Thesis
Optimizing laser scanning graphic user interface for versatile application and functionality
University of Iowa
Master of Science (MS), University of Iowa
Spring 2020
DOI: 10.17077/etd.005289
Abstract
In 2014, a University of Iowa graduate student assembled an independent laser and motor with intentions to replicate a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) for the IIHR Laboratories. The functionality of the system implemented in 2014 is based off an older Microsoft Disk Operating System (MS-DOS) program. However, the programming language has become less and less common in the field. Due to the outdated DOS program, suggestions were made to improve operational software and simplify the data analysis process. Ultimately, this project became the implementation of a new graphical user interface (GUI) for a laser scanning system. The project consisted of three user windows and five operating programs producing surface profile point clouds. The project combines a pan and tilt motor along with a time of flight laser working in sync to measure surfaces at 50 Hz. In addition to the GUI, mathematical methods are used to illustrate the point clouds in specific orientations. A functioning system is available in the East Annex at the University of Iowa including instrument manuals, MATLAB codes, plotting techniques, replacement components, and a functioning manual. Moving forward, the system should implement new functionalities. The functionalities would improve point cloud capabilities by taking advantage of new lasers measuring temperature and or color. This project achieved its re-design goal and created new opportunities for measuring techniques that can be used throughout the IIHR research field.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Optimizing laser scanning graphic user interface for versatile application and functionality
- Creators
- Michael John Hadacek
- Contributors
- William E Eichinger (Advisor)Casey M Harwood (Committee Member)Phillip Deierling (Committee Member)
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (MS), University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Mechanical Engineering
- Date degree season
- Spring 2020
- DOI
- 10.17077/etd.005289
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- ix, 65 pages
- Copyright
- Copyright 2020 Michael John Hadacek
- Language
- English
- Description illustrations
- illustrations (chiefly color)
- Description bibliographic
- Includes bibliographical references (page 65).
- Public Abstract (ETD)
This project demonstrates the development of new software for the terrestrial laser scanner at the University of Iowa. The original platform was programmed in Microsoft Disk Operating System (MS-DOS) and re-engineered for MATLAB. Several experiments were conducted to verify the software conversion was correct. The final products were a written instruction manual for the new software, condensed instruction manuals for all necessary equipment, replacement components, and example measurements showing tool capabilities. Furthermore, the software development project required technical problem solving and advanced communication skills.
- Academic Unit
- Mechanical Engineering
- Record Identifier
- 9983968396302771
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