Engineering Commons^™

Digital Image Processing Using Ntec Facilities, James F. Roesch

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Digital image enhancement refers to the improvement of a given image for human interpretation. Digital image processing facilities are those in which hardware and software computing elements are combined in such a way as to enable the processing of digital images. This report describes the use of the Naval Training Equipment Center (NTEC) Computer Systems Laboratory computing facilities to enhance digital images. Described are two major hardware systems, the IKONAS RDS-3000 raster display graphics system and the VAX-11/780, and the digital image processing program (DIMPRP) written by the author. Digital image enhancement theory and practice are addressed through a discussion …

The Combination Of Artificial Intelligence And Robotics For A Mobile Robot Application, Leslie D. Interrante

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The combination of artificial intelligence and robotics led to more flexibility and powerful mobile robot applications. The robot and its environment were simulated with a microcomputer to gather statistical information. An application was demonstrated in the laboratory with a mobile robot. The robot recognized an obstacle in its path and generated the necessary changes in its environment so that it could successfully complete a required task.

An Application Of Speech Synthesis, Edward J. Purvis

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This paper discusses the implementation of a synthesized computer voice facility for a missile trainer. The actual facility hardware is described. Software used to control the hardware operation is presented and discussed.

Transformation Of Nitrogen In Highway Runoff Management Systems, Robert D. Tolbert

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The operation and maintenance of highways contributes a variety of pollutants to surface and subsurface waters. Solids, heavy metals, nutrients, oil and grease, pesticides and bacteria can all be associated with highway runoff. Although the full extent of the effect of all of these runoff constituents upon the quality of surrounding waters is not well defined, this study will mainly concentrate on nutrient contaminants (essentially nitrogen). The last decade has seen increasing efforts in research and development to abate contaminant discharges from highway runoff using a number of treatment facilities such as retention/detention basins, swales and wetland systems. An evaluation …

Processing Of Thin Film Devices, Ramzi Delpak

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The ability to do thin film processing has been established at UCF. This paper describes the facilities available. RF and DC sputtering was used for material deposition. The parameters for both were established experimentally, and the results are presented. Resistor and capacitor test patterns were used to test the accuracy of the system. The devices were fabricated and tested; experimental results are discussed.

A Gate-Array Realization Of An Algorithm For Division, Salman Y. Abbasi

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A realization of a division algorithm suitable for high speed pipeline and realtime processors is presented. Implementation of the divide algorithm can be achieved by utilizing LSI / VLSI gate array technology. The divider performs precision, high speed 9 bit sign magnitude division. The design consist of combinational logic, where input and output data are latched into input and output registers. Data propagates through 16 divide stages. The n'th stage generates the n'th quotient bit upon receiving the updated dividend and controls from the previous stage. A simulation program is developed to verify the algorithm, and an analysis for speed …

Biotoxicity Of Highway Runoff Metals To Gambusia, John M. Bateman

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A research study was conducted to examine the relationship between speciation of heavy metals (Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu) and their biotoxicity. Therefore, static bioassay experiments were designed to determine LC-50 values for those metals on mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis. The standard bioassay scheme consisted of twelve 16-liter all-glass aquaria that provided duplicates of five different metal concentrations and a control for each run. Deionized tap water and filtered retention/detention water from Maitland Pond were used for bioassays. The effects of various physiochemical parameters such as pH, alkalinity, hardness and organic complexation on metal toxicity were determined. Also, synergistic and antagonistic effects …

Estimating Methods For Production Test Labor, Garry K. Stonebraker

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report mentions some of the difficulties faced by labor estimators when predicting the labor necessary to produce complex weapon systems. Specific attention is focused on estimating the durations and frequencies of testing, troubleshooting, and retesting activities. Emphasis is placed on estimating in a logical manner while using factors based on subjective judgment.

The Design Of A Qpsk Modem And The Probability Of Error Analysis For An Sca Based Digital Communication System, Fouad Guediri

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

An analysis of the probability of error for an SCA based digital communication system is developed. QPSK modulation and the signal to noise ratio degradation due to the SCA transmission are analyzed to predict the performance of the system in terms of probability of error. The design and analysis of a QPSK model, a pseudorandom generator, and a pseudorandom correlator are also presented in this thesis.

An Integrated Test Plan For An Advanced Very Large Scale Integrated Circuit Design Group, William S. Didden

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

VLSI testing poses a number of problems which includes the selection of test techniques, the determination of acceptable fault coverage levels, and test vector generation. Available device test techniques are examined and compared. Design rules should be employed to assure the design is testable. Logic simulation systems and available test utilities are compared. The various methods of test vector generation are also examined. The selection criteria for test techniques are identified. A table of proposed design rules is included. Testability measurement utilities can be used to statistically predict the test generation effort. Field reject rates and fault coverage are statistically …

Gain Control Of A Time-Varying Signal Using A Multiplaying Dac, Yassin Movassaghi

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The design of a high speed circuit accepting a bipolar analog signal with a 3 db bandwidth of 20 MHZ and an eight bit unipolar gain control signal is presented in this thesis. The system produces the product of these two signals at a rate of one digital byte every 25 nsec. At the heart of the system are two multiplying digital to analog converters (DACs) operating in parallel. The circuit design was based on a statistically validated model for a multiplying DAC. This circuit could be used for controlling the intensity of each picture element (i.e. pixel) for many …

Display To Camera Calibration Techniques, Philip Gatt

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

In today's technology, with digitally controlled optic sensing devices, there exists a need for a fast and accurate calibration procedure. Typical display devices and optic fiber bundles are plagued with inaccuracies. There are many sources of error such as delay, time constants, pixel distortion, pixel bleeding, and noise. The calibration procedure must measure these inaccuracies, and compute a set of correction factors. These correction factors are then used in real time to alter the command data, such that the intended pixels are correctly commanded. This paper discusses a calibration procedure, which employs a special matrix inverse algorithm. This algorithm, which …

A Comparison Of Two Techniques For Estimating The Travel Time Of An Acoustic Wavefront Between Two Receiving Sensors, Frank J. Montalbano

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

In recent years the United States Navy has concentrated most of its Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) research and development efforts toward passive sonar. Its ability to locate enemy targets without being detected gives the passive sonar system a supreme strategic advantage over its active counterpart. One aspect of passive sonar signal processing is the time delay estimation of an underwater acoustic wavefront. From this estimation the location and velocity of the radiating source (target) can then be determined. This report compares two popular methods of estimating time delay utilizing computer simulations of each: the cross correlator and the beamformer.

Finite Impulse Response Filter Implementation Via Windowing Technique, Thomas J. Horrigan

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This research report is devoted to an investigation of finite impulse response (FIR) filters and their implementation via windowing techniques. Analysis is restricted to those FIR filters that possess both a nonrecursive structure and a linear phase response. Initially an informative yet concise overview of FIR filters is presented. Some knowledge of "discrete – time" systems is assumed. Next, the concepts associated with FIR filter implementation through the utilization of window functions is developed. Analysis is performed in both the time and frequency domains. Results obtained define optimal window function criteria. The last design technique is devoted to computer aided …

Image Analysis And Segmentation Based On The Circular Pipeline Video Processor, Jon M. Albritton

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Visual inspection of printed circuit boards has generally depended on human inspectors. However, a system has been developed which allows for automated visual inspection using robotics and modern image processing techniques. This paper first introduces automatic visual inspection processes, overviews the Automatic Board Assembly, Inspection and Test (ABAIT) system, reviews image processing concepts and describes the Circular Pipeline Video Processor (CPVP). Image data from the CPVP is analyzed and an investigation into alternate segmentation algorithms to identify circuit board features is presented. The relative performance of these algorithms is compared conclusions drawn.

Stormwater Detention Systems With Effluent Filtration, Linda M. Van De Graaff

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The growing concern for water quality enhancement of our surface waters has led to changes in detention facility design. Providing a filter media for the effluent water to travel through before discharge into the environment has become an area of interest. Thus, detention facilities may be used for both water quality and quantity control. Different soil medias were studied for the potential of pollutant removal and infiltration rates usable in design work. Both laboratory and field experimentation were performed. A computer program was also developed to model stormwater movement through a swale detention system. This research was performed to examine …

Highway Runoff And Sediment Control, Susanna H. Rehmann-Koo

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

A literature survey was conducted on the erosion and sedimentation process and techniques for control. Erosion and sediment control techniques were found to be very site specific. Several techniques are analyzed for their maintenance and operation requirements, construction costs, and effectiveness in quantity and quality control. Once technique, namely swale blocks or berms was designed and constructed to illustrate cost and effectiveness. Design aids were developed for various berm heights and highway slopes as a function of berm spacing for typical highway cross-sections to aid in the design of swale blocks. Construction costs were estimated for the berms and retention/detention …

Graphic Display Of Geographic Spatial Data, Jill G. Ashby

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This project developed computer graphics to display spatial and statistical data in a functional, appropriate and articulate manner. The spatial data creates mapping of Orange County focusing on traffic zones. The graphs display statistical data projecting from spatial areas presented in a simple form. The graphs produced by the system are geared towards an audience involved with transportation and planning decisions for Orange County. The graphics employ population, income, number of dwelling units, trip generation and trip production data based upon the 1980 census. The population, income, and number of dwelling unites statistics include predictions for 1985 through 2005 in …

Surface Acoustic Wave Bidirectional Filter Synthesis And Analysis, Raymond L. Yap

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) devices are manufactured using standard metallization and photolithographic techniques that have been established by the semiconductor industry. The facilities in the newly developed Microelectronics laboratory at the University of Central Florida will be utilized in the fabrication of a SAW device.

This thesis will outline the complete procedure beginning with the initial design from given specifications, up to mask generation, fabricating and testing of the device. This will serve to calibrate the fabrication process for future work in SAW device and semiconductor fabrication.

The models that are used in the SAWCAD design software will be verified …

A Comparative Study Of Computer Interfacing Techniques For Military Training Devices, Gary R. Fraas

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This report surveys many of the interfacing techniques currently in use on emerging military training devices. The primary focus of this report is associated with the hardware aspects of computer interfacing. After a brief introduction into the various aspects of military training devices, this study presents various computer related interfacing techniques used on military training devices. Topics addressed in the study include custom designed interfaces, commercial packages, serial communications with an emphasis on RS-232, -422, -423, and -449 serial standards as well as local area networks. Then, a number of bus standards are presented and finally, interface products pertaining to …

Computer Simulation Of Cross Correlators For Correlated Inputs, Linda J. Coulter

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Cross correlator systems, analog and clipped input channels, with correlated random narrow band Gaussian noise as inputs are computer simulated. The performance of each system is evaluated on the basis of the output signal-to-noise ratio. The output SNR of each system is compared with theoretical asymptotic approximations computed as a function of the SNR of the input channels. The output of the simulation compares within 3 dB of the asymptotic approximations for the analog correlator for all values of the correlation coefficient tested and for the systems with clipped input channels with uncorrelated inputs. For the systems with clipped input …

A 'User-Friendly' Robot Operator Training Aid, Donald A. Washburn

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

There will be an increasing demand for robot operators, since more companies are using robots in production and material handling. In order to train these would-be operators, a 'user-friendly' robot operator training aid was developed. This aid helps the trainee learn how to program a robot using on-line programming, and the trainee also obtains valuable hands-on experience. Since this training aid is user-friendly and has safety features, it requires little or no previous experience with robots or computers and minimal supervision. With this training, the would-be operators will acquire a basic understanding of how they can apply this experience to …

The Frequency Response Computation Of H(Z) Models That Include Digital Error Effects, Carol R. Smith

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Pulse responses are not suitable for evaluating H(z) frequency responses that include digital errors. Digital error effects, however, are conveniently included in H(z) frequency response calculations based on the step response. A non-real time algorithm for computing the frequency response of a real time digital filters based on the filter step response is developed and verified through an example.

The Development Of An Automated Production System, Brian M. Cardinal

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This paper describes the development of an automated production system recently completed by the Martin Marietta Aerospace Division, Orlando, Florida, for the assembly, inspection and test of printed circuit boards. The project began in January 1981 with the purpose of increasing the then existing production capability and to create the building block for the total automation of the printed circuit board assembly area of the plant in Ocala, Florida. The system was implemented using a combination of off the shelf equipment modified and integrated to create a single production system. The system employs much of the new production philosophies tailored …

Investigation And Evaluation Of Random Number Generators For Digital Implementation, Ylberto V. Ruiz

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The continuous improvement in the speed of digital components in conjunction with reduction of size has brought about a revolutionary age of microprocessors. Mathematical functions, which at one time could only be implemented by complex analog circuitry, can now be easily implemented via microprocessors and high density digital components. Principles of random number generation must be understood in order to implement pseudo-random algorithms in a digital random frequency generator (DRFG) design. Chapter 1 is a discussion of several types of random number algorithms which have been used in the past and outlines the deficiencies and advantages associated with each individual …

Design Of An Evaluation System For The Electro-Oculometer, Chrysanthos A. Panayiotou

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this paper is to develop a system for evaluation of a skin-voltage Oculometer. A test set-up is designed that allows any person to attach the input of the Oculometer (electrodes) on his/her-self and obtain the transfer characteristics of the system. Two set-ups are designed. In the first one, the static transfer characteristics are obtained with the aid of a wall chart. In the second one, the dynamic transfer characteristics are obtained with the aid of a computer moving a bright spot on a large screen television set. An investigation of the possible sources of error is also …

Digital Hearing Aids, Somsak Deawsurintr

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

This paper describes the design of a hearing aid using digital techniques. The Amplitude Compression Amplifier and Digital Filter are discussed. General review of different filter types are presented as background for the design of Digital Filters. The design procedure for Digital Filters and the software program for the Intel-2920 signal processor are created. Finally, the program is tested by simulation via the 2920-Simulator.

Transformation Of Phosphorus In Highway Runoff Management Systems, David B. Pearce

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

The operation and maintenance of highways contributes a variety of pollutants to surface and subsurface waters. Solids, heavy metals, nutrients, oil and grease, pesticides and bacteria can all be associated with highway runoff. Although the full extent of the effect of all these runoff constituents upon the quality of surrounding waters is not well defined, this study will mainly concentrate on nutrient contaminants (essentially phosphorus). The last decade has seen increasing efforts in research and development to abate contaminant discharges from highway runoff using a number of treatment facilities such as swale and detention/retention ponds. An evaluation of the effectiveness …

A Non-Contact Technique For Direct Strain Measurement Using Laser Speckle Spectral Density, Reza M. Sheikhrezai

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

When an optically rough surface is illuminated by laser, a grainy pattern is produced at a distance away from the surface, which is known as laser speckle pattern. This pattern is random in intensity with its grains separated by an average amount controlled by the intermediate optical system or the diameter of the illuminated area of the surface in absence of an optical system. It has been shown that the grain spacing of such pattern may be correlated to yield a singly-peaked power spectral density of an intensity ensemble which is found by spatial ensemble averages. This correlation holds only …

Adaption And Optimization Of The Ibrahim Time Domain (Itd) Modal Parameter Identification Algorithm For Mini-Computer Use, Mary T. Cogeos

Retrospective Theses and Dissertations

Conventional modal analysis is performed using FFT Analyzers with modal analysis software developed by one of many test/analysis software vendors. The analysis is performed in the frequency domain using frequency response functions. A recent advancement in modal analysis involves analyzing the measured free response of a structure in the time domain. The Ibrahim Time Domain (ITD) Algorithm is such a method which has been used and verified at government environmental test facilities. The ITD is an accurate numeric solution. Minimal operator interaction is required for proper performance of the algorithm. The results of the ITD Algorithm are far superior to …