1. Definition & Description:
The impetus for creating this project stems from a gap in the field of Imaging Science, where there is currently no method for measuring the reflectance of real objects from multiple viewing angles. Much research is now being focused in this direction as the desire to know an object’s Bi-Directional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) increases.
Problem Statement:
Imaging a real object’s BRDF requires a precision mechanical platform that is capable of constantly tracking a target with a camera and simultaneously logging its location with every image captured.
Meet the Team:
Matthew Harris, ME, Will Casolara, ME, Ross Strebig, ME, Robert Jaromin, EE, Kathryn Berens, ME, Richard Andol, ME
SolidWorks Model
Customer Needs:
- Instantaneously look at an object from all possible vantage points before the sun moves
- Come up with the shapes of the Bi-directional Reflectance Distribution Functions (BRDF) of natural targets outside on a clear day
- Show that BRDF exists in multiple band passes
- Digital count drift of no more than 2%
- Batteries to hold power for a reasonable amount of time
- Batteries that are easy to change
- 15x15 pixel area on target at all times
degree angle from horizontal on target
- Log GPS coordinates with each picture taken
- Time stamp on pictures to know when it was taken
- Keep the system nearly level while imaging
- Robust enough to prevent damage of equipment
- Store images as .TIFF files
Final Product
Summary of Testing:
- Servo motor accuracy test
- GPS coordinate accuracy test
- Data logging with the PC 104 board
- Camera/Frame grabber interface
- Altimeter calibration and testing
- Structure random vibration testing
- Flight test of completed platform functionality
Key Subsystems:
PC104 system
BASIC Stamp Interface
Power Conditioning
Process GPS data for motor movement. The PC104 system operates using a stripped down Linux operating system. Also logs picture and all data from the BASIC Stamp
Contain the necessary components required to communicate with the motors and any analog hardware such as the altimeter, inclinometer, and hall-effect sensors.
Contains the power circuitry to provide the PC104 and motors with the required power to operate. DC-DC converters turn 14.8V into 12V and 5V
Results:
While the entire system has not been tested with full integration yet, each subsystem performs well by itself. The servos, BASIC Stamp, GPS, and PC104 all work together and have been tested as fully functional.
Vibration Test Profile
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Sponsored by The Chester F. Carlson Center for Imaging Science
Guide: Dr. Marcos Esterman – Customer : Dr. Carl Salvaggio
Special Thanks to : Jason Faulring for his expertise in regards to programming
the PC104 Board
Dr. John Arney for his volunteering to fly us around
Dr. Bob Kremens for his electronics help and general sunny disposition
Vehicle Functionality Testing