2024
Authors
Klein, LC; Mendes, J; Braun, J; Martins, FN; de Oliveira, AS; Costa, P; Wörtche, H; Lima, J;
Publication
OPTIMIZATION, LEARNING ALGORITHMS AND APPLICATIONS, PT II, OL2A 2023
Abstract
Accurate localization in autonomous robots enables effective decision-making within their operating environment. Various methods have been developed to address this challenge, encompassing traditional techniques, fiducial marker utilization, and machine learning approaches. This work proposes a deep-learning solution employing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) to tackle the localization problem, specifically in the context of the RobotAtFactory 4.0 competition. The proposed approach leverages transfer learning from the pre-trained VGG16 model to capitalize on its existing knowledge. To validate the effectiveness of the approach, a simulated scenario was employed. The experimental results demonstrated an error within the millimeter scale and rapid response times in milliseconds. Notably, the presented approach offers several advantages, including a consistent model size regardless of the number of training images utilized and the elimination of the need to know the absolute positions of the fiducial markers.
2024
Authors
Klein, LC; Chellal, AA; Grilo, V; Braun, J; Gonçalves, J; Pacheco, MF; Fernandes, FP; Monteiro, FC; Lima, J;
Publication
SENSORS
Abstract
The accurate measurement of joint angles during patient rehabilitation is crucial for informed decision making by physiotherapists. Presently, visual inspection stands as one of the prevalent methods for angle assessment. Although it could appear the most straightforward way to assess the angles, it presents a problem related to the high susceptibility to error in the angle estimation. In light of this, this study investigates the possibility of using a new approach to angle calculation: a hybrid approach leveraging both a camera and LiDAR technology, merging image data with point cloud information. This method employs AI-driven techniques to identify the individual and their joints, utilizing the cloud-point data for angle computation. The tests, considering different exercises with different perspectives and distances, showed a slight improvement compared to using YOLO v7 for angle calculation. However, the improvement comes with higher system costs when compared with other image-based approaches due to the necessity of equipment such as LiDAR and a loss of fluidity during the exercise performance. Therefore, the cost-benefit of the proposed approach could be questionable. Nonetheless, the results hint at a promising field for further exploration and the potential viability of using the proposed methodology.
2024
Authors
Valente, D; Brito, T; Correia, M; Carvalho, JA; Lima, J;
Publication
OPTIMIZATION, LEARNING ALGORITHMS AND APPLICATIONS, PT I, OL2A 2023
Abstract
The Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized how objects and devices interact, creating new possibilities for seamless connectivity and data exchange. This paper presents a unique and effective method for transferring images via the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol in an encrypted manner. The image is split into multiple messages, with each carrying a segment of the image, and employ top-notch encryption techniques to ensure secure communication. Applying this process, the message payload is split into smaller segments, and consequently, it minimizes the network bandwidth impact while mitigating potential of packet loss or latency issues. Furthermore, by applying encryption techniques, we guarantee the confidentiality and integrity of the image data during transmission, safeguarding against unauthorized access or tampering. Our experiments in a real-world scenario involving remote indicator panels with LEDs verify the effectiveness of our approach. By using our proposed method, we successfully transmit images over MQTT, achieving secure and reliable data transfer while ensuring the integrity of the image content. Our results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed approach for image transfer in IoT applications. The combination of message segmentation, MQTT protocol, and encryption techniques offers a practical solution for transmitting images in resource-constrained IoT networks while maintaining data security. This approach can be applied in different applications.
2024
Authors
Klein, LC; Chellal, AA; Grilo, V; Gonçalves, J; Pacheco, MF; Fernandes, FP; Monteiro, FC; Lima, J;
Publication
OPTIMIZATION, LEARNING ALGORITHMS AND APPLICATIONS, PT II, OL2A 2023
Abstract
Angle assessment is crucial in rehabilitation and significantly influences physiotherapists' decision-making. Although visual inspection is commonly used, it is known to be approximate. This work aims to be a preliminary study about using the AI image-based to assess upper limb joint angles. Two main frameworks were evaluated: MediaPipe and Yolo v7. The study was performed with 28 participants performing four upper limb movements. The results showed that Yolo v7 achieved greater estimation accuracy than Mediapipe, with MAEs of around 5 degrees and 17 degrees, respectively. However, even with better results, Yolo v7 showed some limitations, including the point of detection in only a 2D plane, the higher computational power required to enable detection, and the difficulty of performing movements requiring more than one degree of Freedom (DOF). Nevertheless, this study highlights the detection capabilities of AI approaches, showing be a promising approach for measuring angles in rehabilitation activities, representing a cost-effective and easy-to-implement solution.
2024
Authors
Kalbermatter, RB; Franco, T; Pereira, AI; Valente, A; Soares, SP; Lima, J;
Publication
OPTIMIZATION, LEARNING ALGORITHMS AND APPLICATIONS, PT I, OL2A 2023
Abstract
People are living longer, promoting new challenges in healthcare. Many older adults prefer to age in their own homes rather than in healthcare institutions. Portugal has seen a similar trend, and public and private home care solutions have been developed. However, age-related pathologies can affect an elderly person's ability to perform daily tasks independently. Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) is a domain that uses information and communication technologies to improve the quality of life of older adults. AI-based fall detection systems have been integrated into AAL studies, and posture estimation tools are important for monitoring patients. In this study, the OpenCV and the YOLOv7 machine learning framework are used to develop a fall detection system based on posture analysis. To protect patient privacy, the use of a thermal camera is proposed to prevent facial recognition. The developed system was applied and validated in the real scenario.
2024
Authors
Rebelo, PM; Lima, J; Soares, SP; Oliveira, PM; Sobreira, H; Costa, P;
Publication
SENSORS
Abstract
The flexibility and versatility associated with autonomous mobile robots (AMR) have facilitated their integration into different types of industries and tasks. However, as the main objective of their implementation on the factory floor is to optimize processes and, consequently, the time associated with them, it is necessary to take into account the environment and congestion to which they are subjected. Localization, on the shop floor and in real time, is an important requirement to optimize the AMRs' trajectory management, thus avoiding livelocks and deadlocks during their movements in partnership with manual forklift operators and logistic trains. Threeof the most commonly used localization techniques in indoor environments (time of flight, angle of arrival, and time difference of arrival), as well as two of the most commonly used indoor localization methods in the industry (ultra-wideband, and ultrasound), are presented and compared in this paper. Furthermore, it identifies and compares three industrial indoor localization solutions: Qorvo, Eliko Kio, and Marvelmind, implemented in an industrial mobile platform, which is the main contribution of this paper. These solutions can be applied to both AMRs and other mobile platforms, such as forklifts and logistic trains. In terms of results, the Marvelmind system, which uses an ultrasound method, was the best solution.
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