projection surface, which is in turn mapped onto the plane by cartographical projection. Two modifications of the method are proposed: the spherical mapping uses a sphere as the projection surface; the model-based mapping uses an analytically defined model of the scalp to generate the normal vectors. The cerebral cartography can be used for example for producing anatomical reference maps on which EEG measurement data can be superimposed.     

Integrated Hydrodynamic and Water Quality Modeling System to Support Nutrient Total Maximum Daily Load Development for Wissahickon Creek, Pennsylvania

This paper presents a hydrodynamic and water quality modeling system for Wissahickon Creek, Pa. Past data show that high nutrient levels in Wissahickon Creek were linked to large diurnal fluctuations in oxygen concentration, which combining with the deoxygenation effect of carbonaceous biological oxygen demand (CBOD) causes violations of dissolved oxygen (DO) standards. To obtain quantitative knowledge about the cause of the DO impairment, an integrated modeling system was developed based on a linked environmental fluid dynamics code (EFDC) and water quality simulation program for eutrophication (WASP/EUTRO5) modeling framework. The EFDC was used to simulate hydrodynamic and temperature in the stream, and the resulting flow information were incorporated into the WASP/EUTRO5 to simulate the fate and transport of nutrients, CBOD, algae, and DO. The standard WASP/EUTRO5 model was enhanced to include a periphyton dynamics module and a diurnal DO simulation module to better represent the prototype. The integrated modeling framework was applied to simulate the creek for a low flow period when monitoring data are available, and the results indicate that the model is a reasonable numerical representation of the prototype.     

Geographic Information System-Based Visual Simulation Methodology and Its Application in Concrete Dam Construction Processes

System simulation has proved to be an effective tool for planning and improving the performance of a construction process in many successful case studies. However, with the aid of a three dimensional (3D) visualization system, simulation technology will be engaged to its farthest-reaching potential. This paper presents a geographic information system (GIS)-based visual simulation method, in which system simulation techniques are integrated with visualization techniques. The GIS-based visual simulation system (GVSS) was developed by the authors. The GVSS is a simulation tool offering powerful planning, visualizing, and querying capabilities that facilitate the detection of logic errors in simulation models. The software also helps to understand the comprehensively complex modeled construction process, and is capable of organizing vast amounts of spatial and nonspatial data involved in simulation. A hydroelectric project, which will take place on the Yellow River in the northwest of China, is used as an example. An optimum equipment set scheme is determined by simulating a variety of scenarios taking place under different construction conditions. Likewise, other parameters, such as the construction sequence of dam blocks, the monthly intensity of the concrete process, and the construction appearance at the middle and end of each year, are obtained. Meanwhile, the complex processes of dam construction are demonstrated dynamically using 3D animation, which provides a powerful tool for quickly and comprehensively understanding the whole construction process. The GVSS has proven to be a helpful and useful tool for the design and management of concrete dams.     

巡线机器人延迟容忍传感器网络数据传输策略

巡线机器人延迟容忍传感器网络(delay tolerant mobile sensor networks for inspection robot,DTMSNR)用于输电线路巡线机器人远程电网数据收集,具有节点稀疏、异构、随机移动性、间歇连通性和延迟容忍性.针对传统传感器网络数据传输算法机器人数据传输成功率低与网络可靠性差等问题.提出一种基于巡线机器人位姿信息的数据传输(mobile robot position-based delivery,MPD)策略.为准确计算巡线机器人网络位姿信息,建立机器人路径约束随机运动模型.MPD采用机器人相对网络位姿信息计算传输概率,进行消息传输路径选择.对网络异构消息引入机器人消息优先传输、消息失效机制进行消息队列管理.仿真实验表明,相较现有的几种延迟容忍传感器网络(delay tolerant mobile sensor network,DTMSN)数据传输策略,针对巡线机器人网络MPD能在适当的传输能耗下达到更高的传输成功率与更低的传输延迟.      

Vibration Control of Flexible Manipulators Using Smart Structures

The long reach robots required for space applications necessitate active vibration control algorithms for a better pointing performance. The inherent flexibility of the long and flexible space arms can generate undesirable vibrations, making their end-point controls very difficult, although they provide a large reach volume and payload capabilities. This paper presents a novel technique to control the vibrations of N modes of a flexible link attached to a rigid robot employing an Impedance Control Technique using piezo-ceramic actuators and fiber-optic sensors. A piezo-ceramic actuator model has been developed by considering the moments∕forces generated by the piezo-ceramic actuator as nonconservative external forces. Successful simulation and experimental results have been obtained for vibration control of a cantilever beam which is attached to the end effector of the Titan-II robot arm.     

涡轮钻具叶栅水力性能仿真优化技术研究

束流理论设计的涡轮钻具叶栅叶片,往往达不到预期的性能指标。采用实体建模、CFD前置处理器等工具真实、准确地建立涡轮定、转子的单周期跨叶片流道计算模型,对其内流场进行CFD仿真模拟。根据速度场分布情况进行叶型优化,同时模拟出优化设计后的涡轮在不同转速下的输出特性,并与实验数据进行对比,证明了应用CFD技术对涡轮钻具叶栅内流场模拟分析的有效性、准确性,为涡轮钻具水力性能预测、叶栅结构优化提供了一种有力技术手段。     

Learning about environmental geometry: An associative model.

K. Cheng (1986) suggested that learning the geometry of enclosing surfaces takes place in a geometric module blind to other spatial information. Failures to find blocking or overshadowing of geometry learning by features near a goal seem consistent with this view. The authors present an operant model in which learning spatial features competes with geometry learning, as in the Rescorla-Wagner model. Relative total associative strength of cues at a location determines choice of that location and thus the frequencies of reward paired with each cue. The model shows how competitive learning of local features and geometry can appear to result in potentiation, blocking, or independence, depending on enclosure shape and kind of features. The model reproduces numerous findings from dry arenas and water mazes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Rule-Based Model for Traffic Accident Visualization and Analysis

This research develops and tests a computerized model for intersection accident data visualization and analysis. The model implemented a rule-based visualization module that automatically constructs the collision diagram according to traffic flow conflicts, where accident characteristics can be analyzed either individually or collectively. A data acquisition module was developed for accessing accident databases maintained in state transportation and public safety departments. Using a local database management system as part of the model, the user can select to analyze any accident data through Structured Query Language statements. In addition, this model has implemented a data analysis and graphing module for comparing similarities and identifying differences in accident data and for presenting the results of the analysis through charts and tables. The model was tested with accident data obtained from the Ohio Department of Public Safety in a number of scenario studies, and some of them were presented in this paper as examples. Because the model is very time efficient and user friendly, it can be developed into an effective engineering tool for field applications.     

双模糊协调控制的移动机器人路径规划

根据在冶金行业中的移动机器人工作环境的不确定性,设计了双模糊协调控制器,把机器人的行为分成接近目标行为和中途避障行为,并对两种行为进行协调,达到对机器人下一步行动进行控制的目的,仿真实验结果验证了所提方法的有效性和可行性。     

Construction Robot Path-Planning for Earthwork Operations

In developing an intelligent mobile construction robot, a navigation system that can provide an effective and efficient path-planning algorithm is a very important element. The purpose of a path-planning method for a mobile construction robot is to find a continuous collision-free path from the initial position of the construction robot to its target position. This paper presents an improved Bug-based algorithm, called SensBug, which can produce an effective path in an unknown environment with both stationary and movable obstacles. The contributions, which make it possible to generate an effective and short path, are an improved method to select local directions, a reverse mode, and a simple leaving condition. Some emerging technologies that can be used for implementing an intelligent construction robot are introduced in this paper.     

WLB2500井下水力涡轮力学特性台架试验及CFD模拟

通过对WLB2500井下水力涡轮的室内试验,得到了涡轮的力学特性曲线,并以此为依据,研究了涡轮的CFD模拟方法,探讨了CFD计算在涡轮设计中的有效性。结果表明,所采用的CFD全流道模型可以解决以往单跨流道模型忽略了容积损失的问题,所预测的涡轮力学性能基本与实际吻合。说明本文采用的计算方法基本合理,可用于井下水力涡轮的设计中。