Alejandro H. Ballado

Philippine currency paper bill counterfeit detection through image processing using Canny Edge Technology

Image edge information is essentially one of the most significant information in an image, which can describe the target outline, its relative position within the target area, and other important information. Edge detection is one of the most important process in image processing, and the detection results directly affects the image analysis. Traditional edge detection algorithms are accomplished through detecting the maximum value of the first derivative or zero crossing of the second derivative. Though it seems the representative first order differential operators have known advantages like simple computation, speed and ease of implementation, they are more sensitive to noise and their detection effect are not perfect in most engineering application. Schemes for counterfeit detection has been continuously evolving through various techniques and algorithms run on machines and devices. This paper presents image enhancement and image sensing through the use of Canny Edge Technology. Moreover, counterfeit detection on selected Philippine banknotes was achieved by incorporating a distinct security feature known as Optically Variable Device (OVD) patch, as an improvement to the traditional three-way detection of bills (watermark, security thread, see-through marks)A MATLAB GUI program was developed that acquired and processed the image through Canny Edge Technology. The Canny Edge algorithm proved a robust method in detecting fake bills through OVD security features, revealing statistically significant detection proportion under a 5% level of significant for the four cases under test.

Vegetation indices and textures in object-based weed detection from UAV imagery

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) propelled the growing interest of small to medium farmers in precision agriculture applications. In this study, a methodology was developed to automatically map the land use in a vegetable farm with a very high resolution aerial image (5cm/pixel) taken at an altitude of 100 m. Using color index of vegetation extraction and Otsus thresholding method, the soil was delineated from vegetation by object-based technique, and subsequently segmented the vegetation using multi-resolution algorithm. The Support Vector Machine classification on various vegetation indices produced agreeable results, where eggplant, corn, string beans and grass/weeds were classified. The classification was further improved by including Gray Level Co-Occurrence Measures or textural features, as indicated by the increase in overall accuracy and kappa index of agreement. The output map can serve as guide for farmers and other management agencies to know the correct farm interventions such as weed control. The output map can also be used in the periodic updating of the initial land cover map produced from high resolution LiDAR data.

Hand tremor analyzer using accelerometry for preliminary diagnosis, classification and monitoring of selected movement disorders

In this paper, a system that is designed to analyze and monitor hand tremor which is to aid medical practitioners in classifying and diagnosing movement disorders in accordance to the frequency of the tremor. The tremor classifications fall into Parkinsons, Essential, and Drug Induced. Diagnosing the underlying cause of tremor does not necessarily lead to curing of the disease itself, but usually works on curing the symptom or lessening it. By maximizing the framework of the system, it can produce useful information about the tremors that is used for emergency and medical diagnosis. The tremors at least 3 Hz, at most 12 Hz can be detected. This device can be useful for the early detection of Parkinsons disease and other pathological tremors, aiding medical practitioners in terms in a time efficient way. The device can be used to monitor the progression of the tremor.

Mapping mangrove forest from LiDAR data using object-based image analysis and Support Vector Machine: The case of Calatagan, Batangas

Efforts have been made in conserving the mangrove forests of Calatagan, Batangas. As an aid in the conservation and environmental assessment of the said forest, this study presents a method in producing fine scale map of these protected areas. The study site covers the northern part of Calatagan consisting of 12 barangays, seven of which are in the coastal zone. Serving as input in image classification, airborne LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data measuring approximately 72 km2 was provided by DREAM LiDAR. Combinations of multi-threshold and multiresolution segmentation enabled the pre-processing stage before moving on with the classification. It was observed that non-ground features are best segmented by giving weights to pit-free CHM, average intensity and number of returns arithmetic. Rule-based approach was implemented in identifying artificial surfaces such as buildings and fences; then, the Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm was applied in classifying the remaining non-ground objects. Fourteen features were selected for the training phase of SVM: eight from LiDAR-derived layers (number of returns, vertical features and intensity) and six from geometry features. Applying accuracy assessment based on test and training area (TTA) mask derived from validation points, the producers and users accuracy for mangrove, artificial surfaces and other vegetation were above 0.87. As a result, the overall accuracy of the produced fine scale mangrove map was 0.91 with a Kappa Index of Agreement of 0.85. The mapping product can then be used by local government unit and management agencies as a reference in baseline assessment of mangrove resources, and in planning and implementing further conservation efforts.

Raspberry Pi and IOT Based-Automated Teller Machine Security for the DSWD 4P's Biometric System Using Fingerprint Recognition with Fast- Fourier Transform Image Enhancement, Multi-Stage Minutia Extraction

Card skimming and identity theft in ATMs transactions are prevalent nowadays. The use of the common PIN system together with the use of fingerprint as ones identification, eliminating the card skimming- and theft-prone typical card when the PIN is known, strengthens the current ATM transaction process. Images from fingerprint sensors undergo a multi-step process to provide proper user identification when transacting in ATMs. The researcher came up with the idea of designing a system to eliminate possibilities of card skimming and identity theft with the use of a fingerprint identification which is unique for each person. The system uses Fast Fourier Transform as one of its image process to produce better image quality to be used for minutiae identifications. The systems simulated performance indices showed an FAR and FRR of 0% and 15.79%, respectively, and accuracy of 92.11%. The image is remotely transmitted to a distant server wirelessly, implementing a full Internet of Things providing the system a better mobility for mobile ATM Setups in far places.

Design of microstrip TV antenna for in-campus digital broadcast system at 479 MHz

The Philippine television industry is currently in the phase of transition from analog into digital broadcast. Along with the upcoming Mapua Institute of Technologys in campus digital television broadcast, the study aims to design and characterize a working microstrip patch antenna optimized to receive the digital broadcast at 479 MHz. Using a simulation tool, High Frequency Structural Simulator (HFSS), four antennas with different specifications were designed and three antennas were made for every design. The Rectangular and circular patch design was used using two different materials, fiber glass (FR-4) and PTFE (Duroid 5880). Using a consumer grade ISDB-T Digital TV Box, the testing of signal level was done in four key locations inside the vicinity of the campus and two test points for every location. Comparing the average resulting received signal level for each design, it was found out that the Circular FR-4 is the only antenna that achieved a perfect picture on all 8 test point locations. Moreover, the Circular FR-4 is the smallest antenna with a lateral dimension of 7inx7in, -18.704dB return loss, VSWR of 1.2602, and a bandwidth of 222 MHz. Surprisingly, at 479 MHz, it was found out that each of the 4 antenna design performs better than the stock antenna that is commercially available.

Microcontroller-based fertilizer dispenser for rice crop

With this study, the researchers explored the potentials of innovating the distribution of fertilizers, improving the distribution of fertilizers in rice crops and made it more efficient. Statistical tests were conducted to determine significant difference in yield in a rice crop season. Particularly with the help of previous reviews of related literature on color sensor, color analysis, leaf color chart, a microcontroller-based fertilizer dispenser for rice crops was developed and ended up with a significant difference in rice yield at a 5% level of significance.

Water Penetrating Sensor for Feature Extraction of Benthic Habitat using Remotely Sensed Information in Shallow Water

In this paper, data analysis was performed on the spatial features of the benthic habitat using the Lowrance Elite CHIRP 7 SoNAR system embedded with an 80 and 455 KHz transducer in shallow water. Basically, the system addresses the need for information from the benthic habitat in order by means of cheaper solution. The system used was relatively cheaper and way smaller in scale without leaving behind the functionality of the large scale systems. Data was gathered from benthic habitat through the transceiver and analyzed using image processing techniques loaded in Raspberry Pi for spatial features extraction. It was found that the distribution of fishes and vegetation underwater has a direct correlation to the shape of the terrain. Three different terrains were analyzed, minimum deviation slope terrain, parabolic slope terrain and varying slope terrain, wherein the last mentioned terrain produced the highest distribution for both fishes and vegetation.

Optimal antenna position analysis for in campus information dissemination through digital TV broadcasting

In the advent of the conversion of analog to digital broadcasting, many of the countries including the Philippines have started adopting the standard for Digital Television (DTV) Broadcasting. With this step towards advancement, Mapua Institute of Technology would be providing a digital broadcast laboratory for its students to be ready with up-to-date technology. Part of the set-up is a realtime in-campus digital TV broadcast facility which can be used for information dissemination for the school community. The broadcast facility operates at 479 MHz, ISDB-T standard, 6 MHz BW, 13 segment 64 QAM with 1 W transmitting power. Optimum location for the four transmitting antenna in Mapua Intramuros Campus were identified by conducting indoor test measurements using signal level meter, signal level checker and one-segment mobile receiver. Three trial locations for the four proposed antenna positions were evaluated with a total of 2200 signal measurements. Field strength, delay profile, spectrum and constellations were measured and analyzed. Theoretical computations for field strength are compared to actual test results. A MATLAB program for contour mapping is provided for visual representations of signal spread. As expected, the study were able to prove the presence of interference, multipath and other factors like concrete and metal structures as well as human beings affecting the transmission and reach of each wall mounted antenna in a designated area. It is recommended to deploy additional Skywallie antenna for campus wide coverage. Although, educational license allowed us to operate at 479 MHz with 1 W power, increasing transmitter power will improve signal coverage. In addition, increasing the number of test points will produce more accurate measurements.

Design of indoor microstrip TV antenna for integrated services digital broadcast — Terrestrial (ISDB-T) signal reception at 677 MHz

This study will eventually provide a great help to the Philippines in its transition from analog TV to digital TV. Through this study, just before the full adaptation of digital TV transmission, a new indoor digital microstrip TV antenna will be made available for indoor use. The antenna designed is specific to 677 MHz with target characteristics: gain in the range of -5 dB to -2 dB, VSWR of around 1.5, return loss of -10 dB and a bandwidth of 400 MHz. Through the use of simulation tool, High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS), the antenna was designed and optimized at 677 MHz. The actual field measurements and testing at the farthest distance of 2000 m around the service coverage area of PTV station helped in validating that the rectangular design has a maximum gain of-2.1623 dB, VSWR of 1.595, return loss of -14.0905 dB, and a bandwidth of 421.9 MHz. With these findings, the antenna designed was limited to a size of 17 cm by 17 cm using a fiber glass printed circuit board as the material.