bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring Soil Salinization in Keriya River Basin, Northwestern China Using Passive Reflective and Active Microwave Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Nurmemet Ilyas , Ghulam Abduwasit , Tiyip Tashpolat , Elkadiri Racha , Ding Jian-Li , Maimaitiyiming Matthew , Abliz Abdulla , Sawut Mamat , Zhang Fei , Abliz Abdugheni , Sun Qian
Published: July 2015

Soil salinization is one of the most widespread soil degradation processes on Earth, especially in arid and semi-arid areas. The salinized soil in arid to semi-arid Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China accounts for 31% of the area of cultivated land, and thus it is pivotal for the sustainable agricultural development of the area to identify reliable and cost-effective methodologies to monitor the spatial and temporal variations in soil salinity. This objective was accomplished over the study area (Keriya River Basin, northwestern China) by adopting technologies that heavily rely on, and integrate information contained in, a readily available suite of remote sensing datasets. The following procedures were conducted: (1) a selective principle component analysis (S-PCA) fusion image was generated using Phased Array Type L-band SAR (PALSAR) backscattering coefficient (σ°) and Landsat Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) multispectral image of Keriya River Basin; and (2) a support vector machines (SVM) classification method was employed to classify land cover types with a focus on mapping salinized soils; (3) a cross-validation method was adopted to identify the optimum classification parameters, and obtain an optimal SVM classification model; (4) Radarsat-2 (C band) and PALSAR polarimetric images were used to analyze polarimetric backscattering behaviors in relation to the variation in soil salinization; (5) a decision tree (DT) scheme for multi-source optical and polarimetric SAR data integration was proposed to improve the estimation and monitoring accuracies of soil salinization; and (6) detailed field observations and ground truthing were used for validation of the adopted methodology, and quantity and allocation disagreement measures were applied to assess classification outcome. Results showed that the fusion of passive reflective and active microwave remote sensing data provided an effective tool in detecting soil salinization. Overall accuracy of the adopted SVM classifier with optimal parameters for fused image of ETM+ and PALSAR data was 91.25% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.89, which was further improved by the DT data integration and classification method yielding an accuracy of 93.01% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.92 and lower disagreement of quantity and allocation.
The EnMAP Spaceborne Imaging Spectroscopy Mission for Earth Observation
Authors: Guanter Luis , Kaufmann Hermann , Segl Karl , Foerster Saskia , Rogass Christian , Chabrillat Sabine , Kuester Theres , Hollstein André , Rossner Godela , Chlebek Christian , Straif Christoph , Fischer Sebastian , Schrader Stefanie , Storch Tobias , Heiden Uta , Mueller Andreas , Bachmann Martin , Mühle Helmut , Müller Rupert , Habermeyer Martin , Ohndorf Andreas , Hill Joachim , Buddenbaum Henning , Hostert Patrick , Van der Linden Sebastian , Leitão Pedro , Rabe Andreas , Doerffer Roland , Krasemann Hajo , Xi Hongyan , Mauser Wolfram , Hank Tobias , Locherer Matthias , Rast Michael , Staenz Karl , Sang Bernhard
Published: July 2015

Imaging spectroscopy, also known as hyperspectral remote sensing, is based on the characterization of Earth surface materials and processes through spectrally-resolved measurements of the light interacting with matter. The potential of imaging spectroscopy for Earth remote sensing has been demonstrated since the 1980s. However, most of the developments and applications in imaging spectroscopy have largely relied on airborne spectrometers, as the amount and quality of space-based imaging spectroscopy data remain relatively low to date. The upcoming Environmental Mapping and Analysis Program (EnMAP) German imaging spectroscopy mission is intended to fill this gap. An overview of the main characteristics and current status of the mission is provided in this contribution. The core payload of EnMAP consists of a dual-spectrometer instrument measuring in the optical spectral range between 420 and 2450 nm with a spectral sampling distance varying between 5 and 12 nm and a reference signal-to-noise ratio of 400:1 in the visible and near-infrared and 180:1 in the shortwave-infrared parts of the spectrum. EnMAP images will cover a 30 km-wide area in the across-track direction with a ground sampling distance of 30 m. An across-track tilted observation capability will enable a target revisit time of up to four days at the Equator and better at high latitudes. EnMAP will contribute to the development and exploitation of spaceborne imaging spectroscopy applications by making high-quality data freely available to scientific users worldwide.
Mapping Flooded Rice Paddies Using Time Series of MODIS Imagery in the Krishna River Basin, India
Authors: Teluguntla Pardhasaradhi , Ryu Dongryeol , George Biju , Walker Jeffrey , Malano Hector
Published: July 2015

Rice is one of the major crops cultivated predominantly in flooded paddies, thus a large amount of water is consumed during its growing season. Accurate paddy rice maps are therefore important inputs for improved estimates of actual evapotranspiration in the agricultural landscape. The main objective of this study was to obtain flooded paddy rice maps using multi-temporal images of Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) in the Krishna River Basin, India. First, ground-based spectral samples collected by a field spectroradiometer, CROPSCAN, were used to demonstrate unique contrasts between the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Land Surface Water Index (LSWI) observed during the transplanting season of rice. The contrast between Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and Land Surface Water Index (LSWI) from MODIS time series data was then used to generate classification decision rules to map flooded rice paddies, for the transplanting seasons of Kharif and Rabi rice crops in the Krishna River Basin. Consistent with ground spectral observations, the relationship of the MODIS EVI vs. LSWI of paddy rice fields showed distinct features from other crops during the transplanting seasons. The MODIS-derived maps were validated against extensive reference data collected from multiple land use field surveys. The accuracy of the paddy rice maps, when determined using field plot data, was approximately 78%. The MODIS-derived rice crop areas were also compared with the areas reported by Department of Agriculture (DOA), Government of India (Government Statistics). The estimated root mean square difference (RMSD) of rice area estimated using MODIS and those reported by the Department of Agriculture over 10 districts varied between 3.4% and 6.6% during 10 years of our study period. Some of the major factors responsible for this difference include high noise of the MODIS images during the prolonged monsoon seasons (typically June–October) and the coarse spatial resolution (500 m) of the MODIS images compared to the small crop fields in the basin. However, this study demonstrates, based on multi-year analysis, that MODIS images can still provide robust and consistent flooded paddy rice extent and areas over a highly heterogeneous large river basin.
Non-Destructive Current Sensing for Energy Efficiency Monitoring in Buildings with Environmental Certification
Authors: Mota Lia , Mota Alexandre , Coiado Lorenzo
Published: July 2015

Nowadays, buildings environmental certifications encourage the implementation of initiatives aiming to increase energy efficiency in buildings. In these certification systems, increased energy efficiency arising from such initiatives must be demonstrated. Thus, a challenge to be faced is how to check the increase in energy efficiency related to each of the employed initiatives without a considerable building retrofit. In this context, this work presents a non-destructive method for electric current sensing to assess implemented initiatives to increase energy efficiency in buildings with environmental certification. This method proposes the use of a sensor that can be installed directly in the low voltage electrical circuit conductors that are powering the initiative under evaluation, without the need for reforms that result in significant costs, repair, and maintenance. The proposed sensor consists of three elements: an air-core transformer current sensor, an amplifying/filtering stage, and a microprocessor. A prototype of the proposed sensor was developed and tests were performed to validate this sensor. Based on laboratory tests, it was possible to characterize the proposed current sensor with respect to the number of turns and cross-sectional area of the primary and secondary coils. Furthermore, using the Least Squares Method, it was possible to determine the efficiency of the air core transformer current sensor (the best efficiency found, considering different test conditions, was 2%), which leads to a linear output response.
A New Perspective on Fault Geometry and Slip Distribution of the 2009 Dachaidan Mw 6.3 Earthquake from InSAR Observations
Authors: Liu Yang , Xu Caijun , Wen Yangmao , Fok Hok
Published: July 2015

On 28 August 2009, the northern margin of the Qaidam basin in the Tibet Plateau was ruptured by an Mw 6.3 earthquake. This study utilizes the Envisat ASAR images from descending Track 319 and ascending Track 455 for capturing the coseismic deformation resulting from this event, indicating that the earthquake fault rupture does not reach to the earth’s surface. We then propose a four-segmented fault model to investigate the coseismic deformation by determining the fault parameters, followed by inverting slip distribution. The preferred fault model shows that the rupture depths for all four fault planes mainly range from 2.0 km to 7.5 km, comparatively shallower than previous results up to ~13 km, and that the slip distribution on the fault plane is complex, exhibiting three slip peaks with a maximum of 2.44 m at a depth between 4.1 km and 4.9 km. The inverted geodetic moment is 3.85 × 1018 Nm (Mw 6.36). The 2009 event may rupture from the northwest to the southeast unilaterally, reaching the maximum at the central segment.
Addendum: Pinto, M.; Gámez, N.; Fuentes, L.; Amor, M.; Horcas, J.M.; Ayala, I. Dynamic Reconfiguration of Security Policies in Wireless Sensor Networks. Sensors 2015, 15, 5251–5280
Authors: Pinto Mónica , Gámez Nadia , Fuentes Lidia , Amor Mercedes , Horcas José , Ayala Inmaculada
Published: July 2015

The authors wish to update the Acknowledgments in their paper published in Sensors [1], doi:10.3390/s150305251, website: http://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/15/3/5251. [...]
Nonintrusive Finger-Vein Recognition System Using NIR Image Sensor and Accuracy Analyses According to Various Factors
Authors: Pham Tuyen , Park Young , Nguyen Dat , Kwon Seung , Park Kang
Published: July 2015

Biometrics is a technology that enables an individual person to be identified based on human physiological and behavioral characteristics. Among biometrics technologies, face recognition has been widely used because of its advantages in terms of convenience and non-contact operation. However, its performance is affected by factors such as variation in the illumination, facial expression, and head pose. Therefore, fingerprint and iris recognitions are preferred alternatives. However, the performance of the former can be adversely affected by the skin condition, including scarring and dryness. In addition, the latter has the disadvantages of high cost, large system size, and inconvenience to the user, who has to align their eyes with the iris camera. In an attempt to overcome these problems, finger-vein recognition has been vigorously researched, but an analysis of its accuracies according to various factors has not received much attention. Therefore, we propose a nonintrusive finger-vein recognition system using a near infrared (NIR) image sensor and analyze its accuracies considering various factors. The experimental results obtained with three databases showed that our system can be operated in real applications with high accuracy; and the dissimilarity of the finger-veins of different people is larger than that of the finger types and hands.
Sol-Gel Thin Films for Plasmonic Gas Sensors
Authors: Gaspera Enrico , Martucci Alessandro
Published: July 2015

Plasmonic gas sensors are optical sensors that use localized surface plasmons or extended surface plasmons as transducing platform. Surface plasmons are very sensitive to dielectric variations of the environment or to electron exchange, and these effects have been exploited for the realization of sensitive gas sensors. In this paper, we review our research work of the last few years on the synthesis and the gas sensing properties of sol-gel based nanomaterials for plasmonic sensors.
Design and Analysis of a Novel Fully Decoupled Tri-axis Linear Vibratory Gyroscope with Matched Modes
Authors: Xia Dunzhu , Kong Lun , Gao Haiyu
Published: July 2015

We present in this paper a novel fully decoupled silicon micromachined tri-axis linear vibratory gyroscope. The proposed gyroscope structure is highly symmetrical and can be limited to an area of about 8.5 mm × 8.5 mm. It can differentially detect three axes’ angular velocities at the same time. By elaborately arranging different beams, anchors and sensing frames, the drive and sense modes are fully decoupled from each other. Moreover, the quadrature error correction and frequency tuning functions are taken into consideration in the structure design for all the sense modes. Since there exists an unwanted in-plane rotational mode, theoretical analysis is implemented to eliminate it. To accelerate the mode matching process, the particle swam optimization (PSO) algorithm is adopted and a frequency split of 149 Hz is first achieved by this method. Then, after two steps of manual adjustment of the springs’ dimensions, the frequency gap is further decreased to 3 Hz. With the help of the finite element method (FEM) software ANSYS, the natural frequencies of drive, yaw, and pitch/roll modes are found to be 14,017 Hz, 14,018 Hz and 14,020 Hz, respectively. The cross-axis effect and scale factor of each mode are also simulated. All the simulation results are in good accordance with the theoretical analysis, which means the design is effective and worthy of further investigation on the integration of tri-axis accelerometers on the same single chip to form an inertial measurement unit.
Evaluation of Different Urban Microclimate Mitigation Strategies through a PMV Analysis
Authors: Salata Ferdinando , Golasi Iacopo , Vollaro Emanuele , Bisegna Fabio , Nardecchia Fabio , Coppi Massimo , Gugliermetti Franco , Vollaro Andrea
Published: July 2015

Outdoor thermal comfort affects the health of the people and the quality of life in urban areas. This is the reason why in the past few years different mitigation strategies for the microclimate have been studied and examined. These strategies depend on those passive factors characterizing the urban setting that are able to affect the values of local meteorological variables, as the limit surfaces of the urban space (parterre and façades of the buildings). This paper examines the Cloister by Giuliano da Sangallo, which is part of the Faculty of Engineering of Sapienza University of Rome. The case study compares the present configuration of the Cloister with four other configurations characterized by some vegetation and materials with a high albedo by taking into consideration the PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) model. Microclimatic variables are calculated through numerical simulations performed by the ENVI-met software. Such a comparison is performed during a typical summer day. While examining the results it can be noticed how the strategy presenting the best results is the one with some vegetation, whereas the materials with a high albedo improve the microclimate if applied on surfaces characterized by a high sky view factor.
Can Resilience Thinking Inform Resilience Investments? Learning from Resilience Principles for Disaster Risk Reduction
Authors: Clarvis Margot , Bohensky Erin , Yarime Masaru
Published: July 2015

As the human and financial costs of natural disasters rise and state finances continue to deplete, increasing attention is being placed on the role of the private sector to support disaster and climate resilience. However, not only is there a recognised lack of private finance to fill this gap, but international institutional and financing bodies tend to prioritise specific reactive response over preparedness and general resilience building. This paper utilises the central tenets of resilience thinking that have emerged from scholarship on social-ecological system resilience as a lens through which to assess investing in disaster risk reduction (DRR) for resilience. It draws on an established framework of resilience principles and examples of resilience investments to explore how resilience principles can actually inform decisions around DRR and resilience investing. It proposes some key lessons for diversifying sources of finance in order to, in turn, enhance “financial resilience”. In doing so, it suggests a series of questions to align investments with resilience building, and to better balance the achievement of the resilience principles with financial requirements such as financial diversification and replicability. It argues for a critical look to be taken at how resilience principles, which focus on longer-term systems perspectives, could complement the focus in DRR on critical and immediate stresses.
Modeling Residential Water Consumption in Amman: The Role of Intermittency, Storage, and Pricing for Piped and Tanker Water
Authors: Klassert Christian , Sigel Katja , Gawel Erik , Klauer Bernd
Published: July 2015

Jordan faces an archetypal combination of high water scarcity, with a per capita water availability of around 150 m3 per year significantly below the absolute scarcity threshold of 500 m3, and strong population growth, especially due to the Syrian refugee crisis. A transition to more sustainable water consumption patterns will likely require Jordan’s water authorities to rely more strongly on water demand management in the future. We conduct a case study of the effects of pricing policies, using an agent-based model of household water consumption in Jordan’s capital Amman, in order to analyze the distribution of burdens imposed by demand-side policies across society. Amman’s households face highly intermittent piped water supply, leading them to supplement it with water from storage tanks and informal private tanker operators. Using a detailed data set of the distribution of supply durations across Amman, our model can derive the demand for additional tanker water. We find that integrating these different supply sources into our model causes demand-side policies to have strongly heterogeneous effects across districts and income groups. This highlights the importance of a disaggregated perspective on water policy impacts in order to identify and potentially mitigate excessive burdens.
Formation of pure Cu nanocrystals upon post-growth annealing of Cu–C material obtained from focused electron beam induced deposition: comparison of different methods
Authors: Szkudlarek Aleksandra , Rodrigues Vaz Alfredo , Zhang Yucheng , Rudkowski Andrzej , Kapusta Czesław , Erni Rolf , Moshkalev Stanislav , Utke Ivo
Published: July 2015

In this paper we study in detail the post-growth annealing of a copper-containing material deposited with focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID). The organometallic precursor Cu(II)(hfac)2 was used for deposition and the results were compared to that of compared to earlier experiments with (hfac)Cu(I)(VTMS) and (hfac)Cu(I)(DMB). Transmission electron microscopy revealed the deposition of amorphous material from Cu(II)(hfac)2. In contrast, as-deposited material from (hfac)Cu(I)(VTMS) and (hfac)Cu(I)(DMB) was nano-composite with Cu nanocrystals dispersed in a carbonaceous matrix. After annealing at around 150–200 °C all deposits showed the formation of pure Cu nanocrystals at the outer surface of the initial deposit due to the migration of Cu atoms from the carbonaceous matrix containing the elements carbon, oxygen, and fluorine. Post-irradiation of deposits with 200 keV electrons in a transmission electron microscope favored the formation of Cu nanocrystals within the carbonaceous matrix of freestanding rods and suppressed the formation on their surface. Electrical four-point measurements on FEBID lines from Cu(hfac)2 showed five orders of magnitude improvement in conductivity when being annealed conventionally and by laser-induced heating in the scanning electron microscope chamber.
TRANSPORT PROJECT EVALUATION: FEASIBILITY RISK ASSESSMENT AND SCENARIO FORECASTING
Authors: Salling Kim Bang , Leleur Steen
Published: July 2015

This paper presents a new approach to transport project assessment in terms of feasibility risk assessment and reference class forecasting. Conventionally, transport project assessment is based upon a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) where evaluation criteria such as Benefit Cost Ratios (BCR) are obtained. Recent research has however proved that substantial inaccuracies are present when obtaining the monetary input to the CBA, particularly as concerns the construction costs and demand forecasts. This paper proposes a new approach in order to address these inaccuracies in a so-called Reference Scenario Forecasting (RSF) frame. The RSF is anchored in the cost-benefit analysis; thus, it provides decision-makers with a quantitative mean of assessing the transport infrastructure project. First, the RSF method introduces uncertainties within the CBA by applying Optimism Bias uplifts on the preliminary construction cost estimates. Hereafter, a quantitative risk analysis is provided making use of Monte Carlo simulation. This approach facilitates random input parameters based upon reference class forecasting, hence, a parameter data fit has been performed in order to obtain validated probability distribution functions. The latter have been placed and ultimately simulated on the inaccuracies of determining demand forecasts, i.e. leading to travel time savings and ticket revenues of the project. Finally, RSF makes use of scenario forecasting where trend scenarios such as economic growth and level of cross-border integration are investigated. The latter is highly relevant as RSF is demonstrated by a case example concerning the fixed link between Elsinore in Denmark and Helsingborg in Sweden.
Seismic Vulnerability of Historic Centers
Authors: Binda Luigia , Cardani Giuliana
Published: July 2015

A methodology of investigation and diagnosis on the built patrimony of historic centres in seismic areas is presented with the aim of collecting an extensive knowledge on the structural typologies and behaviour of historic masonry buildings. This investigation is also the base for the prevention and/or repair of damages caused by earthquakes. Small historic centres or residential buildings in larger centres have been considered for long time as “minor architecture”, but they are meaningful testimonies of the local cultural heritage and express the evolution of a society and of its cultural identity. The results of the investigation carried out on different Italian historic centers, allowed also a critical review of the reliability of the analytical models and of the effectiveness of the repair techniques applied in the past decades. The guidelines emerging from the research results are here presented. A “minimal” diagnostic investigation program is also suggested, in order to support the designers in their projects and to set up appropriate mathematical models to study the vulnerability of the structures.
In-Situ Static and Dynamic Testing and Numerical Modelling of the Dome of the Siena Cathedral (Italy)
Authors: Bartoli Gianni , Betti Michele , Giordano Saverio , Orlando Maurizio
Published: July 2015

The chapter reports on the in-situ experimental campaign and the numerical modelling that were performed to assess the static and dynamic behaviour of the Cupola of the Siena Cathedral in Italy: an irregular polygonal masonry structure built in the 13th century and composed of two domes. The research was motivated by the failure of some of the stone-trusses which connect the two masonry domes and consists of: a) single and double flat-jack tests in the internal dome, b) dynamic vibration tests on the Cupola under environmental (wind) and artificial (vibrodyne) loads and c) dynamic vibration tests on the double colonnade located below the Cupola (hammer impact tests). Results of tests were employed to identify a numerical model of the Cupola, which allowed to simulate its structural behaviour and to account for the failure of the stone-trusses between the two domes. The numerical model was later extended to the whole Cathedral. Through the discussion of an emblematic case study, the chapter shows a careful application of non-destructive testing (NDT) and numerical modelling in the field of assessment (and rehabilitation) of heritage buildings.
Strengthening of Historic Masonry Structures with Composite Materials
Authors: Corradi Marco , Osofero Adelaja Israel , Borri Antonio , Castori Giulio
Published: July 2015

Existing un-reinforced masonry buildings made of vaults, columns and brick and multi-leaf stone masonry walls, many of which have historical and cultural importance, constitute a significant portion of construction heritage in Europe and rest of the world. Recent earthquakes in southern Europe have shown the vulnerability of un-reinforced masonry constructions due to masonry almost total lack of tensile resistance. Composite materials offer promising retrofitting possibilities for masonry buildings and present several well-known advantages over existing conventional techniques. The aim of this work is to analyze the effectiveness of seismic-upgrading methods both on un-damaged (preventive reinforcement) and damaged (repair) masonry building. After a brief description of mechanical and physical properties of composite materials, three different applications have been addressed: in-plane reinforcement of masonry walls, extrados and intrados reinforcement of masonry vaults/arches and masonry column confinement with composite materials.
Structural Identification and Numerical Models for Slender Historical Structures
Authors: Foti Dora , Diaferio Mariella , Giannoccaro Nicola Ivan , Ivorra Salvador
Published: July 2015

In the present chapter the theoretical basis of different methods developed for the calibration of FEMs are discussed. In general, Model Updating techniques are based on the use of appropriate functions that iteratively update selected physical properties (characteristics of the materials, stiffness of a link, etc.). In this way the correlation between the simulated response and the target value could improve if compared to an initial value. The FE model thus obtained can be used for a detailed structural analysis with a great confidence. The technique described in the first part of the chapter is applied to the evaluation of the structural properties of the tower of the Provincial Administration Building in Bari (Italy).The final purpose is to predict the performance of the tower to different combinations of static and dynamic loads, i.e. earthquakes or other induced vibrations. Ambient vibration tests have been performed on the above mentioned tower with the aim of determining its dynamic response and developing a procedure for modeling this building (Foti et al., 2012a). The Operation Modal Analysis (OMA) has been carried out both in the frequency domain and in the time domain to extract the dominant frequencies and mode shapes of the tower.
Laser Scanning for the Evaluation of Historic Structures
Authors: Riveiro Belen , Conde-Carnero Borja , Arias-Sánchez Pedro
Published: July 2015

In the last times, laser scanning is being massively used to perform reverse engineering of different built-up structures, both modern and historic ones, providing detailed geometry. This chapter presents an introduction to the technology so topics like the physic fundamentals of laser scanners, instrumentation (static and mobile platforms) and the advantages of each method. This chapter aims to illustrate the optimal application of laser scanning to the field of structural engineering in order to ease the adoption of the technology by engineers outside of the geomatic domain. The chapter presents a review of different case studies where laser scanning allowed very precise and very detailed geometric characterization of historic structures in order to obtain an objective diagnosis of their current state. Also, methodologies that permit the implementation of laser scanning products in structural calculation will be shown. Finally, up-to-date trends, mainly related to automatic and intelligent processing, of laser scanning data in historic structures are discussed.
On the Assessment of the Seismic Vulnerability of Ancient Churches
Authors: Mezzapelle Pardo Antonio , Lenci Stefano
Published: July 2015

The chapter deals with the assessment of the seismic vulnerability of the “San Francesco ad Alto” historical masonry building, a former church located in Ancona (Italy), which is currently used as a Regional Headquarter of the Marche Region by the Italian Army. The interest toward this building comes from a double motivation. From the one side, it underwent a series of structural changes, including the addition of a new floor splitting in two levels the original nave, which makes the structure very peculiar and closer to a classical building than to a church. From the other side, it is no longer used as a church, a fact that changes the hazard aspects. The construction schematically consists of two masonry boxes overlapping, the lower being wider than the upper. It has various characteristic structural elements, such as some semicircular arches, segmental arches, timber floors, a barrel vault, some wooden trusses on the roof and steel ties in retention of the facade and of the external walls. The equivalent frame method is used, and several pushover analyses are performed. The seismic action has been defined considering the building both with strategic (current situation) and with ordinary (possible future situation) importance during earthquakes. The role of the masonry spandrels on the response of the structure has been investigated in depth and the main effects highlighted. The result of the pushover analyses is a seismic risk index (IR), that defines the safety level of the construction with respect to one ultimate limit state (SLU), in particular the so-called limit state of “saving life” (SLV).
Color Acquisition, Management, Rendering, and Assessment in 3D Reality-Based Models Construction
Authors: Gaiani Marco
Published: July 2015

In this chapter are presented a framework and some solutions for color acquisition, management, rendering and assessment in Architectural Heritage (AH) 3D models construction from reality-based data. The aim is to illustrate easy, low-cost and rapid procedures that produce high visual accuracy of the image/model while being accessible to non-specialized users and unskilled operators, typically Heritage architects. The presented processing is developed in order to render reflectance properties with perceptual fidelity on many type of display and presents two main features: is based on an accurate color management system from acquisition to visualization and more accurate reflectance modeling; the color pipeline could be used inside well established 3D acquisition pipeline from laser scanner and/or photogrammetry. Besides it could be completely integrated in a Structure From Motion pipeline allowing simultaneous processing of color/shape data.
The Surveying and Representation Process Applied to Architecture
Authors: Bianchini Carlo , Ippolito Alfonso , Bartolomei Cristiana
Published: July 2015

The constant development and improvement of laser scanning instruments together with the digital rebirth of photogrammetry (photomodelling) has triggered the operative and methodological evolution that in many aspects has already facilitated the acquisition phase, especially referring to the time required for the procedure. The present paper, however, investigates the methodological changes occurred especially in the last decade concerning surveying and its representation. We shall describe the peculiarities and articulations of these methods aiming at pointing out some conceptual issues involving measurement, interpretation and representation. The final objective is to construct an “operative critical method” which seems indispensable to standardize and regulate the procedures of data collection, elaboration and representation of architectural artifact providing results more objective and reliable: in other words more scientific.
Digital Photogrammetry and Structure from Motion for Architectural Heritage
Authors: Ippoliti Elena , Meschini Alessandra , Sicuranza Filippo
Published: July 2015

The goal of this paper is to focus on multi-image monoscopic digital photogrammetry, illustrating several types of applications used in a single case study chosen for its unique characteristics: Palazzo dei Capitani del Popolo in the main square in the old town centre of Ascoli Piceno. The description of this experimentation will be illustrated in the paper not only to assess the potential and limits of these systems, but also to place them in a scientific context and recall the theoretical fundamentals of this method, since we believe these in-depth studies to be increasingly necessary in order for these digital technologies to be used properly.
Semantic Representation of Accurate Surveys for the Cultural Heritage
Authors: Garagnani Simone
Published: July 2015

For years the traditional documentation of existing architecture has been represented by surveys, carried out with direct measuring, annotations and eidotypes. This approach is still pervasive today, but many modern metrologic technologies, such as digital photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanning, enhanced the information-gathering pipeline particularly in the Cultural Heritage context. This chapter investigates a methodology able to express semantics and parametric interconnections among elements, proposed in order to translate real shapes into “smart” digital architectural components, using some piece of software specifically written in order to manipulate accurate geometries; following this approach, which will be improved more and more by future plugin developments, information can be organized into proper hierarchical BIM frameworks that proved to be strategic in the recording of “as-built” conditions, result of inferences of geometric and topological information in digital models.
The Advantages of Using Laser Scanners in Surveying in Protected Sites
Authors: Benli Gülhan
Published: July 2015

Since the 2000s, terrestrial laser scanning, as one of the methods used to document historical edifices in protected areas, has taken on greater importance because it mitigates the difficulties associated with working on large areas and saves time while also making it possible to better understand all the particularities of the area. Through this technology, comprehensive point data (point clouds) about the surface of an object can be generated in a highly accurate three-dimensional manner. Furthermore, with the proper software this three-dimensional point cloud data can be transformed into three-dimensional rendering/mapping/modeling and quantitative orthophotographs. In this chapter, the study will present the results of terrestrial laser scanning and surveying which was used to obtain three-dimensional point clouds through three-dimensional survey measurements and scans of silhouettes of streets in Fatih in Historic Peninsula in Istanbul, which were then transposed into survey images and drawings. The study will also cite examples of the facade mapping using terrestrial laser scanning data in Istanbul Historic Peninsula Project.
Communication, Technology, and Digital Culture for the Conservation and Enhancement of the Architectural Heritage
Authors: Fatta Francesca
Published: July 2015

In this chapter the main issue is focused on the reconstruction of Reggio and Messina after the earthquake of 1908 has been an opportunity to address the broken and - what is much more difficult and required - the rebalancing of memory and identity of places. Between July 2013 and September 2014 two teams of researchers at the University of Reggio and the MAP CNRS Marseille have formed a partnership to test new communications systems, technology and digital culture applied to cultural and architectural heritage. The responsibilities of the MAP CNRS, directed by Prof. Livio De Luca and the field of investigation and experimentation defined by Atelier of thesis of Prof. Francesca Fatta, found an interaction system useful for the definition of design systems for a Museum of collective memory in Reggio Calabria. The digital experiments were compared with the taking of photogrammetric works recovered from the earthquake of 1908 in Reggio, three-dimensional modeling and integrated reading systems aimed at the restoration and augmented reality.
Female Architecture
Authors: Franchina Alice , Maggio Francesco , Vattano Starlight
Published: July 2015

The objective of this study is that one, starting from the initial considerations, to give back to the history of architecture, through drawing as a critical means of inquiry, the thought and work of some women-architect who, between 1926 and 1962, have designed and/or built buildings of fine architectural quality. The critical re-drawing, which in this case is mimetic to the construction of the project, wants to make manifest the thought of some figures of the Modern Movement often relegated to an unknown fate; in particular it analyses a part of the activity of Lilly Reich, Helena Niemirowska Syrkus and Charlotte Perriand. The study aims to build a graphic inedited and exhaustive repertory of some unrealized projects, carried out by these women that can be defined “pioneer” of modern architecture, giving back a female thought of the project's construction. The drawing of architecture, as ambit of critical analysis, in this study assumes a substantial role when it investigates the project which is the central place of its true expression.
A New Cloud Library for Integrated Surveys
Authors: Clini Paolo , Quattrini Ramona , Frontoni Emanuele , Nespeca Romina
Published: July 2015

The chapter presents an innovative way to improve the archaeological landscape, based on researches about Via Flaminia. This is an extraordinary land that collects layered remarkable characteristics i.e. archaeological evidences, historical and natural landscape, ancient and modern infrastructures. Documenting this appreciable heritage is mandatory to use cutting edge technologies of survey, integrated management of data and innovative communication systems. The final purpose is the heritage preservation and its long life. Although previous deep researches and several scientific surveys were carried out, a major lack is their fragmentary non-reusable nature. The regional project “Cultural Evolved District” Flaminia Nextone discusses best practices in culturally based development of this area. The methods are survey and analysis of architectural and archaeological heritage, supported by information technologies. As results, the chapter shows a catalogue of buildings survey, their semantic/ontological organization in a Cloud library (2D/3D) and several outputs collected in exhibitions.
Understanding and Conserving Fortified and Difficult to Access Architectures through Digital Survey
Authors: Galizia Mariateresa , Lo Faro Alessandro , Santagati Cettina
Published: July 2015

In this paper we propose a multidisciplinary approach concerning the tower of Mongialino in Mineo (Sicily), which is a unique case in Sicily of a cylindrical tower with an inner cylindrical nucleus. The vestiges of the dungeon rise on a rock promontory that dominates the valley of Margi, a site that has great landscape and territorial value. The building is affected by important collapses and lesions, and urgently requires a safeguard intervention that requires a deep knowledge and understanding of the construction. The first step of this process is a suitable documentation and representation of the cylindrical shape and its towering position. The peculiarity of the object requires the integrated use of current technologies of surveying able to provide a metrically-accurate three-dimensional model. The second step is the critic reading of the technological, typological and material elements that constitutes the constructive apparatus of the building (masonry, ribs, ring-like vault), and the geometric analysis addressed at the virtual reconstruction of the original shape.
3D Reconstruction for the Interpretation of Partly Lost or Never Accomplished Architectural Heritage
Authors: Casu Paola , Pisu Claudia
Published: July 2015

During the past years there has been the birth of significant projects about digitization and virtual preservation of cultural heritage. Such panorama offers great chance to develop 3D modeling for cultural heritage. 3D reconstruction offers a chance to digitize historic objects which are still extant, and also to reconstruct and visualize objects which are no longer extant and that can only be known from historic descriptions or depictions. The chapter focus on the latter aspect. In fact, 3D modeling of extant objects is technologically or logistically challenging but virtual reconstruction of non- or no longer- existent items adds more importance to interpretation of historic sources. This chapter illustrates the current situation taking into account the state of the art, the different suggestions in solving such kind of problem, and through up to date examples will suggest a possible unified method to give life to both lost buildings and never built ones. The goal is to find common points with other similar cases, to obtain a common procedure an to suggest ways of development.
Digital and Mechatronic Technologies Applied to the Survey of Brownfields
Authors: Pelliccio Assunta , Ottaviano Erika , Rea Pierluigi
Published: July 2015

The brownfields are amongst the most relevant historical evidences of the socio-economic heritage of populations. The rehabilitation of these sites, often aimed at inserting them in a newly conceived connective tissue of the cities, requires complete and accurate knowledge of their historical and architectural value: the former use of spaces, constructive technologies, environmental conditions and present deterioration must be investigated. The width and complexity of these architectural/urban areas requires complex survey methodologies. These analyses take advantage from digital mechatronic tools such as hybrid rover equipped with sensors to provide information on the damage of structures, degradation of plaster and in general on the state of the materials forming the different parts of the brownfield. This Chapter analyze a procedure combining traditional survey with mobile robot technology, aimed at recovering the geometrical and architectural features of these complex sites. The mechatronic survey is schematized as composed by main five tasks, which are described in the Chapter.
Graspable Mathematics
Authors: Ottmar Erin , Landy David , Weitnauer Erik , Goldstone Rob
Published: July 2015

The goal of this chapter is to describe a process of touch screen technology development, beginning from basic cognitive research and resulting in an applied educational intervention for algebra. To that end, we introduce Graspable Mathematics (GM), a novel approach to algebra instruction that integrates strong theory and evidence from perceptual learning, cognitive science and mathematics education. We present a number of concrete examples of how this framework can be applied to technology-based interventions that aim to engage students in mathematics. This chapter will also describe many of the methodological, theoretical, and practical considerations that guided our iterative design and development, as well as address many of the challenges and lessons learned when implementing the intervention in classroom settings.
Using Smartphones for Orientation Training for the Visually Impaired
Authors: Stylianou Georgios , Mavrou Katerina
Published: July 2015

This chapter discusses the potential of Indoor Positioning and Indoor Navigation (IPIN) systems in teaching and training Orientation and Mobility (O& M) to individuals with visual impairment. In addition, an attempt is made to investigate the implications of such trainings and technology in mathematics education, with regards to the learning of concepts of orientation. For individuals with visual impairment, O&M training is of crucial importance for everyday life and safety. Furthermore, these skills are often connected to problem-solving as well as to the understanding of basic geometrical concepts related to mathematics. In this chapter the developed IPIN system is presented, followed by suggested scenarios of its use in O&M trainings and O&M activities that can be used to introduce and strengthen opportunities for exploring mathematical topics.
Two-Dimensional Face Recognition Methods Comparing with a Riemannian Analysis of Iso-Geodesic Curves
Authors: Ahdid Rachid , Taifi Khaddouj , Fakir Mohamed , Safi Said , Manaut Bouzid
Published: July 2015

In this paper, the authors performed a comparative study of two-dimensional face recognition methods. This study was based on existing methods (PCA, LDA, 2DPCA, 2DLDA, SVM...) and 2D face surface analysis using a Riemannian geometry. The last system uses the representation of the image at gray level as a 2D surface in a 3D space where the third coordinate represent the intensity values of the pixels. The authors' approach is to represent the human face as a collection of closed curves, called facial curves, and apply tools from the analysis of the shape of curves using the Riemannian geometry. Their application has been tested on two well-known databases of face images ORL and YaleB. ORL data base was used to evaluate the performance of their method when the pose and sample size are varied, and the database YaleB was used to examine the performance of the system when the facial expressions and lighting are varied.
Stabilised Ceramic Dust as Potential Sustainable Construction Components
Authors: Raffe Muhammad Redzwan , Rahmat Mohamad Nidzam , Ismail Norsalisma
Published: July 2015

Ceramic is mainly being used as raw material in the production of building finishes. The production processes of this material generated a great amount of waste and by-product in the form of dust, broken tiles and sludge which will lead to environment pollution. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential utilisation of ceramic dust as alternative raw material in the production of sustainable construction components. Target materials of ceramic dust (CD) and laterite clay (LC) on its own or combination of both were stabilised with Portland cement (PC) and hydrated lime (HL) on its own or combination with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) by-product from steel industry. A blended binder of GGBS and waste paper sludge ash (WPSA) was also used to develop 100% sustainable stabiliser to stabilise the target materials. Compacted cylindrical specimens of 50 mm Ø and 100 mm height were fabricated at 20% dosage of binders concentration and moist cured for 7, 28, and 60 days before tested for compressive strength and water absorption. The results obtained show that stabilised CD with partial substitution of HL and PC with GGBS as stabilisers gave higher compressive strength and has potential to be used in the production of sustainable construction components. This suggests a solution towards a greener future and sustainable use of environmental friendly construction components.