Abstract: A system and method for detecting faults in wafer fabrication process tools by acquiring real-time process parameter signal data samples used to model the process performed by the process tool. The system includes a computer system including a DAQ device, which acquires the data samples, and a fault detector program which employs a process model program to analyze the data samples for the purpose of detecting faults. The model uses data samples in a reference database acquired from previous known good runs of the process tool. The fault detector notifies a process tool operator of any faults which occur thus potentially avoiding wafer scrap and potentially improving mean time between failures. The fault detector also receives notification of the occurrence of process events from the process tool, such as the start or end of processing a wafer, which the fault detector uses to start and stop the data acquisition, respectively. The fault detector also receives notification of the occurrence of a new process recipe and uses the recipe information to select the appropriate model for modeling the data samples. The fault detector employs a standard data exchange interface, such as DDE, between the fault detector and the model, thus facilitating modular selection of models best suited to the particular fabrication process being modeled. Embodiments are contemplated which use a UPM model, a PCA model, or a neural network model.

Abstract: A distributed seismic data acquisition system includes a vast plurality of Autonomous Data Acquisition Modules (ADAM) to each of which are interconnected a subplurality of data-collection channels. Each data collection channel is comprised of an array of seismic sensors for continuously measuring seismic signals. The ADAMs include a GPS satellite receiver for providing geographic coordinates and system clock. Measured seismic signals are quantized and continuously downloaded to the respective interconnected ADAMs from the data-collection channels. The system includes both field testing capability as well means for transmitting the results of self tests. Provision is made for servicing the ADAMs at the end of a multi-day recording session and for harvesting and cataloging the recorded data. The seismic signals gathered by use of the distributed data-gathering system may be processed to provide a subsurface earth model.

Abstract: A data acquisition and control system and process for characterizing the subsurface geology of an excavation site, and for utilizing acquired data to optimize the production performance of a machine an earth penetrating member. A geological information acquisition unit (256) and an optional geographic positioning system (254) are employed to survey a predetermined excavation site or route. A geology characterization unit (260) may be employed to determine the physical characteristics of the subsurface geology. The acquired data are processed to provide geologic and, if applicable, position information for the excavation site which is utilized by a main control unit (250) and a machine controller (255) to modify excavation production performance of the machine.

Abstract: Foreword. Preface Good Stuff to Know Before You Get Started. 1. What in the World Is LabVIEW? 2. Virtual Instrumentation: Hooking Your Computer Up to the Real World. Real-World Application: Radio-Linked Environmental Monitoring and Display Systemal Monitoring and Display System Building Your Own Workbench. 4. LabVIEW Foundations. 5. Yet More Foundations. Real-World Application: Next-Generatiion Gas Delivery System for Semiconductor Manufacurers. 6. Controlling Program Execution with Structures. 7. LabVIEW's Composite Data: Arrays and Clusters. 8. LabVIEW's Exciting Visual Displays: Charts and Graphs. 9. Exploring Strings and File I/O. Real-World Application: Preconditioning Automobile Evaporative Canisters Advanced Section. A Bit About the Advanced Section. 10. Getting Data into and out of Your Computer: Data Acquisition and Instrument Control. 11. DAQ and Instrument Control in LabVIEW. Real-World Application: DAQ, SCXI, and LabVIEW Simulate and Test Power Systems. 12. Advanced LabVIEW Functions and Structures. 13. Advanced LabVIEW Features. Real-World Application: Accelerating the Development of Medical Diagnostic Instruments. 14. Communications and Advanced File I/O. 15. The Art of LabVIEW Programming. Real-World Application: High-Speed Remote Process Control. Appendix A. National Instruments Contact Information, Resources, and Toolkits. Appendix B. Troubleshooting and Common Questions. Glossary. Index.

Abstract: A portable self-contained data collection system (100) for measuring and collecting vibration data from machines includes an accelerometer (160) which is coupled to the analog input of a data acquisition card (120). The data acquisition card (120) samples and digitizes the analog signal to produce a time domain digital signal. The data acquisition card output (122) is coupled to a battery-powered portable computer (110). The battery-powered portable computer (110) includes a database (220) having machine identifications and associated measurement parameters. The portable computer (110) processes the time domain digital signal according to the measurement parameters associated with a selected machine identification, and produces a frequency domain digital signal by performing a Fast Fourier Transform and other digital signal processing operations. The frequency domain signal is also analyzed in the portable computer (110) to produce predictive maintenance information. A power supply (150) for supplying power to the accelerometer (160) is also included. The accelerometer power supply (150) electrically and mechanically couples the accelerometer (160) to the data acquisition card (120). It supplies power to the accelerometer (160) when the data acquisition card is activated. The portable self-contained data collection system (100) can be used to measure and collect vibration data from machines and to analyze this data to produce predictive maintenance information.

Abstract: A diesel powered three-phase standby 480 V, 15 kW, 60 Hz synchronous generator has been modified to give controlled three-phase voltage sags. These sags can be controlled in both depth and duration. A 486-based computer with a data acquisition system controls the generator and monitors the system under test. The custom software interface allows the user to select the depth and duration of the each sag. Typically, the user will select a series of sags in selectable increments down to a certain depth. The data acquisition system has both digital and analog inputs, so that data lines, AC and DC voltages and currents, contactors and relays, etc. can be monitored during the tests. The software interface enables the user to select allowable tolerance bands for the monitored signals. If one or more of the signals falls outside the allowable range, the test is suspended. The sag depth and duration that caused the equipment to "fail" the test is then recorded, After testing over a range of sag durations, a CBEMA-type curve is available for the system under test. The sag generator enables the user to systematically determine the sensitivity of the components of an installed process line. This will enable the user to determine cost-effective ride-through enhancement strategies or to test the effectiveness of currently installed equipment. Although this test generator is small, the basic concept can be scaled up to the 2 MVA range.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION In the past, computerized seismological networks used dedicated telephone lines for continuous telemetering of relatively low-dynamic range, narrow bandwidth data to a central recording facility. These networks have served well the purpose of studying the spatial and temporal distribution of seismicity. However, the high data transmission costs, limitations in dynamic range and bandwidth, and the distortion problems associated with long-distance transfer of analog data have limited the possibility of retrieving the earthquake source information carried by the seismic waves. In the 1980s some networks were designed using microor mini-computers for digitization and data decimation at the observation sites. Event detection is performed in the computer at each site and only the detected events are transferred to the center. Partly due to the relatively high investment cost of these systems, the station spacing within the networks is rather large, limiting the routine analysis to origin time estimation, epicenter location, and...

Abstract: A predictive maintenance system for a plurality of machines is disclosed. The system includes vibration sensors connected to the machines and a plurality of data acquisition nodes, each node connected to one or more of the vibration sensors. Each node acquires vibration data from the sensors connected thereto during a respective data acquisition interval. A system control computer collects vibration data acquired by the nodes during a polling cycle which is based on the longest of the respective data acquisition cycles of the nodes.

Abstract: In spite of dramatic improvement in field acquisition, technology during the past decade (ground penetrating radar - GPR, frequency domain - FEM - and time domain equipment - TEM supported by newly developed techniques for processing and presentation of data, electrical surveying techniques (in particular resistivity) still remain basic tools for examining subsurface features in geological, engineering geological, hydrogeological, environmental and archaeological projects. Conventional resistivity techniques are relatively quick and easy to use and usually provide satisfactory results. Heaviness of this approach appears where detailed survey at small electrode spacings is required - often the amount of data acquired is determined by time constraints rather than more technical considerations. More recently, systems have been developed which employ the use automated switching facilities. These systems allow rapid data acquisition at different electrode spacings to be carried out along the same survey line. The technique has already been applied to variety of geological applications with considerable success.

Abstract: A security system for detecting a gunshot event. A communication link, and a number of pole units are arranged in a dense grid. Each one of the pole units includes a microphone and a signal conditioning and thresholding unit coupled to the microphone. The signal conditioning and thresholding unit outputs a detection signal in response to an event when an output signal from the microphone exceeds a peak background average. A data acquisition and signal processing unit is coupled to the signal conditioning and thresholding unit for discriminating gunshot events. The data acquisition and signal processing unit remains in a powered down stand-by mode so as to conserve energy until a detection signal is received. The data acquisition and signal processing unit includes apparatus for identifying a gunshot event by measuring an initial pulse time duration and subsequent pulse pattern features, and a communication interface coupled at an input to the data acquisition and signal processing unit. A central processor is coupled to the communication link so as to receive data from the pole units where the central processor and the pole units operate so as to detect and locate gunshot events sensed by one or more of the pole units.

Abstract: This paper presents a digital instrument for the power quality analysis in systems where voltage or current waveforms are non-sinusoidal. It is based on a C40 DSP and on a special high-speed data acquisition system. The analysis is performed by a recursive algorithm which allows the mutable system properties to be tracked. The paper also goes on to discuss the performance of an instrument prototype, both in terms of accuracy specifications and speed of measurement.

Abstract: Noninvasive vibration diagnostic techniques are implemented to assess the mechanical condition of power circuit breakers. A diagnostic system, the prototype commercial portable diagnostic system (PCPDS) has been developed Hardware of the PCPDS includes a portable computer, and a data acquisition unit and computer communication cards. Signal processing techniques include the discrete energy statistics envelope, short-time power spectrum, timing extraction algorithm and chi-square based shape test. Decision-making is carried out via a voter program, to which individual results from the timing and shape analysis programs are passed. Statistical and empirical thresholds have been established, that classify the circuit breaker as being in normal-transitional-abnormal (green-yellow-red) condition.

Abstract: An optical spray coating monitoring system uses a laser displacement sensor and a data acquisition system to monitor a spray gun operator's technique, and display information relating to coating conditions and/or technique. The system includes a laser displacement sensor having a sensor head that is removably attached to a hand held spray gun. The laser displacement sensor measures the distance from the spray nozzle to the surface being coated. The laser displacement sensor also preferably measures the angle of orientation of the spray gun with respect to the surface being coated. The sensor head can also include an infrared temperature sensor. Another embodiment of the invention also uses a second laser displacement sensor. The first sensor measures the distance from the spray gun nozzle to the surface being coated before the coating has been applied to the surface and the second sensor measures the distance after the coating has been applied to the surface, thus allowing determination of the thickness of the wet film on the surface being coated. The measured information is transmitted to the data acquisition system. The data acquisition system provides low level calculations, displays raw data or statistical information, and stores data in memory so that the data can be later downloaded to a computer for further analysis at a later time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for obtaining three MRI image data in a single data acquisition TR interval for use in constructing separate water and fat images by appropriate processing of the three images data is disclosed. The three image data are obtained in one exemplary embodiment by sandwiching a spin echo between two field echoes. The invention can also be used for multiple-echo and multiple-slice 3D scans.

Abstract: Communications Research Laboratory (CRL) developed laser communication equipment (LCE) onboard the engineering test satellite VI(ETS-VI) and a ground system for establishment of basic technologies in optical intersatellite communications. The experiments using a ground-to-space laser link started on December 1994. In the paper, preliminary evaluation for the performance of LCE is presented based on a part of experimental data. Included in the paper are a brief description of operation and data acquisition system, acquisition, tracking and pointing subsystem performance, and communication subsystem performance.

Abstract: A position tracker uses an inertial angular measurement system, for measuring orientation and linear translation of a helmet on a human head for the synthesis by a host computer of virtual, directional audio over headphones sensors mounted on the helmut, includes a roll gyro sensor, a pitch gyro sensor, a yaw gyro sensor, an absolute roll tilt sensor coupled to a first universal signal conditioner, an absolute pitch tilt sensor coupled to a second universal signal conditioner, and an absolute yaw compensator. A data acquisition system is coupled between the sensors and the host computer for converting analog signals from the sensors into digital, angular orientation data. Each of the gyro sensors includes angular velocity detectors and solid state electronic devices connected to provide angular velocity signals at a given sample rate.

Abstract: A data acquisition system comprising a computer system, coupled to a data acquisition device, a data acquisition application executing on the computer system, and device interface software with an attribute-based API executing on the computer system. The attribute-based API enables the data acquisition application to perform steps to control the data acquisition device. The steps comprise creating a task for controlling the data acquisition device, setting values of the attributes of the task and device, starting the task acquiring data, and destroying said task. Creating the task comprises allocating an attribute database comprising a plurality of attribute objects corresponding to the attributes of the data acquisition device and an attribute table referencing the plurality of attribute objects. The attribute objects comprise environment data containing values of the attributes and a function for setting the values of the attributes. The attribute table comprises attribute table entries. Each of the attribute table entries references a respective attribute object. The attribute table is indexed by a portion of a unique attribute number associated with each of the attributes. The lookup time associated with invoking the attribute setting function is constant regardless of a number of the attributes. Each attribute has an associated unique number portions of which specifies the datatype and I/O type of the attribute, when the attribute may be set, and the index of the attribute into the appropriate attribute table. A new attribute may be added to the API and existing applications may link to or invoke functions of the new API without modification.

Abstract: This paper presents a new 3D scene analysis system that automatically reconstructs the 3D model of real-world scenes from multiple range images acquired by a laser range finder on board of a mobile robot. The reconstruction is achieved through an integrated procedure including range data acquisition, geometrical feature extraction, planning the next view, registration and integration of multiple views. The system relies only on the acquired data. Experimental results on real range images are presented in the paper. Direct applications of this technique include 3D reconstruction and/or update of architectural or industrial plans into a CAD model, design verification of buildings, navigation of autonomous robots, and input to virtual reality systems.

Abstract: Location coordinate information is needed in precision agriculture to map in-field variability, and to serve as a control input for variable rate application. Differential global positioning system (DGPS) measurement techniques were compared with other independent data sources for sample point location and combine yield mapping operations. Sample point location could be determined to within 1 m (3 ft) 2dRMS using C/A code processing techniques and data from a high-performance GPS receiver. Higher accuracies could be obtained with carrier phase kinematic positioning methods, but this required more time and was a less robust technique with a greater potential for data acquisition problems. Data from a DGPS C/A code receiver was accurate enough to provide combine position information in yield mapping. However, distance data from another source, such as a ground-speed radar or shaft speed sensor, was needed to provide sufficient accuracy in the travel distance measurements used to calculate yield on an area basis.

Abstract: Dynamic MRI has proven to be an important tool in studies of transient physiologic changes in animals and humans. High sensitivity and temporal resolution in such measurements are critical for accurate estimation of dynamic information. Fast imaging, often involving expensive hardware, has evolved for use in such cases. We demonstrate herein the possibility of accelerated data acquisition schemes on conventional machines using standard pulse sequences for dynamic studies. This is achieved by combining reduced-encoded dynamic data (typically 30 to 40 phase encodings) with a priori high-resolution data via a novel constrained image reconstruction algorithm. Such an approach reduces image acquisition time significantly (by a factor of 3 to 4 in the examples described here) without loss in the accuracy of information.

Abstract: A method is proposed to characterize the nonlinear behaviour of a data acquisition channel using a sinewave fitting procedure. Three error sources are considered: the nonlinear (dynamic) behaviour of the data acquisition channel (amplifiers, sample-and-hold, analog-digital-convertor), the time base distortion and the time jitter. Also the time base distortion and the jitter variance are estimated from the same experiment.

Abstract: A method for controlling the position and shape of marine seismic streamer cables, whereby a plurality of real time signals from a marine seismic data acquisition system and a plurality of threshold parameters from an input device are received. The real time signals are compared to the threshold parameters to determine if the streamer cables should be repositioned. The streamer cables are repositioned when the real time signals exceed the threshold parameters.

Abstract: A data acquisition configuration system and method for facilitating the creation of data acquisition applications. The present invention enables the user to create channel configurations which include information for a respective DAQ hardware channel, such as the physical phenomena being measured and how the phenomena is being measured. The user then assigns a name to each respective channel configuration. This channel configuration name is then usable in a data acquisition application to specify the channel configuration, thus simplifying application development. After specifying a channel configuration and assigning a name, the user then constructs a program which controls the data acquisition system. The program construction includes providing the assigned name which specifies the channel configuration for the selected channel of the data acquisition device. The program can then be executed to perform a data acquisition operation, wherein the executing includes using the channel configuration referenced by the assigned name in performing the data acquisition operation. The user is thus not required to create code to specify the channel configuration. Further, the program can execute in units of the physical quantity being measured/generated according to the channel configuration, and the user is not required to create code to operate in the units of the physical quantity being measured/generated.

Abstract: This paper presents a new method for solving bad data acquisition problems in power system state estimation. The normalized innovations, available in the pre-filtering stage of a forecasting-aided state estimator, are used as input variables to a constructive artificial neural network (ANN). The ANN performs a pattern analysis in order to identify both topological and analogical errors. The performance of the method is evaluated and discussed for different types of error and operating conditions using the IEEE-24 bus system.

Abstract: Headtome-V-Dual is a latest generation positron emission tomography camera system that covers the whole brain and whole myocardium simultaneously. The axial field of view is 15 cm and 10 cm corresponding to the brain and heart scanners, respectively. The heart scanner can move axially to adjust the distance between the brain and the heart in each study. Each gantry consists of 112 units of two-dimensional position-sensitive detector blocks. Detector diameter is 84.7 cm. A unique data acquisition system is implemented, which consists of a large-scale data acquisition memory (1 GB) and a microprocessor that controls the data transfer and the numerical operation, enabling real-time weighted-integration data acquisition either in two- or three-dimensional acquisition modes. Thus, functional parametric images can be calculated rapidly without acquiring the dynamic data. Each microprogram is under control of a UNIX host computer, enabling the software development to be flexible and easy. The coincidence path acceptance is designed to be variable in the axial direction, so that the sensitivity and axial spatial resolution can be optimized in each study protocol. Use of the left ventricular time–activity curve as input function obviates the needs for arterial cannulation, which could be of great advantage in clinical use.

Abstract: This paper presents a computer code, IDIMPACT, based on a proposed impact load identification method for identifying both the amount of the impact load and its location in composite plates from distributed build-in piezoelectric sensor measurements. The proposed method consists of a system model characterizing the dynamic response of composite plates and of a response comparator estimating the impact location and force history by comparing the sensor measurements with the simulated ones. To verify the computer code and the proposed method, instrumented hammer impact tests were conducted on a 36-inch-by-30-inch composite plate with distributed surface-mounted piezo-ceramic sensors. The computer code was implemented in a PC with data acquisition boards to digitize the sensor measurements. The code would automatically run and graphically display the predicted location and impact force-time history from a monitor. The code has reliably with high accuracy predicted the force and location of every impact event that was tested.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.

Abstract: A multichannel, portable data acquisition system has been developed to measure discrete plantar pressures in the rehabilitation of children who have cerebral palsy and planovalgus foot deformity The microprocessor-based system is designed to be lightweight (350 g with batteries) and portable (no umbilicus) in order to minimize encumbrances to gait patterns It provides an improved method for obtaining accurate and reliable data during extended recording and rehabilitative periods that is not available from commercial systems Twelve conductive polymer force (pressure) sensors are used to acquire pressure data, which are then stored in the system memory Plantar pressures are sampled at a rate of 40 Hz from each of the 12 sensors for up to 2 h The system consists of 16 analog amplifiers, a 12 b sampling analog-to-digital converter, an 8 b Dallas semiconductor microprocessor (DS5001FP-16, Dallas, TX), 4 MB of pseudo static RAM, and serial and parallel I/O interfaces The interfaces are used to upload data into a PC for further processing, analysis, and display During subject testing, sensors are located at predetermined anatomic areas under the calcaneus, medial and lateral midfoot, medial and lateral metatarsal heads, and hallux Foot pressure data has been acquired from two pediatric subjects during multiple walking trials to illustrate system application in the normal and planovalgus foot The system is considered to be appropriate for further clinical application and for characterization of event related alterations including rehabilitative, therapeutic, surgical, and nonsurgical treatment

Abstract: A system for packaging integrated circuit components including a ball grid array substrate with a plurality of solder balls coupled to the substrate. A semiconductor device is mounted on the substrate and electrically coupled to the solder balls. One or more terminals are coupled to the substrate and electrically coupled to said semiconductor device. A detachable module contains auxiliary component, such as a data acquisition device, a wireless communications device, an output device or driving devices for a clock circuit. The module comprises a body portion for containing the component and one or more electrical connectors for mating with respective terminals to hold the module to the substrate and to electrically couple the component with the semiconductor device.

Abstract: ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) is a general-purpose, heavy-ion detector designed to study the physics of strongly interacting matter and the quark-gluon plasma in nucleus-nucleus collisions at the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC). A large bandwidth and flexible DAQ is required to collect sufficient statistics in the short running time available per year for heavy ion and to accommodate very different requirements originated from the large set of detectors and the different beams used