Cloud Base Height Measurement System Based on Stereo Vision with Automatic Calibration

Clouds are important in weather prediction, climate studies and aviation safety. Important parameters include cloud height, type and cover percentage. In this paper, the recent improvements in the development of a low-cost cloud height measurement setup are described. It is based on stereo vision with consumer digital cameras. The cameras positioning is calibrated using the position of stars in the night sky. An experimental uncertainty analysis of the calibration parameters is performed. Cloud height measurement results are presented and compared with LIDAR measurements.

Improving magnetic coupling for battery charging through 3D magnetic flux

The spatial distribution of the magnetic field and the coupling between the coils in the Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) systems is an important aspect to consider in the system design and efficiency optimization. The presented study in this paper is based on tests performed on a physical model. The transmitting (primary) equipment, is an electrical three-phase system, capable to be connected in star or delta (both electrically and geometrically). The measured results allow to describe graphically the magnetic field distribution in three dimensions. The analytical formulas aim to help to understand and to quantify the physical phenomena but they cannot be considered a universal approach and the measurement results help to understand better the observable facts. In the WPT, the key issues that will influence the efficiency, are the alignment of the coils, the spatial orientation of the magnetic field, the detachment and the tilt between the windings, all they changing the magnetic coupling between the transmitter and the receiver of energy. This research is directed not only to the magnetic field distribution but finally, to optimize the energy transfer efficiency.