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„Nichts geschieht ohne Risiko, aber ohne Risiko geschieht auch nichts“, sagte der ehemalige Bundespräsident Walther Scheel. Der Ausspruch sensibilisiert dafür, dass in fast allen Themen und Prozessen Risiken stecken und die Akteure ein kalkulierbares Risiko eingehen sollten, um auch in komplexen Themen einen signifikanten Fortschritt zu erlangen. In unserem Fall sind die Akteure Projektleiter und Projektteammitglieder, die kaum eigene/persönliche Risiken eingehen, sondern Projektrisiken professionell managen müssen. Die Teammitglieder sind dabei von den Projekten selten persönlich bedroht, sondern das Projekt oder das Unternehmen und entsprechend sind die Risiken oft auch deutlich größer, als eine einzelne Person es sich vorstellen oder persönlich verantworten kann.
Ein Windenergieprojekt ist eine hochindividuelle Kraftwerksplanung und das Projektmanagement hierzu ist geprägt von zahlreichen Besonderheiten, die berücksichtigt werden müssen. Die mehrjährigen Planungszeiträume, die Energiewende, der technische Fortschritt, die hohen Kosten, die Internationalisierung der Branche und die Diskussionen über den Klimawandel beeinflussen die Durchführung der Projekte, die Entscheidungen eines Projektmanagers und die der weiteren Projektbeteiligten.
Das Buch richtet sich an alle Projektentwickler, Anlagenhersteller und Gutachter aus der Windenergiebranche und jene, die mit dieser Branche zusammenarbeiten. Es vermittelt bewusst praxisnahe Erfahrungen und Erkenntnisse von Projektmanagementthemen über die gesamte Wertschöpfungskette von Wind Onshore.
Due to the rapidly increasing storage consumption worldwide, as well as the expectation of continuous availability of information, the complexity of administration in today’s data centers is growing permanently. Integrated techniques for monitoring hard disks can increase the reliability of storage systems. However, these techniques often lack intelligent data analysis to perform predictive maintenance. To solve this problem, machine learning algorithms can be used to detect potential failures in advance and prevent them. In this paper, an unsupervised model for predicting hard disk failures based on Isolation Forest is proposed. Consequently, a method is presented that can deal with the highly imbalanced datasets, as the experiment on the Backblaze benchmark dataset demonstrates.
The recent successes and wide spread application of compute intensive machine learning and data analytics methods have been boosting the usage of the Python programming language on HPC systems. While Python provides many advantages for the users, it has not been designed with a focus on multiuser environments or parallel programming - making it quite challenging to maintain stable and secure Python workflows on a HPC system. In this paper, we analyze the key problems induced by the usage of Python on HPC clusters and sketch appropriate workarounds for efficiently maintaining multi-user Python software environments, securing and restricting resources of Python jobs and containing Python processes, while focusing on Deep Learning applications running on GPU clusters.
In this work a method for the estimation of current slopes induced by inverters operating interior permanent magnet synchronous machines is presented. After the derivation of the estimation algorithm, the requirements for a suitable sensor setup in terms of accuracy, dynamic and electromagnetic interference are discussed. The boundary conditions for the estimation algorithm are presented with respect to application within high power traction systems. The estimation algorithm is implemented on a field programmable gateway array. This moving least-square algorithm offers the advantage that it is not dependent on vectors and therefore not every measured value has to be stored. The summation of all measured values leads to a significant reduction of the required storage units and thus decreases the hardware requirements. The algorithm is designed to be calculated within the dead time of the inverter. Appropriate countermeasures for disturbances and hardware restrictions are implemented. The results are discussed afterwards.
JARDIN GLOCAL
(2020)
Der Komplexitätsbeitrag als Kriterium für Entscheidungen zur Bereinigung technischer Produkte
(2020)
Die Bereinigung der Produktpalette wird meistens anhand des Umsatzanteils und des Deckungsbeitrags im Zuge der Einführung von Nachfolgeprodukten entschieden. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird ein Kriterium eingeführt und hergeleitet, das den Beitrag eines Produkts zur Komplexität auf Basis logistikrelevanter Produkteigenschaften quantifiziert. Die Anwendung des Kriteriums wird anhand der Ergebnisse aus einem Praxisbeispiel aufgezeigt.
Die Coronakrise hat weltweit das Wirtschafts- und Gesellschaftsleben in bisher ungekannter Weise verändert. Die ohnehin bereits komplexen Herausforderungen in Zeiten des Klimawandels sind damit noch gestiegen. Genossenschaftliche Innovationsökosysteme können Lösungsansätze für die gravierenden Veränderungen im unternehmerischen, kommunalen und gesellschaftlichen Umfeld schaffen.
Method for controlling a device, in particular, a prosthetic hand or a robotic arm (US20200327705A1)
(2020)
A method for controlling a device, in particular a prosthetic hand or a robotic arm, includes using an operator-mounted camera to detect at least one marker positioned on or in relation to the device. Starting from the detection of the at least one marker, a predefined movement of the operator together with the camera is detected and is used to trigger a corresponding action of the device. The predefined movement of the operator is detected in the form of a line of sight by means of camera tracking. A system for controlling a device, in particular a prosthetic hand or a robotic arm, includes a pair of AR glasses adapted to detect the at least one marker and to detect the predefined movement of the operator.
Purpose
This work presents a new monocular peer-to-peer tracking concept overcoming the distinction between tracking tools and tracked tools for optical navigation systems. A marker model concept based on marker triplets combined with a fast and robust algorithm for assigning image feature points to the corresponding markers of the tracker is introduced. Also included is a new and fast algorithm for pose estimation.
Methods
A peer-to-peer tracker consists of seven markers, which can be tracked by other peers, and one camera which is used to track the position and orientation of other peers. The special marker layout enables a fast and robust algorithm for assigning image feature points to the correct markers. The iterative pose estimation algorithm is based on point-to-line matching with Lagrange–Newton optimization and does not rely on initial guesses. Uniformly distributed quaternions in 4D (the vertices of a hexacosichora) are used as starting points and always provide the global minimum.
Results
Experiments have shown that the marker assignment algorithm robustly assigns image feature points to the correct markers even under challenging conditions. The pose estimation algorithm works fast, robustly and always finds the correct pose of the trackers. Image processing, marker assignment, and pose estimation for two trackers are handled in less than 18 ms on an Intel i7-6700 desktop computer at 3.4 GHz.
Conclusion
The new peer-to-peer tracking concept is a valuable approach to a decentralized navigation system that offers more freedom in the operating room while providing accurate, fast, and robust results.
Jedes Projektteam braucht engagierte Teammitglieder, der NQSZ 147-04 AA zum Projektmanagement auch
(2020)
… nicht nur in der Energiewirtschaft, sondern auch im positiven und wahrsten Sinne des Wortes in der Fachgruppe PM Windenergie. In über 40 Jahren GPM wurde immer wieder deutlich, dass Projekte und Programme in Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft nicht nur begleitet, sondern auch aus der GPM heraus mitgestaltet werden. Die Entwicklung und die Ergebnisse der Fachgruppe Windenergie machen dies besonders deutlich.
Als Einstieg in den Diskurs über zivile Netzwerktechnologien, mobile Geräte, Onlinedienste und die Frage, wie sich die „Kirche der Zukunft“ (zumindest aus medienwissenschaftlicher Sicht) positionieren kann, dienen drei Zitate. Die Gegenüberstellung der darin vertretenen Positionen soll den Nutzen und die Folgen der zunehmend vollständigen Durchdringung (fast) aller Lebensbereiche mit Digitaltechnik für den Einzelnen wie für die Gesellschaft aufzeigen.
Computer an allen Schulen (1984), Schulen ans Netz (1996), Digitalpakt Schule (2016): Jede neue Rechnergeneration wird für Schule und Unterricht als notwendig reklamiert. Die Argumente wiederholen sich: PCs, Laptops, heute Tablets seien innovativ, motivationsfördernd und ermöglichten „modernen“ Unterricht. Stand der Wissenschaft ist: Weder Nutzen noch Mehrwert von IT in Schulen sind belegt. Die Digitalisierung dient offensichtlich anderen Interessen. Denn ob Kreidetafel oder Whiteboard: Entscheidend für Lernerfolge sind Lehrpersönlichkeiten, ein gut strukturierter Unterricht und der lernförderliche Umgang miteinander, nicht Medientechnik.
Die Diskussionen über die Bedeutung und Folgen der Digitalisierung sind kaum noch überschaubar. Einig sind sich die meisten, dass Digitalisierung und die sogenannte „Künstliche Intelligenz“ (sKI) sowohl „alternativlos“ wie entscheidend für die Zukunft seien. Wer bei diesen Techniken nicht an der Spitze stünde, würde wirtschaftlich abgehängt und letztlich zum Verlierer. Die erste Frage ist aber: Wer steht denn an der Spitze und ist es erstrebenswert, sich dazu zu gesellen? Die zweite Frage ist, was sich konkret an technischen Systemen hinter Schlagworten wie Big Data, Künstlicher Intelligenz und autonomen Systemen verbirgt. Nicht zuletzt steht in Frage, welche Konsequenzen diese Systeme für den Einzelnen haben (können und/oder werden).
Unter dem Deckmantel der Covid-19-Pandemie werden soziale Einrichtungen wie Bildungseinrichtungen oder das Gesundheitssystem systematisch auf Digitalisierung getrimmt. Schon Grundschulkinder werden an die Arbeit am Display gewöhnt und Schulen mit Geldern aus dem Digitalpakt Schule technisch aufgerüstet. Lernsoftware, Schulcloud und Learning Analytics erlauben die Verdatung von Schülerbiographien. Digitale Endgeräte als Leihgabe für Schülerinnen und Schüler bereiten den Fernunterricht für die Zeit nach der Pandemie vor. Auf der Strecke bleiben dabei möglicherweise nicht nur Grundrechte, Privatsphäre und letztlich die Autonomie des Menschen, sondern auch das notwendige Vertrauen in politische Entscheidungen, wenn etwa die Digitalisierung zunehmend aller Lebensbereiche gar nicht mehr hinterfragt wird. Dabei reichen bereits vier Forderungen zur IT-Entwicklung, um demokratisch legitimierte Alternativen von Softwarelösungen zu entwickeln, wie der Streit um die Corona-App gezeigt hat.
Wer sich als Pädagoge und Wissenschaftler mit dem Thema Digitalisierung im Kontext von Unterricht, Lehre und Bildungsprozessen befasst, stellt schnell fest: Kaum jemand realisiert die Tragweite der durch Digitaltechnik und Netzwerke möglichen und von IT-Konzernen forcierten Transformation von Bildungseinrichtungen zu immer stärker automatisierten, kybernetisch gesteuerten Beschulungs- und Prüfanstalten. „It’s the economy, stupid“ wird zum Mantra auch der Bildung. Der Begriff Learning Analytics als Teilaspekt von Big Data Analytics weist ebenso auf Automatisierungstechnik für Lernprozesse wie der Begriff der datengestützten Schulentwicklung (Hartong, Learning Analytics und Big data in der Bildung, 2019). Mit Summit Learning (Facebook), Google Classroom oder Apple Education sind vollautomatisierte Systeme in den USA bereits im Einsatz. Der DigitalPakt Schule schafft die technischen Voraussetzungen für die Beschulung per Netz und Cloud in Deutschland (Lankau, Bildungsmarkt Schule. Tatsächliche Kosten des Digitalpakt Schule und verdeckte Interessen, 2019a).
Künstliche Intelligenz gilt immer noch als eine der zukunftsweisenden Technologien, die viele Bereiche wie etwa Medizin, Handel, Verkehr und öffentliche Verwaltung revolutioniert. So scheint es nicht verwunderlich, dass bereits knapp jedes fünfte Unternehmen in Deutschland zurzeit KI-Systeme implementiert oder zumindest ihren Einsatz plant. Besonders hoch im Kurs stehen KI-Projekte, um Daten zu analysieren. Ganze 70 Prozent der Unternehmen sehen hier das größte Potenzial, so die Ergebnisse einer Umfrage von PWC [1]. Dennoch lauern einige Stolpersteine, wollen Unternehmen intelligente Datenprojekte umsetzen. Welche Hürden auftauchen können und wie sich diese meistern lassen, erläutert dieser Artikel anhand eines KI-Projektes zur Analyse von Geschäftspartnerdaten [2].
Bei vielen Marketingthemen geht es nicht nur um die Vermittlung eines konkreten Kundennutzens, mit dem aufgezeigt wird, welches Problem mit dem beworbenen Produkt – seien es nun Sachgüter oder Dienstleistungen – gelöst werden kann, sondern um die emotionale Ansprache der Zielgruppen. Dabei ist es keineswegs nur eine Kommunikationsaufgabe, sondern die Produktkonzeption und die Gesamtausrichtung des Marketings verändern sich so, dass eine Teilhabe am Produkt, der Produktentwicklung und der Produktidee möglich wird.
Background: A disturbed synchronization of the ventricular contraction can cause a highly developed systolic heart failure in affected patients, which can often be explained by a diseased left bundle branch block (LBBB). If medication remains unresponsive, the concerned patients will be treated with a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) system. The aim of this study was to integrate His bundle pacing into the Offenburg heart rhythm model in order to visualize the electrical pacing field generated by His bundle pacing.
Methods: Modelling and electrical field simulation activities were performed with the software CST (Computer Simulation Technology) from Dessault Systèms. CRT with biventricular pacing is to be achieved by an apical right ventricular electrode and an additional left ventricular electrode, which is floated into the coronary vein sinus. This conventional type of biventricular pacing leads to a reduction of the left ventricular ejection fraction. Furthermore, the non-responder rate of the CRT therapy is about one third of the CRT patients.
Results: His bundle pacing represents a physiological alternative to conventional cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization. An electrode implanted in the His bundle emits a stronger electrical pacing field than the electrical pacing field of conventional cardiac pacemakers. The pacing of the His bundle was performed by the Medtronic Select Secure 3830 electrode with pacing voltage amplitudes of 3 V, 2 V and 1.5 V in combination with a pacing pulse duration of 1 ms.
Conclusions: Compared to conventional cardiac pacemaker pacing, His bundle pacing is capable of bridging LBBB conduction disorders in the left ventricle. The His bundle pacing electrical field is able to spread via the physiological pathway in the right and left ventricles for CRT with a narrow QRS-complex in the surface ECG.
Im Rahmen des Forschungsprojekts Professional UX entwickelt die Hochschule Offenburg gemeinsam mit dem Softwarehaus Dr. Hornecker in Freiburg eine innovative Systemlösung, die es ermöglicht, anhand von Mimik, Stimme und Blickverlauf beim Nutzer entstehende Emotionen bei der Nutzung interaktiver Anwendungen zu erfassen und zu interpretieren. Ziel der Untersuchung ist es, Indikatoren zu identifizieren, die eine exakte Zuordnung von wahrgenommenen Reizen zu den jeweils ausgelösten Emotionen erlauben. Sobald negative Emotionen wie Ärger oder Unsicherheit auftreten, kann dieser erfasst und im Nachgang der jeweils irritierende Reiz eliminiert werden. Das Projektteam hat einen ersten Prototyp für die Professional UX Systemlösung in Form von Hard- und Software entwickelt, mit dem es möglich ist, UX-Messungen während der User Interaktion durchzuführen und automatisiert mithilfe von KI auswerten zu lassen.
Emotionen sind Teil jedes menschlichen Wesens: Sie begleiten Konsumenten und Konsumentinnen durch alle Alltagssituationen – auch und insbesondere bei Kaufentscheidungen. Jedoch war es bisher nur bedingt möglich, diese Emotionen im Dialogmarketing genau zu erfassen und zu interpretieren. Die innovative Customer Experience Tracking Methode der Hochschule Offenburg ermöglicht eine verzerrungsreduzierte Messung und Auswertung von Kundenemotionen, die vor, während und nach der Benutzerinteraktion mit Dialogmarketingaktivitäten auftreten. Aus den im Labor oder im Feld gewonnenen Untersuchungsergebnissen lassen sich konkrete Handlungsempfehlungen ableiten, um Dialogmarketingangebote im Offline-, Online- oder crossmedialen Bereich optimal auf die Bedürfnisse und Erwartungen der Kunden und Kundinnen auszurichten.
Der Artikel beschreibt die Herausforderungen für die Kommunikation in Ganztagsschulen im Jahr 2020 als es notwendig war bei einer sehr unbeständigen Organisations- und Kommunikationslage von Seiten der Schulverwaltungen einen Unterrichts- und Ganztagsbetrieb zu organisieren und gegenüber den wesentlichen Stakeholdern zu kommunizieren.
Automotive service suppliers are keen to invent products that help to reduce particulate matter pollution substantial, but governance worldwide are not yet ready to introduce this retrofitting of helpful devices statutory. To develop a strategy how to introduce these devices to the market based on user needs is the objective of our research. The contribution of this paper is three-fold: we will provide an overview of the current options of particulate matter pollution solutions (I). This corpus is used to come to a more precise description of the specific needs and wishes of target groups (II). Finally, a representative empirical study via social media channels with German car owners will help to develop a strategy to introduce retrofit devices into the German market (III).
To reach customers by dialog marketing campaigns is more and more difficult. This is a common problem of companies and marketing agencies worldwide: information overload, multi-channel-communication and a confusing variety of offers make it hard to gain the attention of the target group. The contribution of this paper is four-fold: we provide an overview of the current state of print dialog marketing activities and trends (I). Based on this corpus we identify the main key performance indicators of dialog marketing customer interaction (II). A qualitative user experience study identifies the customer wishes and needs, focusing on lottery offers for senior citizens (III). Finally, we evaluate the success of two different dialog marketing campaigns with 20,000 clients and compare the key performance indicators of the original hands-on experience-based print mailings with user experience tested and optimized mailings (IV).
Bei dem vorgestellten Ansatz soll der Auftreffpunkt des Pfeils durch die Kreuzkorrelation von Audio-Signalen bestimmt werden. Das Auftreffen des Pfeils erzeugt ein charakteristisches Geräusch, welches von mehreren Mikrofonen in bestimmter Anordnung um die Dartscheibe herum in elektrische Signale umgewandelt wird. Mithilfe der Schallgeschwindigkeit und den Zeitdifferenzen, welche die Schallwelle zu den einzelnen Mikrofonen benötigt soll dann der Auftreffpunkt berechnet werden.
Mit der Implementierung sowie einer anschließenden aussagekräftigen Evaluierung, soll das, visuelle-inertiale Kartierungs- und Lokalisierungssystem maplab analysiert werden. Hierbei basiert die Kartierung bzw. Lokalisierung auf der Detektion von Umgebungsmerkmalen. Neben der Möglichkeit der Kartenerstellung besteht ferner die Option, mehrere Karten zu fusionieren und somit weitreichende Gebiete zu kartieren sowie für weitere Datenauswertungen zu nutzen. Aufgrund der Durchführung und Bewertung der Ergebnisse in unterschiedlichen Anwendungsszenarien zeigt sich, dass maplab besonders zur Kartierung von Räumen bzw. kleinen Gebäudekomplexen geeignet ist. Die Möglichkeit der Kartenfusionierung bietet weiterhin die Option, den Informationsgehalt von Karten zu erhöhen, welches die Effektivität für eine anschließende Lokalisierung steigert. Bei wachsender Kartierungsgröße hingegen zeigt sich jedoch eine Vergrößerung geometrischer Inkonsistenzen.
This paper explains the realization of a concept for research-oriented photonics education. Using the example of the integration of an actual PhD project, it is shown how students are familiarized with the topic of research and scientific work in the first semesters. Typical research activities are included as essential parts of the learning process. Research should be made visible and tangible for the students. The authors will present all aspects of the learning environment, their impressions and experiences with the implemented scenario, as well as first evaluation results of the students.
Live streaming of events over an IP network as a catalyst in media technology education and training
(2020)
The paper describes how students are involved in applied research when setting up the technology and running a live event. Real-time IP transmission in broadcast environments via fiber optics will become increasingly important in the future. Therefore, it is necessary to create a platform in this area where students can learn how to handle IP infrastructure and fiber optics. With this in mind, we have built a fully functional TV control room that is completely IP-based. The authors present the steps in the development of the project and show the advantages of the proposed digital solutions. The IP network proves to be a synergy between the involved teams: participants of the robot competition and the members of the media team. These results are presented in the paper. Our activities aim to awaken enthusiasm for research and technology in young people. Broadcasts of live events are a good opportunity for "hands on" activities.
Astronomical phenomena fascinate people from the very beginning of mankind up to today. In this paper the authors will present their experience with photography of astronomical events. The main focus will be on aurora borealis, comet Neowise, total lunar eclipses and how mobile devices open up new possibilities to observe the green flash. Our efforts were motivated by the great impact and high number of viewers of these events. Visitors from over a hundred countries watched our live broadcasts.
Furthermore, we report on our experiences with the photography of optical phenomena such as polar lights Fig. 1, comet Neowise with a Delta Aquariids meteor Fig. 11, and lunar eclipses Fig. 12.
Zur Herstellung von Spritzgussformeinsätzen kommen in der Regel spanende Verfahren zum Einsatz. In den letzten Jahren hat sich allerdings auch die additive Herstellung dieser Werkzeuge als zweckmäßig erwiesen. In der Produktentwicklung spielt die Agilität heute eine immer wichtigere Rolle. Um mögliche Potentiale des Additive Tooling im Rahmen des Agile Prototyping und um Unterschiede zu den konventionellen Herstellverfahren aufzuzeigen, werden Angebote für die Fertigung mehrerer Formeinsätze durch eine CNC- und HSC-Fertigung, sowie durch additive Herstellung angefragt und hinsichtlich Beschaffungskosten und -zeiten miteinander verglichen. Zudem erfolgt eine Bewertung der technischen Unterschiede. Aus diesen beiden Betrachtungen kann schließlich ein Profil über die drei Herstellverfahren abgeleitet werden, welches bei der anwendungsfallspezifischen Verfahrensauswahl unterstützen soll.
Additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing (3DP) has become a widespread new technology in recent years and is now used in many areas of industry. At the same time, there is an increasing need for training courses that impart the knowledge required for product development in 3D printing. In this article, a workshop on “Rapid Prototyping” is presented, which is intended to provide students with the technical and creative knowledge for product development in the field of AM. Today, additive manufacturing is an important part of teaching for the training of future engineers. In a detailed literature review, the advantages and disadvantages of previous approaches to training students are examined and analyzed. On this basis, a new approach is developed in which the students analyze and optimize a given product in terms of additivie manufacturing. The students use two different 3D printers to complete this task. In this way, the students acquire the skills to work independently with different processes and materials. With this new approach, the students learn to adapt the design to different manufacturing processes and to observe the restrictions of different materials. The results of these courses are evaluated through feedback in a presentation and a questionnaire.
Fusion 360 – kurz und bündig
(2020)
Dieses Lehrbuch ermöglicht dem Anfänger in der 3D-Modellierung einen schnellen Einstieg in die Arbeit mit dem cloudbasierten CAD-System Autodesk® Fusion 360TM. Der Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf den grundlegenden Funktionen zur Modellierung von Einzelteilen und dem Zusammenbau von Produkten, sowie in der Erstellung von einfachen technischen Zeichnungen. Dabei werden bei jedem Schritt die besonderen Anforderungen an eine 3D-Druck-gerechte Gestaltung erläutert und umgesetzt. Somit ist das Ergebnis dieser „Schritt für Schritt“-Anleitung die vollständige Modellierung eines Miniatur-Automobils, das am 3D-Drucker in ein reales Modell umgesetzt werden kann. Das didaktische Konzept ist so ausgelegt, dass alle Schritte für ein Selbststudium geeignet sind. Die vorliegende Auflage wurde komplett überarbeitet, sie basiert auf der neuen Benutzeroberfläche User Interface (UI) und enthält ein neues Kapitel zum CNC-Blechbiegen.
Efficient collaborative robotic applications need a combination of speed and separation monitoring, and power and force limiting operations. While most collaborative robots have built-in sensors for power and force limiting operations, there are none with built-in sensor systems for speed and separation monitoring. This paper proposes a system for speed and separation monitoring directly from the gripper of the robot. It can monitor separation distances of up to three meters. We used single-pixel Time-of-Flight sensors to measure the separation distance between the gripper and the next obstacle perpendicular to it. This is the first system capable of measuring separation distances of up to three meters directly from the robot's gripper.
Generative convolutional deep neural networks, e.g. popular GAN architectures, are relying on convolution based up-sampling methods to produce non-scalar outputs like images or video sequences. In this paper, we show that common up-sampling methods, i.e. known as up-convolution or transposed convolution, are causing the inability of such models to reproduce spectral distributions of natural training data correctly. This effect is independent of the underlying architecture and we show that it can be used to easily detect generated data like deepfakes with up to 100% accuracy on public benchmarks. To overcome this drawback of current generative models, we propose to add a novel spectral regularization term to the training optimization objective. We show that this approach not only allows to train spectral consistent GANs that are avoiding high frequency errors. Also, we show that a correct approximation of the frequency spectrum has positive effects on the training stability and output quality of generative networks.
Multiple Object Tracking (MOT) is a long-standing task in computer vision. Current approaches based on the tracking by detection paradigm either require some sort of domain knowledge or supervision to associate data correctly into tracks. In this work, we present an unsupervised multiple object tracking approach based on visual features and minimum cost lifted multicuts. Our method is based on straight-forward spatio-temporal cues that can be extracted from neighboring frames in an image sequences without superivison. Clustering based on these cues enables us to learn the required appearance invariances for the tracking task at hand and train an autoencoder to generate suitable latent representation. Thus, the resulting latent representations can serve as robust appearance cues for tracking even over large temporal distances where no reliable spatio-temporal features could be extracted. We show that, despite being trained without using the provided annotations, our model provides competitive results on the challenging MOT Benchmark for pedestrian tracking.
We introduce an open source python framework named PHS-Parallel Hyperparameter Search to enable hyperparameter optimization on numerous compute instances of any arbitrary python function. This is achieved with minimal modifications inside the target function. Possible applications appear in expensive to evaluate numerical computations which strongly depend on hyperparameters such as machine learning. Bayesian optimization is chosen as a sample efficient method to propose the next query set of parameters.
Diffracted waves carry high‐resolution information that can help interpreting fine structural details at a scale smaller than the seismic wavelength. However, the diffraction energy tends to be weak compared to the reflected energy and is also sensitive to inaccuracies in the migration velocity, making the identification of its signal challenging. In this work, we present an innovative workflow to automatically detect scattering points in the migration dip angle domain using deep learning. By taking advantage of the different kinematic properties of reflected and diffracted waves, we separate the two types of signals by migrating the seismic amplitudes to dip angle gathers using prestack depth imaging in the local angle domain. Convolutional neural networks are a class of deep learning algorithms able to learn to extract spatial information about the data in order to identify its characteristics. They have now become the method of choice to solve supervised pattern recognition problems. In this work, we use wave equation modelling to create a large and diversified dataset of synthetic examples to train a network into identifying the probable position of scattering objects in the subsurface. After giving an intuitive introduction to diffraction imaging and deep learning and discussing some of the pitfalls of the methods, we evaluate the trained network on field data and demonstrate the validity and good generalization performance of our algorithm. We successfully identify with a high‐accuracy and high‐resolution diffraction points, including those which have a low signal to noise and reflection ratio. We also show how our method allows us to quickly scan through high dimensional data consisting of several versions of a dataset migrated with a range of velocities to overcome the strong effect of incorrect migration velocity on the diffraction signal.
Extracting horizon surfaces from key reflections in a seismic image is an important step of the interpretation process. Interpreting a reflection surface in a geologically complex area is a difficult and time-consuming task, and it requires an understanding of the 3D subsurface geometry. Common methods to help automate the process are based on tracking waveforms in a local window around manual picks. Those approaches often fail when the wavelet character lacks lateral continuity or when reflections are truncated by faults. We have formulated horizon picking as a multiclass segmentation problem and solved it by supervised training of a 3D convolutional neural network. We design an efficient architecture to analyze the data over multiple scales while keeping memory and computational needs to a practical level. To allow for uncertainties in the exact location of the reflections, we use a probabilistic formulation to express the horizons position. By using a masked loss function, we give interpreters flexibility when picking the training data. Our method allows experts to interactively improve the results of the picking by fine training the network in the more complex areas. We also determine how our algorithm can be used to extend horizons to the prestack domain by following reflections across offsets planes, even in the presence of residual moveout. We validate our approach on two field data sets and show that it yields accurate results on nontrivial reflectivity while being trained from a workable amount of manually picked data. Initial training of the network takes approximately 1 h, and the fine training and prediction on a large seismic volume take a minute at most.
Diffracted waves carry high resolution information that can help interpreting fine structural details at a scale smaller than the seismic wavelength. Because of the low signal-to-noise ratio of diffracted waves, it is challenging to preserve them during processing and to identify them in the final data. It is, therefore, a traditional approach to pick manually the diffractions. However, such task is tedious and often prohibitive, thus, current attention is given to domain adaptation. Those methods aim to transfer knowledge from a labeled domain to train the model, and then infer on the real unlabeled data. In this regard, it is common practice to create a synthetic labeled training dataset, followed by testing on unlabeled real data. Unfortunately, such procedure may fail due to the existing gap between the synthetic and the real distribution since quite often synthetic data oversimplifies the problem, and consequently the transfer learning becomes a hard and non-trivial procedure. Furthermore, deep neural networks are characterized by their high sensitivity towards cross-domain distribution shift. In this work, we present deep learning model that builds a bridge between both distributions creating a semi-synthetic datatset that fills in the gap between synthetic and real domains. More specifically, our proposal is a feed-forward, fully convolutional neural network for imageto-image translation that allows to insert synthetic diffractions while preserving the original reflection signal. A series of experiments validate that our approach produces convincing seismic data containing the desired synthetic diffractions.
Ecological concerns on the climatic effects of the emissions from electricity production stipulate the remuneration of electricity grids to accept growing amounts of intermittent regenerative electricity feed-in from wind and solar power. Germany’s eager political target to double regenerative electricity production by 2030 puts pressure on grid operators to adapt and restructure their transmission and distribution grids. The ability of local distribution grids to operate autonomous of transmission grid supply is essential to stabilize electricity supply at the level of German federal states. Although congestion management and collaboration at the distribution system operator (DSO) level are promising approaches, relatively few studies address this issue. This study presents a methodology to assess the electric energy balance for the low-voltage grids in the German federal state of Baden-Württemberg, assuming the typical load curves and the interchange potential among local distribution grids by means of linear programming of the supply function and for typical seasonal electricity demands. The model can make a statement about the performance and development requirements for grid architecture for scenarios in 2035 and 2050 when regenerative energies will—according to present legislation—account for more than half of Germany’s electricity supply. The study details the amendment to Baden-Württemberg’s electricity grid required to fit the system to the requirements of regenerative electricity production. The suggested model for grid analysis can be used in further German regions and internationally to systematically remunerate electricity grids for the acceptance of larger amounts of regenerative electricity inflows. This empirical study closes the research gap of assessing the interchange potential among DSO and considers usual power loads and simultaneously usual electricity inflows.
Anmerkung zu ArbG Düsseldorf v. 5.3.2020 – 9 Ca 6557/18 – nicht rechtskräftig
Das ArbG Düsseldorf hat einem ehemaligen Arbeitnehmer einen immateriellen Schadensersatz von 5 000 Euro wegen einer verspäteten und teilweise unrichtigen datenschutzrechtlichen Auskunft seitens seines vormaligen Arbeitgebers zugesprochen. Der Beitrag setzt sich mit dieser Entscheidung grundsätzlich auseinander.
This paper describes a comparative study of two tactile systems supporting navigation for persons with little or no visual and auditory perception. The efficacy of a tactile head-mounted device (HMD) was compared to that of a wearable device, a tactile belt. A study with twenty participants showed that the participants took significantly less time to complete a course when navigating with the HMD, as compared to the belt.
Am 01.10.2019 beschäftigte sich der EuGH mit der Frage, wann und inwieweit das Setzen von Cookies ohne vorherige Einwilligung des Internet-Nutzers zulässig sein könnte. Das Ergebnis ist für die Werbeindustrie zwar eigentlich nicht überraschend, aber dennoch für diese höchst ärgerlich. Die praktischen Folgen hingegen sind bislang etwas irritierend, hat sich doch die Zahl von Pop-Up-Fenstern immens vervielfacht, was jedoch, wie hier gezeigt wird, zumeist entweder überflüssig oder aber nicht hinreichend ist.
Beinahe jeder Online-Anbieter wünscht sich ausgiebiges Feedback, also möglichst viele Produktbewertungen, Likes u.Ä. Denn Feedback erzeugt Popularität und diese wiederum bringt neue Kunden. Die lauterkeitsrechtlichen Probleme von Incentives zur Steigerung der Feedback-Rate sind Thema dieses Beitrags.
In der Forschungsgruppe um Prof. Dr. Thomas Wendt werden Themen in unterschiedlichsten Bereichen von Automatisierungstechnik über funktionale Sicherheit bis hin zur 3D-gedruckten Elektronik / Sensorik behandelt. Insgesamt arbeiten vier Doktoranden und vier Mitarbeiter an der Weiterentwicklung der verschiedenen Technologien, die in diesem Artikel zusammengefasst dargestellt sind.
Machine learning (ML) has become highly relevant in applications across all industries, and specialists in the field are sought urgently. As it is a highly interdisciplinary field, requiring knowledge in computer science, statistics and the relevant application domain, experts are hard to find. Large corporations can sweep the job market by offering high salaries, which makes the situation for small and medium enterprises (SME) even worse, as they usually lack the capacities both for attracting specialists and for qualifying their own personnel. In order to meet the enormous demand in ML specialists, universities now teach ML in specifically designed degree programs as well as within established programs in science and engineering. While the teaching almost always uses practical examples, these are somewhat artificial or outdated, as real data from real companies is usually not available. The approach reported in this contribution aims to tackle the above challenges in an integrated course, combining three independent aspects: first, teaching key ML concepts to graduate students from a variety of existing degree programs; second, qualifying working professionals from SME for ML; and third, applying ML to real-world problems faced by those SME. The course was carried out in two trial periods within a government-funded project at a university of applied sciences in south-west Germany. The region is dominated by SME many of which are world leaders in their industries. Participants were students from different graduate programs as well as working professionals from several SME based in the region. The first phase of the course (one semester) consists of the fundamental concepts of ML, such as exploratory data analysis, regression, classification, clustering, and deep learning. In this phase, student participants and working professionals were taught in separate tracks. Students attended regular classes and lab sessions (but were also given access to e-learning materials), whereas the professionals learned exclusively in a flipped classroom scenario: they were given access to e-learning units (video lectures and accompanying quizzes) for preparation, while face-to-face sessions were dominated by lab experiments applying the concepts. Prior to the start of the second phase, participating companies were invited to submit real-world problems that they wanted to solve with the help of ML. The second phase consisted of practical ML projects, each tackling one of the problems and worked on by a mixed team of both students and professionals for the period of one semester. The teams were self-organized in the ways they preferred to work (e.g. remote vs. face-to-face collaboration), but also coached by one of the teaching staff. In several plenary meetings, the teams reported on their status as well as challenges and solutions. In both periods, the course was monitored and extensive surveys were carried out. We report on the findings as well as the lessons learned. For instance, while the program was very well-received, professional participants wished for more detailed coverage of theoretical concepts. A challenge faced by several teams during the second phase was a dropout of student members due to upcoming exams in other subjects.
Internet-Auktionsvertrag
(2020)
Background: This paper presents a novel approach for a hand prosthesis consisting of a flexible, anthropomorphic, 3D-printed replacement hand combined with a commercially available motorized orthosis that allows gripping.
Methods: A 3D light scanner was used to produce a personalized replacement hand. The wrist of the replacement hand was printed of rigid material; the rest of the hand was printed of flexible material. A standard arm liner was used to enable the user’s arm stump to be connected to the replacement hand. With computer-aided design, two different concepts were developed for the scanned hand model: In the first concept, the replacement hand was attached to the arm liner with a screw. The second concept involved attaching with a commercially available fastening system; furthermore, a skeleton was designed that was located within the flexible part of the replacement hand.
Results: 3D-multi-material printing of the two different hands was unproblematic and inexpensive. The printed hands had approximately the weight of the real hand. When testing the replacement hands with the orthosis it was possible to prove a convincing everyday functionality. For example, it was possible to grip and lift a 1-L water bottle. In addition, a pen could be held, making writing possible.
Conclusions: This first proof-of-concept study encourages further testing with users.
Short-term load forecasting (STLF) has been playing a key role in the electricity sector for several decades, due to the need for aligning energy generation with the demand and the financial risk connected with forecasting errors. Following the top-down approach, forecasts are calculated for aggregated load profiles, meaning the sum of singular loads from consumers belonging to a balancing group. Due to the emerging flexible loads, there is an increasing relevance for STLF of individual factories. These load profiles are typically more stochastic compared to aggregated ones, which imposes new requirements to forecasting methods and tools with a bottom-up approach. The increasing digitalization in industry with enhanced data availability as well as smart metering are enablers for improved load forecasts. There is a need for STLF tools processing live data with a high temporal resolution in the minute range. Furthermore, behin-the-meter (BTM) data from various sources like submetering and production planning data should be integrated in the models. In this case, STLF is becoming a big data problem so that machine learning (ML) methods are required. The research project “GaIN” investigates the improvement of the STLF quality of an energy utility using BTM data and innovative ML models. This paper describes the project scope, proposes a detailed definition for a benchmark and evaluates the readiness of existing STLF methods to fulfil the described requirements as a reviewing paper.
The review highlights that recent STLF investigations focus on ML methods. Especially hybrid models gain more and more importance. ML can outperform classical methods in terms of automation degree and forecasting accuracy. Nevertheless, the potential for improving forecasting accuracy by the use of ML models depends on the underlying data and the types of input variables. The described methods in the analyzed publications only partially fulfil the tool requirements for STLF on company level. There is still a need to develop suitable ML methods to integrate the expanded data base in order to improve load forecasts on company level.
The interaction between agents in multiagent-based control systems requires peer to peer communication between agents avoiding central control. The sensor nodes represent agents and produce measurement data every time step. The nodes exchange time series data by using the peer to peer network in order to calculate an aggregation function for solving a problem cooperatively. We investigate the aggregation process of averaging data for time series data of nodes in a peer to peer network by using the grouping algorithm of Cichon et al. 2018. Nodes communicate whether data is new and map data values according to their sizes into a histogram. This map message consists of the subintervals and vectors for estimating the node joining and leaving the subinterval. At each time step, the nodes communicate with each other in synchronous rounds to exchange map messages until the network converges to a common map message. The node calculates the average value of time series data produced by all nodes in the network by using the histogram algorithm. The relative error for comparing the output of averaging time series data, and the ground truth of the average value in the network will decrease as the size of the network increases. We perform simulations which show that the approximate histograms method provides a reasonable approximation of time series data.
We propose in this work to solve privacy preserving set relations performed by a third party in an outsourced configuration. We argue that solving the disjointness relation based on Bloom filters is a new contribution in particular by having another layer of privacy on the sets cardinality. We propose to compose the set relations in a slightly different way by applying a keyed hash function. Besides discussing the correctness of the set relations, we analyze how this impacts the privacy of the sets content as well as providing privacy on the sets cardinality. We are in particular interested in how having bits overlapping in the Bloom filters impacts the privacy level of our approach. Finally, we present our results with real-world parameters in two concrete scenarios.
Seit 2009 nimmt das Team ”magmaOffenburg” an der 3D-Simulationsliga des RoboCups teil. Für das erfolgreiche Abschneiden in Turnieren ist die Qualität der erlernten Bewegungsabläufe ein zentraler Faktor. Bisher wurden genetische Algorithmen verwendet, um verschiedenste Aktionen zu erlernen sowie zu optimieren. In dieser Arbeit wird der Deep Reinforcement Learning Algorithmus Proximal Policy Optimization für das Erlernen bestimmter Bewegungen verwendet. Um ein Verständnis für dessen einflussreichen Parameter zu erhalten, werden Größen wie paralleles Lernen, Hyperparameter, Netzwerktopologie, Größe des Observationspace sowie asynchronem Lernen anhand dem Kicken aus dem Stand evaluiert. Durch die Ergebnisse der Evaluierung konnte der erlernte Kick signifikant verbessert werden und sein genetisch erlerntes Gegenstück im Spiel ablösen. Drüber hinaus wurden die Erkenntnisse anhand dem Laufen lernen evaluiert und Zusammenhänge bzw. Unterschiede der zwei Lernprobleme festgestellt.
The evolution of cellular networks from its first generation (1G) to its fourth generation (4G) was driven by the demand of user-centric downlink capacity also technically called Mobile Broad-Band (MBB). With its fifth generation (5G), Machine Type Communication (MTC) has been added into the target use cases and the upcoming generation of cellular networks is expected to support them. However, such support requires improvements in the existing technologies in terms of latency, reliability, energy efficiency, data rate, scalability, and capacity.
Originally, MTC was designed for low-bandwidth high-latency applications such as, environmental sensing, smart dustbin, etc. Nowadays there is an additional demand around applications with low-latency requirements. Among other well-known challenges for recent cellular networks such as data rate energy efficiency, reliability etc., latency is also not suitable for mission-critical applications such as real-time control of machines, autonomous driving, tactile Internet etc. Therefore, in the currently deployed cellular networks, there is a necessity to reduce the latency and increase the reliability offered by the networks to support use cases such as, cooperative autonomous driving or factory automation, that are grouped under the denomination Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC).
This thesis is primarily concerned with the latency into the Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) of cellular networks. The overall work is divided into five parts. The first part presents the state of the art for cellular networks. The second part contains a detailed overview of URLLC use cases and the requirements that must be fulfilled by the cellular networks to support them. The work in this thesis is done as part of a collaboration project between IRIMAS lab in Université de Haute-Alsace, France and Institute for Reliable Embedded Systems and Communication Electronics (ivESK) in Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Germany. The selected use cases of URLLC are part of the research interests of both partner institutes. The third part presents a detailed study and evaluation of user- and control-plane latency mechanisms in current generation of cellular networks. The evaluation and analysis of these latencies, performed with the open-source ns-3 simulator, were conducted by exploring a broad range of parameters that include among others, traffic models, channel access parameters, realistic propagation models, and a broad set of cellular network protocol stack parameters. These simulations were performed with low-power, low-cost, and wide-range devices, commonly called IoT devices, and standardized for cellular networks. These devices use either LTE-M or Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT) technologies that are designed for connected things. They differ mainly by the provided bandwidth and other additional characteristics such as coding scheme, device complexity, and so on.
The fourth part of this thesis shows a study, an implementation, and an evaluation of latency reduction techniques that target the different layers of the currently used Long Term Evolution (LTE) network protocol stack. These techniques based on Transmission Time Interval (TTI) reduction and Semi-Persistent Scheduling (SPS) methods are implemented into the ns-3 simulator and are evaluated through realistic simulations performed for a variety of low-latency use cases focused on industry automation and vehicular networking. For testing the proposed latency reduction techniques in cellular networks, since ns-3 does not support NB-IoT in its current release, an NB-IoT extension for LTE module was developed. This makes it possible to explore deployment limitations and issues.
In the last part of this thesis, a flexible deployment framework called Hybrid Scheduling and Flexible TTI for the proposed latency reduction techniques is presented, implemented and evaluated through realistic simulations. With help of the simulation evaluation, it is shown that the improved LTE network proposed and implemented in the simulator can support low-latency applications with low cost, higher range, and narrow bandwidth devices. The work in this thesis points out the potential improvement techniques, their deployment issues and paves the way towards the support for URLLC applications with upcoming cellular networks.
DE\GLOBALIZE
(2020)
The precise positioning of mobile systems is a prerequisite for any autonomous behavior, in an industrial environment as well as for field robotics. The paper describes the set up for an experimental platform and its use for the evaluation of simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) algorithms. Two approaches are compared. First, a local method based on point cloud matching and integration of inertial measurement units is evaluated. Subsequent matching makes it possible to create a three-dimensional point cloud that can be used as a map in subsequent runs. The second approach is a full SLAM algorithm, based on graph relaxation models, incorporating the full sensor suite of odometry, inertial sensors, and 3D laser scan data.
A novel approach for synchronization and calibration of a camera and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) in the research-oriented visual-inertial mapping-and localization-framework maplab is presented. Mapping and localization are based on detecting different features in the environment. In addition to the possibility of creating single-case maps, the included algorithms allow merging maps to increase mapping accuracy and obtain large-scale maps. Furthermore, the algorithms can be used to optimize the collected data. The preliminary results show that after appropriate calibration and synchronization maplab can be used efficiently for mapping, especially in rooms and small building environments.
In this contribution, we propose an system setup for the detection andclassification of objects in autonomous driving applications. The recognition algo-rithm is based upon deep neural networks, operating in the 2D image domain. Theresults are combined with data of a stereo camera system to finally incorporatethe 3D object information into our mapping framework. The detection systemis locally running upon the onboard CPU of the vehicle. Several network archi-tectures are implemented and evaluated with respect to accuracy and run-timedemands for the given camera and hardware setup.
A Gamified and Adaptive Learning System for Neurodivergent Workers in Electronic Assembling Tasks
(2020)
Learning and work-oriented assistive systems are often designed to fit the workflow of neurotypical workers. Neurodivergent workers and individuals with learning disabilities often present cognitive and sensorimotor characteristics that are better accommodated with personalized learning and working processes. Therefore, we designed an adaptive learning system that combines an augmented interaction space with user-sensitive virtual assistance to support step-by-step guidance for neurodivergent workers in electronic assembling tasks. Gamified learning elements were also included in the interface to provide self-motivation and praise whenever users progress in their learning and work achievements.
Nowadays, the wide majority of Europeans uses smartphones. However, touch displays are still not accessible by everyone. Individuals with deafblindness, for example, often face difculties in accessing vision-based touchscreens. Moreover, they typically have few fnancial resources which increases the need for customizable, low-cost assistive devices. In this work-in-progress, we present four prototypes made from low-cost, every-day materials, that make modern pattern lock mechanisms more accessible to individuals with vision impairments or even with deafblindness. Two out of four prototypes turned out to be functional tactile overlays for accessing digital 4-by-4 grids that are regularly used to encode dynamic dot patterns. In future work, we will conduct a user study investigating whether these two prototypes can make dot-based pattern lock mechanisms more accessible for individuals with visual impairments or deafblindness.
Deafblindness, a form of dual sensory impairment, signifcantly impacts communication, access to information and mobility. Inde- pendent navigation and wayfnding are main challenges faced by individuals living with combined hearing and visual impairments. We developed a haptic wearable that provides sensory substitution and navigational cues for users with deafblindness by conveying vibrotactile signals onto the body. Vibrotactile signals on the waist area convey directional and proximity information collected via a fisheye camera attached to the garment, while semantic informa- tion is provided with a tapping system on the shoulders. A playful scenario called “Keep Your Distance” was designed to test the navigation system: individuals with deafblindness were “secret agents” that needed to follow a “suspect”, but they should keep an opti- mal distance of 1.5 meters from the other person to win the game. Preliminary fndings suggest that individuals with deafblindness enjoyed the experience and were generally able to follow the directional cues.
Co-Designing Assistive Tools to Support Social Interactions by Individuals Living with Deafblindness
(2020)
Deafblindness is a dual sensory impairment that affects many aspects of life, including mobility, access to information, communication, and social interactions. Furthermore, individuals living with deafblindness are under a high risk of social isolation. Therefore, we identified opportunities for applying assistive tools to support social interactions through co-ideation activities with members of the deafblind community. This work presents our co-design approach, lessons learned and directions for designing meaningful assistive tools for dual sensory loss.
Interaction and capturing information from the surrounding is dominated by vision and hearing. Haptics on the other side, widens the bandwidth and could also replace senses (sense switching) for impaired. Haptic technologies are often limited to point-wise actuation. Here, we show that actuation in two-dimensional matrices instead creates a richer input. We describe the construction of a full-body garment for haptic communication with a distributed actuating network. The garment is divided into attachable-detachable panels or add-ons that each can carry a two dimensional matrix of actuating haptic elements. Each panel adds to an enhanced sensoric capability of the human- garment system so that together a 720° system is formed. The spatial separation of the panels on different body locations supports semantic and theme-wise separation of conversations conveyed by haptics. It also achieves directional faithfulness, which is maintaining any directional information about a distal stimulus in the haptic input.
Tactile Navigation with Checkpoints as Progress Indicators?: Only when Walking Longer Straight Paths
(2020)
Persons with both vision and hearing impairments have to rely primarily on tactile feedback, which is frequently used in assistive devices. We explore the use of checkpoints as a way to give them feedback during navigation tasks. Particularly, we investigate how checkpoints can impact performance and user experience. We hypothesized that individuals receiving checkpoint feedback would take less time and perceive the navigation experience as superior to those who did not receive such feedback. Our contribution is two-fold: a detailed report on the implementation of a smart wearable with tactile feedback (1), and a user study analyzing its effects (2). The results show that in contrast to our assumptions, individuals took considerably more time to complete routes with checkpoints. Also, they perceived navigating with checkpoints as inferior to navigating without checkpoints. While the quantitative data leave little room for doubt, the qualitative data open new aspects: when walking straight and not being "overwhelmed" by various forms of feedback in succession, several participants actually appreciated the checkpoint feedback.
Die Lithium-Ionen-Batterietechnologie ist seit ihrem kommerziellen Durchbruch zu Beginn der neunziger Jahre zum Standard für die portable Energieversorgung geworden. Zunehmend macht sie auch im mobilen und stationären Bereich klassischen Technologien, wie dem Verbrennungsmotor, Konkurrenz. Da in diesen Anwendungsfeldern aber meist größere Energiemengen erforderlich und wesentlich längere Produktlebenszyklen üblich sind, sind einerseits die Sicherheit und andererseits die Alterung der Batterien von herausragendem Interesse. Diese Arbeit konzentriert sich auf die Untersuchung und Modellierung einer Lithium-Eisenphosphat-Zelle. Dabei wird eine Lithiumeisenphosphat-Kathode mit einer Graphit-Anode kombiniert. Dieser Zelltyp eignet sich besonders für stationäre Anwendungen. Trotz eines bisher vergleichsweise geringen Marktanteils lassen sich, wie im Laufe dieser Arbeit ersichtlich wird, die Ergebnisse gut auf den Großteil der kommerziell verwendeten Lithium-Ionen-Zellen abstrahieren. Ziel der Arbeit ist es, mit Hilfe mathematischer Modellierung dieser Lithium-Ionen-Batterie das Verständnis über die komplexen Alterungsmechanismen zu vertiefen, um mit diesen Erkenntnissen Verbesserungsvorschläge zum Aufbau und der Betriebsweise der Batterien zu erarbeiten. Eine Batterie ist ein hochkomplexes physikalisches System, in dem sich die räumlichen Gradienten der physikalischen Größen um viele Größenordnungen unterscheiden können. Auch bei der zeitlichen Betrachtung laufen wichtige Prozesse wie beispielsweise die Ladung, die Alterung oder das thermische Durchgehen auf sehr unterschiedlichen Zeitskalen ab. Dabei finden in der Zelle gleichzeitig, teilweise in gegenseitiger Abhängigkeit, zahlreiche chemische Reaktionen statt. Zur numerischen Simulation bedarf es also eines Modells, das flexibel mit diesen unterschiedlichen Anforderungen umgeht. Die in dieser Arbeit verwendete hauseigene Software DENIS bildet dieses flexible Gerüst, welches sich des numerischen Lösers LIMEX, der elektrochemischen Simulationsumgebung Cantera und der Mathematiksoftware MATLAB bedient. Das Kontinuum-Modell verwendet drei unterschiedliche Skalen entlang der gleichen räumlichen Dimension (sog. 1D+1D+1D oder pseudo-3D-Modell). Durch diese drei miteinander gekoppelten Skalen werden die Temperaturverteilung, die elektrochemischen Vorgänge und die Diffusion von Lithium in die Aktivmaterialien berechnet. Ähnliche, häufig nach John Newman benannte, Modelle lassen sich in großer Vielfalt in der Literatur finden. Eine wichtige Verbesserung des Modells stellt daher vor allem die Erweiterung um die Nebenreaktionen dar. Dabei ist die Bildung der Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI) von herausragendem Interesse, jedoch auch deren Zersetzung bei zu hohen Temperaturen, die zum thermischen Durchgehen der Batterie führen kann. Durch die Modellierung der SEI-Nebenreaktion gelingt es, die kalendarische Alterung der Zellen in dem für viele kommerzielle Anwendungen relevanten Bereich von 100 % bis 80 % State of health (SOH) zu simulieren. Eine weitere wichtige Modellerweiterung stellt die Berücksichtigung mechanischer Effekte dar; dies führt zu einer Beschreibung der zyklischen Alterung der Zelle. Dabei wird ein realer mechanischer Effekt mit dem bestehenden elektrochemischen Modell verbunden. Grundlegende Hypothese ist hierbei, dass die SEI-Schicht beim Laden der Zelle aufbricht und es damit zu einer erhöhten Reduktion des Elektrolyten kommt. Somit ist das Modell in der Lage, sowohl kalendarische als auch zyklische Effekte zu simulieren, die auf chemischen und mechanischen Ursachen basieren. Die Berücksichtigung des Effektes der Austrocknung der Elektrode durch die Reduktion des Elektrolyten ermöglicht eine Vorhersage des irreversiblen Kapazitätsverlustes bis weit über die 80 % SOH-Grenze hinaus. Durch Hinzufügen einer zweiten SEI-Reaktion kann darüber hinaus das thermische und elektrische Verhalten der Zelle bei erhöhten Temperaturen außerhalb des Betriebsbereichs sowie bei externem Kurzschluss qualitativ und quantitativ gut abgebildet werden. Abweichungen der Modellvorhersage zu experimentellen Werten lassen sich zum Teil mit der Vernachlässigung von weniger relevanten physikalischen und chemischen Vorgängen erklären. Ein weiterer Grund für Abweichungen ist in der Zusammensetzung der experimentellen Daten zu suchen, bei denen die Batterien stets von der gleichen Zellchemie sind, sich jedoch in der exakten Bauform teilweise unterscheiden. Um das an Parametern deutlich überbestimmte Modell zu validieren, werden die Ergebnisse umfangreicher Experimente mit stationären Lithium-Eisenphosphat-Zellen (LFP) verwendet. Neben Lade- und Entladezyklen sind die Elektrochemische-Impedanz-Spektroskopie (EIS) und Alterungsexperimente an baugleichen Zellen durchgeführt worden. Nur mit dieser experimentellen Unterstützung entsteht somit ein konsistentes thermo-elektrochemisches Modell der Zelle. Aufgrund der erweiterten experimentellen Datengrundlage kann somit die Komplexität des Modells erhöht werden. Diese verschiedenen Modellvorhersagen können mit einem einzigen Satz an Parametern gemacht werden. Durch die Kombination und Integration dieser unterschiedlichen Alterungseffekte in ein konsistentes physikalisches System entsteht damit ein Modell, dessen Aussagekraft sich nicht auf einen spezifischen Betriebsbereich der Zelle reduziert. Die Interaktionen der vielen physikalisch-chemischen Effekte sind für verschiedene Betriebszustände analytisch nur schwer abschätzbar. Mit der modellbasierten Abbildung dieser komplexen Interaktionen wird somit ein wissenschaftlicher Mehrwert geschaffen.
This work compares the performance of Bluetooth Mesh implementations on real chipsets against the ideal implementation of the specification. Measurements are taken in experimental settings and reveal non-idealities in the underlying Bluetooth Low Energy specification in real chipsets and in the implementation of Mesh, which introduces an unruly transmission as well as reception behavior. These effects lead to an impact on transmission rate, reception rate, latency, as well as a more significant impact on the average power consumption.
Wow, You Are Terrible at This!: An Intercultural Study on Virtual Agents Giving Mixed Feedback
(2020)
While the effects of virtual agents in terms of likeability, uncanniness, etc. are well explored, it is unclear how their appearance and the feedback they give affects people's reactions. Is critical feedback from an agent embodied as a mouse or a robot taken less serious than from a human agent? In an intercultural study with 120 participants from Germany and the US, participants had to find hidden objects in a game and received feedback on their performance by virtual agents with different appearances. As some levels were designed to be unsolvable, critical feedback was unavoidable. We hypothesized that feedback would be taken more serious, the more human the agent looked. Also, we expected the subjects from the US to react more sensitively to criticism. Surprisingly, our results showed that the agents' appearance did not significantly change the participants' perception. Also, while we found highly significant differences in inspirational and motivational effects as well as in perceived task load between the two cultures, the reactions to criticism were contrary to expectations based on established cultural models. This work improves our understanding on how affective virtual agents are to be designed, both with respect to culture and to dialogue strategies.
Deafblindness, also known as dual sensory loss, is the combination of sight and hearing impairments of such extent that it becomes difficult for one sense to compensate for the other. Communication issues are a key concern for the Deafblind community. We present the design and technical implementation of the Tactile Board: a mobile Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device for individuals with deafblindness. The Tactile Board allows text and speech to be translated into vibrotactile signs that are displayed real-time to the user via a haptic wearable. Our aim is to facilitate communication for the deafblind community, creating opportunities for these individuals to initiate and engage in social interactions with other people without the direct need of an intervener.
Novel manufacturing technologies, such as printed electronics, may enable future applications for the Internet of Everything like large-area sensor devices, disposable security, and identification tags. Printed physically unclonable functions (PUFs) are promising candidates to be embedded as hardware security keys into lightweight identification devices. We investigate hybrid PUFs based on a printed PUF core. The statistics on the intra- and inter-hamming distance distributions indicate a performance suitable for identification purposes. Our evaluations are based on statistical simulations of the PUF core circuit and the thereof generated challenge-response pairs. The analysis shows that hardware-intrinsic security features can be realized with printed lightweight devices.
Printed electronics (PE) enables disruptive applications in wearables, smart sensors, and healthcare since it provides mechanical flexibility, low cost, and on-demand fabrication. The progress in PE raises trust issues in the supply chain and vulnerability to reverse engineering (RE) attacks. Recently, RE attacks on PE circuits have been successfully performed, pointing out the need for countermeasures against RE, such as camouflaging. In this article, we propose a printed camouflaged logic cell that can be inserted into PE circuits to thwart RE. The proposed cell is based on three components achieved by changing the fabrication process that exploits the additive manufacturing feature of PE. These components are optically look-alike, while their electrical behaviors are different, functioning as a transistor, short, and open. The properties of the proposed cell and standard PE cells are compared in terms of voltage swing, delay, power consumption, and area. Moreover, the proposed camouflaged cell is fabricated and characterized to prove its functionality. Furthermore, numerous camouflaged components are fabricated, and their (in)distinguishability is assessed to validate their optical similarities based on the recent RE attacks on PE. The results show that the proposed cell is a promising candidate to be utilized in camouflaging PE circuits with negligible overhead.
Neuromorphic computing systems have demonstrated many advantages for popular classification problems with significantly less computational resources. We present in this paper the design, fabrication and training of a programmable neuromorphic circuit, which is based on printed electrolytegated field-effect transistor (EGFET). Based on printable neuron architecture involving several resistors and one transistor, the proposed circuit can realize multiply-add and activation functions. The functionality of the circuit, i.e. the weights of the neural network, can be set during a post-fabrication step in form of printing resistors to the crossbar. Besides the fabrication of a programmable neuron, we also provide a learning algorithm, tailored to the requirements of the technology and the proposed programmable neuron design, which is verified through simulations. The proposed neuromorphic circuit operates at 5V and occupies 385mm 2 of area.
Printed electronics (PE) is a fast-growing field with promising applications in wearables, smart sensors, and smart cards, since it provides mechanical flexibility, and low-cost, on-demand, and customizable fabrication. To secure the operation of these applications, true random number generators (TRNGs) are required to generate unpredictable bits for cryptographic functions and padding. However, since the additive fabrication process of the PE circuits results in high intrinsic variations due to the random dispersion of the printed inks on the substrate, constructing a printed TRNG is challenging. In this article, we exploit the additive customizable fabrication feature of inkjet printing to design a TRNG based on electrolyte-gated field-effect transistors (EGFETs). We also propose a printed resistor tuning flow for the TRNG circuit to mitigate the overall process variation of the TRNG so that the generated bits are mostly based on the random noise in the circuit, providing a true random behavior. The simulation results show that the overall process variation of the TRNGs is mitigated by 110 times, and the generated bitstream of the tuned TRNGs passes the National Institute of Standards and Technology - Statistical Test Suite. For the proof of concept, the proposed TRNG circuit was fabricated and tuned. The characterization results of the tuned TRNGs prove that the TRNGs generate random bitstreams at the supply voltage of down to 0.5 V. Hence, the proposed TRNG design is suitable to secure low-power applications in this domain.
Printed Electronics technology is a key-enabler for smart sensors, soft robotics, and wearables. The inkjet printed electrolyte-gated field effect transistor (EGFET) technology is a promising candidate for such applications due to its low-power operation, high field-effect mobility, and on-demand fabrication. Unlike conventional silicon-based technologies, inkjet printed electronics technology is an additive manufacturing process where multiple layers are printed on top of each other to realize functional devices such as transistors and their interconnections. Due to the additive manufacturing process, the technology has limited routing layers. For routing of complex circuits, insulating crossovers are printed at the intersection of routing paths to isolate them. The crossover can alter the electrical properties of a circuit based on specific location on a routing path. In this work, we propose a crossover-aware placement and routing (COPnR) methodology for inkjet-printed circuits by integrating the crossover constraints in our design framework. Our proposed placement methodology is based on a state-of-the-art evolutionary algorithm while the routing optimization is done using a genetic algorithm. The proposed methodology is compared with the industrial standard placement and routing (PnR) tools. On average, the proposed methodology has 38% fewer crossovers and 94% fewer failing paths compared to the industrial PnR tools applied to printed circuit designs.
Advances in printed electronics (PE) enables new applications, particularly in ultra-low-cost domains. However, achieving high-throughput printing processes and manufacturing yield is one of the major challenges in the large-scale integration of PE technology. In this article, we present a programmable printed circuit based on an efficient printed lookup table (pLUT) to address these challenges by combining the advantages of the high-throughput advanced printing and maskless point-of-use final configuration printing. We propose a novel pLUT design which is more efficient in PE realization compared to existing LUT designs. The proposed pLUT design is simulated, fabricated, and programmed as different logic functions with inkjet printed conductive ink to prove that it can realize digital circuit functionality with the use of programmability features. The measurements show that the fabricated LUT design is operable at 1 V.
High-performance Ag–Se-based n-type printed thermoelectric (TE) materials suitable for room-temperature applications have been developed through a new and facile synthesis approach. A high magnitude of the Seebeck coefficient up to 220 μV K–1 and a TE power factor larger than 500 μW m–1 K–2 for an n-type printed film are achieved. A high figure-of-merit ZT ∼0.6 for a printed material has been found in the film with a low in-plane thermal conductivity κF of ∼0.30 W m–1 K–1. Using this material for n-type legs, a flexible folded TE generator (flexTEG) of 13 thermocouples has been fabricated. The open-circuit voltage of the flexTEG for temperature differences of ΔT = 30 and 110 K is found to be 71.1 and 181.4 mV, respectively. Consequently, very high maximum output power densities pmax of 6.6 and 321 μW cm–2 are estimated for the temperature difference of ΔT = 30 K and ΔT = 110 K, respectively. The flexTEG has been demonstrated by wearing it on the lower wrist, which resulted in an output voltage of ∼72.2 mV for ΔT ≈ 30 K. Our results pave the way for widespread use in wearable devices.
Morphological transition of a rod-shaped phase into a string of spherical particles is commonly observed in the microstructures of alloys during solidification (Ratke and Mueller, 2006). This transition phenomenon can be explained by the classic Plateau-Rayleigh theory which was derived for fluid jets based on the surface area minimization principle. The quintessential work of Plateau-Rayleigh considers tiny perturbations (amplitude much less than the radius) to the continuous phase and for large amplitude perturbations, the breakup condition for the rod-shaped phase is still a knotty issue. Here, we present a concise thermodynamic model based on the surface area minimization principle as well as a non-linear stability analysis to generalize Plateau-Rayleigh’s criterion for finite amplitude perturbations. Our results demonstrate a breakup transition from a continuous phase via dispersed particles towards a uniform-radius cylinder, which has not been found previously, but is observed in our phase-field simulations. This new observation is attributed to a geometric constraint, which was overlooked in former studies. We anticipate that our results can provide further insights on microstructures with spherical particles and cylinder-shaped phases.