scholarly journals A Low-Cost, Accurate, and High-Precision Fluid Dispensing System for Microscale Application

2016 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 144-152 ◽  
Author(s):  
Champak Das ◽  
Guochun Wang ◽  
Chien Nguyen
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Flow Characteristics ◽  
Positive Displacement ◽  
Real Time Measurement ◽  
Fluid Dispensing ◽  
Accuracy And Precision ◽  
Displacement Pump ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Similar Accuracy ◽  
The Cost

We present here the development of a low-cost, accurate, and precise fluid dispensing system. It can be used with peristaltic or any other pump to improve the flow characteristics. The dispensing system has a range of 1 to 100 µL with accuracy of ~99.5% and standard deviation at ~150 nL over the entire range. The system developed does not depend on the accuracy or precision of the driving pump; therefore, any positive displacement pump can be used to get similar accuracy and precision, which gives an opportunity to reduce the cost of the system. The dispensing system does not require periodic calibration and can also be miniaturized for microfluidic application. Although primarily designed for aqueous liquid, it can be extended for different nonconductive liquids as well with modifications. The unit is further used for near real-time measurement of lactate from microdialysate. The individual components can easily be made disposable or sterilized for use in biomedical applications.

A comparative study of qualitative immunochemical screening assays for the combined measurement of T-2/HT-2 in cereals and cereal-based products

2011 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 385-394 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. Meneely ◽  
F. Ricci ◽  
S. Vesco ◽  
M. Abouzied ◽  
M. Sulyok ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sample Preparation ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
The Other ◽  
Accuracy And Precision ◽  
Cost Implications ◽  
Electrochemical Array ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Preparation Techniques ◽  
Speed Of Analysis

Many different immunochemical platforms exist for the screening of naturally occurring contaminants in food from the low cost enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) to the expensive instruments such as optical biosensors based on the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The primary aim of this study was to evaluate and compare a number of these platforms to assess their accuracy and precision when applied to naturally contaminated samples containing HT-2/T-2 mycotoxins. Other important factors considered were the speed of analysis, ease of use (sample preparation techniques and use of the equipment) and ultimately the cost implications. The three screening procedures compared included an SPR biosensor assay, a commercially available ELISA and an enzymelinked immunomagnetic electrochemical array (ELIME array). The qualitative data for all methods demonstrated very good overall agreements with each other, however on comparison with mass spectrometry confirmatory results, the ELISA and SPR assay performed slightly better than the ELIME array, exhibiting an overall agreement of 95.8% compared to 91.7%. Currently, SPR is more costly than the other two platforms and can only be used in the laboratory whereas in theory both the ELISA and ELIME array are portable and can be used in the field, but ultimately this is dependent on the sample preparation techniques employed. Sample preparative techniques varied for all methods evaluated, the ELISA was the most simple to perform followed by that of the SPR method. The ELIME array involved an additional clean-up step thereby increasing both the time and cost of analysis. Therefore in the current format, field use would not be an option for the ELIME array. In relation to speed of analysis, the ELISA outperformed the other methods.

scholarly journals Terrain changes from images acquired on opportunistic flights by SfM photogrammetry

2017 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 827-840 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luc Girod ◽  
Christopher Nuth ◽  
Andreas Kääb ◽  
Bernd Etzelmüller ◽  
Jack Kohler
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Rapid Change ◽  
Satellite System ◽  
Light Transport ◽  
Area Of Interest ◽  
Accuracy And Precision ◽  
Global Navigation Satellite ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Gnss Data

Abstract. Acquiring data to analyse change in topography is often a costly endeavour requiring either extensive, potentially risky, fieldwork and/or expensive equipment or commercial data. Bringing the cost down while keeping the precision and accuracy has been a focus in geoscience in recent years. Structure from motion (SfM) photogrammetric techniques are emerging as powerful tools for surveying, with modern algorithm and large computing power allowing for the production of accurate and detailed data from low-cost, informal surveys. The high spatial and temporal resolution permits the monitoring of geomorphological features undergoing relatively rapid change, such as glaciers, moraines, or landslides. We present a method that takes advantage of light-transport flights conducting other missions to opportunistically collect imagery for geomorphological analysis. We test and validate an approach in which we attach a consumer-grade camera and a simple code-based Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver to a helicopter to collect data when the flight path covers an area of interest. Our method is based and builds upon Welty et al. (2013), showing the ability to link GNSS data to images without a complex physical or electronic link, even with imprecise camera clocks and irregular time lapses. As a proof of concept, we conducted two test surveys, in September 2014 and 2015, over the glacier Midtre Lovénbreen and its forefield, in northwestern Svalbard. We were able to derive elevation change estimates comparable to in situ mass balance stake measurements. The accuracy and precision of our DEMs allow detection and analysis of a number of processes in the proglacial area, including the presence of thermokarst and the evolution of water channels.

scholarly journals ASSESSING THE ACCURACY AND PRECISION OF IMPERFECT POINT CLOUDS FOR 3D INDOOR MAPPING AND MODELING

2018 ◽  
Vol IV-4/W6 ◽  
pp. 3-10
Author(s):  
J. Chen ◽  
O. E. Mora ◽  
K. C. Clarke
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Random Noise ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Laser Scanner ◽  
Point Clouds ◽  
Accuracy And Precision ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
Sharp Edges ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Indoor Spaces

<p><strong>Abstract.</strong> In recent years, growing public interest in three-dimensional technology has led to the emergence of affordable platforms that can capture 3D scenes for use in a wide range of consumer applications. These platforms are often widely available, inexpensive, and can potentially find dual use in taking measurements of indoor spaces for creating indoor maps. Their affordability, however, usually comes at the cost of reduced accuracy and precision, which becomes more apparent when these instruments are pushed to their limits to scan an entire room. The point cloud measurements they produce often exhibit systematic drift and random noise that can make performing comparisons with accurate data difficult, akin to trying to compare a fuzzy trapezoid to a perfect square with sharp edges. This paper outlines a process for assessing the accuracy and precision of these imperfect point clouds in the context of indoor mapping by integrating techniques such as the extended Gaussian image, iterative closest point registration, and histogram thresholding. A case study is provided at the end to demonstrate use of this process for evaluating the performance of the Scanse Sweep 3D, an ultra-low cost panoramic laser scanner.</p>

Miniature Pump for Treatment of Refractory Ascites Based on Local Magnetic Actuation

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nicolo Garbin ◽  
Patrick Doyle ◽  
Byron Smith ◽  
Jesse G. Taylor ◽  
Mubashir H. Khan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Magnetic Coupling ◽  
Daily Basis ◽  
Refractory Ascites ◽  
Alignment Algorithm ◽  
Magnetic Actuation ◽  
Magnetic Field Sensors ◽  
Positive Displacement ◽  
Displacement Pump ◽  
Transjugular Portosystemic Shunt

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and experimental validation of a novel low-cost implantable pump for the treatment of refractory ascites (RA) based on local magnetic actuation (LMA). A reciprocating positive displacement pump displaces liquid unidirectionally through magnetic coupling with a magnetic controller placed on the outside of the patient's body. The proposed solution is intuitive to use given an alignment algorithm that exploits externally placed magnetic field sensors (MFS). The implantable device has a catheter-like shape, is electronic free (no on-board battery), has low fabrication cost (<8 USD), and is able to generate a flow-rate of 3.65 L/h while effectively pumping fluids with various viscosity (1–5.5 cP). RA is commonly treated via costly paracentesis or invasive surgical placement of a transjugular portosystemic shunt (TIPS). The proposed solution can be implanted with minimally invasive techniques and can be used on a daily basis to drain a set amount of liquid, without requiring recurrent hospital visits.

Development of a Full-Sized Bipedal Humanoid Robot Utilizing Spring Assisted Parallel Four-Bar Linkages With Synchronized Actuation

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jeakweon Han ◽  
Dennis Hong
Keyword(s):  
Humanoid Robot ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Humanoid Robots ◽  
Bipedal Walking ◽  
Measurement Unit ◽  
Research Education ◽  
New Class ◽  
Vision Based Localization ◽  
The Individual ◽  
The Cost

Besides the difficulties in control and gait generation, designing a full-sized (taller than 1.3m) bipedal humanoid robot that can walk with two legs is a very challenging task, mainly due to the large torque requirements at the joints combined with the need for the actuators’ size and weight to be small. Most of the handful of successful humanoid robots in this size class that exist today utilize harmonic drives for gear reduction to gain high torque in a compact package. However, this makes the cost of such a robot too high and thus puts it out of reach of most of those who want to use it for general research, education and outreach activities. Besides the cost, the heavy weight of the robot also causes difficulties in handling and raises concerns for safety. In this paper we present the design of a new class of full-sized bipedal humanoid robots that is lightweight and low cost. This is achieved by utilizing spring assisted parallel four-bar linkages with synchronized actuation in the lower body to reduce the torque requirements of the individual actuators which also enables the use of off the shelf components to further reduce the cost significantly. The resulting savings in weight not only makes the operation of the robot safer, but also allows it to forgo the expensive force/torque sensors at the ankles and achieve stable bipedal walking only using the feedback from the IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit.) CHARLI-L (Cognitive Humanoid Autonomous Robot with Learning Intelligence - Lightweight) is developed using this approach and successfully demonstrated untethered bipedal locomotion using ZMP (Zero Moment Point) based control, stable omnidirectional gaits, and carrying out tasks autonomously using vision based localization.

Development of Catalytic Converter Using Non-Precious Metals

2015 ◽  
Vol 1115 ◽  
pp. 462-467 ◽  
Author(s):  
A.K.M. Mohiuddin
Keyword(s):  
Co Oxidation ◽  
No Reduction ◽  
Catalytic Converter ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Flow Characteristics ◽  
Precious Metals ◽  
Catalyst System ◽  
Rich Mixture ◽  
Fluid Flow Characteristics ◽  
The Cost

This paper shows the uses of low cost metal for the development of catalytic converters. While bringing down the cost, attention must be paid on the performance capability of the catalytic converter. The objective of this work is to develop and design a low cost catalytic converter using copper as the main catalyst in the catalyst system. Copper powder was chosen as the alternative catalyst to reduce the use of precious group metals (PGMs) platinum, palladium, and rhodium. A spark ignition engine’s catalytic converter has to perform the oxidation of CO, oxidation of HC and reduction of NOxsimultaneously in order to satisfy its performance requirement. These three chemical reactions are taking place simultaneously in a three way catalytic converter. To investigate the chemical kinetics and fluid flow characteristics of a catalytic converter, simulations have been carried out using COMSOL. From COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS, catalytic converter’s velocity field and pressure distribution have been simulated. From COMSOL REACTION ENGINEERING LAB, NO and CO concentration from a catalytic converter kinetics model have been plotted. NO and CO conversion for different air to fuel ratio had shown that for rich mixture, NO reduction reaches its maximum but CO oxidation is at its minimum. In lean mixture, CO oxidation is at its maximum but NO reduction is at its minimum. Simulations have shown the actual characteristics of the catalytic converter performance. The flow throughout catalytic converter and the backpressure have successfully determined and the catalyst conversion efficiency also shown clearly.

scholarly journals Precision and Limits of Detection for Selected Commercially Available, Low-Cost Carbon Dioxide and Methane Gas Sensors

Sensors ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (14) ◽  
pp. 3157 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wesley T. Honeycutt ◽  
M. Tyler Ley ◽  
Nicholas F. Materer
Keyword(s):  
Carbon Dioxide ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Detection Limits ◽  
Detection Range ◽  
Methane Gas ◽  
Accuracy And Precision ◽  
Sensor Platform ◽  
Industrial Monitoring ◽  
And Performance ◽  
The Individual

The performance of a sensor platform for environmental or industrial monitoring is sensitive to the cost and performance of the individual sensor elements. Thus, the detection limits, accuracy, and precision of commercially available, low-cost carbon dioxide and methane gas concentration sensors were evaluated by precise measurements at known gas concentrations. Sensors were selected based on market availability, cost, power consumption, detection range, and accuracy. A specially constructed gas mixing chamber, coupled to a precision bench-top analyzer, was used to characterize each sensor during a controlled exposure to known gas concentrations. For environmental monitoring, the selected carbon dioxide sensors were characterized around 400 ppm. For methane, the sensor response was first monitored at 0 ppm, close to the typical environmental background. The selected sensors were then evaluated at gas concentrations of several thousand ppm. The determined detection limits accuracy, and precision provides a set of matrices that can be used to evaluate and select sensors for integration into a sensor platform for specific applications.

scholarly journals Experimental Performance of Solar Receivers Designed to Use Oil as a Heat Transfer Fluid

2011 ◽  
Vol 2011 ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. S. P. Mlatho
Keyword(s):  
Heat Transfer ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Thermal Studies ◽  
Experimental Tests ◽  
Heat Transfer Fluid ◽  
Flow Meter ◽  
Positive Displacement ◽  
Displacement Pump ◽  
Parabolic Dish ◽  
Parabolic Dish Concentrator

A parabolic dish concentrator (PDC) has been designed to be used for charging a thermal energy storage (TES) that is for indirect cooking purpose. Three different receivers have been designed, fabricated, and their performance tested experimentally. The three designs are Volumetric Flask (VF), Volumetric Box (VB), and Conical Tube (CT) receivers. The receivers have been fabricated to use oil as a heat transfer fluid. Of the three designs, the CT receiver has the highest efficiency for a given flow rate, thus making it the best receiver. A positive displacement pump was also designed and constructed for the experimental tests. The pump is used to drive the oil through the receivers and also to act as a flow meter. Thus a low-cost and high-temperature positive displacement pump and a flow meter have been designed and fabricated for use in solar thermal studies.

scholarly journals Packaging Liquidity: Blind Auctions and Transaction Efficiencies

2005 ◽  
Vol 40 (3) ◽  
pp. 465-492 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kenneth A. Kavajecz ◽  
Donald B. Keim
Keyword(s):  
Institutional Investors ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Individual Investors ◽  
Investment Strategies ◽  
Critical Feature ◽  
Liquidity Provision ◽  
Trading Mechanisms ◽  
The Individual ◽  
The Cost

AbstractThe costs of implementing investment strategies represent a significant drag on the performance of mutual funds and other institutional investors. It is the responsibility of institutional investors, and in the interests of the individual investors they represent, to seek market mechanisms that mitigate trading costs. We investigate an example of one such liquidity provision mechanism whereby liquidity demanders auction a set of trades as a package directly to potential liquidity providers. A critical feature of the auction is that the identities of the securities in the package are not revealed to the bidder. We demonstrate that this mechanism provides a transactions cost savings relative to more traditional trading mechanisms for the liquidity demander as well as an efficient way for liquidity suppliers to obtain order flow. We argue that the cost savings afforded this new mechanism are due to the potential for low cost crosses with the bidder's existing inventory positions and through the longer trading horizon, and superior trading ability, of the bidders. This research suggests that the ability to innovate via new liquidity provision mechanisms can provide market participants with transaction cost savings that cannot be easily duplicated on more traditional exchanges.

Drag Reduction in Flow of Coal-Oil Suspensions

1982 ◽  
Vol 104 (1) ◽  
pp. 92-93 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. R. Ghassemzadeh ◽  
S. Carmi
Keyword(s):  
Drag Reduction ◽  
Pipe Flow ◽  
Flow Characteristics ◽  
Operating Parameters ◽  
Friction Drag ◽  
Preliminary Results ◽  
Positive Displacement ◽  
Displacement Pump ◽  
Oil Mixtures ◽  
Reduction Effect

Pipe flow characteristics of coal-oil mixtures (C.O.M.) are studied by a pipe flow facility consisting of a Tri-Rotor positive displacement pump, which draws fluid from a reservoir tank and discharges through a pipeline at regulated pressures. Pipe flow tests are carried out to study the drag reduction effect of the polymer carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) on the flow of coal-oil mixtures. Addition of CMC reduces friction drag on the average by 10 percent. Preliminary results are presented covering appropriate ranges of operating parameters (coal concentration and temperature) which influence the drag reduction. A brief discussion will evaluate the significance of these results.

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