Diego Pellicano - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Diego Pellicano

Research paper thumbnail of A Fuzzy Similarity-Based Approach to Classify Numerically Simulated and Experimentally Detected Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Plate Defects

Sensors

This paper presents an eddy current approach for testing, estimating, and classifying CFRP plate ... more This paper presents an eddy current approach for testing, estimating, and classifying CFRP plate sub-surface defects, mainly due to delamination, through specific 2D magnetic induction field amplitude maps. These maps, showing marked fuzziness content, require the development of a procedure based on a fuzzy approach being efficiently classified. Since similar defects produce similar maps, we propose a method based on innovative fuzzy similarity formulations. This procedure can collect maps similar to each other in particular defect classes. In addition, a low-cost analysis system, including the probe, has been implemented in hardware. The developed tool can detect and evaluate the extent of surface defects with the same performance as a hardware tool of higher specifications, and it could be fruitfully employed by airline companies to maintain aircraft in compliance with safety standards.

Research paper thumbnail of Wavelet Coherence and Fuzzy Subtractive Clustering for Defect Classification in Aeronautic CFRP

2010 International Conference on Complex, Intelligent and Software Intensive Systems, 2010

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Fuzzy similarities for the optimization of the operational parameters related to ultrasonic phased array probes for industrial application

2013 18th International Conference on Digital Signal Processing (DSP), 2013

ABSTRACT The systematic use of non-destructive testing is important both for on-line quality cont... more ABSTRACT The systematic use of non-destructive testing is important both for on-line quality control during the production process and the maintenance of complex equipment especially in industrial applications. In such a context, the ultrasound imaging techniques cover an important role above all in those cases in which it is requested a great penetration depth. Starting from an experimental database (affected by uncertainties due to sampling and/or noise, so of clear fuzzy nature) , the authors propose a new approach aimed at the optimization of the operational parameters of ultrasonic phased array probes. the problem of optimization is translated in an equivalent problem of classification through a fuzzy similarity approach: different images produced by different probes are compared. The quality of the proposed procedure has been assessed comparing the obtained results also with SOM- type technique in which the parameters of similarity among neurons has been considered of fuzzy nature.

Research paper thumbnail of Standard Soft Computing Techniques for Characterization of Defects in Nondestructive Evaluation

Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation Systems, 2014

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE)/nondestructive testing (NDT) of industrial manufactured items hol... more Nondestructive evaluation (NDE)/nondestructive testing (NDT) of industrial manufactured items holds a strategic importance both for the quality assessment of the productive process and for taking monitoring actions during the relative life cycle. Since the quality assessment passes through the characterization of the defects that can be generated, it is imperative to exploit inspection techniques able to produce signals characterizing the defects themselves. Current inspection techniques do not provide, for several reasons, signals free from errors, inaccuracies and imprecision, so, in the information-processing step, it is necessary to face the problem by approaches capable of taking into account the inherent vagueness . While the form reconstruction of a defect is still an open problem, its localization and classification has been carried out with excellent results by the scientific community with the development of efficient and accurate methodologies also in terms of vagueness management . Considering the technological transfer point of view, the approaches developed so far are burdened by a less than desirable computational complexity that translates into expensive hardware requirements. For this reason, it is necessary to elaborate alternative methodologies capable of combining high-quality results and low-computational complexity. Specifically, among the many possible computing techniques, attention is given to the soft techniques, and in particular, to the fuzzy logic (FL). The latter, generalizing dichotomic logic and taking into account the vagueness of signals, can deliver results comparable as a whole to those obtainable by more sophisticated techniques, but with a reduced computational charge. Moreover, the formalization in terms of natural language (NL) leads to the structuring of systems managed by legible linguistic rules even by nonexperts in the field and, at the same time, easily revisable by the expert. The present chapter is completely dedicated to introduce the reader to the basic principles of the logic of fuzzy inference system (FIS), applied functionally within NDE/NDT, presenting an example of study of the inverse problem.

Research paper thumbnail of Fuzzy Geometrical Techniques for Characterizing Defects in Ultrasonic Non-destructive Evaluation

Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation Systems, 2014

Many types of defectiveness can appear during the manufacturing of carbon fiber reinforced plasti... more Many types of defectiveness can appear during the manufacturing of carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) , putting at risk both safety and the quality of products. Therefore, a protocol to check the integrity of CFRPs is an important industrial requirement. It should involve non-destructive testing (NDT)/non-destructive evaluation (NDE) , in order to be the least invasive as possible. When exploiting ultrasonic testing , there is not a one-to-one correspondence between the type of defect and the trend of the resulting signal. Thus, visual inspection of ultrasonic signals can be a really hard task, needing a considerable experience or a suitable computing support. In the latter case, it rises the problem of ill-posedness, precisely because of the complex correspondence between defects and signal trends. The scientific literature presents a number of studies aiming to approach this problem, focusing on heuristic techniques, but characterized by high-computational complexity. Conversely, for real-time applications, fast procedures are needed, with a low computational complexity. Experience in soft computing, even in frameworks different than NDT/NDE, can be valuable for implementing such low-time-execution algorithms. This is particularly true with respect to the handling of data affected by uncertainty and/or imprecision caused by sampling and noising of signals. Due to its nature, it is convenient to approach the classification problem as a fuzzy matter, where ultrasonic signals resulting from the same kind of defect (i.e., same class of defectiveness) have similar statistic values. That is because classification problem can be seen as a fuzzy geometrical problem, where each class is taken into account as a specific family of fuzzy sets (fuzzy hyper-rectangles) inside a fuzzy unit hyper-cube . Thus, an ultrasonic signal depicting an unknown defect can be mapped as a point into the unit hyper-cube and it be classified there by means of its distance from the hyper-rectangles.

Research paper thumbnail of Innovative Fuzzy Techniques for Characterizing Defects in Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation

Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation Systems, 2014

Classification of defects in ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT)/nondestructive evaluation (N... more Classification of defects in ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT)/nondestructive evaluation (NDE) has a role of primary importance in all those applications in which the knowledge of the typology of defect is crucial for the manufact destination. In such a context, the necessity to have efficient investigation instruments for a correct classification analysis emerges clearly. A defect, even when invisible to the naked eye, can be revealed as the cause that reduces the similarity of a measured signal with respect to a reference. Considering the fuzziness intrinsic in the signals, the reliance on fuzzy techniques to evaluate similarity appears desirable. Two fundamental achievement of research in such field, which both derive from the fuzzy thinking and which share common traits, are computing with words (CW) and the concept of fuzzy similarity (FS) . In CW, a word is considered as a label of a fuzzy set of points clustered by similarity (granule) which lead to a particular formulation of a bank of fuzzy rules structured per classes. FS is an evaluation index of similarity among entities (for example signals) particularly useful for the formation of specific classes. Both approaches are based on computational linguistics (for example, descriptive formalism in natural language). This chapter is conceptually divided into two parts: the first one is dedicated to the development of detection and classification techniques of defectiveness for ultrasonic NDE by means of CW, while the second one, with the same purpose, proposes an approach based on FS.

Research paper thumbnail of Neuro-Fuzzy Approach for Reconstructing Fissures in Concrete’s Reinforcing Bars

Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2009

In concrete, metallic bars are used to reinforce the mechanic resistance of the structures. When ... more In concrete, metallic bars are used to reinforce the mechanic resistance of the structures. When the structural element is subject to strong traction stresses, the main efforts load just on the bars. Thus, they are mainly subject to problems of ruptures within the concrete. Therefore, a very useful application of Non Destructive Testing could be the implementation of decisional tool

Research paper thumbnail of Ec Modelling and Enhancement Signals in CFRP Inspection

Progress In Electromagnetics Research M, 2010

Non Destructive Testing techniques are more and more exploited in order to quickly and cheaply re... more Non Destructive Testing techniques are more and more exploited in order to quickly and cheaply recognize flaws into the inspected materials, specially for carbon fiber reinforced polymers in recent years. Their production which are widely used both in civil and military applications, is an elaborate process un-free from faults and problems. Problems during the manufacturing, such as plies' overlapping, can cause flaws in the resulting material, this way compromising its integrity. Within this framework, this work aims to propose a design of ferrite core probe for eddy current non destructive evaluation, in order to investigate the presence of defects in carbon fiber epoxy composite materials. In this context, modelling is a powerful tool for inspection improvements. It helps probe-coil designers to optimize sensors for each examination requirement, providing better understanding of the involved physics, supporting operator training and increasing defect analysis reliability. Particularly, Finite Element based analyzes will be carried out into this path. After this step, in order to improve the quality of simulated measurement, a filtering technique has been exploited in order to improve the accuracy and performance of the flaw detection.

Research paper thumbnail of Recent Patents on Integrated Software / Hardware GMR - Based Systems and Applications for PCB Inspection

Recent Patents on Electrical Engineeringe, 2009

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Numerical Modelling for Evaluation of Biological Effects Due to High Frequency Radiations in Indoor Environment

PIERS Online, 2010

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Rotating Electromagnetic Field for Crack Detection in Railway Tracks

PIERS Online, 2010

The main problem about a railway analysis is detection of cracks in the structure. If these defic... more The main problem about a railway analysis is detection of cracks in the structure. If these deficiencies are not controlled at early stages they might cause huge economical problems affecting the rail network (unexpected requisition of spare parts, handling of incident and/or accidents). Within this framework, the early and continuous use of Non Destructive Tests can be useful. In this context, Eddy Current Testing is increasing in importance and popularity. Particularly, in this paper we exploit the measure of normal component, with respect to the scanned surface, of magnetic field. Whilst the scientific literature proposes a lot of solutions for detecting sub-superficial defects, an open problem is related to the geometrical complexity of the structure and the relevant difficulty of crack detection. In this paper, we propose a Finite Element Method based approach for modelling a fast and accurate evaluation of the defect in railways tracks. The modelled system is strongly versatile and the choice of electrical parameters affect the design of new probes for this kind of inspection. In particular, we propose a solution exploiting a rotating electromagnetic field with very encouraging results: The proposed model is able to recognize deep and surface cracks even if their orientations is vertical to the longitudinal direction of the sensor.

Research paper thumbnail of Mechanical Aspects in the Cells Detachment

IFMBE Proceedings

Living cells possess properties that enable them to withstand the physiological environment as we... more Living cells possess properties that enable them to withstand the physiological environment as well as mechanical stimuli occurring within and outside the body. Any deviation from these properties will undermine the physical integrity of the cells as well as their biological functions. Thus, a quantitative study in single cell mechanics needs to be conducted. In this paper we will examine

Research paper thumbnail of A New Approach to Evaluate Defects in Metallic Plates Based on Computing with Words and Fuzzy Entropy

International Journal of Measurement Technologies and Instrumentation Engineering, 2012

Eddy-Current Techniques for non–destructive testing and evaluation of conducting material are one... more Eddy-Current Techniques for non–destructive testing and evaluation of conducting material are one of the most known application oriented field in electromagnetics research. According to the Italian PRIN Project (proj. 2009TCLKNF_002), the Authors, in this work, propose a novel approach based on soft computing domain to characterize defects in metallic plates in terms of depth and shape starting from a set of experimental measurements. The problem is solved by means of a classification system based on computation with words and fuzzy entropy extracting information on the specimen under test from the measurements carried out in Non Destructive Tests Laboratory of “Mediterranea” University. Whereas, fuzzy entropy minimization module is based on traditional fuzzy inference system due to intrinsic characteristics of data the main advantage of the proposed approach is the introduction of computation with words in order to improve the data characterization.

Research paper thumbnail of Advanced Integration of Neural Networks for Characterizing Voids in Welded Strips

Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2009

... Matteo Cacciola, Salvatore Calcagno, Filippo Laganá, Giuseppe Megali, Diego Pellicanó, Mario ... more ... Matteo Cacciola, Salvatore Calcagno, Filippo Laganá, Giuseppe Megali, Diego Pellicanó, Mario Versaci, and Francesco Carlo Morabito University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria, Via Graziella Feo di Vito, 89100 Reggio Calabria, Italy {matteo.cacciola,calcagno,filippo.lagana, ...

Research paper thumbnail of Wavelet and Unsupervised Learning Techniques for Experimental Biomedical Data Processing

International Journal of Measurement Technologies and Instrumentation Engineering, 2012

Learning theories and algorithms for both supervised and unsupervised Neural Networks (NNs) have ... more Learning theories and algorithms for both supervised and unsupervised Neural Networks (NNs) have already been accepted as relevant tools to cope with difficult problems based on the processing of experimental electromagnetic data. These kinds of problems are typically formulated as inverse problems. In this paper, in particular, the electrical signals under investigations derive from experimental electromyogram interference patterns measured on human subjects by means of non-invasive sensors (ElectroMyoGraphic, sEMS surface data). The monitoring and the analysis of dynamic sEMG data reveal important information on muscles activity and can be used by clinicians for both preventing dramatic illness evolution and improving athletes performances. The paper proposes the use of the Independent Component Analysis (ICA), an unsupervised learning technique, in order to process raw sEMG data by reducing the typical “cross-talk” effect on the electric interference pattern measured by the surfa...

Research paper thumbnail of About Processing of Exponentially Damped Signals

International Journal of Measurement Technologies and Instrumentation Engineering, 2012

Exponentially damped signals, generally provided by specific sensors, are of great interest becau... more Exponentially damped signals, generally provided by specific sensors, are of great interest because they are used in various applications (e.g., laser detectors, biomedical devices, particle physics, study of vibrations). The aim of this work is to design, build and characterize a small device (the use of the term “board” would be very reductive) which can acquire and process this kind of signals. Within the actual framework of devices for this purpose, the innovation the authors introduce is related to the “intelligence” included within the device, based on inherent requirements associated with their use. The current proposal, opportunely tuned, could be also applied to a number of different applications. The above signals are generally processed using both hardware and software features. But hardware procedure allows to process large data-based signals. One of the most advantage of their work is related to the use of such a board for portable apparatuses.

Research paper thumbnail of A GMR–ECT based embedded solution for applications on PCB inspections

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical, 2011

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Elman neural networks for characterizing voids in welded strips: a study

Neural Computing and Applications, 2011

Within the framework of aging materials inspection, one of the most important aspects regarding d... more Within the framework of aging materials inspection, one of the most important aspects regarding defects detection in metal welded strips. In this context, it is important to plan a method able to distinguish the presence or absence of defects within welds as well as a robust procedure able to characterize the defect itself. In this paper, an innovative solution that exploits a rotating magnetic field is presented. This approach has been carried out by a finite element model. Within this framework, it is necessary to consider techniques able to offer advantages in terms of sensibility of analysis, strong reliability, speed of carrying out, low costs: its implementation can be a useful support for inspectors. To this aim, it is necessary to solve inverse problems which are mostly ill-posed; in this case, the main problems consist on both the accurate formulation of the direct problem and the correct regularization of the inverse electromagnetic problem. We propose a heuristic inversion, regularizing the problem by the use of an Elman network. Experimental results are obtained using a database created through numerical modeling, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.

Research paper thumbnail of Fuzzy similarity measures for detection and classification of defects in CFRP

IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control, 2013

The systematic use of nondestructive testing assumes a remarkable importance where on-line manufa... more The systematic use of nondestructive testing assumes a remarkable importance where on-line manufacturing quality control is associated with the maintenance of complex equipment. For this reason, nondestructive testing and evaluation (NDT/NDE), together with accuracy and precision of measurements of the specimen, results as a strategic activity in many fields of industrial and civil interest. It is well known that nondestructive research methodologies are able to provide information on the state of a manufacturing process without compromising its integrity and functionality. Moreover, exploitation of algorithms with a low computational complexity for detecting the integrity of a specimen plays a crucial role in real-time work. In such a context, the production of carbon fiber resin epoxy (CFRP) is a complex process that is not free from defects and faults that could compromise the integrity of the manufactured specimen. Ultrasonic tests provide an effective contribution in identifying the presence of a defect. In this work, a fuzzy similarity approach is proposed with the goal of localizing and classifying defects in CFRP in terms of a sort of distance among signals (measure of ultrasonic echoes). A field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based board will be also presented which implements the described algorithms on a hardware device. The good performance of the detection and classification achieved assures the comparability of the results with the results obtained using heuristic techniques with a higher computational load.

Research paper thumbnail of FEA Design and Misfit Minimization for In-Depth Flaw Characterization in Metallic Plates With Eddy Current Nondestructive Testing

IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of A Fuzzy Similarity-Based Approach to Classify Numerically Simulated and Experimentally Detected Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Plate Defects

Sensors

This paper presents an eddy current approach for testing, estimating, and classifying CFRP plate ... more This paper presents an eddy current approach for testing, estimating, and classifying CFRP plate sub-surface defects, mainly due to delamination, through specific 2D magnetic induction field amplitude maps. These maps, showing marked fuzziness content, require the development of a procedure based on a fuzzy approach being efficiently classified. Since similar defects produce similar maps, we propose a method based on innovative fuzzy similarity formulations. This procedure can collect maps similar to each other in particular defect classes. In addition, a low-cost analysis system, including the probe, has been implemented in hardware. The developed tool can detect and evaluate the extent of surface defects with the same performance as a hardware tool of higher specifications, and it could be fruitfully employed by airline companies to maintain aircraft in compliance with safety standards.

Research paper thumbnail of Wavelet Coherence and Fuzzy Subtractive Clustering for Defect Classification in Aeronautic CFRP

2010 International Conference on Complex, Intelligent and Software Intensive Systems, 2010

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Fuzzy similarities for the optimization of the operational parameters related to ultrasonic phased array probes for industrial application

2013 18th International Conference on Digital Signal Processing (DSP), 2013

ABSTRACT The systematic use of non-destructive testing is important both for on-line quality cont... more ABSTRACT The systematic use of non-destructive testing is important both for on-line quality control during the production process and the maintenance of complex equipment especially in industrial applications. In such a context, the ultrasound imaging techniques cover an important role above all in those cases in which it is requested a great penetration depth. Starting from an experimental database (affected by uncertainties due to sampling and/or noise, so of clear fuzzy nature) , the authors propose a new approach aimed at the optimization of the operational parameters of ultrasonic phased array probes. the problem of optimization is translated in an equivalent problem of classification through a fuzzy similarity approach: different images produced by different probes are compared. The quality of the proposed procedure has been assessed comparing the obtained results also with SOM- type technique in which the parameters of similarity among neurons has been considered of fuzzy nature.

Research paper thumbnail of Standard Soft Computing Techniques for Characterization of Defects in Nondestructive Evaluation

Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation Systems, 2014

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE)/nondestructive testing (NDT) of industrial manufactured items hol... more Nondestructive evaluation (NDE)/nondestructive testing (NDT) of industrial manufactured items holds a strategic importance both for the quality assessment of the productive process and for taking monitoring actions during the relative life cycle. Since the quality assessment passes through the characterization of the defects that can be generated, it is imperative to exploit inspection techniques able to produce signals characterizing the defects themselves. Current inspection techniques do not provide, for several reasons, signals free from errors, inaccuracies and imprecision, so, in the information-processing step, it is necessary to face the problem by approaches capable of taking into account the inherent vagueness . While the form reconstruction of a defect is still an open problem, its localization and classification has been carried out with excellent results by the scientific community with the development of efficient and accurate methodologies also in terms of vagueness management . Considering the technological transfer point of view, the approaches developed so far are burdened by a less than desirable computational complexity that translates into expensive hardware requirements. For this reason, it is necessary to elaborate alternative methodologies capable of combining high-quality results and low-computational complexity. Specifically, among the many possible computing techniques, attention is given to the soft techniques, and in particular, to the fuzzy logic (FL). The latter, generalizing dichotomic logic and taking into account the vagueness of signals, can deliver results comparable as a whole to those obtainable by more sophisticated techniques, but with a reduced computational charge. Moreover, the formalization in terms of natural language (NL) leads to the structuring of systems managed by legible linguistic rules even by nonexperts in the field and, at the same time, easily revisable by the expert. The present chapter is completely dedicated to introduce the reader to the basic principles of the logic of fuzzy inference system (FIS), applied functionally within NDE/NDT, presenting an example of study of the inverse problem.

Research paper thumbnail of Fuzzy Geometrical Techniques for Characterizing Defects in Ultrasonic Non-destructive Evaluation

Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation Systems, 2014

Many types of defectiveness can appear during the manufacturing of carbon fiber reinforced plasti... more Many types of defectiveness can appear during the manufacturing of carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) , putting at risk both safety and the quality of products. Therefore, a protocol to check the integrity of CFRPs is an important industrial requirement. It should involve non-destructive testing (NDT)/non-destructive evaluation (NDE) , in order to be the least invasive as possible. When exploiting ultrasonic testing , there is not a one-to-one correspondence between the type of defect and the trend of the resulting signal. Thus, visual inspection of ultrasonic signals can be a really hard task, needing a considerable experience or a suitable computing support. In the latter case, it rises the problem of ill-posedness, precisely because of the complex correspondence between defects and signal trends. The scientific literature presents a number of studies aiming to approach this problem, focusing on heuristic techniques, but characterized by high-computational complexity. Conversely, for real-time applications, fast procedures are needed, with a low computational complexity. Experience in soft computing, even in frameworks different than NDT/NDE, can be valuable for implementing such low-time-execution algorithms. This is particularly true with respect to the handling of data affected by uncertainty and/or imprecision caused by sampling and noising of signals. Due to its nature, it is convenient to approach the classification problem as a fuzzy matter, where ultrasonic signals resulting from the same kind of defect (i.e., same class of defectiveness) have similar statistic values. That is because classification problem can be seen as a fuzzy geometrical problem, where each class is taken into account as a specific family of fuzzy sets (fuzzy hyper-rectangles) inside a fuzzy unit hyper-cube . Thus, an ultrasonic signal depicting an unknown defect can be mapped as a point into the unit hyper-cube and it be classified there by means of its distance from the hyper-rectangles.

Research paper thumbnail of Innovative Fuzzy Techniques for Characterizing Defects in Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation

Ultrasonic Nondestructive Evaluation Systems, 2014

Classification of defects in ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT)/nondestructive evaluation (N... more Classification of defects in ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT)/nondestructive evaluation (NDE) has a role of primary importance in all those applications in which the knowledge of the typology of defect is crucial for the manufact destination. In such a context, the necessity to have efficient investigation instruments for a correct classification analysis emerges clearly. A defect, even when invisible to the naked eye, can be revealed as the cause that reduces the similarity of a measured signal with respect to a reference. Considering the fuzziness intrinsic in the signals, the reliance on fuzzy techniques to evaluate similarity appears desirable. Two fundamental achievement of research in such field, which both derive from the fuzzy thinking and which share common traits, are computing with words (CW) and the concept of fuzzy similarity (FS) . In CW, a word is considered as a label of a fuzzy set of points clustered by similarity (granule) which lead to a particular formulation of a bank of fuzzy rules structured per classes. FS is an evaluation index of similarity among entities (for example signals) particularly useful for the formation of specific classes. Both approaches are based on computational linguistics (for example, descriptive formalism in natural language). This chapter is conceptually divided into two parts: the first one is dedicated to the development of detection and classification techniques of defectiveness for ultrasonic NDE by means of CW, while the second one, with the same purpose, proposes an approach based on FS.

Research paper thumbnail of Neuro-Fuzzy Approach for Reconstructing Fissures in Concrete’s Reinforcing Bars

Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2009

In concrete, metallic bars are used to reinforce the mechanic resistance of the structures. When ... more In concrete, metallic bars are used to reinforce the mechanic resistance of the structures. When the structural element is subject to strong traction stresses, the main efforts load just on the bars. Thus, they are mainly subject to problems of ruptures within the concrete. Therefore, a very useful application of Non Destructive Testing could be the implementation of decisional tool

Research paper thumbnail of Ec Modelling and Enhancement Signals in CFRP Inspection

Progress In Electromagnetics Research M, 2010

Non Destructive Testing techniques are more and more exploited in order to quickly and cheaply re... more Non Destructive Testing techniques are more and more exploited in order to quickly and cheaply recognize flaws into the inspected materials, specially for carbon fiber reinforced polymers in recent years. Their production which are widely used both in civil and military applications, is an elaborate process un-free from faults and problems. Problems during the manufacturing, such as plies' overlapping, can cause flaws in the resulting material, this way compromising its integrity. Within this framework, this work aims to propose a design of ferrite core probe for eddy current non destructive evaluation, in order to investigate the presence of defects in carbon fiber epoxy composite materials. In this context, modelling is a powerful tool for inspection improvements. It helps probe-coil designers to optimize sensors for each examination requirement, providing better understanding of the involved physics, supporting operator training and increasing defect analysis reliability. Particularly, Finite Element based analyzes will be carried out into this path. After this step, in order to improve the quality of simulated measurement, a filtering technique has been exploited in order to improve the accuracy and performance of the flaw detection.

Research paper thumbnail of Recent Patents on Integrated Software / Hardware GMR - Based Systems and Applications for PCB Inspection

Recent Patents on Electrical Engineeringe, 2009

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Numerical Modelling for Evaluation of Biological Effects Due to High Frequency Radiations in Indoor Environment

PIERS Online, 2010

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Rotating Electromagnetic Field for Crack Detection in Railway Tracks

PIERS Online, 2010

The main problem about a railway analysis is detection of cracks in the structure. If these defic... more The main problem about a railway analysis is detection of cracks in the structure. If these deficiencies are not controlled at early stages they might cause huge economical problems affecting the rail network (unexpected requisition of spare parts, handling of incident and/or accidents). Within this framework, the early and continuous use of Non Destructive Tests can be useful. In this context, Eddy Current Testing is increasing in importance and popularity. Particularly, in this paper we exploit the measure of normal component, with respect to the scanned surface, of magnetic field. Whilst the scientific literature proposes a lot of solutions for detecting sub-superficial defects, an open problem is related to the geometrical complexity of the structure and the relevant difficulty of crack detection. In this paper, we propose a Finite Element Method based approach for modelling a fast and accurate evaluation of the defect in railways tracks. The modelled system is strongly versatile and the choice of electrical parameters affect the design of new probes for this kind of inspection. In particular, we propose a solution exploiting a rotating electromagnetic field with very encouraging results: The proposed model is able to recognize deep and surface cracks even if their orientations is vertical to the longitudinal direction of the sensor.

Research paper thumbnail of Mechanical Aspects in the Cells Detachment

IFMBE Proceedings

Living cells possess properties that enable them to withstand the physiological environment as we... more Living cells possess properties that enable them to withstand the physiological environment as well as mechanical stimuli occurring within and outside the body. Any deviation from these properties will undermine the physical integrity of the cells as well as their biological functions. Thus, a quantitative study in single cell mechanics needs to be conducted. In this paper we will examine

Research paper thumbnail of A New Approach to Evaluate Defects in Metallic Plates Based on Computing with Words and Fuzzy Entropy

International Journal of Measurement Technologies and Instrumentation Engineering, 2012

Eddy-Current Techniques for non–destructive testing and evaluation of conducting material are one... more Eddy-Current Techniques for non–destructive testing and evaluation of conducting material are one of the most known application oriented field in electromagnetics research. According to the Italian PRIN Project (proj. 2009TCLKNF_002), the Authors, in this work, propose a novel approach based on soft computing domain to characterize defects in metallic plates in terms of depth and shape starting from a set of experimental measurements. The problem is solved by means of a classification system based on computation with words and fuzzy entropy extracting information on the specimen under test from the measurements carried out in Non Destructive Tests Laboratory of “Mediterranea” University. Whereas, fuzzy entropy minimization module is based on traditional fuzzy inference system due to intrinsic characteristics of data the main advantage of the proposed approach is the introduction of computation with words in order to improve the data characterization.

Research paper thumbnail of Advanced Integration of Neural Networks for Characterizing Voids in Welded Strips

Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2009

... Matteo Cacciola, Salvatore Calcagno, Filippo Laganá, Giuseppe Megali, Diego Pellicanó, Mario ... more ... Matteo Cacciola, Salvatore Calcagno, Filippo Laganá, Giuseppe Megali, Diego Pellicanó, Mario Versaci, and Francesco Carlo Morabito University Mediterranea of Reggio Calabria, Via Graziella Feo di Vito, 89100 Reggio Calabria, Italy {matteo.cacciola,calcagno,filippo.lagana, ...

Research paper thumbnail of Wavelet and Unsupervised Learning Techniques for Experimental Biomedical Data Processing

International Journal of Measurement Technologies and Instrumentation Engineering, 2012

Learning theories and algorithms for both supervised and unsupervised Neural Networks (NNs) have ... more Learning theories and algorithms for both supervised and unsupervised Neural Networks (NNs) have already been accepted as relevant tools to cope with difficult problems based on the processing of experimental electromagnetic data. These kinds of problems are typically formulated as inverse problems. In this paper, in particular, the electrical signals under investigations derive from experimental electromyogram interference patterns measured on human subjects by means of non-invasive sensors (ElectroMyoGraphic, sEMS surface data). The monitoring and the analysis of dynamic sEMG data reveal important information on muscles activity and can be used by clinicians for both preventing dramatic illness evolution and improving athletes performances. The paper proposes the use of the Independent Component Analysis (ICA), an unsupervised learning technique, in order to process raw sEMG data by reducing the typical “cross-talk” effect on the electric interference pattern measured by the surfa...

Research paper thumbnail of About Processing of Exponentially Damped Signals

International Journal of Measurement Technologies and Instrumentation Engineering, 2012

Exponentially damped signals, generally provided by specific sensors, are of great interest becau... more Exponentially damped signals, generally provided by specific sensors, are of great interest because they are used in various applications (e.g., laser detectors, biomedical devices, particle physics, study of vibrations). The aim of this work is to design, build and characterize a small device (the use of the term “board” would be very reductive) which can acquire and process this kind of signals. Within the actual framework of devices for this purpose, the innovation the authors introduce is related to the “intelligence” included within the device, based on inherent requirements associated with their use. The current proposal, opportunely tuned, could be also applied to a number of different applications. The above signals are generally processed using both hardware and software features. But hardware procedure allows to process large data-based signals. One of the most advantage of their work is related to the use of such a board for portable apparatuses.

Research paper thumbnail of A GMR–ECT based embedded solution for applications on PCB inspections

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical, 2011

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Elman neural networks for characterizing voids in welded strips: a study

Neural Computing and Applications, 2011

Within the framework of aging materials inspection, one of the most important aspects regarding d... more Within the framework of aging materials inspection, one of the most important aspects regarding defects detection in metal welded strips. In this context, it is important to plan a method able to distinguish the presence or absence of defects within welds as well as a robust procedure able to characterize the defect itself. In this paper, an innovative solution that exploits a rotating magnetic field is presented. This approach has been carried out by a finite element model. Within this framework, it is necessary to consider techniques able to offer advantages in terms of sensibility of analysis, strong reliability, speed of carrying out, low costs: its implementation can be a useful support for inspectors. To this aim, it is necessary to solve inverse problems which are mostly ill-posed; in this case, the main problems consist on both the accurate formulation of the direct problem and the correct regularization of the inverse electromagnetic problem. We propose a heuristic inversion, regularizing the problem by the use of an Elman network. Experimental results are obtained using a database created through numerical modeling, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.

Research paper thumbnail of Fuzzy similarity measures for detection and classification of defects in CFRP

IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control, 2013

The systematic use of nondestructive testing assumes a remarkable importance where on-line manufa... more The systematic use of nondestructive testing assumes a remarkable importance where on-line manufacturing quality control is associated with the maintenance of complex equipment. For this reason, nondestructive testing and evaluation (NDT/NDE), together with accuracy and precision of measurements of the specimen, results as a strategic activity in many fields of industrial and civil interest. It is well known that nondestructive research methodologies are able to provide information on the state of a manufacturing process without compromising its integrity and functionality. Moreover, exploitation of algorithms with a low computational complexity for detecting the integrity of a specimen plays a crucial role in real-time work. In such a context, the production of carbon fiber resin epoxy (CFRP) is a complex process that is not free from defects and faults that could compromise the integrity of the manufactured specimen. Ultrasonic tests provide an effective contribution in identifying the presence of a defect. In this work, a fuzzy similarity approach is proposed with the goal of localizing and classifying defects in CFRP in terms of a sort of distance among signals (measure of ultrasonic echoes). A field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-based board will be also presented which implements the described algorithms on a hardware device. The good performance of the detection and classification achieved assures the comparability of the results with the results obtained using heuristic techniques with a higher computational load.

Research paper thumbnail of FEA Design and Misfit Minimization for In-Depth Flaw Characterization in Metallic Plates With Eddy Current Nondestructive Testing

IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, 2009