Next Issue
Volume 9, May
Previous Issue
Volume 9, March
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
6.8
3.9
Journals
Sensors
Volume 9
Issue 4
sensors-logo

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Sensors, Volume 9, Issue 4 (April 2009) – 58 articles , Pages 2222-3160

  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Section
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
262 KiB  
Article
Measurement Uncertainty Estimation of a Robust Photometer Circuit
by Wilmar Hernandez and Jesús De Vicente
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3149-3160; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403149 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 12191
Abstract
In this paper the uncertainty of a robust photometer circuit (RPC) was estimated. Here, the RPC was considered as a measurement system, having input quantities that were inexactly known, and output quantities that consequently were also inexactly known. Input quantities represent information obtained [...] Read more.
In this paper the uncertainty of a robust photometer circuit (RPC) was estimated. Here, the RPC was considered as a measurement system, having input quantities that were inexactly known, and output quantities that consequently were also inexactly known. Input quantities represent information obtained from calibration certificates, specifications of manufacturers, and tabulated data. Output quantities describe the transfer function of the electrical part of the photodiode. Input quantities were the electronic components of the RPC, the parameters of the model of the photodiode and its sensitivity at 670 nm. The output quantities were the coefficients of both numerator and denominator of the closed-loop transfer function of the RPC. As an example, the gain and phase shift of the RPC versus frequency was evaluated from the transfer function, with their uncertainties and correlation coefficient. Results confirm the robustness of photodiode design. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

3014 KiB  
Review
Overview of Electrochemical DNA Biosensors: New Approaches to Detect the Expression of Life
by Stefano Cagnin, Marcelo Caraballo, Carlotta Guiducci, Paolo Martini, Marty Ross, Mark SantaAna, David Danley, Todd West and Gerolamo Lanfranchi
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3122-3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403122 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 109 | Viewed by 27936
Abstract
DNA microarrays are an important tool with a variety of applications in gene expression studies, genotyping, pharmacogenomics, pathogen classification, drug discovery, sequencing and molecular diagnostics. They are having a strong impact in medical diagnostics for cancer, toxicology and infectious disease applications. A series [...] Read more.
DNA microarrays are an important tool with a variety of applications in gene expression studies, genotyping, pharmacogenomics, pathogen classification, drug discovery, sequencing and molecular diagnostics. They are having a strong impact in medical diagnostics for cancer, toxicology and infectious disease applications. A series of papers have been published describing DNA biochips as alternative to conventional microarray platforms to facilitate and ameliorate the signal readout. In this review, we will consider the different methods proposed for biochip construction, focusing on electrochemical detection of DNA. We also introduce a novel single-stranded DNA platform performing high-throughput SNP detection and gene expression profiling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Italy)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

1209 KiB  
Article
A Near-Infrared Spectrometer Based on Novel Grating Light Modulators
by Wei Wei, Shanglian Huang, Ning Wang, Zhu Jin, Jie Zhang and Weimin Chen
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3109-3121; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403109 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 14088
Abstract
A near-infrared spectrometer based on novel MOEMS grating light modulators is proposed. The spectrum detection method that combines a grating light modulator array with a single near-infrared detector has been applied. Firstly, optics theory has been used to analyze the essential principles of [...] Read more.
A near-infrared spectrometer based on novel MOEMS grating light modulators is proposed. The spectrum detection method that combines a grating light modulator array with a single near-infrared detector has been applied. Firstly, optics theory has been used to analyze the essential principles of the proposed spectroscopic sensor. Secondly, the grating light modulators have been designed and fabricated by micro-machining technology. Finally, the principles of this spectroscopic sensor have been validated and its key parameters have been tested by experiments. The result shows that the spectral resolution is better than 10 nm, the wavelength deviation is less than 1 nm, the deviation of the intensity of peak wavelength is no more than 0.5%, the driving voltage of grating light modulators array device is below 25 V and the response frequency of it is about 5 kHz. With low cost, satisfactory precision, portability and other advantages, the spectrometer should find potential applications in food safety and quality monitoring, pharmaceutical identification and agriculture product quality classification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 1st International Conference of the Chinese Society of Micro/Nano Technology)
►▼ Show Figures

827 KiB  
Article
Simulation of EO-1 Hyperion Data from ALI Multispectral Data Based on the Spectral Reconstruction Approach
by Bo Liu, Lifu Zhang, Xia Zhang, Bing Zhang and Qingxi Tong
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3090-3108; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403090 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 15746
Abstract
Data simulation is widely used in remote sensing to produce imagery for a new sensor in the design stage, for scale issues of some special applications, or for testing of novel algorithms. Hyperspectral data could provide more abundant information than traditional multispectral data [...] Read more.
Data simulation is widely used in remote sensing to produce imagery for a new sensor in the design stage, for scale issues of some special applications, or for testing of novel algorithms. Hyperspectral data could provide more abundant information than traditional multispectral data and thus greatly extend the range of remote sensing applications. Unfortunately, hyperspectral data are much more difficult and expensive to acquire and were not available prior to the development of operational hyperspectral instruments, while large amounts of accumulated multispectral data have been collected around the world over the past several decades. Therefore, it is reasonable to examine means of using these multispectral data to simulate or construct hyperspectral data, especially in situations where hyperspectral data are necessary but hard to acquire. Here, a method based on spectral reconstruction is proposed to simulate hyperspectral data (Hyperion data) from multispectral Advanced Land Imager data (ALI data). This method involves extraction of the inherent information of source data and reassignment to newly simulated data. A total of 106 bands of Hyperion data were simulated from ALI data covering the same area. To evaluate this method, we compare the simulated and original Hyperion data by visual interpretation, statistical comparison, and classification. The results generally showed good performance of this method and indicated that most bands were well simulated, and the information both preserved and presented well. This makes it possible to simulate hyperspectral data from multispectral data for testing the performance of algorithms, extend the use of multispectral data and help the design of a virtual sensor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensor Algorithms)
►▼ Show Figures

477 KiB  
Article
Networked Estimation for Event-Based Sampling Systems with Packet Dropouts
by Vinh Hao Nguyen and Young Soo Suh
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3078-3089; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403078 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 12877
Abstract
This paper is concerned with a networked estimation problem in which sensor data are transmitted over the network. In the event-based sampling scheme known as level-crossing or send-on-delta (SOD), sensor data are transmitted to the estimator node if the difference between the current [...] Read more.
This paper is concerned with a networked estimation problem in which sensor data are transmitted over the network. In the event-based sampling scheme known as level-crossing or send-on-delta (SOD), sensor data are transmitted to the estimator node if the difference between the current sensor value and the last transmitted one is greater than a given threshold. Event-based sampling has been shown to be more efficient than the time-triggered one in some situations, especially in network bandwidth improvement. However, it cannot detect packet dropout situations because data transmission and reception do not use a periodical time-stamp mechanism as found in time-triggered sampling systems. Motivated by this issue, we propose a modified event-based sampling scheme called modified SOD in which sensor data are sent when either the change of sensor output exceeds a given threshold or the time elapses more than a given interval. Through simulation results, we show that the proposed modified SOD sampling significantly improves estimation performance when packet dropouts happen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

738 KiB  
Article
Application of Neurocomputing for Data Approximation and Classification in Wireless Sensor Networks
by Amir Jabbari, Reiner Jedermann, Ramanan Muthuraman and Walter Lang
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3056-3077; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403056 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 11878
Abstract
A new application of neurocomputing for data approximation and classification is introduced to process data in a wireless sensor network. For this purpose, a simplified dynamic sliding backpropagation algorithm is implemented on a wireless sensor network for transportation applications. It is able to [...] Read more.
A new application of neurocomputing for data approximation and classification is introduced to process data in a wireless sensor network. For this purpose, a simplified dynamic sliding backpropagation algorithm is implemented on a wireless sensor network for transportation applications. It is able to approximate temperature and humidity in sensor nodes. In addition, two architectures of “radial basis function” (RBF) classifiers are introduced with probabilistic features for data classification in sensor nodes. The applied approximation and classification algorithms could be used in similar applications for data processing in embedded systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neural Networks and Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

968 KiB  
Article
Sensing Human Activity: GPS Tracking
by Stefan Van der Spek, Jeroen Van Schaick, Peter De Bois and Remco De Haan
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3033-3055; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403033 - 24 Apr 2009
Cited by 94 | Viewed by 23911
Abstract
The enhancement of GPS technology enables the use of GPS devices not only as navigation and orientation tools, but also as instruments used to capture travelled routes: as sensors that measure activity on a city scale or the regional scale. TU Delft developed [...] Read more.
The enhancement of GPS technology enables the use of GPS devices not only as navigation and orientation tools, but also as instruments used to capture travelled routes: as sensors that measure activity on a city scale or the regional scale. TU Delft developed a process and database architecture for collecting data on pedestrian movement in three European city centres, Norwich, Rouen and Koblenz, and in another experiment for collecting activity data of 13 families in Almere (The Netherlands) for one week. The question posed in this paper is: what is the value of GPS as ‘sensor technology’ measuring activities of people? The conclusion is that GPS offers a widely useable instrument to collect invaluable spatial-temporal data on different scales and in different settings adding new layers of knowledge to urban studies, but the use of GPS-technology and deployment of GPS-devices still offers significant challenges for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Workshop Sensing A Changing World)
►▼ Show Figures

443 KiB  
Article
Heat Transfer Measurements with Surface Mounted Foil-Sensors in an Active Mode: A Comprehensive Review and a New Design
by Horst Mocikat and Heinz Herwig
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3011-3032; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403011 - 23 Apr 2009
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 14433
Abstract
A comprehensive review of film-sensors shows that they are primarily operated in a passive mode, i.e. without being actively heated to an extent, whereby they create a heat transfer situation on their own. Only when these sensors are used for wall shear stress [...] Read more.
A comprehensive review of film-sensors shows that they are primarily operated in a passive mode, i.e. without being actively heated to an extent, whereby they create a heat transfer situation on their own. Only when these sensors are used for wall shear stress measurements, the detection of laminar/turbulent transition, or the measurement of certain flow velocities, they are operated in an active mode, i.e. heated by an electrical current (after an appropriate calibration). In our study we demonstrate how these R(T)-based sensors (temperature dependence of the electrical resistance R) can also be applied in an active mode for heat transfer measurements. These measurements can be made on cold, unheated bodies, provided certain requirements with respect to the flow field are fulfilled. Our new sensors are laminated nickel- and polyimide-foils manufactured with a special technology, which is also described in detail. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Germany)
►▼ Show Figures

211 KiB  
Article
Matrix Effects on the Microcystin-LR Fluorescent Immunoassay Based on Optical Biosensor
by Feng Long, An-na Zhu, Jian-Wu Sheng, Miao He and Han-Chang Shi
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 3000-3010; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90403000 - 23 Apr 2009
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 14541
Abstract
Matrix effects on the microcystin-LR fluorescent immunoassay based on the evanescent wave all-fiber immunosensor (EWAI) and their elimination methods were studied. The results indicated that PBS and humic acid did not affect the monitoring of samples under the investigated conditions. When the pH [...] Read more.
Matrix effects on the microcystin-LR fluorescent immunoassay based on the evanescent wave all-fiber immunosensor (EWAI) and their elimination methods were studied. The results indicated that PBS and humic acid did not affect the monitoring of samples under the investigated conditions. When the pH was less than 6 or higher than 8, the fluorescence signals detected by immunosensor systems were obviously reduced with the decrease or increase of pH. When the pH ranged from 6 to 8, IC50 and the linear working range of MC-LR calculated from the detection curves were 1.01~1.04 μg/L and 0.12~10.5 μg/L, respectively, which was favourable for an MC-LR immunoassay. Low concentrations of Cu2+ rarely affected the detection performance of MC-LR. When the concentration of CuSO4 was higher than 5 mg/L, the fluorescence signal detected by EWAI clearly decreased, and when the concentration of CuSO4 was 10 mg/L, the fluorescence signal detected was reduced by 70%. The influence of Cu2+ on the immunoassay could effectively be compromised when chelating reagent EDTA was added to the pre-reaction mixture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)
►▼ Show Figures

468 KiB  
Review
Magnetic Particle-Based Hybrid Platforms for Bioanalytical Sensors
by Lia Stanciu, Yu-Ho Won, Mallikarjunarao Ganesana and Silvana Andreescu
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2976-2999; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402976 - 23 Apr 2009
Cited by 72 | Viewed by 17345
Abstract
Biomagnetic nano and microparticles platforms have attracted considerable interest in the field of biological sensors due to their interesting physico-chemical properties, high specific surface area, good mechanical stability and opportunities for generating magneto-switchable devices. This review discusses recent advances in the development and [...] Read more.
Biomagnetic nano and microparticles platforms have attracted considerable interest in the field of biological sensors due to their interesting physico-chemical properties, high specific surface area, good mechanical stability and opportunities for generating magneto-switchable devices. This review discusses recent advances in the development and characterization of active biomagnetic nanoassemblies, their interaction with biological molecules and their use in bioanalytical sensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxin Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

112 KiB  
Article
Use of Vegetation Health Data for Estimation of Aus Rice Yield in Bangladesh
by Atiqur Rahman, Leonid Roytman, Nir Y. Krakauer, Mohammad Nizamuddin and Mitch Goldberg
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2968-2975; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402968 - 23 Apr 2009
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 13895
Abstract
Rice is a vital staple crop for Bangladesh and surrounding countries, with interannual variation in yields depending on climatic conditions. We compared Bangladesh yield of aus rice, one of the main varieties grown, from official agricultural statistics with Vegetation Health (VH) Indices [Vegetation [...] Read more.
Rice is a vital staple crop for Bangladesh and surrounding countries, with interannual variation in yields depending on climatic conditions. We compared Bangladesh yield of aus rice, one of the main varieties grown, from official agricultural statistics with Vegetation Health (VH) Indices [Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), Temperature Condition Index (TCI) and Vegetation Health Index (VHI)] computed from Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) data covering a period of 15 years (1991–2005). A strong correlation was found between aus rice yield and VCI and VHI during the critical period of aus rice development that occurs during March-April (weeks 8–13 of the year), several months in advance of the rice harvest. Stepwise principal component regression (PCR) was used to construct a model to predict yield as a function of critical-period VHI. The model reduced the yield prediction error variance by 62% compared with a prediction of average yield for each year. Remote sensing is a valuable tool for estimating rice yields well in advance of harvest and at a low cost. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

970 KiB  
Article
New Dielectric Sensors and Sensing Techniques for Soil and Snow Moisture Measurements
by Markus Stacheder, Franz Koeniger and Rainer Schuhmann
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2951-2967; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402951 - 22 Apr 2009
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 14800
Abstract
Measurements of material moisture are essential in fields such as agriculture or civil engineering. Electromagnetic techniques, more precisely dielectric methods, have gained wide acceptance in the last decades. Frequency or Time Domain methods take advantage of the high dielectric permittivity of water compared [...] Read more.
Measurements of material moisture are essential in fields such as agriculture or civil engineering. Electromagnetic techniques, more precisely dielectric methods, have gained wide acceptance in the last decades. Frequency or Time Domain methods take advantage of the high dielectric permittivity of water compared to dry materials. This paper presents four new dielectric sensors for the determination of soil or snow water content. After a short introduction into the principles, both the hardware and operating mode of each sensor are described. Field test results show the advantages and potentials such as automatic measurement and profiling, state-of-ground detection or large-scale determination. From the results it follows that the presented sensors offer promising new tools for modern environmental research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Germany)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

378 KiB  
Article
Compact Integration of a GSM-19 Magnetic Sensor with High-Precision Positioning using VRS GNSS Technology
by Angel Martín, Jorge Padín, Ana Belén Anquela, Juán Sánchez and Santiago Belda
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2944-2950; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402944 - 22 Apr 2009
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 14586
Abstract
Magnetic data consists of a sequence of collected points with spatial coordinates and magnetic information. The spatial location of these points needs to be as exact as possible in order to develop a precise interpretation of magnetic anomalies. GPS is a valuable tool [...] Read more.
Magnetic data consists of a sequence of collected points with spatial coordinates and magnetic information. The spatial location of these points needs to be as exact as possible in order to develop a precise interpretation of magnetic anomalies. GPS is a valuable tool for accomplishing this objective, especially if the RTK approach is used. In this paper the VRS (Virtual Reference Station) technique is introduced as a new approach for real-time positioning of magnetic sensors. The main advantages of the VRS approach are, firstly, that only a single GPS receiver is needed (no base station is necessary), reducing field work and equipment costs. Secondly, VRS can operate at distances separated 50-70 km from the reference stations without degrading accuracy. A compact integration of a GSM-19 magnetometer sensor with a geodetic GPS antenna is presented; this integration does not diminish the operational flexibility of the original magnetometer and can work with the VRS approach. The coupled devices were tested in marshlands around Gandia, a city located approximately 100 km South of Valencia (Spain), thought to be the site of a Roman cemetery. The results obtained show adequate geometry and high-precision positioning for the structures to be studied (a comparison with the original low precision GPS of the magnetometer is presented). Finally, the results of the magnetic survey are of great interest for archaeological purposes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

257 KiB  
Article
Language-Based Access to Large Sensor Repositories
by Peter Baumann
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2926-2943; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402926 - 22 Apr 2009
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 12706
Abstract
Sensor data have broadened their scope recently, ranging now from the simple time series measurements to, e.g., hyperspectral satellite image maps timeseries. In addition to observed data, simulation data increasingly have to be merged, for example 4-D ocean and atmospheric data. The majority [...] Read more.
Sensor data have broadened their scope recently, ranging now from the simple time series measurements to, e.g., hyperspectral satellite image maps timeseries. In addition to observed data, simulation data increasingly have to be merged, for example 4-D ocean and atmospheric data. The majority of these data fall into the category of multi-dimensional rasters. However, when it comes to flexible retrieval, including sensor data search, aggregation, analysis, fusion, etc., standard query language support in the past has not kept up with the service level of, e.g., metadata retrieval. To close this gap, the Open GeoSpatial Consortium (OGC) has issued the Web Coverage Processing Service (WCPS) Standard in December 2008. WCPS defines a request language for multi-dimensional raster data, suitable for specifying navigation, download, and analysis of sensor, image, and statistics data. This contribution emphasises sensor data modeling and the perspectives for an integrated, cross-dimensional sensor data retrieval. Further, the WCPS reference implementation is briefly discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Workshop Sensing A Changing World)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

851 KiB  
Article
Interpretation of Absorption Bands in Airborne Hyperspectral Radiance Data
by Karl H. Szekielda, Jeffrey H. Bowles, David B. Gillis and W. David Miller
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2907-2925; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402907 - 22 Apr 2009
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 14882
Abstract
It is demonstrated that hyperspectral imagery can be used, without atmospheric correction, to determine the presence of accessory phytoplankton pigments in coastal waters using derivative techniques. However, care must be taken not to confuse other absorptions for those caused by the presence of [...] Read more.
It is demonstrated that hyperspectral imagery can be used, without atmospheric correction, to determine the presence of accessory phytoplankton pigments in coastal waters using derivative techniques. However, care must be taken not to confuse other absorptions for those caused by the presence of pigments. Atmospheric correction, usually the first step to making products from hyperspectral data, may not completely remove Fraunhofer lines and atmospheric absorption bands and these absorptions may interfere with identification of phytoplankton accessory pigments. Furthermore, the ability to resolve absorption bands depends on the spectral resolution of the spectrometer, which for a fixed spectral range also determines the number of observed bands. Based on this information, a study was undertaken to determine under what circumstances a hyperspectral sensor may determine the presence of pigments. As part of the study a hyperspectral imager was used to take high spectral resolution data over two different water masses. In order to avoid the problems associated with atmospheric correction this data was analyzed as radiance data without atmospheric correction. Here, the purpose was to identify spectral regions that might be diagnostic for photosynthetic pigments. Two well proven techniques were used to aid in absorption band recognition, the continuum removal of the spectra and the fourth derivative. The findings in this study suggest that interpretation of absorption bands in remote sensing data, whether atmospherically corrected or not, have to be carefully reviewed when they are interpreted in terms of photosynthetic pigments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

489 KiB  
Article
A MEMS-based Benzene Gas Sensor with a Self-heating WO3 Sensing Layer
by Ming-Tsun Ke, Mu-Tsun Lee, Chia-Yen Lee and Lung-Ming Fu
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2895-2906; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402895 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 76 | Viewed by 17474
Abstract
In the study, a MEMS-based benzene gas sensor is presented, consisting of a quartz substrate, a thin-film WO3 sensing layer, an integrated Pt micro-heater, and Pt interdigitated electrodes (IDEs). When benzene is present in the atmosphere, oxidation occurs on the heated WO [...] Read more.
In the study, a MEMS-based benzene gas sensor is presented, consisting of a quartz substrate, a thin-film WO3 sensing layer, an integrated Pt micro-heater, and Pt interdigitated electrodes (IDEs). When benzene is present in the atmosphere, oxidation occurs on the heated WO3 sensing layer. This causes a change in the electrical conductivity of the WO3 film, and hence changes the resistance between the IDEs. The benzene concentration is then computed from the change in the measured resistance. A specific orientation of the WO3 layer is obtained by optimizing the sputtering process parameters. It is found that the sensitivity of the gas sensor is optimized at a working temperature of 300 °C. At the optimal working temperature, the experimental results show that the sensor has a high degree of sensitivity (1.0 KΩ ppm-1), a low detection limit (0.2 ppm) and a rapid response time (35 s). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gas Sensors 2009)
►▼ Show Figures

258 KiB  
Article
On the Capability of Artificial Neural Networks to Compensate Nonlinearities in Wavelength Sensing
by Mohamed Lamine Hafiane, Zohir Dibi and Otto Manck
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2884-2894; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402884 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 12699
Abstract
An intelligent sensor for light wavelength readout, suitable for visible range optical applications, has been developed. Using buried triple photo-junction as basic pixel sensing element in combination with artificial neural network (ANN), the wavelength readout with a full-scale error of less than 1.5% [...] Read more.
An intelligent sensor for light wavelength readout, suitable for visible range optical applications, has been developed. Using buried triple photo-junction as basic pixel sensing element in combination with artificial neural network (ANN), the wavelength readout with a full-scale error of less than 1.5% over the range of 400 to 780 nm can be achieved. Through this work, the applicability of the ANN approach in optical sensing is investigated and compared with conventional methods, and a good compromise between accuracy and the possibility for on-chip implementation was thus found. Indeed, this technique can serve different purposes and may replace conventional methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neural Networks and Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

369 KiB  
Article
Wireless in-situ Sensor Network for Agriculture and Water Monitoring on a River Basin Scale in Southern Finland: Evaluation from a Data User’s Perspective
by Niina Kotamäki, Sirpa Thessler, Jari Koskiaho, Asko O. Hannukkala, Hanna Huitu, Timo Huttula, Jukka Havento and Markku Järvenpää
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2862-2883; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402862 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 79 | Viewed by 17527
Abstract
Sensor networks are increasingly being implemented for environmental monitoring and agriculture to provide spatially accurate and continuous environmental information and (near) real-time applications. These networks provide a large amount of data which poses challenges for ensuring data quality and extracting relevant information. In [...] Read more.
Sensor networks are increasingly being implemented for environmental monitoring and agriculture to provide spatially accurate and continuous environmental information and (near) real-time applications. These networks provide a large amount of data which poses challenges for ensuring data quality and extracting relevant information. In the present paper we describe a river basin scale wireless sensor network for agriculture and water monitoring. The network, called SoilWeather, is unique and the first of this type in Finland. The performance of the network is assessed from the user and maintainer perspectives, concentrating on data quality, network maintenance and applications. The results showed that the SoilWeather network has been functioning in a relatively reliable way, but also that the maintenance and data quality assurance by automatic algorithms and calibration samples requires a lot of effort, especially in continuous water monitoring over large areas. We see great benefits on sensor networks enabling continuous, real-time monitoring, while data quality control and maintenance efforts highlight the need for tight collaboration between sensor and sensor network owners to decrease costs and increase the quality of the sensor data in large scale applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Workshop Sensing A Changing World)
►▼ Show Figures

1153 KiB  
Article
A Weld Defects Detection System Based on a Spectrometer
by Daniel Bebiano and Sadek C. A. Alfaro
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2851-2861; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402851 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 12985
Abstract
Improved product quality and production methods, and decreased production costs are important objectives of industries. Welding processes are part of this goal. There are many studies about monitoring and controlling welding process. This work presents a non-intrusive on-line monitoriment system and some algorithms [...] Read more.
Improved product quality and production methods, and decreased production costs are important objectives of industries. Welding processes are part of this goal. There are many studies about monitoring and controlling welding process. This work presents a non-intrusive on-line monitoriment system and some algorithms capable of detecting GTAW weld defects. Some experiments were made to simulate weld defects by disturbing the electric arc. The data comes from a spectrometer which captures perturbations on the electric arc by the radiation emission of chosen lines. Algorithms based on change detection methods are used to indicate the presence and localization of those defects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

803 KiB  
Article
Anchor-Free Localization Method for Mobile Targets in Coal Mine Wireless Sensor Networks
by Zhongmin Pei, Zhidong Deng, Shuo Xu and Xiao Xu
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2836-2850; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402836 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 16193
Abstract
Severe natural conditions and complex terrain make it difficult to apply precise localization in underground mines. In this paper, an anchor-free localization method for mobile targets is proposed based on non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (Multi-dimensional Scaling: MDS) and rank sequence. Firstly, a coal mine [...] Read more.
Severe natural conditions and complex terrain make it difficult to apply precise localization in underground mines. In this paper, an anchor-free localization method for mobile targets is proposed based on non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (Multi-dimensional Scaling: MDS) and rank sequence. Firstly, a coal mine wireless sensor network is constructed in underground mines based on the ZigBee technology. Then a non-metric MDS algorithm is imported to estimate the reference nodes’ location. Finally, an improved sequence-based localization algorithm is presented to complete precise localization for mobile targets. The proposed method is tested through simulations with 100 nodes, outdoor experiments with 15 ZigBee physical nodes, and the experiments in the mine gas explosion laboratory with 12 ZigBee nodes. Experimental results show that our method has better localization accuracy and is more robust in underground mines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wireless Sensor Technologies and Applications)
►▼ Show Figures

188 KiB  
Review
Root Zone Sensors for Irrigation Management in Intensive Agriculture
by Alberto Pardossi, Luca Incrocci, Giorgio Incrocci, Fernando Malorgio, Piero Battista, Laura Bacci, Bernardo Rapi, Paolo Marzialetti, Jochen Hemming and Jos Balendonck
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2809-2835; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402809 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 108 | Viewed by 25780
Abstract
Crop irrigation uses more than 70% of the world’s water, and thus, improving irrigation efficiency is decisive to sustain the food demand from a fast-growing world population. This objective may be accomplished by cultivating more water-efficient crop species and/or through the application of [...] Read more.
Crop irrigation uses more than 70% of the world’s water, and thus, improving irrigation efficiency is decisive to sustain the food demand from a fast-growing world population. This objective may be accomplished by cultivating more water-efficient crop species and/or through the application of efficient irrigation systems, which includes the implementation of a suitable method for precise scheduling. At the farm level, irrigation is generally scheduled based on the grower’s experience or on the determination of soil water balance (weather-based method). An alternative approach entails the measurement of soil water status. Expensive and sophisticated root zone sensors (RZS), such as neutron probes, are available for the use of soil and plant scientists, while cheap and practical devices are needed for irrigation management in commercial crops. The paper illustrates the main features of RZS’ (for both soil moisture and salinity) marketed for the irrigation industry and discusses how such sensors may be integrated in a wireless network for computer-controlled irrigation and used for innovative irrigation strategies, such as deficit or dual-water irrigation. The paper also consider the main results of recent or current research works conducted by the authors in Tuscany (Italy) on the irrigation management of container-grown ornamental plants, which is an important agricultural sector in Italy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Italy)
►▼ Show Figures

1255 KiB  
Article
A Novel Intra-body Sensor for Vaginal Temperature Monitoring
by Joel J. P. C. Rodrigues, João Caldeira and Binod Vaidya
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2797-2808; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402797 - 21 Apr 2009
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 19635
Abstract
Over the years some medical studies have tried to better understand the internal behavior of human beings. Many researchers in this domain have been striving to find relationships between intra-vaginal temperature and certain female health conditions, such as ovulation and fertile period since [...] Read more.
Over the years some medical studies have tried to better understand the internal behavior of human beings. Many researchers in this domain have been striving to find relationships between intra-vaginal temperature and certain female health conditions, such as ovulation and fertile period since woman’s intra-vaginal temperature is one of the body parameters most preferred in such studies. However, due to lack of a appropriate technology, medical research devoted to studying correlations of such body parameters with certain womans’ body phenomena could not obtain better results. This article presents the design and implementation of a novel intra-body sensor for acquisition and monitoring of intra-vaginal temperatures. This novel intra-body sensor provides data collection that is used for studying the relation between temperature variations and female health conditions, such as anticipation and monitoring of the ovulation period, detection of pregnancy contractions, preterm labor prevention, etc.. The motivation for this work focuses on the development of this new intra-body sensor that will represent a major step in medical technology. The novel sensor was tested and validated on hospitalized women as well as normal healthy women. Finally our medical team has attested to the accuracy, usability and performance of this novel intra-body sensor. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wireless Sensor Technologies and Applications)
►▼ Show Figures

902 KiB  
Article
Use of Naturally Available Reference Targets to Calibrate Airborne Laser Scanning Intensity Data
by Ants Vain, Sanna Kaasalainen, Ulla Pyysalo, Anssi Krooks and Paula Litkey
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2780-2796; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402780 - 20 Apr 2009
Cited by 48 | Viewed by 13919
Abstract
We have studied the possibility of calibrating airborne laser scanning (ALS) intensity data, using land targets typically available in urban areas. For this purpose, a test area around Espoonlahti Harbor, Espoo, Finland, for which a long time series of ALS campaigns is available, [...] Read more.
We have studied the possibility of calibrating airborne laser scanning (ALS) intensity data, using land targets typically available in urban areas. For this purpose, a test area around Espoonlahti Harbor, Espoo, Finland, for which a long time series of ALS campaigns is available, was selected. Different target samples (beach sand, concrete, asphalt, different types of gravel) were collected and measured in the laboratory. Using tarps, which have certain backscattering properties, the natural samples were calibrated and studied, taking into account the atmospheric effect, incidence angle and flying height. Using data from different flights and altitudes, a time series for the natural samples was generated. Studying the stability of the samples, we could obtain information on the most ideal types of natural targets for ALS radiometric calibration. Using the selected natural samples as reference, the ALS points of typical land targets were calibrated again and examined. Results showed the need for more accurate ground reference data, before using natural samples in ALS intensity data calibration. Also, the NIR camera-based field system was used for collecting ground reference data. This system proved to be a good means for collecting in situ reference data, especially for targets with inhomogeneous surface reflection properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue LiDAR for 3D City Modeling)
►▼ Show Figures

284 KiB  
Article
Adapting Mobile Beacon-Assisted Localization in Wireless Sensor Networks
by Guodong Teng, Kougen Zheng and Wei Dong
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2760-2779; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402760 - 20 Apr 2009
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 15828
Abstract
The ability to automatically locate sensor nodes is essential in many Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) applications. To reduce the number of beacons, many mobile-assisted approaches have been proposed. Current mobile-assisted approaches for localization require special hardware or belong to centralized localization algorithms involving [...] Read more.
The ability to automatically locate sensor nodes is essential in many Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) applications. To reduce the number of beacons, many mobile-assisted approaches have been proposed. Current mobile-assisted approaches for localization require special hardware or belong to centralized localization algorithms involving some deterministic approaches due to the fact that they explicitly consider the impreciseness of location estimates. In this paper, we first propose a range-free, distributed and probabilistic Mobile Beacon-assisted Localization (MBL) approach for static WSNs. Then, we propose another approach based on MBL, called Adapting MBL (A-MBL), to increase the efficiency and accuracy of MBL by adapting the size of sample sets and the parameter of the dynamic model during the estimation process. Evaluation results show that the accuracy of MBL and A-MBL outperform both Mobile and Static sensor network Localization (MSL) and Arrival and Departure Overlap (ADO) when both of them use only a single mobile beacon for localization in static WSNs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wireless Sensor Technologies and Applications)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

671 KiB  
Article
Orientation Effects in Ballistic High-Strained P-type Si Nanowire FETs
by Jia-Hong Zhang, Qing-An Huang, Hong Yu and Shuang-Ying Lei
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2746-2759; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402746 - 17 Apr 2009
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 14654
Abstract
In order to design and optimize high-sensitivity silicon nanowire-field-effect transistor (SiNW FET) pressure sensors, this paper investigates the effects of channel orientations and the uniaxial stress on the ballistic hole transport properties of a strongly quantized SiNW FET placed near the high stress [...] Read more.
In order to design and optimize high-sensitivity silicon nanowire-field-effect transistor (SiNW FET) pressure sensors, this paper investigates the effects of channel orientations and the uniaxial stress on the ballistic hole transport properties of a strongly quantized SiNW FET placed near the high stress regions of the pressure sensors. A discrete stress-dependent six-band k.p method is used for subband structure calculation, coupled to a two-dimensional Poisson solver for electrostatics. A semi-classical ballistic FET model is then used to evaluate the ballistic current-voltage characteristics of SiNW FETs with and without strain. Our results presented here indicate that [110] is the optimum orientation for the p-type SiNW FETs and sensors. For the ultra-scaled 2.2 nm square SiNW, due to the limit of strong quantum confinement, the effect of the uniaxial stress on the magnitude of ballistic drive current is too small to be considered, except for the [100] orientation. However, for larger 5 nm square SiNW transistors with various transport orientations, the uniaxial tensile stress obviously alters the ballistic performance, while the uniaxial compressive stress slightly changes the ballistic hole current. Furthermore, the competition of injection velocity and carrier density related to the effective hole masses is found to play a critical role in determining the performance of the nanotransistors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 1st International Conference of the Chinese Society of Micro/Nano Technology)
►▼ Show Figures

468 KiB  
Review
Retrieving Leaf Area Index (LAI) Using Remote Sensing: Theories, Methods and Sensors
by Guang Zheng and L. Monika Moskal
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2719-2745; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402719 - 17 Apr 2009
Cited by 423 | Viewed by 41138
Abstract
The ability to accurately and rapidly acquire leaf area index (LAI) is an indispensable component of process-based ecological research facilitating the understanding of gas-vegetation exchange phenomenon at an array of spatial scales from the leaf to the landscape. However, LAI is difficult to [...] Read more.
The ability to accurately and rapidly acquire leaf area index (LAI) is an indispensable component of process-based ecological research facilitating the understanding of gas-vegetation exchange phenomenon at an array of spatial scales from the leaf to the landscape. However, LAI is difficult to directly acquire for large spatial extents due to its time consuming and work intensive nature. Such efforts have been significantly improved by the emergence of optical and active remote sensing techniques. This paper reviews the definitions and theories of LAI measurement with respect to direct and indirect methods. Then, the methodologies for LAI retrieval with regard to the characteristics of a range of remotely sensed datasets are discussed. Remote sensing indirect methods are subdivided into two categories of passive and active remote sensing, which are further categorized as terrestrial, aerial and satellite-born platforms. Due to a wide variety in spatial resolution of remotely sensed data and the requirements of ecological modeling, the scaling issue of LAI is discussed and special consideration is given to extrapolation of measurement to landscape and regional levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)
►▼ Show Figures

481 KiB  
Article
Comparison between Deflection and Vibration Characteristics of Rectangular and Trapezoidal profile Microcantilevers
by Mohd. Zahid Ansari, Chongdu Cho, Jooyong Kim and Booun Bang
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2706-2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402706 - 16 Apr 2009
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 12398
Abstract
Arrays of microcantilevers are increasingly being used as physical, biological, and chemical sensors in various applications. To improve the sensitivity of microcantilever sensors, this study analyses and compares the deflection and vibration characteristics of rectangular and trapezoidal profile microcantilevers. Three models of each [...] Read more.
Arrays of microcantilevers are increasingly being used as physical, biological, and chemical sensors in various applications. To improve the sensitivity of microcantilever sensors, this study analyses and compares the deflection and vibration characteristics of rectangular and trapezoidal profile microcantilevers. Three models of each profile are investigated. The cantilevers are analyzed for maximum deflection, fundamental resonant frequency and maximum stress. The surface stress is modelled as in-plane tensile force applied on the top edge of the microcantilevers. A commercial finite element analysis software ANSYS is used to analyze the designs. Results show paddled trapezoidal profile microcantilevers have better sensitivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

297 KiB  
Article
Quantum Cascade Laser-Based Photoacoustic Sensor for Trace Detection of Formaldehyde Gas
by Angela Elia, Cinzia Di Franco, Vincenzo Spagnolo, Pietro Mario Lugarà and Gaetano Scamarcio
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2697-2705; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402697 - 16 Apr 2009
Cited by 40 | Viewed by 13663
Abstract
We report on the development of a photoacoustic sensor for the detection of formaldehyde (CH2O) using a thermoelectrically cooled distributed-feedback quantum cascade laser operating in pulsed mode at 5.6 mm. A resonant photoacoustic cell, equipped with four electret microphones, is excited [...] Read more.
We report on the development of a photoacoustic sensor for the detection of formaldehyde (CH2O) using a thermoelectrically cooled distributed-feedback quantum cascade laser operating in pulsed mode at 5.6 mm. A resonant photoacoustic cell, equipped with four electret microphones, is excited in its first longitudinal mode at 1,380 Hz. The absorption line at 1,778.9 cm-1 is selected for CH2O detection. A detection limit of 150 parts per billion in volume in nitrogen is achieved using a 10 seconds time constant and 4 mW laser power. Measurements in ambient air will require water vapour filters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Italy)
►▼ Show Figures

802 KiB  
Review
Nanoparticle Thin Films for Gas Sensors Prepared by Matrix Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation
by Anna Paola Caricato, Armando Luches and Roberto Rella
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2682-2696; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402682 - 16 Apr 2009
Cited by 68 | Viewed by 16040
Abstract
The matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique has been used for the deposition of metal dioxide (TiO2, SnO2) nanoparticle thin films for gas sensor applications. For this purpose, colloidal metal dioxide nanoparticles were diluted in volatile solvents, the [...] Read more.
The matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique has been used for the deposition of metal dioxide (TiO2, SnO2) nanoparticle thin films for gas sensor applications. For this purpose, colloidal metal dioxide nanoparticles were diluted in volatile solvents, the solution was frozen at the liquid nitrogen temperature and irradiated with a pulsed excimer laser. The dioxide nanoparticles were deposited on Si and Al2O3 substrates. A rather uniform distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles with an average size of about 10 nm and of SnO2 nanoparticles with an average size of about 3 nm was obtained, as demonstrated by high resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM-FEG) inspections. Gas-sensing devices based on the resistive transduction mechanism were fabricated by depositing the nanoparticle thin films onto suitable rough alumina substrates equipped with interdigitated electrical contacts and heating elements. Electrical characterization measurements were carried out in controlled environment. The results of the gas-sensing tests towards low concentrations of ethanol and acetone vapors are reported. Typical gas sensor parameters (gas responses, response/recovery time, sensitivity, and low detection limit) towards ethanol and acetone are presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Italy)
►▼ Show Figures

119 KiB  
Article
Discovery Mechanisms for the Sensor Web
by Simon Jirka, Arne Bröring and Christoph Stasch
Sensors 2009, 9(4), 2661-2681; https://doi.org/10.3390/s90402661 - 16 Apr 2009
Cited by 86 | Viewed by 15395
Abstract
This paper addresses the discovery of sensors within the OGC Sensor Web Enablement framework. Whereas services like the OGC Web Map Service or Web Coverage Service are already well supported through catalogue services, the field of sensor networks and the according discovery mechanisms [...] Read more.
This paper addresses the discovery of sensors within the OGC Sensor Web Enablement framework. Whereas services like the OGC Web Map Service or Web Coverage Service are already well supported through catalogue services, the field of sensor networks and the according discovery mechanisms is still a challenge. The focus within this article will be on the use of existing OGC Sensor Web components for realizing a discovery solution. After discussing the requirements for a Sensor Web discovery mechanism, an approach will be presented that was developed within the EU funded project “OSIRIS”. This solution offers mechanisms to search for sensors, exploit basic semantic relationships, harvest sensor metadata and integrate sensor discovery into already existing catalogues. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Workshop Sensing A Changing World)
►▼ Show Figures

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-58
Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop