Predictive
Sensor Algorithm
The John C. Stennis
Space Center (SSC) seeks qualified companies for further development and
commercialization of a signal analysis process into an application method
that increases the response speed of existing sensor technologies. SSC
researchers have developed the method, which is now employed as a smart
hydrogen detection system. The system employs a signal-processing algorithm
to determine, in near real-time, the steady state response of a normally
slow sensor. A small microprocessor samples the hydrogen sensor's output
at small, regular time intervals and dynamically predicts the sensor's
response to a step change in temperature. The algorithm has been implemented
using both C and BASIC programming languages and resides as firmware in
Erasable Programming Read-Only Memory (EPROM).A faster response can be
attained without developing a faster sensor through the system’s
ability to enhance the response speed of existing sensor technology. The
system predicts the steady state response of a signal to make a normally
slow sensor faster. Application of the predictive method may be a cost-effective
alternative for existing sensors that are limited by slow response times.
Potential applications include commercially available hydrogen detection
systems, industrial applications–including personal safety, and medical-type
electronic thermometers–human and veterinary.A patent has been issued
on the technology. Commercialization opportunities may exist through licensing,
cooperative development and technical consulting.
For more information,
contact the Technology Transfer Office at Stennis Space Center at 601/688-1929.
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Cold Cathodes for Large
Flat-Panel Displays
Goddard Space Flight
Center (GSFC) is seeking partners to further develop a flat-panel display
using segmented cold cathodes. This technology replaces cathode ray
tube (CRT) technology to allow for large displays (greater than 50 inches
diagonally) with minimal depth (less than 4 inches) that offer comparable
brightness in a simpler design. Segmented photocathodes are set orthogonally
to an array of control grids. The display panel's resolution is defined
by the number of control grids (horizontal resolution) and the number
of segmented photocathodes (vertical resolution), both housed between
an input window and an equipotential mesh grid.The display’s input
side is illuminated by an electroluminescent panel or other uniform
light source. Photons created by this panel travel through the input
window, pass through the transparent photocathode gate metallization,
and strike the photocathodes, which are biased to encourage photoemission.
The resulting photoelectrons pass first through the control grids, then
through the equipotential mesh grid. The electrons are accelerated as
they approach the phosphor screen, striking it at approximately 25 kV
and causing the phosphor to glow. This
segmented cold cathode technology can be used for multicolor displays
resulting in three times as many control grids as a monochrome display
for the same horizontal resolution. Displays made with this segmented
cold cathode technology will have one mm2 pixels. Although
this is a lower resolution than with CRT displays, it is a sufficiently
small pixel size for large displays. Using segmented cold cathodes results
in a greatly improved flat panel display not achievable by any other
existing technology. Researchers estimate that a two-meter by one-meter
commercial system could be produced for less than $2,000 in mass production.
Accelerating the electrons produces an intense electronic image on the
phosphor, creating a video image that is brighter than active matrix
liquid crystal and comparable to CRT displays. Potential applications
include large-screen home entertainment systems, public message boards,
flight simulations, video games, and network control room displays (e.g.,
telecommunications, military, computers) GSFC holds U.S. patent 5,751,109
on this video display technology. A proof-of-concept monochrome prototype
has been completed.
For more information,
contact Evette Conwell at Goddard Space Flight Center, phone 301/286-0561
x60561, fax 301/286-0301, e-mail evette.conwell@gsfc.nasa.gov
Please mention you read about it in Innovation.
Mass Density Sensor
Langley Research
Center seeks industry partners to license and cooperatively develop a
commercial product using a non-intrusive, low-cost method for determining
the weight of textile materials during manufacturing. It measures mass
density of filaments or yarns including cotton, nylon, polyester, other
synthetic yarns, optical fibers, as well as coatings or finishes, and
resin applied to composite tows. Novel to this sensor is the direct use
of mechanical vibration and the use of an optical technique for sensing
tow vibrations. To determine amounts of applied resin, it uses natural
mechanical resonance in a moving resin-impregnated yarn, or tow. The moving
threadline is under tension and an optical sensor detects vibration at
the supported span’s center. The sensor’s output is amplified
and analyzed. Well known relationships from physics predict that the vibration’s
natural frequencies are inversely proportional to the square root of the
desired mass per unit length. Unlike the old, time-consuming cut and weigh
method used today, this new method is non-intrusive and easily operates
as part of a continuous process operating at hundreds of feet per minute.
No interruption of the material manufacturing process is required. Unlike
elaborate electronic gauges, the invention is mechanically robust, inexpensive
and requires no special safety precautions. The process is continuous,
saves time, is easily operated and easily installed.U.S. Patent No. 5,694,807
has been issued on this technology.
For more information,
contact Gregory S. Manuel at Langley Research Center, phone 757/864-3864,
or e-mail g.s.manuel@larc.nasa.gov
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