Ciprian Lupu

Switching Solution for Multiple-Models Control Systems

Systems with multiple models or multi-controller structure represent one of the successful solutions for the real-time control of the nonlinear or multi-regime processes. The use of these structures imposes solving some specific problems, like best algorithm selection or control algorithm switching. The paper proposes a method for switching the algorithms of the multiple-models structure, based on the principles of manual to automatic bumpless transfer. The applicability of the method is proved using a real-time structure with an RST control algorithm. In the end, its software implementation is also shown

Real Time & Power Efficient Adaptive - Robust Control

A design procedure for a control system suited for dynamic variable processes is presented in this paper. The proposed adaptive - robust control strategy considers both adaptive control advantages and robust control benefits. It estimates the degradation of the systems performances due to the dynamic variation in the process and it then utilizes it to determine when the system must be adapted with a redesign of the robust controller. A single integral criterion is used for the identification of the process, and for the design of the control algorithm, which is expressed in direct form, through a cost function defined in the space of the parameters of both the process and the controller. For the minimization of this nonlinear function, an adequate mathematical programming minimization method is used. The theoretical approach presented in this paper was validated for a closed loop control system, simulated in an application developed in C. Because of the reduced number of operations, this method is suitable for implementation on fast processes. Due to its effectiveness, it increases the idle time of the CPU, thereby saving electrical energy.

Real-time acquisition of quality verified nonstandardized color images for skin lesions risk assessment — A preliminary study

Detection of melanoma in early stages is critical in terms of life expectancy of the patient and, also, in terms of treatment costs. In this context, we investigate the feasibility of implementing an algorithm that uses nonstandardized color images of skin lesions for risk assessment. In this paper we present a methodology for real-time acquisition of quality verified images using smartphones. We also test a series of shape and texture parameters to determine their relevance in the context of providing an accurate risk profile for an analyzed lesion. Our conclusion is that risk assessment with high accuracy is possible even when using nonstandardized color images taken with a mobile device (smartphone) camera.

Consideration on real time implementation of fault/leak detection system

Fault or leak detection in the utilities distribution and energy fluids networks represents an objective with significant implications, where, the pollution and safety of life are priorities included. Reality and scientific literature contain dedicated solutions, proposed by theory and validated in time, and industry. Starting from a few of these, this paper proposes and analyzes some applicative solutions based on the models identification, (mathematical) modeling and supervision of normal and fault operation in the transportation and distribution networks for (liquid/fluid) utilities. Proposed supervisory structure is based on sensors/data acquisition and control architecture. The main purpose is to detect the fault situation as fast as possible and to indicate more accurately the affected area/point. The methods have been real time hardware and software implemented and validated with experimental laboratory facility.

Adaptive - Robust control a computational efficient real time simulation

The adaptive-robust control strategy, proposed in this paper, combines the advantages of robust and adaptive control, while minimizing the computational load. Usually, a lot of mathematical operations are necessary, which limit the real time applicability of such strategies. By developing a simple, yet useful rule, the number of operations needed to determine if a new controller is needed has been greatly reduced. That is the most repetitive part of an adaptive - robust algorithm, because the rule check has to be done at every sampling moment. To test the new rule, a simulation software was developed, which proves the efficiency of the new rule. There are no disadvantages for the new adaptive - robust strategy, when compared to the usual approach.

Actual portable devices as base for telemedicine and e-health: Research and case study application

Present paper presents an application designed to help paramedics or other intervention personal to diagnose and monitor the state of victims in remote or difficult to access areas using Windows 8 tablet computers. The application is written in Visual C# and uses the latest programming technologies and security features. It will help measure the Glasgow Coma Scale, respiration, pulse, blood pressure of victims and pass on data to a remote centralized management system using wireless signals, such as wireless internet and Bluetooth.

A Dual Approach for Modelling Urban Traffic

Abstract The paper presents the first results of a national budgeted “Intelligent Techniques for the Modeling, Analysis, and Optimization of Urban Traffic” research project concerning the modeling, evaluation and optimization of urban traffic. For the modeling phase a dual approach was used – using both Hybrid Petri Nets and Matlab/Simulink models. Models were realized starting from the same assumptions and ontology. The paper will present the modeling methodology, as well as a comparison between the two kinds of models, using the same set of input data. Also, for the considered example, a solution is given, that eliminates traffic blockage.

An approach for load balancing in virtual power plant structures

A novel real time approach structure implementation to manage multiple sources and/or generator systems on supporting the global load, in case of charge and functioning disturbances is proposed. Its applicability is validated on a control structure of two and four constant and variable load sources (with parallel connection), a situation usually encountered these days in the renewable energy branch (micro hydropower plant, wind, solar and other small power generators), Virtual Power Plant (VPP), or micro/smart grid.

Implementation of a telemedicine system for optimal on site medical response in case of disasters and for emergency situations management

This paper presents a telemedicine support system developed by implementing an integrated disaster management protocol, and providing specialized expertise in local/remote affected regions (affected civilians, soldiers, rescuers, explorers, people in remote areas, etc.). The system has a modular structure consisting in: a containerized management system (regional / local), a mobile monitoring-rescue system including an individual acquisition and monitoring system and a communication handheld/portable monitoring stretcher and an integrated communication module and other software facilities.

Enhanced visualization of cerebral blood vessels for X-ray angiograms

Neurologists frequently use X-ray angiographic techniques in order to establish the optimal treatment or intervention procedure. Neurosurgeries performed at blood vessels level are difficult procedures because of the low accessibility in the human brain. Therefore, the establishment of a correct diagnosis based on angiographies is of paramount importance. Enhanced visualization of blood vessels by separating veins and arteries from background can help, in many cases, in giving a more accurate diagnosis. In this article, three methods for arteries and veins classification and enhanced visualization are presented. From our study, it results that, using coefficients of wavelet transform as parameters for the classification, a better visual representation of small vessels is achieved.