UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

This paper presents a new approach to improve the in silico modeling of ultrasound transducer arrays. While current simulation tools accurately predict the theoretical element...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An array of sonic transducers, useful for medical ultrasonic imaging, has individual sections thereof separately coupled for forming separate beams of sonic energy which converge, respectively, to separate foci along a common axis of the beams. The ratio of the diameter of the radiating aperture of the array relative to a wavelength of the sonic energy is chosen to provide a moderate degree of focusing so that the depth of field at one focus blends with the depth of field of the next focus. Thereby, there is formed a continuous region of substantially uniform intensity of sonic radiation along the common beam axis. Circuitry is provided for selecting one or more specific foci dependent on the bounds of a selected region to be insonified. Upon reception of sonic energy, circuitry is provided for selecting one or more specific foci as a function of the time of travel of an echo from a subject being ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A photoacoustic (PA) imaging system based on an ultrasonic Fresnel zone plate (FZP) transducer is developed for the purpose of imaging biological tissue. This FZP transducer has a two-zone negative zone plate piezoelectric material pattern, and an optical fibre is integrated with the transducer on the symmetric axis of the zone plates to deliver laser pulses to the sample. The focal characteristic of the FZP transducer is analysed by theoretical prediction and experimental measurement, and the measured results are in good agreement with the predicted results. The limited-field back-projection deconvolution algorithm combined with the coherence-factor weighting technique is used to reconstruct the optical absorption distribution. The experiments were performed with phantoms and the blood vessels of chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane. The results demonstrate that PA imaging using ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The techniques in order to measure the depth of defect in weldment and structure accurately have been developed. Many researches have made efforts to develop the methods for the accurate depth sizing of defect. TOFD is known as the most accurate method of various methods for measuring depth sizing. However, there is a possibility to miss defects because of the limitation of beam coverage for the ultrasound incident angle. In this study, the results for detectability and depth sizing using phased array ultrasonic technique for thick body were compared with those of conventional TOFD technique. It was experimentally confirmed that the phased array ultrasonic TOFD technique gives good detectability and accurate depth measurement for the various types of defects. The phased array ultrasonic TOFD technique developed in this study will contribute to increase the ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Although ultrasonic testing inspection technology and tools have improved significantly, there is still a need for more reliable detection, monitoring, and accurate sizing of crack-like and planar defects, complex corrosion damage, and detection of secondary features within deformed pipe. Ultrasonic two dimensional (2D) matrix phased array technology offers some unique advantages that make the technology promising for improving detection and sizing of pipeline flaws resulting from welding or from in-service damage. Ultrasonic modeling and simulation has been conducted to evaluate the detection and sizing capabilities of 2D matrix arrays for various pipeline inspection concepts. Simulations have been performed using both flexible and rigid array probes. Inspection concepts using rigid probes were evaluated for inspections from both the outside and inside pipe ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper describes a technique for implementing the ultrasonic inside diameter (ID) creeping wave technique for detection and sizing ID connected defects using a phased array ultrasonic system. The technique uses multiple focal laws to produce the examination modes. The first focal law is designed to create a shear wave nominally at the critical angle for mode conversion to a longitudinal wave at the ID of a part, thus creating a creeping wave. This focal law is focused at the ID to improve sensitivity. The rest of the laws are designed to create tandem sound paths that progress up a vertical surface directly above the focal point of the creeping wave generation point. When a defect on the inner surface is detected with the creeping wave, the height of the defect can be measured from the response of a set of tandem laws without readjusting the position of the probe. Results from standard one-inch long notches of varying ...

Science.gov (United States)

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) offers label-free, optical absorption contrast. A high-speed, high-resolution PAM system in an inverted microscope configuration with a laser pulse repetition rate of 100,000 Hz and a stationary ultrasonic transducer was built. Four-dimensional in vivo imaging of microcirculation in mouse skin was achieved at 18 three-dimensional volumes per second with repeated two-dimensional raster scans of 100 by 50 points. The corresponding twodimensional B-scan (50 A-lines) frame rate was 1800 Hz, and the one-dimensional A-scan rate was 90,000 Hz. The lateral resolution is 0.23+/-0.03 ?m for Au nano-wire imaging, which is 2.0 times below the diffraction limit.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Automatic ultrasonic testing is presented as a method for recurrent inspections of pressure gas vessels, from validation to practical testing to customised test applications. National and international regulations and standards are presented along with related implementation problems. [German] Es wird die automatisierte Ultraschallpruefung im Bereich der wiederkehrenden Pruefung von Druckgasbehaeltern, als Alternative zur herkoemmlichen, klassischen Wasserdruckpruefung, vorgestellt. Von der Validierung ueber die praktische Erprobung bis hin zur kundenspezifisch entwickelten Pruefapplikation. Es werden die Anforderungen aus nationalen und internationalen Vorschriften und Normen sowie die damit zusammenhaengenden Umsetzungsprobleme behandelt.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A feasibility study test and 3 field trials were performed at Darlington NGS in 1996, 1999 and 2000 on ABB LP turbines. The scope of these trials was to commission in-situ automatic phased array systems capable to inspect blade roots and rotor steeples of L-0 and L-1 rows. GE disk-blade rim attachments were inspected at Bruce B nuclear station, in fall of 1999. The automated ultrasonic phased array technology is capable of high-speed rate and reliable detection and sizing. The capability demonstration was performed on mock-ups and reference blocks, using EDM notches. A custom built UT simulation software: Imagine 3D interfaces with SimScan to generates the spreadsheets/charts with target and probe coordinates and ultrasonic path and angles (refracted and skew) to hit the reference target. Examination of L-0 blade and rotor steeple grooves was performed with 2 phased array systems ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The use of dendrimers for preparing chemically sensitive interfaces for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using surface acoustic wave (SAW) device transducers is described. Specifically, the synthesis of the dendrimers and the means by which they are affixed to SAW devices is discussed, followed by a detailed spectroscopic analysis of the surface-confined dendrimers and a discussion of their interaction with different VOCs. Most of these preliminary experiments focus on dendrimer surface modification using benzoylchloride, which leads to phenyl terminal groups linked to the dendrimer via amide groups. The results of this study lead us to conclude that dendrimers: (1) provide general specificity towards classes of functional groups and are therefore suitable for array-based sensing schemes; (2) are intermediate in structure between monolayers and polymers and exhibit the desirable properties of both; (3) can be straightforwardly ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Studies conducted at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in Richland, Washington have focused on developing and evaluating the reliability of nondestructive testing (NDT) approaches for coarse-grained stainless steel reactor components. The objective of this work is to provide information to the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) on the utility, effectiveness and limitation of NDT techniques as related to inservice testing of primary system piping components in pressurized water reactors. We examined cast stainless steel pipe specimens containing thermal and mechanical fatigue cracks located close to the weld roots and having inner and outer diameter surface geometrical conditions that simulate several water reactor primary piping configurations. In addition, segments of vintage centrifugally cast piping were examined to characterize the inherent acoustic noise and scattering caused by grain structures and to determine the consistency of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A new eddy current array probe has been implemented as a straightforward and promising technique for detection of outer diameter (OD) surface-breaking cracks on the extrados of feeder bends. The design is based on previous work performed at AECL, which had demonstrated that eddy current probes with laterally displaced transmit-receive coils can overcome some of the limitations of inspecting ferritic steel components for surface-breaking cracks. The Feeder Integrity Joint Program-CANDU Owners Group Inc. (FIJP-COG) Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) Team members commissioned AECL to work in collaboration with the probe manufacturer ZETEC, to develop a field usable eddy current array probe. The objective was to acquire a technique with the following capabilities: fast scanning non-contact inspection technique for surface breaking discontinuities; full inspection of the bend extrados OD surface in a single scan; ability to inspect first and second ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A shear acoustic transducer-lens system in which a shear polarized piezoelectric material excites shear polarized waves at one end of a buffer rod having a lens at the other end which excites longitudinal waves in a coupling medium by mode conversion at selected locations on the lens.

Science.gov (United States)

extravehicular activity; an exploding bridgewire firing unit for rocket engines ; a pressure transducer that can withstand the 6000 OF temperiiture ...

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the interobserver agreement of ultrasonographic assessment of finger and toe joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by 2 investigators with different medical backgrounds. METHODS: Ultrasonography and clinical examination were performed on 150 small joints of 30 patients with active RA. A General Electric LOGIQ 500 ultrasound unit with a 7-13-MHz linear array transducer was used. In each patient, 5 preselected small joints (second and third metacarpophalangeal, second proximal interphalangeal, first and second metatarsophalangeal) were examined independently on the same day by 2 ultrasound investigators (an experienced musculoskeletal radiologist and a rheumatologist with limited ultrasound training). Joint effusion, synovial thickening, bone erosions, and power Doppler signal were evaluated in accordance with an introduced 4-grade semiquantitative scoring system, on which the investigators had reached consensus ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Full text. Here we present a status report of the Schenberg antenna, which started commissioning runs in September 2006 under the full support of FAPESP. In its first commissioning runs we tested three preliminary parametric transducer systems, which did not achieve a high enough performance for placing the antenna sensitivity in the range of the calibrator capacitor. Instead of improving the calibrator, making it capable of introducing a larger input force, we decided to go to a radical upgrading operation: replacing the three transducers for a complete set of six transducers, with better sensitivity and arranged according to the truncated icosahedron configuration, plus two extra ones; starting to install the dilution refrigerator; installing wires, cables, and amplifiers for the complete set of transducer circuits; and a new suspension and vibration isolation system for the cabling and microstrip ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Measurements are reported of ultrasonic acoustic emissions (AEs) measured from sapwood samples of Thuja occidentalis L. and Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carr. during air dehydration....Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ultrasonic enhancement of heat transfer on a narrow surface was measured by changing the width of the surface from 8 to 0.1 mm. Ultrasonic power of 600 W with a frequency of 40 kHz was used. Heat transfer on the narrow surface without ultrasonic vibration was correlated by the experimental equation for a thin wire. The cavitation intensity was measured by the cavitation erosion loss of an aluminum foil of 15 [mu]m thickness. The effects of acoustic streaming and cavitation were separated by this measurement. Heat transfer by acoustic streaming was predicted through forced convection. Enhancement by cavitation was explained by the turbulence thermal conductivity of the microjets.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Humans, like other animals, are exposed to a continuous stream of signals, which are dynamic, multimodal, extended, and time varying in nature. This complex input space must be transduced and sampled...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

During the last fifteen years a variety of instruments and transducers, such as voltage plugs, power transducers, flow and pressure transducers, recorders and tensometers, have been developed for underground use in measuring the performance and technical parameters of prototype machines. The equipment, until recently, has been in a portable form and was found useful by the industry generally, in fault finding and trouble-shooting exercises and in commissioning procedures performed by small teams on a call-out basis. Over the last five years the test equipment has been adapted and the techniques modified to suit individual colliery-based operations with more permanent machine mounted and built-in transducers. At the moment these techniques operate within the framework of a statutory planned preventive maintenance scheme for each mine. This paper discusses the merits of changing from preventive ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report focuses on a better understanding of the physical phenomenon related to the enhancement of boiling and non-boiling heat transfer by applying ultrasonic waves. Experimental results obtained both in a pool of water and in a vertically upward water flow proved clearly that macroscopic acoustic stream induced by ultrasonics is a major contribution to heat transfer augmentation. (author).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The full text follows. A thermal neutron imaging facility (TNIF) capable of real time neutron radiography and computed tomography was developed for the University of Texas TRIGA Mark II (UT-TRIGA) reactor from 1994-1998. The facility was developed with a through reactor beam port capable of producing a 5.2 x 10{sup 6} n/cm{sup 2}/s thermal neutron flux with a gamma dose rate of less than 1 mR/s after collimation. The original TNIF included the UT-TRIGA reactor, neutron collimation array, sample positioning system, neutron image intensifier tube, video camera, computerized image acquisition system, and a radiation shield. A 0.7 mm slit in cadmium was easily detectable using neutron radiography, and 1.4 mm diameter holes bored in an aluminum block were easily resolved using computed neutron tomography. Precise lower limits of the system resolution have hot been determined. The TNIF is currently being revamped to begin work with the non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In a recent paper, Lowry (1981) described an architecture for a computer vision rectangular processor array that is suitable for VLSI implementation. In this paper the authors review that architecture, discuss extensions to it and present results of an array simulator applied to vision algorithms. They also present an algorithm for re-routing an array with bad processors into a working subset of the array, making it feasible to implement a large array on one wafer-sized chip. 7 references.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Recent evidence indicates that the evolution of ultrasonic hearing in echolocating bats and cetaceans has involved adaptive amino acid replacements in the cochlear gene prestin. A substantial...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the present study, a new measurement technique which uses a ultrasonic transmission signals in order to determine the vertical two phase flow pattern even under high pressure condition. The ultrasonic measurement system developed in the present study not only provides the measurement functions required for the determination of vertical two phase flow pattern but also makes the real time determination possible. The developed ultrasonic measurement system accurately determined the various vertical two phase flow patterns such as bubbly, slug, churn, annular flow etc. In addition to the determination of flow patterns, qualitative informations for each flow pattern can be obtained, which include void fraction in bubbly flow, length of slug bubble and liquid tail characteristics in slug flow, and stable or transient condition of flow pattern, etc. 13 refs., 24 figs., 3 tabs. (Author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Outline: Discuss far-side weld problem and phased array techniques applied. Describe laboratory work on flawed piping specimens using L- and S-wave arrays and provide synopsis of results. Discuss conclusions ofr capability of phased array as applied to austenitic welds. Research Approach: Evaluate phased arrays on unifornly-welded piping specimens. Apply best methods to non-uniform welds. Correlate acoustic responses as function of weld microstructures.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundActivation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) within antigen presenting cells (APCs) is linked to abnormal APCs differentiation and function....Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

BackgroundA large fraction of the human genome is attributable to L1 retrotransposon sequences. Not only do L1s themselves make up a significant portion of the genome, but L1-encoded...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

IntroductionTyrosine phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pStat3) is expressed in numerous cancers and is required for mediating tumorigenesis. Autocrine...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

A compact heat exchanger pedestal array for augmenting heat transfer in a machine is disclosed. The compact heat exchanger pedestal array includes a wall having first and second surfaces. The first surface faces a heated flow path and the second surface p...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

In the past decade, a new technique has been developed for measuring tensile stresses in solids. This ultrasonic technique has been used thus far primarily for measuring fastener tension. The precision of measurement is routinely to 2-3% and, with special care, to approx. 1%. The method is insensitive to the frictional losses which plague tensioning by torque wrench. Though the approach is relatively new, it promises a wide range of applicability.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No abstract prepared.

KoreaScience (Korea)

Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

The goal of ultrasonic molecular imaging is the detection of targeted contrast agents bound to receptors on endothelial cells. We propose imaging methods that can distinguish adherent microbubbles...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Acoustic lenses are employed in a variety of applications, from biomedical imaging and surgery to defense systems and damage detection in materials. Focused acoustic signals, for example, enable ultrasonic...Full Text Available

Environmental Research Database

ObjectivesObjectives Not AvailableDescriptionTo determine the effects of water penetration on the burst strength of filament wound composite pipes which have been damaged by impact and then subjected to long term pressurisation with sea water. ~%~ To monitor and characterise the damage and effects of sea water penetration using ultrasonic NDT. To determine the burst strength of bonded composite pipe joints with and without defects and to see whether the defects can be detected using ultrasonic NDT. [continued...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The experimental technique used for detection of subcooled boiling through analysis of the fluctuation contained in pressure transducer signals is presented. This work was partly conducted at the Institut fuer Kerntechnik und zertoerungsfreie Pruefverfahren von Hannover (IKPH, Germany) in a thermal-hydraulic circuit with one electrically heated rod with annular geometry test section. Piezo resistive pressure sensors are used for onset of nucleate boiling (ONB) and onset of fully developed boiling (OFDB) detection using spectral analysis/ signal correlation techniques. Experimental results are interpreted by phenomenological analysis of these two points and compared with existing correlation. The results allow to conclude that this technique is adequate for the detection and monitoring of the ONB and OFDB. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The Engineering and Technology Validation Team at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) conducts in-situ technical evaluations of polycrystalline thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules and arrays. This paper focuses on the technical evaluation of Solar Cells, Inc., (SCI) cadmium telluride (CdTe) module and array performance by attempting to correlate individual module and array performance. This is done by examining the performance and stability of the modules and array over a period of more than one year. Temperature coefficients for module and array parameters (P{sub max}, V{sub oc}, V{sub max}, I{sub sc}, I{sub max}) are also calculated.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

chipD is a web server that facilitates design of DNA oligonucleotide probes for high-density tiling arrays, which can be used in a number of genomic applications such as ChIP-chip or gene-expression...Full Text Available

Science.gov (United States)

Power system analysis shows the output from the solar arrays varies as a function .... Each array corresponds to a raw image browse product, which is generated by .... low outgassing, ability to withstand long-term exposure to the space ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

French English ... Orig. Title Imagerie IRM des lesions focales hepatiques avec les antennes de surface en reseau phase (phased array): apnee ou imagerie haute resolution?.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Short communication

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Purpose:To investigate the clinical usage of dose verification of Helical Tomotherapy plans by using 2D-array ion chambers, and to develop an efficient way to validate the dose delivered...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Monochromator stabilization (MOSTAB) is a feedback control system to stabilize an x-ray beam of synchrotron radiation. It applies a feedback voltage to a piezo electric transducer attached to a double-crystal monochromator. We developed MOSTAB modules and examined their performances using SPring-8 beamlines. The x-ray beam position stabilization using MOSTAB was realized simultaneously with the x-ray beam intensity stabilization. As an example of its application, we performed EXAFS measurement with MOSTAB. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The audible noise produced by corona on high-voltage transmission lines has several characteristics that differentiate it from other community noises. Transmission line noise is quite broadband and has a significant high frequency content. Special instrumentation designed to measure this type of noise pollution is described. All measuring systems have the same three basic elements: a transducer, a processing device, and an output device. Recorders, microphone devices, frequency analyzers, and meteorological instrumentation are discussed.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This paper reports progress in the fabrication and characterization of an array of 1nm-scale colloidal particles (i.e., quantum-dot array) that can be operated to execute nontrivial and innovative computations, possibly including quantum logic. We discuss the actual fabrication of 2-nm metal clusters as an example of possible quantum dot implementation. Innovative and unconventional paradigms underlie the different stages of this work. For example, regular array geometry is achieved by directing appropriately derivatized metal clusters to preselected locations along a stretched strand of an engineered DNA sequence.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This document contains information on the above-mentioned technology, including description, applicability, cost, and performance data.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A multi-spectral Schottky barrier infrared detector array in which individual pixels of radiation from a remote radiating object are detected by two or more Schottky barrier infrared radiation detectors each having a different spectral response so as to provide a ''color'' discrimination for the array.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Whooper swans habitat in the coastal regions of Denmark can be affected by wind turbine arrays on the coast. The planned array consists of 55 wind turbines very close to the swan breeding area. A possibility of moving the swans away from the windmill area would be to spread the preferred swan feeds (rape, potatoes) outside their present breeding ground. (EG) 14 refs.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To compare the accuracy of MR imaging using an endorectal-pelvic and a pelvic phased-array coil for preoperative local staging of rectal carcinoma. To determine preoperative staging, 38 patients with rectal carcinoma underwent MR imaging. All patients were examined with both an endorectal-pelvic and a pelvic phased-array coil. All underwent surgery and staging was pathologically confirmed. Two radiologists blinded to pathologic stage analyzed perirectal invasion and perirectal node metastasis, and scored according to a four-point scale. Radiologic and pathologic findings were correlated. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of Wilcoxon statistic (W values) was used to compare diagnostic accuracy between the two different MR methods. Interobserver variation was measured using {kappa} statistics. For perirectal invasion, T1WI endorectal-pelvic phased-array coil images (reader 1:0. 854, reader 2:0.818) showed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Nuclear steam generator tubes have become flawed in ways that challenge conventional eddy current probes. In response to the shortcomings of conventional probes, array probes have been developed to improve measurement capabilities. However, the commercially available array probes have exhibited several weaknesses that offset the advantages and limit the applications in steam generator inspections. A primary weakness is the relatively high rate of probe failure coupled with the high unit cost for each probe. This can be costly for a utility in the time lost for probe replacement and increased radiation exposure in addition to the probe costs. Other weaknesses which make array probes undesirable for routine use are: poor mechanical and electrical characteristics; difficulty in operation and calibration; and incomplete coverage of the tube circumference. Several prototype array probes have been built to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

After October 1993, Swedish BWR power plant operators will be required to present an inspection concept which will facilitate the nondestructive examination of recirculation system piping. According to the pertinent Swedish codes and standards, such inspections will be required to focus on internal pipe surfaces. Since it is impossible for external inspections to cover all essential areas with the necessary degree of sensitivity (geometry, beam attenuation), Siemens-KWU was commissioned to develop an inspection system which combines ultrasonic search units and eddy current probes to produce the required degree of examination sensitivity. A pipe crawler was developed to transport the inspection unit. This device can be used for the inspection of circumferential and longitudinal pipe welds, nozzle-to-pipe welds and RPV nozzle-to-shell welds. Special probes designed to fulfill inspection and manipulation requirements were developed for the inspection of the 30 welds ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This paper is concerned with the real time automatic discriminating of flaws from two categories; i. cracks (planar defect) and ii. Non-cracks (volumetric defect such as cluster porosity and slag) using pulse-echo ultrasound. The raw ultrasonic flaws signal were collected from a computerized robotic plane scanning system over the whole of each reflector as the primary source of data. The signal is then filtered and the analysis in both time and frequency domain were executed to obtain the selected feature. The real time feature analysis techniques measured the number of peaks, maximum index, pulse duration, rise time and fall time. The obtained features could be used to distinguish between quantitatively classified flaws by using various tools in artificial intelligence such as neural networks. The proposed algorithm and complete system were implemented in a computer software developed using Microsoft Visual BASIC 6.0 (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

New Non Destructive Testing techniques are currently being developed for the inspection of two groups of components in the FA3 EPR nuclear reactor at Flamanville. The first group of components to be controlled is constituted by the welds of the (89) rod cluster control assemblies' containment; two control types are to be used: an ultrasonic technique (UT) evaluation from the outside of the flange-casing weld, and an ET control from the inside of the three other welds. The second group of components is formed by the 44 welded joints of the primary circuit, which will be inspected through ultrasonic testing. Details of the components, control devices and sensors are given and some test results are presented

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The ultrasonic inspection pig system was described as being under development. This system was said to adopt the unique wheel type ultrasonic sensor which does not need couplant. This pig was designed to detect external corrosion in long-distance pipelines without interruption of the gas service. The wall-thickness measurement performance test and the travel performance test of the inspection pig in the test line confirmed that these performances satisfied the development specifications. However, the effect induced by the inner surface properties of the pipe and the influence of the pipe`s performance over long distances and for a long period of time still needed to be verified in an actual gas pipeline, and while the pipeline was actually in service. Improvements to the prototype model of the inspection pig were expected to include combinations of inspection pigs, with increases in battery and memory capacities to permit them to cope with in ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Ultrasonic gold and aluminum wire wedge bonding are widely used for electrical and signal interconnections of the integrated circuit chip packages. In this paper, based on the metallurgical theories and thermal aging test methods, the long-term thermal reliabilities of gold and aluminum wire wedge bonding on aluminum and Au/Ni/Cu pads, were investigated, respectively. At 200degreeC, the Au/Al bond interfaces evolved little when the storage time was less than 48h; with the aging time increasing, the interfacial intermetallic compounds (IMC) grew up from the pad (vertical growth); the primary compounds were Au5Al2 near the bond toe and heel, and Au2Al at the periphery. Then, the thickness of IMC was unchanged, and extended horizontally (lateral growth), Au5Al2 transformed into more stable Au...

Science.gov (United States)

The purpose of this project was to design, build, and characterize the performance of a volume breast ultrasound (VBUS) scanner that images the pendant breast. VBUS scanner design includes a: 1) clinical ultrasound scanner and transducer; 2) scanning table with a hole for the pendant breast; 3) rotational gantry; 4) probe mounting assembly; 5) compressionless breast stabilization device; 6) acquisition, control, reconstruction, and display software. Performance assessment characterized a variety of parameters including: spatial resolution, uniformity, and distortion using high and low contrast test objects in both horizontal and vertical scanning modes. The VBUS scanner modules have been constructed and initial performance evaluated. Approximately 300 scans are acquired over 360 degrees in 18 seconds. Reconstruction requires 25 ms per slice. Test object images depicted hyper- and hypo-echoic masses and demonstrated good resolution, soft tissue contrast and reduced ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The liver is a primary target of growth hormone (GH). GH signals are mediated by the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5). Here, we focus on recent discoveries about the role of GH-STAT5 signaling in hepatic physiology and pathophysiology. We discuss roles of the GH-STAT5 axis in body growth, lipid metabolism, and the cell cycle pertaining to hepatosteatosis, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Finally, we discuss recent discoveries about the role of GH-STAT5 in sex-specific gene expression and bile acid, steroid, and drug metabolism.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A robust transmission element for transmitting information between downhole tools, such as sections of drill pipe, in the presence of hostile environmental conditions, such as heat, dirt, rocks, mud, fluids, lubricants, and the like. The transmission element maintains reliable connectivity between transmission elements, thereby providing an uninterrupted flow of information between drill string components. A transmission element is mounted within a recess proximate a mating surface of a downhole drilling component, such as a section of drill pipe. To close gaps present between transmission elements, transmission elements may be biased with a "spring force," urging them closer together.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A preliminary design effort directed toward a low concentration ratio photovoltaic array system capable of delivering multihundred kilowatts (300 kW to 1000 kW range) in low earth orbit is described. The array system consists of two or more array modules each capable of delivering between 113 kW to 175 kW using silicon solar cells or gallium arsenide solar cells, respectively. The array module deployed area is 1320 square meters and consists of 4356 pyramidal concentrator elements. The module, when stowed in the Space Shuttle's payload bay, has a stowage volume of a cube with 3.24 meters on a side. The concentrator elements are sized for a geometric concentration ratio (GCR) of six with an aperture area of .25 sq. m. The structural analysis and design trades leading to the baseline design are discussed. It describes the configuration, as well as optical, thermal and electrical performance ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Problems of classification and regression estimation in which objects are represented by multidimensional arrays of features are considered. Many practical statements can be reduced to such problems, for example, the popular approach to the description of images as a set of patches and a set of descriptors in each patch or the description of an object in the form of a set of distances from it to certain support objects selected based on a set of features. For solving problems concerning the objects thus described, a generalization of the relevance vector model is proposed. In this generalization, specific regularization coefficients are defined for each dimension of the multidimensional array of the object description; the resultant regularization coefficient for a given element in the mul...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The proton therapy gives an irradiation adapted to the shape and the depth of tumors ( eyes, head and neck) with a millimetric, even sub millimetric precision for the ophthalmological tumors. It is equally an excellent tool for the pediatrics tumors. For numerous treatments in France the proton therapy is associated to the photons treatments (x radiation). however, others physical treatments could modulate the medical offer, such thermal therapy or treatments by ultrasonic waves. (N.C.)

Science.gov (United States)

University research group with research areas: * Land based and submersible autonomous robots, (UUVs: AUVs and ROVs); * Controllers, electronics, sensor design and fusion, motion control; * Guidance and navigation of underwater vehicles; * AI, neural networks, fuzzy logic, subsumption control, behaviour based control; * Optical fibre and ultrasonic sensors for proximal object detection; * Robot arm control, visual servoing; * Imaging sonar applications; * Simulator development: UUV simulator; imaging sonar simulator; Aircraft/flight simulator.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In addition to their use in high-speed ovens, microwaves are also finding applications in industrial manufacture, quality control and storage - anywhere where the high-frequency transmission or reflection properties of a material can be exploited. Microwaves are also being used in medical applications for the characterization of certain type of tumours. They are also being used in research into ultrasonic cavitation. (authors) 5 refs.

Science.gov (United States)

An instrument has been constructed for the measurement of residual stress in steel. If necessary, large objects can be examined in situ. An account is given of the principles and construction. A special stressing frame provides for calibration. An application to residual stress in gear blanks has established a systematic variation of surface stress with nickel content and confirmed the overall effect of the surface hardening treatment.

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Telomeres protect the chromosome ends from unscheduled DNA repair and degradation. Telomeres are heterochromatic domains composed of repetitive DNA (TTAGGG repeats) bound to an array of specialized...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

(1977). United States Thomas, JT Tang, JS Oak Ridge National Lab., TN San

Science.gov (United States)

Previous experimental data and theoretical analysis have demonstrated that ... products of a technological process) but also other contaminants. ..... Thorough outgassing of solar array surfaces may result in significant decrease of arc ...

Science.gov (United States)

... .13 Teaching the Materials Science, Engineering, and Field Aspects of Concrete ... Gate Arrays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Materials Science Concepts for Introductory Courses in ...

Science.gov (United States)

... A detailed analysis of QCM errors is ... Surface Effects of Satellite Outgassing Products." AIAA Journal ... 9. Rauschenbach, H. S. Solar Cell Array Design ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The CLARA-PRISMA setup, composed of an array of 25 Clover detectors placed at the target position of the magnetic spectrometer PRISMA, has recently concluded its campaign to study the structure of moderately neutron-rich nuclei. In this contribution, results obtained in the vicinity of the doubly-magic nucleus "4"8Ca are presented, together with results obtained for the heavy iron isotopes. The perspectives offered by the forthcoming operation of the AGATA Demonstrator Array coupled to PRISMA are also discussed. (author)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The basic objective of this project was to consider a large class of matrix computations with particular emphasis on algorithms that can be implemented on arrays of processors. In particular, methods useful for sparse matrix computations were investigated. These computations arise in a variety of applications such as the solution of partial differential equations by multigrid methods and in the fitting of geodetic data. Some of the methods developed have already found their use on some of the newly developed architectures.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We developed a new TLD array for precise dose measurement and verification of the spatial dose distribution in small radiation targets. It consists of a hemicylindrical, tissue-equivalent rod made of polystyrene with 17 parallel moulds for an exact positioning of each TLD. The spatial resolution of the TLD array was evaluated using the Leskell spherical phantom. Dose planning was performed with KULA 4.4 under stereotactic conditions on axial CT images. In the Leksell gamma unit the TLD array was irradiated with a maximal dose of 10 Gy with an unplugged 14 mm collimator. The doses delivered to the TLDs were rechecked by diode detector and film dosimetry and compared to the computer-generated dose profile. We found excellent agreement of our measured values, even at the critical penumbra decline. For the 14 mm and 18 mm collimator and for the 11 mm collimator combination we compared the measured and calculated data at full ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The goal of this LDRD was to demonstrate the use of robotic vehicles for deploying and autonomously reconfiguring seismic and acoustic sensor arrays with high (centimeter) accuracy to obtain enhancement of our capability to locate and characterize remote targets. The capability to accurately place sensors and then retrieve and reconfigure them allows sensors to be placed in phased arrays in an initial monitoring configuration and then to be reconfigured in an array tuned to the specific frequencies and directions of the selected target. This report reviews the findings and accomplishments achieved during this three-year project. This project successfully demonstrated autonomous deployment and retrieval of a payload package with an accuracy of a few centimeters using differential global positioning system (GPS) signals. It developed an autonomous, multisensor, temporally aligned, radio-frequency communication and signal ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fine ceramic particles of zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA), titania toughened alumina (TTA), and zirconia-titania toughened alumina (ZTTA) have been synthesized by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) at various temperatures from starting salt solutions of various compositions aiming for the development of catalytic material. These particles were characterized for properties such as shape, size and size distribution, diffraction pattern, and chemical and phase composition of elements by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), particle size analyzer (PSA), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Chemical compositions and sizes of ceramic composites have been controlled by the stoichiometry of salt solutions and the flow rate of spraying solutions. The optimum experimental conditions for the various composite particle synthesis have been proposed.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A porous tooling system was selected for the processing of Graphite/PMR-15 Polyimide laminates in thickness up to 3.2 mm. (0.125 inch). This tool system must have a reasonable strength, permeability dimensional stability, and thermal conductivity to accomplish curing at 600 F and 200 psi and 200 psi autoclave temperature and pressure. A permeability measuring apparatus was constructed and permeability vs. casting water level determined to produce tools at three different permeability levels. On these tools, laminates of 5, 11, and 22 plies (.027, .060, and 0.121 inch) were produced and evaluated by ultrasonic, mechanical, and thermal tests to determine the effect of the tool permeability on the cured laminates. All tools produced acceptable laminates at 5 and 11 plies but only the highest permeability produced acceptable clear ultrasonic C-Scans. Recommendations are made for future investigations of design geometry, and strengthening techniques ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The inspection of PFR evaporator tubing, superheater and reheater tubing, and tube plate examinations, are described. Ferritic steel U tubes in the evaporator have been examined by an eddy current system operating at 400 kHz using flexible rotating probes. Surface defects as shallow as 0.1 mm can be detected and sized in the range 0.1 to 0.5 mm deep. An ultrasonic method is under development for wall thickness. Special test coil probes have been developed for examination of the type 316 stainless steel superheater and reheater tubing. Crack-life defects in the bore are detectable at approximately 10% wall thickness and 20% on the outside diameter. Tube plate examinations from the tube holes, have been conducted using eddy current probes which identify surface breaking cracks in the holes. For detecting curtain cracks between tube plate holes, ultrasonic compression wave probes have been used. (U.K.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Neuron differentiation is a complex process involving various cell-cell interactions, and multiple signaling pathways. We showed previously that CD40 is expressed and functional on mouse and human neurons. In neurons, ligation of CD40 protects against serum withdrawal-induced injury and plays a role in survival and differentiation. CD40 deficient mice display neuron dysfunction, aberrant neuron morphologic changes, and associated gross brain abnormalities. Previous studies by Tone and colleagues suggested that five isoforms of CD40 exist with two predominant isoforms expressed in humans: signal-transducible CD40 type I and a C-terminal truncated, non-signal-transducible CD40 type II. We hypothesized that differential expression of CD40 isoform type I and type II in neurons may modulate neuron differentiation. Results show that adult wild-type, and CD40"-"/"- deficient mice predominantly express CD40 type I and II isoforms. Whereas adult ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The design and material characteristics of garter spring were summarized and Nondestructive detection techniques of garter spring were also described. In particular, Eddy current testing of loose type garter spring was used in Wolsung unit 1 and was described in detail. The inspection technique of tight type garter spring has not been established and all candidated techniques were investigated in order to choose the possible detection technique. Candidated nondestructive techniques including RFEC, PEC, Magnetic technique using GMR sensor, AE, Guided Wave technique, and high frequency ultrasonic technique, are summarized for evaluating the detectability of tight garter spring.

Science.gov (United States)

During 1983, Oak Ridge National Laboratory continued a study of materials performance at the Wilsonville, Alabama, Advanced Coal Liquefaction Research and Development Facility. Materials performance was evaluated by exposure and analysis of corrosion coupons and U-bend specimens, chemical analysis of related process streams, and ultrasonic determination of the thickness of walls of various components. The results of these studies are useful to current plant operators and to designers of future large-scale plants. 18 references, 4 figures, 12 tables.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In order to match the output capacity of a geothermal heat pump system (GHPS) with the actual load requirement, research has been conducted in searching for suitable adjusting methods for the GHPS and on the subsequent effects on the working parameters of the GHPS. Firstly, several methods are compared, and it is found that the method of adjusting the compressor's rotation speed using a transducer is better than the others. Secondly, this method is experimented on a small scale GHPS at frequencies ranging from 30 to 55 Hz. The analysis of the experimental data reveals the relationships between the compressor frequency and other important parameters, such as coefficient of performance, heat capacity, cool capacity and compressor power input. The conclusions in the paper can serve as some guidance to the load adjustment of GHPS. (Author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

Aim: This study was performed: 1) to assess the relationship between blood flow velocity in the internal carotid artery (CBFICA) and pial artery pulsation (cc-TQ) and 2) to evaluate flow-induced changes in pial artery compliance. Methods: Experiments were performed on 10 crossbred male rabbits. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF), CBFICA, the systolic-diastolic blood volume fraction in the brain circulation (CBFSDF) and cc-TQ were recorded after glucagon and acetazolamide administration. cc-TQ was measured with near-infrared transillumination back scattering sounding (NIR-T/BSS), LVEF and CBFSDF with gated scintigraphy and BP and CBFICA with electromagnetic pressure and flow transducers, respectively. Doses of drugs were chosen to exert a haemodyna...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This report summarizes the results of a research programme which involves the development of a laboratory experimental facility for the simulation and study of hydro-thermo-mechanical processes in saturated geomaterials with low permeability. The experimentation involves a synthetic cement based porous material made of cement grout which possesses permeabilities in the range of dense unfractured sandstones or shale. Specially manufactured pore-pressure transducers were installed within the cylindrical block at locations adjacent to a plane free boundary. The block was saturated with the periodic application of a vacuum. In its saturated state the plane boundary of the block was subjected to heating via a circular heater the temperature of which was maintained constant. The resulting pore pressure generation along with temperature at these locations was monitored continuously. The results of a series of experiments are documented and further extensions to the ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

To test the hypothesis that transduction of the channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) gene, a microbial-type rhodopsin gene, into retinal ganglion cells of genetically blind rats will restore functional vision, we recorded visually evoked potentials and tested the experimental rats for the presence of optomotor responses. The N-terminal fragment of the ChR2 gene was fused to the fluorescent protein Venus and inserted into an adeno-associated virus to make AAV2-ChR2V. AAV2-ChR2V was injected intravitreally into the eyes of 6-month-old dystrophic RCS (rdy/rdy) rats. Visual function was evaluated six weeks after the injection by recording visually evoked potentials (VEPs) and testing optomotor responses. The expression of ChR2V in the retina was investigated histologically. We found that VEPs could not b...

Science.gov (United States)

For the efficient operation of a cavity ringdown spectroscopy (CRDS) system utilized with a continuous-wave (cw) laser, we numerically analyze the coupling efficiency of a cw laser to a ringdown cavity in terms of changes in the scanning rate, the laser linewidth, and the mirror reflectivity. We also demonstrate a new simple design for a CRDS system that can produce a CRDS signal with only a piezoelectric transducer (PZT), without the acousto-optic modulator that is usually adopted to switch off the cw laser beam that enters the cavity. Furthermore, we investigate the feasibility of the cw CRDS technique with a fast-scanning PZT by recording a CRDS spectrum of acetylene overtones. The detection sensitivity that corresponds to the noise-equivalent absorption is found to be approximately 3 x 10(-9)/cm. PMID:18305817

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The ACP Multi-Array Processor System (ACPMAPS) is a highly cost effective, local memory parallel computer designed for floating point intensive grid based problems. The processing nodes of the system are single board array processors based on the FORTRAN and C programmable Weitek XL chip set. The nodes are connected by a network of very high bandwidth 16 port crossbar switches. The architecture is designed to achieve the highest possible cost effectiveness while maintaining a high level of programmability. The primary application of the machine at Fermilab will be lattice gauge theory. The hardware is supported by a transparent site oriented software system called CANOPY which shields theorist users from the underlying node structure. 4 refs., 2 figs.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Highly ordered arrays of Ni nanoholes and Fe20Ni80 antidots have been prepared, respectively, by replica/antireplica processing and sputtering techniques using nanoporous alumina membranes as templates. Geometrical characteristics as nanohole/antidot diameter, interpore distance and the overall hexagonal symmetry of arrays are controlled through the original templates. Experimental data on their hysteresis and magnetic domain structure have been taken by vibrating sample magnetometry and magnetic force microscopy, respectively. An analysis of the magnetization process, resulting magnetic anisotropy and magnetic domain structure is summarized considering the influence of those geometry aspects. In particular, the hexagonal symmetry and the density of nanohole/antidots determine the overall magnetic behavior, which is of interest in future high-density magnetic storage systems.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We have succeeded in aligning self-assembled structures by using a lithographically defined stripe. The 140 nm wide by 100 nm high SiO_2 strip is shown to guide the assembly of 500 nm latex spheres so that spheres are aligned along the strip and are in registration on either side of the strip. This method can be used to increase long-range ordering in magnetic storage systems without compromising the density. Inverse sphere Ni arrays were made by electrodeposition through the latex template. We also show that the hexagonal symmetry of the resulting inverse sphere Ni arrays can be simulated using the approach presented below.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The authors describe a small doubly reflecting research furnace. Its optical components, a heliostat and a concentrating array of hexagonal-in-plan-form mirrors, focus sunlight at the aperture of a cavity receiver. A perfect paraboloid of revolution would have given higher concentration ratios. But large paraboloids are difficult to make and manipulate. Small hexagons are convenient and can be close packed. Spherical mirrors centered on a sphere simplified construction and were economical. In this note they use a simple model to describe the radial distribution of the normal flux at the focus of such an array. A schematic representation of a cross section of the concentrator mirror array in a plane which includes its axis is shown.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ultraviolet light can be used to immobilize biomolecules onto thiol reactive surfaces in order to, e.g., make biosensors. The mechanism involves light-induced formation of free, reactive thiol groups in disulphide containing molecules. This technology allows for the creation of arrays of biomolecules with a high degree of reproducibility, circumventing the need for often expensive nano/micro-dispensing technologies. The ultimate size of the immobilized spots is defined by the focal area of the UV beam. Light-induced immobilization has the added benefit that the immobilized molecules will be spatially oriented and covalently bound to the surface. In this paper, we demonstrate the utility of a sensor array created with the new sensor technology when integrated into a microfluidic system. Protein arrays made using light-induced immobilization showed successful antigen/antibody binding in a flow cell allowing the visualisation ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

p53 is one of the most mutated tumor suppressors in human cancers and as such has been intensively studied for a long time. p53 is a major orchestrator of the cellular response to a broad array...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A compact, quasi-4? position sensitive silicon array, TIARA, designed to study direct reactions induced by radioactive beams in inverse kinematics is described here. The Transfer and Inelastic All-angle Reaction Array (TIARA) consists of 8 resistive charge division detectors forming an octagonal barrel around the target and a set of double-sided silicon-strip annular detectors positioned at each end of the barrel. The detector was coupled to the ?-ray array EXOGAM and the spectrometer VAMOS at the GANIL Laboratory to demonstrate the potential of such an apparatus with radioactive beams. The 14N(d,p)15N reaction, well known in direct kinematics, has been carried out in inverse kinematics for that purpose. The observation of the 15N ground state and excited states at 7.16 and 7.86 MeV is presented here as well as the comparison of the measured proton angular distributions with DWBA calculations. Transferred l-values are in ...

Science.gov (United States)

The gadolinium isotopes are interesting for reactor applications as well as for medicine and astrophysics. The gadolinium isotopes have some of the largest neutron capture cross sections. As a consequence they are used in the control rod in reactor fuel assembly. From the basic science point of view, there are seven stable isotopes of gadolinium with varying degrees of deformation. Therefore they provide a good testing ground for the study of deformation dependent structure such as the scissors mode. Decay gamma rays following neutron capture on Gd isotopes are detected by the DANCE array, which is located at flight path 14 at the Lujan Neutron Scattering Center at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The high segmentation and close packing of the detector array enable gamma-ray multiplicity measurements. The calorimetric properties of the DANCE array coupled with the neutron time-of-flight technique enables one to gate on a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

To study CdZnTe as a high energy resolution gamma ray detector with a novel new design, and to build a detector array from the new detector design

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An array of multiwire proportional counters has been employed to image, in 'real-time', a collimated neutron beam produced at an electron linac facility. Test results are presented, along with a discussion of the advantages of this technique.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A free standing outdoor telephone booth is provided with a photovoltaic (PV) array, one or more rechargeable storage batteries and electrical control circuit which includes a temperature compensated control for limiting the supply of electrical energy from the PV array to the rechargeable battery to avoid over charging the battery, an ambient light (solar insolation) sensing circuit for controlling the electrical lamp load, to turn the lamp ON during dark ambient and OFF during light ambient conditions. In addition, the total discharge limit of the storage battery is controlled to a safe operating limit and a means is disclosed to power a fluorescent lamp at energy conserving intensities with energy derived from the rechargeable storage battery. The lamp control circuitry is preferably constituted by a high frequency power inverter with regulated output power to energize a low wattage fluorescent lamp and to dim the fluorescent lamp when the ...

Environmental Research Database

Objectives1. The study of the automatic alignment of electrically charged optical fibres.~%~~%~2. The design and construction of a prototype system for assembly of the fibres.~%~~%~3. The fabrication of a proof-of-principle 4-by-4 fibre array.~%~~%~4. The test and characterisation of the prototype fibre bundle in terms of translational and angular positioning accuracy.~%~~%~5. A paper design of a full-scale automated system.~%~~%~6. Enable commercial exploitation.~%~DescriptionThis multidisciplinary programme aims to investigate and develop an 'adventurous' process for manufacturing 2-D optical fibre arrays, with at least an order of magnitude improvement in the positional and angular tolerances of the mono-mode fibres compared to conventional techniques. Manufacturable, dense 2-D optical fibre arrays are essential for a wide variety ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Norway spruce (Picea abies L. Karst) produces an oleoresin characterized by a diverse array of terpenoids, monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and diterpene resin acids that can protect...Full Text Available

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the capability of high-resolution images obtained with a commercially available pelvic phased-array surface coil to demonstrate normal hip anatomy. Design. We retrospectively analyzed the oblique coronal magnetic resonance (MR) images of hips of 36 consecutive patients acquired on a 1.5-T clinical imager using a pelvic phased-array coil as a receiver, a 16-20 cm field of view, and 5 mm slice thickness. Patients. Thirty-six patients were studied, age 15-81 years. There were 20 males and 16 females. Results and conclusions. The articular cartilage, cortex, superior labrum, and iliofemoral ligament were well visualized on proton density weighted fat saturation (PDF) images. The femoral and obturator vessels, obturator nerve, and various muscles were easily seen on T1-weighted images. High-resolution imaging of the hip is achievable in a reasonable amount of time using newer ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

New developments in fluorophores as well as in detection methods have fueled the rapid growth of optical imaging in the life sciences. Commercial widefield microscopes generally use arc lamps, excitation/emission...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Measuring gene expression using microarrays is relevant to many areas of biology and medicine, such as follow up of developmental stages and diseases onset, and treatment study. Since there can be tens of thousands of distinct probes on an array, each micro array experiment can accomplish the equivalent number of genetic tests in parallel. Arrays have therefore dramatically accelerated many types of investigations. For example, microarrays can be used to identify stress response genes by comparing gene expression in challenged versus normal cells. In the Molecular and Cellular Biology lab (MCB), the micro array experiments are performed within the Genomic Platform, fully equipped to analyse either the behaviour of bacteria during long space flight, the effect of low dose ionising radiation on the developing organism in mice, or the human individual radiation sensitivity. For the low dose effect, two ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Laser holographic interferometry and pressure measurements are presented for the effects of rib-to-duct height ratio (H/2B), rib pitch-to-height ratio (Pi/H), and Reynolds number (Re) on the spatially periodic-fully developed turbulent heat transfer and friction in a rectangular duct of width-to-height ratio of 4:1 with an array of ribs detached from one wall at a clearance to rib-height ratio of 0.38. The ranges of H/2B, Pi/H, and Re examined were 0.13 to 0.26, 7 to 13, and 5 {times} 10{sup 3} to 5 {times} 10{sup 4}, respectively. The difference in the H/2B dependence of the thermal performance between the detached and attached solid-rib array is documented H/2B = 0.17 and Pi/H = 10 are found to provide the best thermal performance for the range of parameters tested. Compact heat transfer and friction correlations are developed. Additionally, it is found that heat transfer augmentation with a detached solid-rib array is ...

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Species of the large family Orchidaceae display a spectacular array of adaptations and rapid speciations that are linked to several innovative features, including specialized pollination syndromes,...Full Text Available

UK PubMed Central (United Kingdom)

Functionalizing of single molecules on surfaces has manifested great potential for bottom-up construction of complex devices on a molecular scale. We discuss the growth mechanism for the initial layers...Full Text Available

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

An array of multiwire proportional counters has been employed to image, in 'real-time', a collimated neutron beam produced at an electron linac facility. Test results are presented, along with a discussion of the advantages of this technique. (orig.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A 4{pi} detection system sensitive to light charged particles is being developed at the Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro (LNL) for the study of reaction mechanisms at energies up to 20 AMeV. The array consists of 262 {Delta}E-E telescopes covering 90% of 4{pi}. Each telescope is made of a 300 {mu}m passivated silicon detector and a 15 mm (or 5 mm) CsI(Tl) crystal read by a photodiode. The system will be operational in the Spring of 1997 and the first experiments will run in the second half of 1997.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) are being used in space applications because of attractive attributes: good density, moderate speed, low cost, and quick turn-around time. However, these devices are susceptible to Single Event Upsets (SEUs). An approach using triple modular redundancy (TMR) and feedback was developed for flip-flop hardening in these devices. Test data showed excellent results for this circuit topology. Total dose and Single Event Effect (SEE) testing have been performed on recently released technologies. Failures are analyzed and test methodology is discussed.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Arrays of CdS:Mn"2"+:Cu"+ micro- and nanowires grown in polycarbonate ion-track templates exhibit photoluminescence in the spectral domain ranging from 500 to 800 nm at room temperature. A comparison with similar CdS and CdS:Mn"2"+ wire arrays is presented. The individual contributions to the emission spectra of Cu"+ and Mn"2"+ ions in the CdS matrix are explained using their energy level schemes. Also SEM, EDX and EPR data are given for these wires. (copyright 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim) (orig.)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

With the development of an array of highly-segmented germanium detectors, it now becomes possible to perform in-flight #gamma#-ray spectroscopy experiments on intermediate energy beams with unprecedented #gamma#-ray energy resolution. Presented in this report are examples of two techniques in which SeGA, the most highly-segmented operational germanium array for in-flight spectroscopy with fast beams, was used for the detection of #gamma# rays. SeGA used in conjunction with a high-resolution magnetic spectrograph (S800) to detect the reaction residues in coincidence represents a powerful combination for in-beam #gamma#-ray studies.

CERN Document Server

This is a design study into the capabilities of the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) in performing a full-sky low redshift neutral hydrogen survey, termed WALLABY, and the potential cosmological constraints one can attain from measurement of the matter power spectrum. We find that the full sky survey will likely attain 600,000 redshifts which, when combined with expected Planck CMB data, will constrain the Dark Energy equation of state to 20%, for the first time making cosmological constraints from radio observations competitive with the best existing optical surveys.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Computed tomography (CT) of the neck and mediastinum was performed in 16 patients with renal osteodystrophy. Thirty out of 34 excised parathyroid glands weighing more than 500mg were diagnosed preoperatively (88.2%). Scintigraphy of the neck with _2_0_1TlCl and sup(99m)TcOsub(4-) was also performed in 15 patients. The introduction of subtraction method with a mini-computor in the scintigraphy has remarkably improved the visualization rate of parathyroid glands. Ultrasonic echography (US) of the neck which is able to obtain not only transverse butalso longitudinal imaging was done in 7 patients. It has about same detection rate of the glands with CT. The visualization of enlarged parathyroid glands is valuable not only for localization but also for undeniable evidence of hyperparathyroidism. Also, repeated follow-up examination can determine the effectiveness of conservative treatment. (author).

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

N-doped TiO2 has been prepared by use of sol?gel systems containing titanium alkoxide, with nitric acid as the nitrogen source. The time needed for gelation of the systems was drastically reduced by ultrasonic irradiation. The peaks assigned to the nitrate and nitrous ions were observed by FT-IR measurement during the sol?gel reaction. The N-doping was confirmed by the observation of N?O peaks in the XPS spectrum of the sample heated at 400??C. The nitrate ion acted as an oxidizer of the ethanol solvent and titanium species. The TiO2 became doped with nitrogen oxide species as a result of reduction of nitrate ion incorporated into the dried gel samples. These results indicated that the added nitric acid was reduced during the sol?gel transition and heating process, and the resulting NO spe...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of the inspection qualification is to ensure that applied non-destructive methods (NDT) have the required performance. The approach of the qualification process is systematic and carefully documented and therefore some new requirements can be seen concerning the composition of the documentation. There are also new document types, that only application of the inspection qualification requires. The most important of these is the technical justification, that includes the documented evidences concerning the performance of the inspection system. This publication includes two reports: 'Compilation of the inspection procedure' and 'Essential/influential parameters in NDT qualification'. The former of these discusses the issues to be considered in an inspection procedure especially from the point of view of the mechanised ultrasonic testing. The later report explains the parameters formulated to analyse in the technical ...

Science.gov (United States)

A 65-yr-old female developed cough, fever and dyspnoea following repeated exposure to a home ultrasonic humidifier. High-resolution computed tomography showed ground-glass opacity in both lung fields. Arterial blood gas analysis gave an oxygen tension of 8.38 kPa (63 Torr). Pulmonary function testing revealed restrictive ventilatory impairment with a reduction in the diffusing capacity. The diagnosis of extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA) was confirmed by radiographic findings, pathological evidence of alveolitis and reproductive development by a provocation test to the humidifier water. The yeast Debaryomyces Hansenii was the only microorganism cultured from the water of the humidifier. The double diffusion precipitating test and lymphocyte proliferative response was positive for an extract of D. Hansenii, providing evidence to incriminate this fungus. This is the first described case of EAA caused by D. Hansenii. PMID:12449192

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dense samples of #beta#-sialons (with z from 1 to 4) were pressuressly sintered for different time (15-240 minutes) and at relatively low temperature of 1600 C using single-phase #beta#-sialon powders synthesized by combustion nitridation. The samples were characterized using ultrasonic method for determination of elastic properties (E,G,#mu#). Also, hardness by Knoop and fracture toughness by Vickers indentation microfracture method was estimated. With increasing z number Young's modulus decreases from 293 to 179 GPa. Simultaneously Poisson ratio increases by about 30%. The highest values of hardness and fracture toughness were obtained for sialon with z equal to 1. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The ISI (In-Service Inspection) system has been developed so as to maintain the structural integrity of heat transfer tubes in the primary pressurized water cooler in the HTTR (High Temperature Engineering Test Reactor). This system consists of eddy current probes, ultra-sonic probes, insertion and extraction units, positioning unit and so on. Verification and performance tests of the developed ISI system were carried out using mock-up heat transfer tubes in the primary pressurized water cooler. The constitution of the system, R and D results of the inspection probes, and verification and performance test results of the ISI system for heat transfer tubes are described in this paper. (author)

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

SBA-15 supported nano-scaled copper oxide was synthesized by impregnation method via ultrasonic-assisted route. The removal test from gas mixture containing 0.1?vol.% hydrogen sulfide was carried out over this material at atmospheric conditions. The effects of the chemical nature of copper oxide and the textural properties of the material on removal capacity were studied. The materials before and after the removal test were analyzed by nitrogen adsorption, X-ray diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscope, X-ray photoelectron Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer and Inductive Coupled Plasma. The results showed that copper species are located predominantly in mesopore channels, existing as copper oxide nanoparticles. Mesopores are active sites for removal reaction. The ou...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kawasaki Steel started the construction of an automatic steel strip coil transportation system in the 1980's. Presently, most of the in-plant transportation of hot-rolled or cold-rolled coils are automated. For establishing the automatic transportation, there were developed various technologies, such as, the optimum handling technology using artificial intelligence, the technology of preventing additional piling of coils on existing coils by using an ultrasonic wave and a laser beam. Through the improvements of these technologies, a full-automated transportation system has been achieved and the system has contributed substantially toward product quality assurance and cost reduction. This paper gives the changes in the automation technology of coil transportation in the automation of No. 3 finishing hot rolling mill, now having the latest automatic system, in Chiba Works. (author)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

To overcome the limitations of conventional bobbin style eddy-current probes, it has become common practice to perform some portion of a steam generator tube inspection program with array coil probes. Typically, eight surface-riding pancake coils are utilized in a probe head, either as eight independent coils (8 x 1) or in a parallel combination of four serially connected coils (4 x 4). The advantages of the array coils are improved sensitivity to intergranular attack (IGA), reduced interference from tube denting, and improved sensitivity to circumferential cracking. The current status of commercially available probes is such that several weaknesses in array coils have limited the widespread application of this technology. Task S 301-6 was conceived to address each of the weaknesses in order to produce a more reliable and cost-effective probe. The emphasis was on reliability, since the cost associated with downtime for a ...

Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)

Abstract in english Cytokines are molecules that were initially discovered in the immune system as mediators of communication between various types of immune cells. However, it soon became evident that cytokines exert profound effects on key functions of the central nervous system, such as food intake, fever, neuroendocrine regulation, long-term potentiation, and behavior. In the 80's and 90's our group and others discovered that the genes encoding various cytokines and their receptors are e (more) xpressed in vascular, glial, and neuronal structures of the adult brain. Most cytokines act through cell surface receptors that have one transmembrane domain and which transduce a signal through the JAK/STAT pathway. Of particular physiological and pathophysiological relevance is the fact that cytokines are potent regulators of hypothalamic neuropeptidergic systems that maintain neuroendocrine homeostasis and which regulate the body's response to stress. The mechanisms ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The meeting was arranged into the following sessions: introductory; advanced ceramics and ceramic composites; ceramic and metal matrix composites; electronic materials and devices; acoustoelasticity, stress, and texture; composites-porosity, strength, and UT propagation; process modeling and monitoring; thermal wave physics; material properties, composites, surfaces, and interfaces; acoustic emission; ferromagnetic materials; new sensors; NDE reliability assessment; elastic wave scattering and propagation; image analysis, data storage, and signal processing; UT transducers; weldments and bonded materials; eddy current models; unified life cycle engineering; x rays, CT, and NMR; eddy current probes and instruments; acoustic microscopy imaging, and reconstruction; signal processing, measurement techniques, and systems; NDE applications of artificial intelligence; crack behavior influenced by history; inversion procedures for UT and EC; process control and material ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The purpose of this project was to investigate the origin of pressure fluctuations in fluidized bed systems. The study assessed the potential for using pressure fluctuations as an indicator of fluidized bed hydrodynamics in both laboratory scale cold-models and industrial scale boilers. Both bubbling fluidized beds and circulating fluidized beds were evaluated. Testing including both cold-flow models and laboratory and industrial-scale combustors operating at elevated temperatures. The study yielded several conclusions on the relationship of pressure fluctuations and hydrodynamic behavior in fluidized beds. The study revealed the importance of collecting sufficiently long data sets to capture low frequency (on the order of 1 Hz) pressure phenomena in fluidized beds. Past research has tended toward truncated data sets collected with high frequency response transducers, which miss much of the spectral structure of fluidized bed hydrodynamics. As a result, many ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Intramuscular hermorrhage was induced by injecting autologous blood into the paraspinal muscle of 8 rabbits. In order to evaluate the time-dependent changes of hemorrhage observed on MRI, the animals were imaged at different stages of blood resolution at 0.02 tesla (T), and control examined with ultrasound using a 7.5 MHz linear transducer. Six inversion recovery sequences (TR=1 000 ms. TE=30 ms, and TI=18, 48, 148, 201, 302, and 398 ms) were used for the invivo calculation of T1 relaxation times. IR 1 000 (398)/30 imaging was performed before and after the Gd-DOTA administration. The hemorrhage was evident on MR images throughout the study, especially on the T2 weighted (SE 1 000/100) images. MRI showed the healing lesion longer than ultrasound. The T1 relaxation time increased during the time of resolution. Lesions on days 4 to 7 enhanced in intensity after the injection of Gd-DOTA. (orig.).

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A study has been performed of the initial corrosion of support structure alloys in crevices of various geometries, when galvanically coupled to alloy 600. Corrosion rates were monitored continuously by measuring the galvanic current flowing in each couple, transduced by a zero impedance ammeter. Experiments were performed in a single-pass flowing electrolyte system, with AVT water pumped through alloy 600 tubing past the orifice of each crevice. Fourteen crevices were studied simultaneously in two parallel flow arms containing seven specimens each. The steady state AVT water pH/hydrazine/oxygen concentrations were controlled by microcomputer, allowing the effect of secondary water chemistry on the corrosion rate to be studied easily. Control of the crevice electrolyte composition was achieved by separately pumping electrolyte, at a low rate, directly into the crevices of the seven specimens in the lower flow arm. In addition, a high pressure syringe was used to ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Experiments with fresh PWR fuel assemblies were performed to assess the {sup 252}Cf-source-driven frequency analysis method for measuring the subcriticality of spent fuel. The measurements at the Babcox and Wilcox Critical Experiments Facility mocked up between 17x17 fuel pins (single assembly) and a full array of 4961 fuel pins (about 17 fuel assemblies) in borated water with a fixed B concentration. For the full array, the B content of the water was varied from 1511 at delayed criticality to 4303 ppM. Measurements were done for various source-detector-fuel pin configurations; they showed high sensitivity of frequency analysis parameters to B content and fissile mass. Parameters such as auto and cross power spectral densities can be calculated directly by a more general model of the Monte Carlo code (MCNP-DSP). Calculation-measurement comparisons are presented. This model permits the validation of neutron and gamma ray transport calculational ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Room temperature continuous wave operation of red ([lambda][sub 0] [approximately] 660 nm) vertical cavity surface emitting laser arrays is reported. The 1 [times] 64 arrays have a pitch of 100 [mu]m with device diameters of 15 [mu]m with device diameters of 15 [mu]m. Grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy, the devices consist of an AlGaInP strained quantum well optical cavity active region surrounded by AlGaAs distributed Bragg reflectors (DBR's). The top coupling DBR includes a partial dielectric stack, deposited after implanted device fabrication. All 64 devices operation simultaneously with peak output powers >0.45 mW, threshold current <1.5 mA, and threshold voltages [<=] 2.7 V. The differential quantum efficiencies exceed 10%.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ga"+ focused ion beam (FIB) patterning was used to structure highly oriented pyrolytic graphite surfaces with square, periodic arrays of amorphous carbon defects (mesh sizes: 300 nm-2 #mu#m). Controlled oxygen etching of these arrays leads to matrices of uniform, orientationally aligned, nm-sized, hexagonal holes. The properties of the resulting hole assembly (hole depths and lateral hole dimensions) have been investigated by means of atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and FIB sectioning. The hole dimensions and uniformity both depend on the FIB parameters and etching conditions. Etching temperatures from 500 to 700 deg. C were applied. Initial etch rates of up to 10"6 C s"-"1 per individual hole were observed when using oxygen pressures of 200 mbar. For an etch temperature of 590 deg. C the rate of etching of individual holes was found to depend measurably on the inter-hole separation. This confirms that the associated ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An analyser for detecting explosives has at least one neutron source and a plurality of gamma ray detectors. An article to be analysed is moved adjacent the source and detectors and is subjected to neutrons which generate gamma rays from any nitrogen in the article. The gamma rays are detected and analysed to determine the nitrogen concentration within the article. In order to achieve an area of uniform detection there are a plurality of detectors equidistant both from the or each source and from the article to be analysed. In order to avoid a decrease in sensitivity away from the source(s) and detectors there may be a second opposing array of source(s) and detectors on the opposite side of the article. For greatest uniformity of detection, a source in one array opposes a detector in the other array and vice versa. Transmission of radiation from the analyser is kept at safe levels by enclosing the analyser within shielding ...

CERN Document Server

The combination of large thickness ($>3$ $\\mu$m), large--area uniformity (75 mm diameter), high growth rate (up to 0.4 $\\mu$m/min) in assemblies of complex--shaped nanowires on lithographically defined patterns has been achieved for the first time. The nanoscale and the microscale have thus been blended together in sculptured thin films with transverse architectures. SiO$_x$ ($x\\approx 2$) nanowires were grown by electron--beam evaporation onto silicon substrates both with and without photoresist lines (1--D arrays) and checkerboard (2--D arrays) patterns. Atomic self--shadowing due to oblique--angle deposition enables the nanowires to grow continuously, to change direction abruptly, and to maintain constant cross--sectional diameter. The selective growth of nanowire assemblies on the top surfaces of both 1--D and 2--D arrays can be understood and predicted using simple geometrical shadowing equations.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A borehole televiewer (BHTV) logging was conducted to investigate cracks in bored wells. The logging process shoots ultrasonic waves onto bore walls and utilizes reflection waves from the bore walls. If the bores are filled with muddy water, or the ultrasonic waves can pass through even if vinyl chloride tubes have been inserted after excavation, the state of the bore walls can be investigated in principle. Conventional optical scanners are, however, incapable of making this investigation. The BHTV logging can be used for identifying lithofacies from reflection intensities from bore walls (it depends on sound impedance of rocks), not to speak of finding cracks. As a result of making logging upon setting time windows from 105 to 145 {mu} sec in a bored well inserted with a vinyl chloride tube, cracks in the bore wall were identified clearly through the vinyl chloride tube. If the distance between the bore wall and the vinyl chloride tube becomes ...

Science.gov (United States)

The Micro-X instrument is a NASA funded, rocket borne X-ray imaging spectrometer planned for launch in January 2011. An array of Transition Edge Sensors (TESs) will observe incoming photons in the 0.2-3 keV energy band with an energy resolution of 2-4 eV at 1 keV. This will be a substantial improvement over current non-dispersive detectors for X-ray spectroscopy of extended sources and will be the first demonstration of a TES-based microcalorimeter in space. The TESs will utilize the 50 mK stage of an Adiabatic Demagnetization Refrigerator (ADR) as a heat sink, and will be read out by a SQUID time division multiplexer. X-rays will be focused onto the TES array of 128 pixels on a 600 micron pitch by a conically approximated Wolter optic with an effective area of 200 cm2. The spectrometer will have a field of view of 11.8 arcmin. We describe the design and development progress of the instrument.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The major problem of measurement of a power spectral density (PSD) distribution of surface heights with surface profilometers arises due to the unknown Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) of the instruments, which tends to distort the PSD at higher spatial frequencies. The special mathematical properties of binary pseudo-random patterns make them an ideal basis for developing MTF calibration test surfaces. Two-dimensional binary pseudo-random arrays (BPRAs) have been fabricated and used for the MTF calibration of the MicroMap{trademark}-570 interferometric microscope with all available objectives. An investigation into the effects of fabrication imperfections on the quality of the MTF calibration and a procedure for accounting for such imperfections are presented.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Potassium clusters arrayed in zeolite A are known to show ferromagnetic properties at low temperature. The origin of the spontaneous magnetization has been explained by a model of spin-canting in an antiferromagnetically ordered state. The direct information for the magnetic structure, however, has not been obtained so far. In the present work, we measure the neutron powder diffraction by using pulsed neutron source at KEK-KENS below and above the Curie temperature. No significant temperature-dependence was, however, obtained within the statistical errors, namely, magnetic scattering could not be detected separately. We also estimate the intensity of magnetic scattering by assuming some possible magnetic structures with considering the magnetic form factor of the cluster wave function. The intensity of magnetic scattering is estimated to be extremely weak and higher S/N of ?104 or more is required to detect the magnetic scattering of this material.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The present conference on lens design encompasses physical and geometrical optics, diffractive optics, the optimization of optical design, software packages, ray tracing, the use of artificial intelligence, the achromatization of materials, zoom optics, microoptics and GRIN lenses, and IR lens design. Specific issues addressed include diffraction-performance calculations in lens design, the optimization of the optical transfer function, a rank-down method for automatic lens design, applications of quadric surfaces, the correction of aberrations by using HOEs in UV and visible imaging systems, and an all-refractive telescope for intersatellite communications. Also addressed are automation techniques for optics manufacturing, all-reflective phased-array imaging telescopes, the thermal aberration analysis of a Nd:YAG laser, the analysis of illumination systems, athermalized FLIR optics, and the design of array systems using shared symmetry.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In the food, chemical and safety industry there is a demand for gas detectors for process control applications, like quality control of food or leakage control in chemical plants. Gas sensor array systems have the potential to be used in this areas, with the advantage of being also affordable systems compared to other systems like gaschromatographs (GC) or infrared detectors (NIR, FTIR). One of the main drawbacks of the gas sensors is their response to non interesting ambient factors like temperature, pressure and humidity. Metal oxide sensors (MOS) have a low ambient temperature and pressure dependency. Some of them (SnO + dopands) have some sensitivity to humidity. In many cases the response of the sensors is often non-linear, which implies a concentration dependant pattern of the samples. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) are being proposed for many applications including surveillance, mapping and atmospheric studies. These applications require a lightweight, low speed, medium to long duration airplane. Due to the weight, speed, and altitude constraints imposed on such aircraft, solar array generated electric power is a viable alternative to air-breathing engines. Development of such aircraft is currently being funded under the Environmental Research Aircraft and Sensor Technology (ERAST) program. NASA Lewis Research Center (LeRC) is currently building a Solar Electric Airplane to demonstrate UAV technology. This aircraft utilizes high efficiency Applied Solar Energy Corporation (ASEC) GaAs/Ge space solar cells. The cells have been provided by the Air Force through the ManTech Office. Expected completion of the plane is early 1995, with the airplane currently undergoing flight testing using battery power.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Using a realistic three-body model, angular distributions for the "1"6O(d,p)"1"7O(1/2"+) reaction, based on the channel coupling array (CCA) theory and various forms of the coupled reaction channel (CRC) method are compared. Despite the different forms and theoretical foundations of these methods, they yield similar angular distributions, within the bound state approximations used herein. The expected breaking of time reversal inveriance in the approximated CCA theory is quite small over most of the angular range. Of all the methods used, coupling effects in the forward directions are largest for the post form of the CRC, indicating that it is the least reliable of the CRC forms for fitting data. (Auth.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

It has been shown that two-dimensional arrays of rigid or fluidlike cylinders in a fluid or a gas define, in the limit of large wavelengths, a class of acoustic metamaterials whose effective parameters (sound velocity and density) can be tailored up to a certain limit. This work goes a step further by considering arrays of solid cylinders in which the elastic properties of cylinders are taken into account. We have also treated mixtures of two different elastic cylinders. It is shown that both effects broaden the range of acoustic parameters available for designing metamaterials. For example, it is predicted that metamaterials with perfect matching of impedance with air are now possible by using aerogel and rigid cylinders equally distributed in a square lattice. As a potential application of the proposed metamaterial, we present a gradient index lens for airborne sound (i.e. a sonic Wood lens) whose functionality is demonstrated by multiple ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The developed system is intended for use at a collimated thermal neutron beam with a flux of about 10"6 n/cm"2 s. The system works with a cooled CCD array (192 x 165 pixels) and an intensifier for light from a NE426 scintillator with traditional optical coupling. A fine mechanical regulation system allows an accurate positioning of the tomographer, also ensuring the alignment of the CCD array with the rotation and translation axes. The acquisition of 200 projections is carried out in about 30 min with a reconstruction time (40 min max) depending on the reconstruction-matrix order. Radiography and tomography of significant objects are illustrated. The reconstruction algorithm, including spatial and temporal inhomogeneity corrections and filters, was tested with good results for projections up to 512 x 512 pixels. (orig.)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Highly water-repellent surfaces have been prepared from arrayed nanowires of zinc oxide (ZnO) by a treatment with stearic acid. The layers are electrochemically deposited on a nanocrystalline seed layer from an oxygenated aqueous zinc chloride solution. An advancing contact angle (CA) as high as 176{sup 0} is obtained with a very small hysteresis {approx}1{sup 0}. These results, supplemented by infrared spectroscopy, show that the stearic acid forms a very well-packed self-assembled monolayer. The CA measurements show a very good stability of the treated surface even when exposed to harsh conditions or long-term ambient illumination.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

This report describes the results from acoustic emission (AE) and ultrasonic monitoring of the Aespoe Pillar Stability Experiment (APSE) at SKB's Hard Rock Laboratory (HRL), Sweden. The APSE is being undertaken to demonstrate the current capability to predict spalling in a fractured rock mass using numerical modelling techniques, and to demonstrate the effect of backfill and confining pressure on the propagation of micro-cracks in rock adjacent to deposition holes within a repository. An ultrasonic acquisition system has provided acoustic emission and ultrasonic survey monitoring throughout the various phases of the experiment. Results from the entire data set are provided with this document so that they can be effectively compared to several numerical modelling studies, and to mechanical and thermal measurements conducted around the pillar volume, in an 'integrated analysis' performed by SKB ...

Science.gov (United States)

We solve an R -linear problem for a multiple-connected circular domain in a class of doubly periodic functions in analytic form by a method of functional equations. This problem models transport properties of two-dimensional composite materials made from a collection of disks embedded in an otherwise uniform host.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Design considerations of a combined photovoltaic-thermal (PV-T) system for a particular site and application must include thermal and electrical tradeoffs. A simplified technique for determining preliminary design and economic analyses would minimize costly computer simulation and indicate feasibility. To that end, nomographs that size an array to meet a specific annual load and determine the subsequent cost savings have been developed, and are presented in this paper.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Quantitative digital imaging, using planar laser light scattering techniques is being developed for the analysis of turbulent and reacting flows. Quantitative image data, implying both a direct relation to flowfield variables as well as sufficient signal and spatial dynamic range, can be readily processed to yield two-dimensional distributions of flowfield scalars and in turn two-dimensional images of gradients and turbulence scales. Much of the development of imaging techniques to date has concentrated on understanding the requisite molecular spectroscopy and collision dynamics to be able to determine how flowfield variable information is encoded into the measured signal. From this standpoint the image is seen as a collection of single point measurements. The present effort aims at realizing necessary improvements in signal and spatial dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution in the imaging system as well as developing excitation/detection strategies which provide ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We study the possibility of utilizing the superfluid to Mott-insulator quantum phase transition in an array of quantum well exciton-polariton traps to generate indistinguishable single photons in a massive parallel fashion. By means of analytical and numerical methods, the device operations and system properties are examined using realistic experimental parameters. Such a deterministic, massive parallel generation may find new applications in photonic quantum information processing.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The concept of a multi-cavity volumetric solar receiver is very attractive for the profitability of certain of its characteristics such as high efficiency and economy. The absorber is based on a pack of small ceramic cavities which intercept and absorb the inherent high solar flux reflected from an array of mirrors. Atmospheric air acts as a coolant medium when it is drawn through the pack. A model for an overall heat transfer performance of the receiver is given and numerically solved.

Science.gov (United States)

A critical element of a retinal prosthesis is the stimulating electrode array, which is placed in close proximity to the retina. It is via this retinal-electrode interface that a retinal prosthesis electrically stimulates nerve cells to produce the perception of light. The impedance load seen by the current driver consists of the tissue resistance and the complex electrode impedance. The results in this paper show that the tissue resistance of the retina is significantly greater than that of the vitreous humor in the eye. Circuit models of the electrode-retina interface are used to parameterize the different contributors to the overall impedance.

CERN Document Server

We apply two variations of the principle of Minimum Cross Entropy (the Kullback information measure) to fit parameterized probability density models to observed data densities. For an array beamforming problem with P incident narrowband point sources, N > P sensors, and colored noise, both approaches yield eigenvector fitting methods similar to that of the MUSIC algorithm[1]. Furthermore, the corresponding cross-entropies are related to the MDL model order selection criterion[2].

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A technique for precise measurement of the modulation transfer function (MTF), suitable for characterization of a broad class of surface profilometers, is investigated in detail. The technique suggested in [Proc. SPIE 7077-7, (2007), Opt. Eng. 47(7), 073602-1-5 (2008)]is based on use of binary pseudo-random (BPR) gratings and arrays as standard MTF test surfaces. Unlike most conventional test surfaces, BPR gratings and arrays possess white-noise-like inherent power spectral densities (PSD), allowing the direct determination of the one- and two-dimensional MTF, respectively, with a sensitivity uniform over the entire spatial frequency range of a profiler. In the cited work, a one dimensional realization of the suggested method based on use of BPR gratings has been demonstrated. Here, a high-confidence of the MTF calibration technique is demonstrated via cross comparison measurements of a number of two dimensional BPR arrays ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Research commenced in FY 97 to determine the suitability of superplasticized cement-sand grouts for backfilling vertical boreholes used with geothermal heat pump (GHP) systems. The overall objectives were to develop, evaluate and demonstrate cementitious grouts that could reduce the required bore length and improve the performance of GHPs. This report summarizes the accomplishments in FY 98. The developed thermally conductive grout consists of cement, water, a particular grade of silica sand, superplasticizer and a small amount of bentonite. While the primary function of the grout is to facilitate heat transfer between the U-loop and surrounding formation, it is also essential that the grout act as an effective borehole sealant. Two types of permeability (hydraulic conductivity) tests was conducted to evaluate the sealing performance of the cement-sand grout. Additional properties of the proposed grout that were investigated include bleeding, shrinkage, bond strength, freeze-thaw ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The X-ray diffraction analysis of (U,Ce)O{sub 2} with the CeO{sub 2} contents ranging from 0 to 20 mol% CeO{sub 2} was performed at room temperature to obtain the variation in the lattice parameter with the CeO{sub 2} content. Ultrasonic pulse echo measurements were also carried out to estimate the change in the mechanical properties of (U,Ce)O{sub 2} with the CeO{sub 2} content. The lattice parameter of (U,Ce)O{sub 2} was found to decrease with increasing CeO{sub 2} content. The variation in the lattice parameter with the CeO{sub 2} content closely followed the Vegard law. The shear and longitudinal velocities in (U,Ce)O{sub 2} were found to decrease with increasing CeO{sub 2} content. The Young`s and shear moduli, and Poisson`s ratio estimated from the wave velocities decreased with the CeO{sub 2} content. No mechanical property showed anomaly in low CeO{sub 2} content region. (orig.).

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A hydrogen peroxide injection system was designed and installed in the stack of a 5,274 million J/hr industrial pilot plant scale combustion chamber using natural gas as fuel. The concentration of peroxide in the gas stream was precisely controlled by continuous injection using an electromagnetic dosage pump, the liquid 50% peroxide solution was finely dispersed into the gases by a water cooled custom designed delivery system with a spray nozzle at the tip. Residence times between 0.1 and 1.8 seconds and concentrations of H{sub 2}O{sub 2} between 280 ppm and 4,000 ppm were used during the test runs. CEMS for total hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, as well as an ultrasonic gas flow monitor were used to measure the effect of hydrogen peroxide in reducing the emissions of these pollutants. Destruction removal efficiencies between 25% and 100% were observed for hydrocarbons, and concentrations of CO, as well as NO{sub x}. were reduced about 50%. The ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

An experimental campaign, aiming to investigate the perturbation effects induced by fixed obstacles on turbulence measurements in airflows at the air-sea interface, was carried out at the marine platform of the Italian Navy, located in the harbour of La Spezia (North Ligurian Sea, Italy) on 28., 29., and 30. June 1994. This study was prompted by the ever-growing interest in more reliable estimates of energy, mass, and momentum exchanges between water surfaces and atmosphere, whose measurements are severely limited by the geometrical constraints of floating or fixed platforms where they are installed. Two types of meteorological instruments have been used: fast response (20 and 21 Hz) ultrasonic anemometers and fluxmeters to measure turbulent momentum, sensible, and latent heat fluxes and slow-response sensors (less than 4 Hz and sampled at a rate of 10{sup 2} Hz) to measure average wind and temperature vertical profiles in the perturbed boundary layer. Both fast- ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Glasses in the system (1 - x) [29Na2O- 4Al2O3- 67B2O3]- xZnO (0 ? x ? 35 mol%), have been prepared by the melt quenching technique. Elastic properties, X-ray and FT-IR spectroscopic studies have been employed to study the role of ZnO on the structure of the investigated glass system. Elastic properties and Debye temperature have been investigated using sound wave velocity measurements at 4 MHz at room temperature. The results showed that the density increases and the molar volume decreases while both sound velocities and the determined glass transition temperatures decrease with increase in x. X-ray and infrared spectra of the glasses reveal that the borate network consists of diborate units and is affected by the increase in the concentration of ZnO content. These results are interpreted in terms of the decrease in the N4 values (fraction of tetrahedral coordinated boron atoms), and substitution of longer bond lengths of Zn-O in place of shorter B-O bond. The results indicate that ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The newly developed techniques by the Hot Laboratory (JMTR HL) have provided for us the key information on behavior of specimens due to mechanical / physical / chemical / synergistic effects of radiation, stress and water for fission and fusion reactor environment. These techniques are focused on several topics as follows; (1) miniaturized specimen test for the development of fusion reactor materials, (2) slow strain rate tensile testing (SSRT) and crack propagation measuring tests for the study of Irradiation Assisted Stress Corrosion Cracking (IASCC) of core internals of LWR, (3) handling technique on specimens including tritium for the research and development of tritium breeders and neutron multiplier as fusion blanket materials, (4) joining method using the Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding technique for re-assembling of capsule and re-fabrication of specimen and (5) nondestructive evaluation using ultrasonic wave and infrared thermography for the quantitative ...

Science.gov (United States)

A first-principles task-based approach to the design of medical ultrasonic imaging systems for breast lesion discrimination is described. This study explores a new approximation to the ideal Bayesian observer strategy that allows for object heterogeneity. The new method, called iterative Wiener filtering, is implemented using echo data simulations and a phantom study. We studied five lesion features closely associated with visual discrimination for clinical diagnosis. A series of human observer measurements for the same image data allowed us to quantitatively compare alternative beamforming strategies through measurements of visual discrimination efficiency. Employing the Smith-Wagner model observer, we were able to breakdown efficiency estimates and identify the processing stage at which performance losses occur. The methods were implemented using a commercial scanner and a cyst phantom to explore development of spatial filters for systems with shift-variant ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Many mechanical parts are subjected to stresses and strains that may eventually lead to their failure. In order to prevent the costly delays associated with equipment down-time, many parts have to be tested for weaknesses and defects when machinery is constructed or dismantled for maintenance. These procedures are known as Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods. Five types of non-destructive testing methods routinely used are radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, liquid penetrant testing and eddy current testing. Out of these five techniques industrial radiography plays an important role in non-destructive testing to reveal interior defects in materials. In radiography almost two-thirds of the radiation reaching the film is scattered radiation which does not form the image of defects. Scattered radiation generated inside and outside a material has a very large effect on sensitivity of flaw detection since it reduces image contrast. ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

For good image quality using ultrasound inverse scattering, one alternately solves the well-posed forward scattering equation for an estimated total field and the ill-posed inverse scattering equation for the desired object property function. In estimating the total field, error or noise contaminates the coefficients of both matrix and data of the inverse scattering equation. Previous work on ill-posed inverse ultrasonic scattering commonly used Tikhonov regularization, which considers error only in the data. The solution so obtained is not precise enough to reconstruct the quantitative internal structure of a large or high-contrast object. This paper adopts the truncated total least squares method, simultaneously considering error and noise on both sides of the inverse scattering equation, and compares it with the classical Tikhonov regularization. We show that it can substantially improve reconstruction fit and image quality when the inverse scattering equation ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A CANDU nuclear reactor was shut down for over one year because steam generator (SG) tubes had failed with outer diameter stress-corrosion cracking (ODSCC) in the U-bend section. Novel, single-pass eddy current transmit-receive probes, denoted as C3, were successful in detecting all significant cracks so that the cracked tubes could be plugged and the unit restarted. Significant numbers of tubes with SCC were removed from a SG in order to validate the results of the new probe. Results from metallurgical examinations were used to obtain probability-of-detection (POD) and sizing accuracy plots to quantify the performance of this new inspection technique. Though effective, the above approach of relying on tubes removed from a reactor is expensive, in terms of both economic and radiation-exposure costs. This led to a search for more affordable methods to validate inspection techniques and procedures. Methods are presented for calculating POD curves based on signal-to-noise studies using ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The objective of this contract is to design and build a small, lightweight, stand-alone thermophotovoltaic electric generator, capable of at least 100 Watts useful output for charging 24V batteries. The prototype generator built consists of a pre-mixed burner, a cylindrical selective emitter mantle surrounded by six silicon photovoltaic concentrator arrays. The arrays are cooled with forced-air heat exchangers using self-powered fans. The generator, operated at 117,00 W (40,000 BTU/hr) of fuel input rate, produces 122 W of electrical power at 1.0% of efficiency. The cooling and pre-mix fans consume 35 W of electrical power resulting in a net 85 Watts of electrical output for charging batteries. The generator`s output is capable of continuous charging five 12/24V batteries over 10 hours with a 9.07 Kg (20 lbs.) of propane gas.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grid connected photovoltaic systems is one of the most promising applications of photovoltaic systems. These systems are employed in applications where utility service is already available. In this case, there is no need for battery storage because grid power may be used to supplement photovoltaic systems (PV) when the load exceeds available PV generation. The load receives electricity from both the photovoltaic array and the utility grid. In this system, the load is the total electrical energy consumption. The main objective of the present work is to optimize the electrical load pattern in Kuwait using grid connected PV systems. In this situation, the electric load demand can be satisfied from both the photovoltaic array and the utility grid. The performance of grid connected photovoltaic systems in the Kuwait climate has been evaluated. It was found that the peak load matches the maximum incident solar radiation in Kuwait, which would ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The presence of natural fractures in reservoir rock can significantly enhance gas production, especially in tight gas formations. Any general knowledge of the existence, location, orientation, spatial density, and connectivity of natural fractures, as well as general reservoir structure, that can be obtained prior to active seismic acquisition and drilling can be exploited to identify key areas for subsequent higher resolution active seismic imaging. Current practices for estimating fracture properties before the acquisition of surface seismic data are usually based on the assumed geology and tectonics of the region, and empirical or fracture mechanics-based relationships between stratigraphic curvature and fracturing. The objective of this research is to investigate the potential of multicomponent surface sensor arrays, and passive seismic sources in the form of local earthquakes to identify and characterize potential fractured gas reservoirs located near ...

CERN Document Server

We describe a new concept for a MEMS-based active spatial filter for astronomical spectroscopy. The goal of this device is to allow the use of a diffraction-limited spectrometer on a seeing limited observation at improved throughput over a comparable seeing-limited spectrometer, thus reducing the size and cost of the spectrometer by a factor proportional to r0/D (For the case of a 10 meter telescope this size reduction will be approximately a factor of 25 to 50). We use a fiber-based integral field unit (IFU) that incorporates an active MEMS mirror array to feed an astronomical spectrograph. A fast camera is used in parallel to sense speckle images at a spatial resolution of lambda/D and at a temporal frequency greater than that of atmospheric fluctuations. The MEMS mirror-array is used as an active shutter to feed speckle images above a preset intensity threshold to the spectrometer, thereby increasing the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the ...

Science.gov (United States)

The Micro-X instrument is a rocket borne, X-ray imaging spectrometer planned for launch in October 2011. An array of 128 Transition Edge Sensors (TESs) on a 600 micron pitch will observe incoming photons in the 0.2-3 keV energy band with an energy resolution of 2-4 eV at 1 keV. X-rays will be focused onto the TES array by a conically approximated Wolter optic with an effective area of 300 cm^2 giving the instrument a field of view of 11.8 arcmin. This performance will constitute a substantial improvement over current non-dispersive detectors for X-ray spectroscopy of extended sources and will be the first demonstration of a TES-based microcalorimeter in space. The TESs will utilize the 50 mK stage of an Adiabatic Demagnetization Refrigerator (ADR) as a heat bath, and will be read out by a SQUID time division multiplexer. The first flight of the Micro-X instrument will observe the Puppis A supernova remnant. Future targets include the core of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

RNA interference has become a powerful biological tool over the last decade. In this study, a tetracycline-inducible shRNA vector system was designed for silencing CFP expression and delivered alongside the yfp marker gene into Chinese hamster ovary cells using impalefection on spatially indexed vertically aligned carbon nanofiber arrays (VACNFs). The VACNF architecture provided simultaneous delivery of multiple genes, subsequent adherence and proliferation of interfaced cells, and repeated monitoring of single cells over time. Following impalefection and tetracycline induction, 53.1% 10.4% of impalefected cells were fully silenced by the inducible CFP-silencing shRNA vector. Additionally, efficient CFP-silencing was observed in single cells among a population of cells that remained CFP-expressing. This effective transient expression system enables rapid analysis of gene silencing effects using RNAi in single cells and cell populations.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Detection of fatigue damage cracks in aircraft skin structures is an ongoing NDT challenge. Cracks growing rate is difficult to predict, and for this reason, it is important to detect them as soon as possible to avoid a catastrophic break. Eddy current methods are known and well-accepted techniques which are relatively simple to carry out. However, with conventional inspection of airframe structures using standard driver-pickup eddy current probes, it is difficult to detect small fatigue cracks initiated in the second layer of the skin and in the shadow region at fastener holes. Such difficulty is related to fasteners length and their spacing which reduces test sensitivity. This report explains the development of improved eddy current probe/technique to detect and visualize fatigue cracks in fasteners. In this study, an eddy current array probe was evaluated and new coil design was suggested. Several tests were conducted on an A-300 circumferential joint sample ...

Science.gov (United States)

Development of a high performance air heater through use of an evacuated tube cover design is described. The cover design utilizes evacuated fluorescent light tubes laid parallel in a close packed array to form an inner transparent glazing over a conventional metal absorber plate with flow behind the plate. A tempered flat glass plate was used as an outer glazing. Both clear and infrared reflective (IR) tubes were investigated. Solar transmittance tests indicate that the clear tube array has a higher transmittance than two flat sheets of low-iron glass. The IR coating produced substantial transmittance loss. Thermal conductance tests indicate that the tubes behave similar to two flat glass sheets with a vacuum in between. The IR reflective coating was only marginally effective at reducing heat conductance. Final prototype designs are presented along with collector performance estimates.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A modulation transfer function (MTF) calibration method based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) gratings and arrays [Proc. SPIE 7077-7 (2007), Opt. Eng. 47, 073602 (2008)] has been proven to be an effective MTF calibration method for a number of interferometric microscopes and a scatterometer [Nucl. Instr. and Meth. A616, 172 (2010)]. Here we report on a further expansion of the application range of the method. We describe the MTF calibration of a 6 inch phase shifting Fizeau interferometer. Beyond providing a direct measurement of the interferometer's MTF, tests with a BPR array surface have revealed an asymmetry in the instrument's data processing algorithm that fundamentally limits its bandwidth. Moreover, the tests have illustrated the effects of the instrument's detrending and filtering procedures on power spectral density measurements. The details of the development of a BPR test sample suitable for calibration of ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The major problem of measurement of a power spectral density (PSD) distribution of the surface heights with surface profilometers arises due to the unknown Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) of the instruments. The MTF tends to distort the PSD at higher spatial frequencies. It has been suggested [Proc. SPIE 7077-7, (2007), Opt. Eng. 47 (7), 073602-1-5 (2008)] that the instrumental MTF of a surface profiler can be precisely measured using standard test surfaces based on binary pseudo-random (BPR) patterns. In the cited work, a one dimensional (1D) realization of the suggested method based on use of BPR gratings has been demonstrated. Here, we present recent achievements made in fabricating and using two-dimensional (2D) BPR arrays that allow for a direct 2D calibration of the instrumental MTF. The 2D BPRAs were used as standard test surfaces for 2D MTF calibration of the MicromapTM-570 interferometric microscope with all available objectives. The effects of ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

One method of increasing juvenile fish escapement from net cod-ends is to encourage fish to approach the netting by placing an active stimulating device (ASD) in the cod-end. Two types of ASD were tested inside model cod-ends to generate variable visual stimuli. One was a free-end flag-like net panel and the other consisted of an array of free-ended ropes. Escape responses of juvenile red seabream were observed in a circulating water channel using a cod-end fitted with the ASD, and they were compared with responses to conventional polyethylene multi-ply, high-contrast cod-ends with and without ASD made from either 28- or 43-mm mesh under three light conditions. With the ASD attached, the retention rate was significantly lower, 20%, than for conventional cod-ends except in dim light with 28...

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Previous investigations have shown promising results in using the directional cross-correlation method to estimate velocity vectors. The velocity vector estimate provides information on both velocity direction and magnitude. The direction is estimated by beamforming signals along directions in the range $[0^{\\circ}; 180^{\\circ}[$ and identifying the direction that produces the largest correlation across emissions. An estimate of the velocity magnitude is obtained from the spatial shift between signals beamformed along the estimated direction. This paper expands these investigations to include estimations of the vector velocities of a larger region by combining the estimations along several scan lines. In combination with a B-mode image, the vector velocities are displayed as an image of the investigated region with a color indicating the magnitude, and arrows showing the direction of the flow. Using the RASMUS experimental ultrasound scanner, measurements have been carried out in a ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Airbag pressure vessels for the north-American market mainly are made by forging and by the use of steel alloys. In Europe aluminum alloys are common and the manufacturing process is extrusion of circular blanks - made from cold rolled plates - in a form applying a 100 t press at room temperature. Then by heat treatment the strength/hardness of the material is properly adjusted and after that the pressure vessel parts have to be continuously inspected with an inspection and handling cycle time of 3 s. Inspection of the axis-symmetric parts is asked for surface breaking extrusion defects as well as for surface parallel delaminations in the bulk volume. Furthermore, the material strength is a quality characteristic that has to be nondestructively registered and documented. The inspection is performed by eddy current probes and an EMAT, of which the eddy current impedance measurements are used for surface breaking extrusion defect detection and sizing (single frequency technique with ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

There is a crescent interest in the scientific community in the study of natural circulation phenomenon. New generation of compact nuclear reactors uses the natural circulation of the fluid as a system of cooling and of residual heat removal in case of accident or shutdown. The objective of this paper is to present a study through the comparison of experimental data and numerical simulation for the natural circulation phenomenon in one and two-phase flow regime. An experimental circuit built with glass tubes is used for the experiments. Thus, it allows the thermal hydraulic phenomena visualization. There is an electric heater as the heat source, a heat exchanger as the heat sink and an expansion tank to accommodate fluid density excursions. The circuit instrumentation consists of thermocouples and pressure meters to better keep track of the flow and heat transfer phenomena. Instrumentation data acquisition is performed through a computer interface developed with LABVIEW. Previous ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

As one of the evolutionary oldest parts of the brain, the diencephalon evolved to harmonize changing environmental conditions with the internal state for survival of the individual and the species. The pioneering work of physiologists and psychologists around the middle of the last century clearly demonstrated that the hypothalamus is crucial for the display of motivated behaviors, culminating in the discovery of electrical self-stimulation behavior and providing the first neurological hint accounting for the concepts of reinforcement and reward. Here we review recent progress in understanding the role of the lateral hypothalamic area in the control of ingestive behavior and the regulation of energy balance. With its vast array of interoceptive and exteroceptive afferent inputs and its equ...

British Library Electronic Table of Contents (United Kingdom)

The dependence of the mobility of DNA molecules through an hexagonal array of micropillars on their length and the applied electric field was investigated and it was found that mobility is a nonmonotonic function of their length. Results also revealed that the size dependence of the DNA mobility depends on the applied electric field and there is a crossover around E 25 V/cm for the mobility of l-DNA and T4-DNA. These observations are explained in terms of the diffusion process inside the structure affected by the solvent and are modeled using the Langevin and its corresponding Fokker-Planck equations. The phenomenon is generalized under three regimes in a phase diagram relating the electric field and the DNA lengths. The model and the associated phase diagram described here provide an expl...

CERN Document Server

We discuss the advantages which the next generation interferometer SKA (the Square Kilometer Array) will bring for Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) at centimeter wavelengths. With a sensitivity to micro-Jy level flux density, a brightness temperature limit of about 10.000 K, and an expected dynamic range in future VLBI maps of better than 1.000.000, the impact of SKA on the research of compact extragalactic radio sources and their energetic jets will be very strong. We discuss some consequences, including a possible combination of SKA with future space VLBI missions.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

In this project we developed photonic crystal modeling capability and fabrication technology that is scaleable to large area. An intelligent optimization code was developed to find the optimal structure for the desired spectral response. In terms of fabrication, an exhaustive survey of fabrication techniques that would meet the large area requirement was reduced to Deep X-ray Lithography (DXRL) and nano-imprint. Using DXRL, we fabricated a gold logpile photonic crystal in the <100> plane. For the nano-imprint technique, we fabricated a cubic array of gold squares. These two examples also represent two classes of metallic photonic crystal topologies, the connected network and cermet arrangement.

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

A simple closed-form equation to calculate the envelope correlation between any two receiver or transmitter antennas in a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) system of an arbitrary number of elements is derived. The equation uses the scattering parameters obtained at the antenna feed point to calculate the envelope correlation coefficient. This approach has the advantage that it does not require knowledge of the antenna radiation pattern. Numerical data that include conductor and permittivity loss are shown to validate the approach. Using the scattering parameters for calculating the envelope correlation is less laborious and relatively cheaper, as compared to the radiation pattern approach.

Science.gov (United States)

A critical element of a retinal prosthesis is the stimulating electrode array, which is placed in close proximity to the retina. It is via this retinal-electrode interface that a retinal prosthesis electrically stimulates nerve cells to produce the perception of light. The impedance load seen by the current driver consists of the tissue resistance and the complex electrode impedance. The results in this paper show that the tissue resistance of the retina is significantly greater than that of the vitreous humor in the eye. Circuit models of the electrode-retina interface are used to parameterize the different contributors to the overall impedance. PMID:17325413

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

We demonstrate the possibility to fabricate arrays of pores oriented perpendicular and parallel to the top surface of the ZnSe nanotemplate. The control of material conductivity allows one to produce porous ZnSe samples with the mean pore diameter and characteristic skeleton wall thickness from several hundreds of nanometers to about 15 nm. In addition, electrochemical treatment of ZnSe single crystals using photoresist masks allows one to prepare buried porous structures with pores directed parallel to the top template surface, which is especially important for photonic applications.

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Two new identical insertion devices have been designed for the Daresbury SRS. They are 2T permanent-magnet multipole wigglers that will provide high flux in the X-ray region. This paper describes the magnetic and mechanical design of the arrays of steel pole pieces and permanent-magnet blocks. Also given is the engineering design of the support structure that will cope with the very large forces present while maintaining high levels of precision in gap setting and parallelism. The engineering design has been fully assessed using finite-element techniques to predict the deflections of critical parts of the structure. These two devices are due to be installed into the SRS by the end of 1998.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Florida posseses climatic, land, and water resources favorable for abundant biomass production. Therefore, a statewide program has been initiated to determine adapted species for the available array of production sites. Plant resources under investigation include woody, aquatic, grasses, hydrocarbon, and root crop species. The goal is to produce a continuous stream of biomass for the various biofuel conversion options. Preliminary yields from energy cropping experiments range from about 10 to nearly 90 metric tons per hectare per year, depending on the crop and the production systems employed. (Refs. 15).

Science.gov (United States)

We attempt to image the rupture propagation of the 2004 M6.0 Parkfield earthquake by analyzing records from the USGS Parkfield seismic array (UPSAR) and other strong-motion stations. The UPSAR array consists of 12 stations distributed over about one square kilometer at a distance of 10~km from the San Andreas fault near Parkfield, California. We employ a method that uses reverse time migration to stack the seismograms at back-projected locations along the fault. We use waveform cross-correlation to align the initial P-wave arrivals and correct for small static time shifts in the records. This forces a coherent image at the hypocenter at the quake origin time. Initial results at later time steps show some evidence of the expected rupture propagation to the north. However, the resolution of the back-projection is limited by the small aperture of the UPSAR array. Records from other strong-motion stations can improve the ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

The characteristics of per-fluorocarbon compounds (PFC) are colorless, non-toxic, easily vaporized and nonflammable. Also, some of them are liquids of a high density, low surface tension, low latent heat and low specific heat. These particular chemical and physical properties of fluoro-organic compounds permit their use in very different fields such as electronics, medicine, tribology, nuclear and material science. The Sonatol process was developed under a contract with the DOE. The Sonatol process uses an ultrasonic agitation in a PFC solution that contains a fluorinated surfactant to remove radioactive particles from surfaces. Filtering the suspended particles allows the solutions to be reused indefinitely. They applied the Sonatol process to the decontamination of a heterogeneous legacy Pu-238 waste that exhibited an excessive hydrogen gas generation, which prevents a transportation of such a waste to a Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. Korea Atomic Energy Research ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The instrument ball bearings are the key components of movable components for various kinds of measuring and control instruments; they often operate in the environmental condition of high-speed and light preload. In general, the non metal, disposable oilimpregnated retainer material has been used for these kinds of high precision miniature bearing. The engineering practice shows that the common failure mode of them is the wear which appears under the condition of insufficient lubrication condition. As the results, the vibration and noise will be enlarged, so does the frictional torque, which makes the ball bearings to lose its original working accuracy. It is the lifetime test of bearings that can enable the designers and manufacturers to chose the material of the bearing properly, optimize the product structure, mend the manufacturing technique process, and to enhance the technical level of the bearing products significantly. In this paper, the wear lifetime tester has been designed ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Damage survey of protective coats of modern gas turbine blade shows that most damages are not due to classic wear mechanisms such as oxydation or high-temperature corrosion but caused by foreign bodies, poor coating during manufacturing, or operation-caused cracks. Mere visual inspection of cracks is often not sufficient to tell whether cracks are superficial or whether they have already progressed into the base material. Non-destructive methods such as ultrasonic inspection or eddy-current testing are helpful tools but there is not yet a fully matured testing concept at hand. Metallographical tests can give important information about crack mechanisms and thermal, chemical and mechanical stresses.(orig.) [German] Die Schadenerfahrung mit Schutzschichten moderner Gasturbinenschaufeln zeigt, dass die meisten Schaeden nicht auf die klassischen Verbrauchsmechanismen wie Oxydation und Hochtemperaturkorrosion zurueckzufuehren sind, sondern durch Fremdkoerper, ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Glasses in the system (95-x) [0.25 Na{sub 2}O-0.75 B{sub 2}O{sub 3}]-x P{sub 2}O{sub 5}-5 Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3} (0<=x<=15 mol%), have been prepared by the melt quenching technique. Elastic properties and FT-IR spectroscopic studies have been employed to study the role of P{sub 2}O{sub 5} on the structure of the glass system. Elastic properties Poisson's ratio, micro-hardness and Debye temperature have been investigated using sound wave velocity measurements at 4 MHz (both longitudinal and shear) at room temperature. The results showed that the density and the molar volume increase as both sound velocities and the determined glass transition temperatures decrease with increasing the contents of P{sub 2}O{sub 5}. Infrared spectra of the glasses reveal that the borate network consists of diborate units and is affected by the increase in the concentration of P{sub 2}O{sub 5} content as a second network former. These results are interpreted in terms of the replacement of ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

This report is a summary of the Steam Generator Group Project progress for 1985. Statistical analyses are presented of data from nondestructive examination (NDE) round robin tests that were performed on the Surry generator in 1984. In the first round robin, teams acquired and analyzed their own data on a selected 10% subset of tubes. In the second round robin, analysts from each participating team analyzed identical sets of data which were provided to them by the Project. Results from several examinations utilizing advanced/alternate NDE technologies including alternate eddy current probes and techniques, ultrasonics, and profilometry are also reported. Criteria are listed for selecting tube specimens that will be removed from the generator. A sampling plan based on these criteria is detailed graphically in the report. The initial steps that have been taken to carry out the plan are described; tooling fabricated for the sample removals is discussed. Successful ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

The impingement of a fluid jet onto a surface has broad applications across many industries. Within the UK nuclear industry, during the final stages of fuel reprocessing, impinging fluid jets are utilised to mobilise settled sludge material within storage tanks and ponds in preparation for transfer and ultimate immobilisation through vitrification. Despite the extensive applications of impinging jets within the nuclear and other industries, the study of two-phase, solid loaded, impinging jets is limited, and generally restricted to computational modelling. Surprisingly, very little fundamental understanding of the turbulence structure within such fluid flows through experimental investigation is found within the literature. The physical modelling of impinging jet systems could successfully serve to aid computer model validation, determine operating requirements, evaluate plant throughput requirements, optimise process operations and support design. Within this project a method is ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alloys of zirconium are widely used in various core components of power reactors. Nuclear assemblies require high degree of reliability and integrity for performing in radiation and corrosive atmosphere. The hostile environments of reactor core and inaccessibility for repairs make it mandatory to select only those joining techniques which produce not only superior quality but are also amenable to NDT methods and such other techniques which ensure acceptable performance. The author has worked on various types of welding of zirconium alloys for different applications. Modern techniques in electron beam (EB) welding, resistance welding, GTAW welding and laser welding have been developed for joining Zr alloys components for different types of reactors. Many of these have been standardized and successfully used in production. Several advancements have been made in the welding technologies towards achieving high productivity and increased reliability with economy and adaptability. EB, laser, ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Under the current design philosophy, reactor structures are to be designed to withstand large inelastic deformation caused by strong and severe ground motion. The design of the main structural elements and their connections are to be such that they always fail in ductile mode. This will ensure large energy absorption capacity of the structures under seismic excitation and avoid sudden and brittle failure of the structure. Over the years, a number of experimental investigations have been carried out on RC beam- column joints to study their behaviour and strength. However, these studies mostly pertain to small scale joints of moment resisting frame of residential buildings and commercial complexes. Information on full scale joints existing in NPP structures are scanty. Therefore, experimental programme was planned in the laboratory to construct identical large sized joints with the same reinforcement percentage and detail as that of the existing joints in NPP structures built in 1960's. ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

No living analogue exists for the hypothetical early hominid hard/tough-seed, coarse-root-eating, and bone-crushing masticatory adaptation. To investigate possible microdamage/microwear to dental enamel caused by such usage, puncture-crushing experiments were carried out on single human teeth, using an Instron compression apparatus on the following six test materials: Makapansgat Limeworks chert (e.g., taphonomy), fresh steer longbone, mongongo nuts, Grewia berries, Carob beans, and wild-onion bulbs. Pairs of extracted unworn third molars were utilized, with one tooth acting as the control. The teeth were mounted, ultrasonically cleaned, and two-stage replicas made with a vinyl polysiloxane elastomer and araldite epoxy resin. After Instron loading and materials failure (1.2-395.0 kg) the test items and the crowns were prepared for comparison with scanning electron microscopy and dispersive x-ray elemental analysis and mapping. The results revealed that although ...

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

A simple and specific method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of the four major Cinchona alkaloids and their dihydroderivatives and pyridoxine hydrochloride (Vitamin B_6) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection (#lambda#_e_m=420 nm with #lambda#_e_x=330 nm). The chromatographic separation was performed on a Phenomenex Prodigy ODS column (5 #mu#m, 250 mmx3.2 mm i.d.), recommended for basic compounds, under isocratic reversed-phase conditions. The method allowed a good peak shape and an effective resolution of the tested compounds. The extraction of alkaloids from the Cinchona succirubra bark was carried out in mild and fast conditions (ambient temperature, 20 min) by ultrasonication. The procedure showed to be advantageous respect to a reference method, which involved Soxhlet extraction. The results were compared statistically by means of the Student's t-test and the variance ratio F-test; no significant ...

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silica microspheres were deposited into two-dimensional periodic arrays and coated with a thin layer of silicon nanocrystals. The luminescence from the silicon nanocrystals coupled into the whispering gallery modes of the spheres, with Q factors that depended on a range of parameters including sphere size, position on the sphere, viewing direction, and thickness of the nanocrystal coating. Scattering from the film-sphere and/or the sphere-substrate contacts resulted in a lower Q for modes that intersect these regions. The highest Q factors obtained in this work were {approx}1500. The results suggest that silica microspheres may be promising candidates for high-Q cavities that incorporate silicon nanocrystals for cavity QED or nonlinear optical effects.

CERN Document Server

Very high energy (VHE; >100 GeV) observations of a sample of selected active galactic nuclei (AGN) were performed between January 2005 and April 2007 with the High Energy Stereoscopic System (HESS), an array of imaging atmospheric-Cherenkov telescopes. Significant detections are reported elsewhere for many of these objects. Here, integral flux upper limits for twelve candidate very high energy (VHE; >100 GeV) gamma-ray emitters are presented. In addition, results from HESS observations of four known VHE-bright AGN are given although no significant signal is measured. For three of these AGN (1ES 1101-232, 1ES 1218+304, and Mkn 501) simultaneous data were taken with the Suzaku X-ray satellite.