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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 127 records · Page 7
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1990

Accuracy requirements of optical linear algebra processors in adaptive optics imaging systems

A ground-based adaptive optics imaging telescope system attempts to improve image quality by detecting and correcting for atmospherically induced wavefront aberrations. The required control computations during each cycle will take a finite amount of time. Longer time delays result in larger values of residual wavefront error variance since the atmosphere continues to change during that time. Thus an optical processor may be well-suited for this task. This paper presents a study of the accuracy requirements in a general optical processor that will make it competitive with, or superior to, a conventional digital computer for the adaptive optics application. An optimization of the adaptive optics correction algorithm with respect to an optical processor's degree of accuracy is also briefly discussed.

Downie, John D.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Improved Interactive Medical-Imaging System

An improved computational-simulation system for interactive medical imaging has been invented. The system displays high-resolution, three-dimensional-appearing images of anatomical objects based on data acquired by such techniques as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI). The system enables users to manipulate the data to obtain a variety of views for example, to display cross sections in specified planes or to rotate images about specified axes. Relative to prior such systems, this system offers enhanced capabilities for synthesizing images of surgical cuts and for collaboration by users at multiple, remote computing sites.

Ross, Muriel D.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Peformance evaluation of a passive microwave imaging system

A test program was conducted to evaluate the passive microwave imaging system for possible application in the NASA Earth Resources Program. In addition to test data analysis, the report gives a brief description of the radiometer, its software, and the ground support equipment. The microwave image quality is adequate for remote sensing applications studies. Instrument problems are described, and suggestions are given for possible improvements and potential applications.

Mcallum, W. E.↗
NASA NTRS1979

A real-time electronic imaging system for solar X-ray observations from sounding rockets

A real-time imaging system for displaying the solar coronal soft X-ray emission, focussed by a grazing incidence telescope, is described. The design parameters of the system, which is to be used primarily as part of a real-time control system for a sounding rocket experiment, are identified. Their achievement with a system consisting of a microchannel plate, for the conversion of X-rays into visible light, and a slow-scan vidicon, for recording and transmission of the integrated images, is described in detail. The system has a quantum efficiency better than 8 deg above 8 A, a dynamic range of 1000 coupled with a sensitivity to single photoelectrons, and provides a spatial resolution of 15 arc seconds over a field of view of 40 x 40 square arc minutes. The incident radiation is filtered to eliminate wavelengths longer than 100 A. Each image contains 3.93 x 10 to the 5th bits of information and is transmitted to the ground where it is processed by a mini-computer and displayed in real-time on a standard TV monitor.

Davis, J. M.↗
NASA NTRS2004

Event-Driven Random-Access-Windowing CCD Imaging System

A charge-coupled-device (CCD) based high-speed imaging system, called a realtime, event-driven (RARE) camera, is undergoing development. This camera is capable of readout from multiple subwindows [also known as regions of interest (ROIs)] within the CCD field of view. Both the sizes and the locations of the ROIs can be controlled in real time and can be changed at the camera frame rate. The predecessor of this camera was described in High-Frame-Rate CCD Camera Having Subwindow Capability (NPO- 30564) NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 26, No. 12 (December 2002), page 26. The architecture of the prior camera requires tight coupling between camera control logic and an external host computer that provides commands for camera operation and processes pixels from the camera. This tight coupling limits the attainable frame rate and functionality of the camera. The design of the present camera loosens this coupling to increase the achievable frame rate and functionality. From a host computer perspective, the readout operation in the prior camera was defined on a per-line basis; in this camera, it is defined on a per-ROI basis. In addition, the camera includes internal timing circuitry. This combination of features enables real-time, event-driven operation for adaptive control of the camera. Hence, this camera is well suited for applications requiring autonomous control of multiple ROIs to track multiple targets moving throughout the CCD field of view. Additionally, by eliminating the need for control intervention by the host computer during the pixel readout, the present design reduces ROI-readout times to attain higher frame rates. This camera (see figure) includes an imager card consisting of a commercial CCD imager and two signal-processor chips. The imager card converts transistor/ transistor-logic (TTL)-level signals from a field programmable gate array (FPGA) controller card. These signals are transmitted to the imager card via a low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) cable assembly. The FPGA controller card is connected to the host computer via a standard peripheral component interface (PCI).

Monacos, Steve↗
NASA NTRS1973

Thermal surveillance of Cascade Range volcanoes using ERTS-1 multispectral scanner, aircraft imaging systems, and ground-based data communication platforms

A combination of infrared images depicting areas of thermal emission and ground calibration points have proved to be particularly useful in plotting time-dependent changes in surface temperatures and radiance and in delimiting areas of predominantly convective heat flow to the earth's surface in the Cascade Range and on Surtsey Volcano, Iceland. In an integrated experiment group using ERTS-1 multispectral scanner (MSS) and aircraft infrared imaging systems in conjunction with multiple thermistor arrays, volcano surface temperatures are relayed daily to Washington via data communication platform (DCP) transmitters and ERTS-1. ERTS-1 MSS imagery has revealed curvilinear structures at Lassen, the full extent of which have not been previously mapped. Interestingly, the major surface thermal manifestations at Lassen are aligned along these structures, particularly in the Warner Valley.

Friedman, J. D.↗
NASA NTRS1977

Analysis and design of a refractive virtual image system

The optical performance of a virtual image display system is evaluated. Observation of a two-element (unachromatized doublet) refractive system led to the conclusion that the major source of image degradation was lateral chromatic aberration. This conclusion was verified by computer analysis of the system. The lateral chromatic aberration is given in terms of the resolution of the phosphor dots on a standard shadow mask color cathode ray tube. Single wavelength considerations include: astigmatism, apparent image distance from the observer, binocular disparities and differences of angular magnification of the images presented to each of the observer's eyes. Where practical, these results are related to the performance of the human eye. All these techniques are applied to the previously mentioned doublet and a triplet refractive system. The triplet provides a 50-percent reduction in lateral chromatic aberration which was the design goal. Distortion was also reduced to a minimum over the field of view. The methods used in the design of the triplet are presented along with a method of relating classical aberration curves to image distance and binocular disparity.

Kahlbaum, W. M.↗
NASA NTRS2004

Compact Microscope Imaging System with Intelligent Controls

The figure presents selected views of a compact microscope imaging system (CMIS) that includes a miniature video microscope, a Cartesian robot (a computer- controlled three-dimensional translation stage), and machine-vision and control subsystems. The CMIS was built from commercial off-the-shelf instrumentation, computer hardware and software, and custom machine-vision software. The machine-vision and control subsystems include adaptive neural networks that afford a measure of artificial intelligence. The CMIS can perform several automated tasks with accuracy and repeatability . tasks that, heretofore, have required the full attention of human technicians using relatively bulky conventional microscopes. In addition, the automation and control capabilities of the system inherently include a capability for remote control. Unlike human technicians, the CMIS is not at risk of becoming fatigued or distracted: theoretically, it can perform continuously at the level of the best human technicians. In its capabilities for remote control and for relieving human technicians of tedious routine tasks, the CMIS is expected to be especially useful in biomedical research, materials science, inspection of parts on industrial production lines, and space science. The CMIS can automatically focus on and scan a microscope sample, find areas of interest, record the resulting images, and analyze images from multiple samples simultaneously. Automatic focusing is an iterative process: The translation stage is used to move the microscope along its optical axis in a succession of coarse, medium, and fine steps. A fast Fourier transform (FFT) of the image is computed at each step, and the FFT is analyzed for its spatial-frequency content. The microscope position that results in the greatest dispersal of FFT content toward high spatial frequencies (indicating that the image shows the greatest amount of detail) is deemed to be the focal position.

McDowell, Mark↗
NASA NTRS1990

Cardiac Imaging System

Although not available to all patients with narrowed arteries, balloon angioplasty has expanded dramatically since its introduction with an estimated further growth to 562,000 procedures in the U.S. alone by 1992. Growth has fueled demand for higher quality imaging systems that allow the cardiologist to be more accurate and increase the chances of a successful procedure. A major advance is the Digital Cardiac Imaging (DCI) System designed by Philips Medical Systems International, Best, The Netherlands and marketed in the U.S. by Philips Medical Systems North America Company. The key benefit is significantly improved real-time imaging and the ability to employ image enhancement techniques to bring out added details. Using a cordless control unit, the cardiologist can manipulate images to make immediate assessment, compare live x-ray and roadmap images by placing them side-by-side on monitor screens, or compare pre-procedure and post procedure conditions. The Philips DCI improves the cardiologist's precision by expanding the information available to him.

Source record↗
NASA NTRS1991

Design of an automated imaging system for use in a space experiment

An experiment, occurring in an orbiting platform, examines the mass transfer across gas-liquid and liquid-liquid interfaces. It employs an imaging system with real time image analysis. The design includes optical design, imager selection and integration, positioner control, image recording, software development for processing and interfaces to telemetry. It addresses the constraints of weight, volume, and electric power associated with placing the experiment in the Space Shuttle cargo bay. Challenging elements of the design are: imaging and recording of a 200-micron-diameter bubble with a resolution of 2 microns to serve a primary source of data; varying frame rates from 500 per second to 1 frame per second, depending on the experiment phase; and providing three-dimensional information to determine the shape of the bubble.

Hartz, William G.↗
NASA NTRS1978

Onboard processing for future space-borne imaging systems

There is a strong rationale for increasing the rate of information return from imaging class experiments aboard both terrestrial and planetary spacecraft. Future imaging systems will be designed with increased spatial resolution, broader spectral range and more spectral channels (or higher spectral resolution). The data rate implied by these improved performance characteristics can be expected to grow more rapidly than the projected telecommunications capability. One solution to this dilemma is the use of improved onboard data processing. The use of onboard classification processing in a multispectral imager can result in orders of magnitude increase in information transfer for very specific types of imaging tasks. Several of these processing functions are included in the conceptual design of an Infrared Multispectral Imager which would map the spatial distribution of characteristic geologic features associated with deposits of economic minerals.

Wellman, J. B.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Contrast changes in fluoroscopic imaging systems and statistical variations of these changes

Experimental studies have indicated that: (1) The response of digitized fluoroscopic imaging systems is linear systems is linear with contrast over a rather wide range of absorber and cavity thicknesses. (2) Contrast changes associated with the addition of aluminum, iodine containing contrast agents and air of thicknesses 1mm or less can be detected with a 95% confidence level. (3) The standard deviation associated with such determination using clinically available X-ray generators and video disc recording is less than 1 percent. A large flat screen X-ray image intensifier has been constructed and some preliminary results obtained. Sensitivity achieved makes dose reduction a factor often greater than previously reported for a system using a conventional X-ray image intensifier.

Bailey, N. A.↗
NASA NTRS1999

The Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) Instrument for the Mars 2001 Orbiter

The primary objective of the Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) on the Mars Surveyor '01 Orbiter is to study the composition of the Martian surface at high spatial resolution. THEMIS will map the surface mineralogy using multi-spectral thermal infrared images in 8 spectral bands from 6.5 to 14.5 microns. In addition, a band centered at 15 microns will be used to map atmospheric temperatures and provide an important aid in separating the surface and atmospheric components. The entire planet will be mapped at 100 m resolution within the available data volume using a multi-spectral, rather than hyperspectral, imaging approach. THEMIS will also acquire 20 m resolution visible images in up to 5 spectral bands using a replica of the Mars 98 Orbiter (MARCI) and Lander (MARDI) cameras. Over 15,000 panchromatic (3,000 5-color), 20 x 20 km images will be acquired for morphology studies and landing site selection. The thermal-infrared spectral region contains the fundamental vibrational absorption bands of most minerals which provide diagnostic information on mineral composition. All geologic materials, including carbonates, hydrothermal silica, sulfates, phosphates, hydroxides, silicates, and oxides have strong absorptions in the 6.5-14.5 micron region. Silica and carbonates, which are key diagnostic minerals in thermal spring deposits, are readily identified using thermal-IR spectra. In addition, the ability to identify all minerals allows the presence of aqueous minerals to be interpreted in the proper geologic context. An extensive suite of studies over the past 35 years has demonstrated the utility of vibrational spectroscopy for the quantitative determination of mineralogy and petrology. The fundamental vibrations within different anion groups, such as C03, S04, P04, and SiO4, produce unique, well separated spectral bands that allow carbonates, sulfates, phosphates, silicates, oxides, and hydroxides to be readily identified. Additional stretching and bending modes involving major cations, such as Mg, Fe, Ca, and Na, allow Further mineral identification, such as the excellent discriminability of minerals within the silicate and carbonate groups.

Christensen, P. R.↗
NASA NTRS2002

Compact Video Microscope Imaging System Implemented in Colloid Studies

Long description Photographs showing fiber-optic light source, microscope and charge-coupled discharge (CCD) camera head connected to camera body, CCD camera body feeding data to image acquisition board in PC, and Cartesian robot controlled via PC board. The Compact Microscope Imaging System (CMIS) is a diagnostic tool with intelligent controls for use in space, industrial, medical, and security applications. CMIS can be used in situ with a minimum amount of user intervention. This system can scan, find areas of interest in, focus on, and acquire images automatically. Many multiple-cell experiments require microscopy for in situ observations; this is feasible only with compact microscope systems. CMIS is a miniature machine vision system that combines intelligent image processing with remote control. The software also has a user-friendly interface, which can be used independently of the hardware for further post-experiment analysis. CMIS has been successfully developed in the SML Laboratory at the NASA Glenn Research Center and adapted for use for colloid studies and is available for telescience experiments. The main innovations this year are an improved interface, optimized algorithms, and the ability to control conventional full-sized microscopes in addition to compact microscopes. The CMIS software-hardware interface is being integrated into our SML Analysis package, which will be a robust general-purpose image-processing package that can handle over 100 space and industrial applications.

McDowell, Mark↗
NASA NTRS1992

Radiometric infrared focal plane array imaging system for thermographic applications

This document describes research performed under the Radiometric Infrared Focal Plane Array Imaging System for Thermographic Applications contract. This research investigated the feasibility of using platinum silicide (PtSi) Schottky-barrier infrared focal plane arrays (IR FPAs) for NASA Langley's specific radiometric thermal imaging requirements. The initial goal of this design was to develop a high spatial resolution radiometer with an NETD of 1 percent of the temperature reading over the range of 0 to 250 C. The proposed camera design developed during this study and described in this report provides: (1) high spatial resolution (full-TV resolution); (2) high thermal dynamic range (0 to 250 C); (3) the ability to image rapid, large thermal transients utilizing electronic exposure control (commandable dynamic range of 2,500,000:1 with exposure control latency of 33 ms); (4) high uniformity (0.5 percent nonuniformity after correction); and (5) high thermal resolution (0.1 C at 25 C background and 0.5 C at 250 C background).

Esposito, B. J.↗