Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Technologies for Construction

This book will be of particular interest to academics, researchers, and graduate students at universities and industrial practitioners seeking to apply mobile and pervasive computing systems to improve construction industry productivity.

Comparison of Image-Based and Time-of-Flight-Based Technologies for Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Infrastructure

Image-based (i.e., photo/videogrammetry) and time-of-flight-based (i.e., laser scanning) technologies are typically used to collect spatial data of infrastructure. In order to help architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries make cost-effective decisions in selecting between these two technologies with respect to their settings, this paper makes an attempt to measure the accuracy, quality, time efficiency, and cost of applying image-based and time-of-flight-based technologies to conduct as-built 3D reconstruction of infrastructure. In this paper, a novel comparison method is proposed, and preliminary experiments are conducted. The results reveal that if the accuracy and quality level desired for a particular application is not high (i.e., error < 10 cm, and completeness rate > 80%), image-based technologies constitute a good alternative for time-of-flight-based technologies and significantly reduce the time and cost needed for collecting the data on site.

SOI sensing technologies for harsh environment

This paper reviews and addresses certain aspects of Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) technologies for a harsh environment. The paper first describes the need for specialized sensors in applications such as (i) domestic and other small-scale boilers, (ii) CO2 Capture and Sequestration, (iii) oil & gas storage and transportation, and (iv) automotive. We describe in brief the advantages and special features of SOI technology for sensing applications requiring temperatures in excess of the typical bulk silicon junction temperatures of 150oC. Finally we present the concepts, structures and prototypes of simple and smart micro-hotplate and Infra Red (IR) based emitters for NDIR (Non Dispersive IR) gas sensors in harsh environments. © 2012 IEEE.

Comparison of two seal technologies for hydraulic microactuators

In order to improve the power density of microactuators, recent research focuses on the applicability of fluidic power at microscale. One of the reasons that hydraulic actuators are still uncommon in micro system technology is due to the difficulty of fabricating powerful microseals. This paper presents two seal technologies that are suitable for sealing small-scale hydraulic actuators. Measurements on prototype actuators show that force densities up to 0,45 N/mm2 (0,025 N/mm3) and work densities up to 0,2 mJ/mm3 can easily be achieved with the developed seal technology. These characteristics can still be improved as the maximum driving pressures of the actuators have not yet been determined. © 2005 IEEE.

A survey on technology exposure and range of abilities of elderly and disabled users in India

This paper reports a survey on people with age-related and physical impairments in India. The survey evaluates functional parameters related to human computer interaction and reports subjective attitude and exposure of users towards technology. We found a significant cognitive decline in elderly users while their functional parameters are sufficient to use existing electronic devices. However young disabled users are found to be experienced with computer but could not have access to appropriate assistive devices, which would benefit them. Most users used desktop computers and mobile phone but none used tablet, smartphone or kiosks though they are keen to learn new technologies. Overall we hope that our results will be useful for HCI practitioners in developing countries. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.