J. del Rio

FPGA-Based Implementation of an Adaptive Canceller for 50/60-Hz Interference in Electrocardiography

The implementation of an adaptive canceller of interference using a field-programmable gate array (Xilinx) programmable logic device/mechanism is shown in this paper. The adaptive canceller automatically adjusts its parameters to eliminate noise. This ability allows the canceller to adapt to changes in the characteristics of the signal. The use of this adaptive canceller to filter the interference noise that is caused by the power line is shown.

Instrument interface standards for interoperable ocean sensor networks

The utility and cost-effectiveness of instrument networks are enhanced by instrument interoperability. Todays oceanographic instruments are characterized by very diverse non-standard software protocols and data formats. This diversity of protocols poses serious challenges to integration of large-scale sensor networks. Standard instrument protocols are now being developed to address these challenges. Some of these standards apply at the IP-network level and enable integration of existing “lower level” proprietary instrument protocols and software components. Other approaches are intended to be implemented by the instrument device itself. These native instrument protocol standards offer the possibility of more uniform and simpler system architectures. We compare these various approaches, describe how they can be combined with one another, and describe some prototypes that implement them.

LabVir: a virtual distributed measurement system

AB - Wrlud inslrumnenls and advances in networking technology make if possible lo implemrnl moddur dislribulrd measuremenis and compuilng syslems. Sharing resources ond the eliminvlion of obsrocles inrroduced by communimlion networks could be the kq Io open lhe doors IO a new measuremen1 philosophy, in which vinuol instrumenis will ploy an imporlon1 role. Thanks Io lhis workingprinciple, il is possible lo correloie doin from diflerennr experimenls or eomplemenr one experiment wifh information gorhered from the local environmenl 01 my orher remole sire. This paper describes fhi amd 11a1us of the LobYir projeer that we arc carrying out i* order lo model old implemenl dirlribuled meoreh in lhe Sponish oeeoaographic vessels. Userinlerfveer based on Web leehnologv, will allow fdcndly accessibility from onyploee wifh HTTPcmnecIivi@. Experimenis fools will br oceerrible using my kind of the ovdnble internet browsers.

Development of a low-cost autonomous oceanographic observation vehicle

This work proposes the development of a low-cost ocean observation vehicle. This vehicle, a hybrid between Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) and Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASV) moves on the surface of the sea and makes vertical immersions to obtain profiles of a water column according to a pre-established plan. Its design means production costs are low and efficiency is increased. Also, the vehicle is able to make high resolution space and time measurements simultaneously. GPS navigation allows the platform to move along the surface of the water while a radio-modem provides direct communication links and telemetry. The vehicle measures 1885mm by 320mm wide. It weighs 76kg. It navigates at a speed of 1.5m/s at 80% at full propulsion power and reaches a maximum depth of 20m. It is a vehicle of electrical propulsion with an autonomy of 3–5 hours. This work outlines the mechanical and electronic design of the vehicle, as well as considerations for navigational and immersion experiments.

New generation of ocean bottom seismometers

We present the newest development of an ocean bottom seismometer. The equipment represents the achievement of a joint work from different scientific and technological disciplines such as electronic, mechanic, acoustic, communications, information technology, marine geophysics, etc. This sophisticated equipment allows to record useful active and passive seismicity information, as well as other wavefronts, with multiple applications to the marine environment research. We are in the first series prototype hoping to improve many of the aspects that keep the equipment useful to work in deep-water areas.

AUV based multi-vehicle collaboration: Salinity studies in Mar Menor coastal lagoon

Abstract An experiment with different AUVs was carried out in the Mar Menor Coastal Lagoon from October 31 to November 5 in order to measure and assess the influence of the water from the Mar Menor on the adjacent area of the Mediterranean. This was carried out as a result of the meeting held between several institutions from the Iberian Peninsula and EEUU (see Vilanova Marine Science/Robotics Meeting 2010). The experiment was to launch several AUVs at the same time in different zones of the Mediterranean and Mar Menor lagoon. AUVs took salinity data trying to do a coordinated mission during two operative days (November 3 and November 5). Others days of the experiment were used to the vehicles preparation and error correction (November 2 and November 4). This paper presents the steps followed in preparation and operative days with the set of AUVs. This paper presents also the salinity results obtained during these missions.

A robust and compact recorder system for Ocean Bottom Seismometers

We are involved in a new and small development of an ocean bottom seismometer OBS. The equipment represents the achievement of a joint work from different scientific and technological disciplines as electronics, mechanics, acoustics, communications, information technology, marine geophysics, etc. This easy to handle and sophisticated equipment allows to record useful active and passive seismicity information, as well as other wave front, with multiple applications to the marine environment research. We are in the second series prototype hopping to improve many of the aspects that keep the equipment easy to handle and useful to work at deep-water areas.

Application by means of FPGA of an adaptive canceller of 50 Hz interference in electrocardiography

The implementation of an adaptable suppresser of single interference using a FPGA-type (Xilinx) logic programmable device/mechanism is shown in this article. The adaptable suppresser adjusts its parameters automatically to eliminate noise. This ability allows the suppresser to adapt to the changes in the characteristics of the signal. The use of this adaptable suppresser to filter the interference caused by the power line is shown.

Objectives of the NeXOS project in developing next generation ocean sensor systems for a more cost-efficient assessment of ocean waters and ecosystems, and fisheries management

The NeXOS project aims to develop new multifunctional sensor systems supporting a number of scientific, technical and societal objectives, ranging from more precise monitoring and modelling of the marine environment to an improved management of fisheries. Several sensors will be developed, based on optical and passive acoustics technologies, addressing key environmental descriptors identified by the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) for Good Environmental Status (GES). Two of the new sensors will also contribute to the European Union Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), with a focus on variables of interest to an Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF). An objective is the improved cost-efficiency, from procurement to operations, via the implementation of several innovations, such as multiplatform integration, greater reliability through better antifouling management, greater sensor and data interoperability and the creation of market opportunities for European enterprises. Requirements will be further analysed for each new sensor system during the first phase of the project. Those will then be translated into engineering specifications, leading to the development phase. Sensors will then be tested, calibrated, integrated on several platform types, scientifically validated and demonstrated in the field. Translation to production and broad adoption are facilitated by participating industry. Overall, the paper presents an overview of the project objectives and plans for the next four years.

ELVIS. A new tool for teaching and training

ELVIS (educational laboratory virtual instrumentation suite) is a LabVIEW based virtual instrument of National Instruments, a multifunction data acquisition device, a custom-designed bench top workstation and prototyping board. As a virtual tool it has a high potentiality in the education and training of basic electronics and circuit design, to engineering students. ELVIS has full testing, measurement, and data saving capabilities needed for such training. A removable prototype board offers students the ability to build circuits at home, thus using laboratory time more effectively. LabVIEW facilities as a Web, e-tool and VI server allow the configuration of ELVIS in order to be fully accessible remotely.