Abstract: In the field of boating, the design of eco-sustainable solutions has been recently focused on hydrofoils. Such technology is employed in small and large vessels. A great challenge may be represented by the reconstruction of geometric details in objects with large sizes through traditional approaches based on simple and manual instrumentations and measuring systems. With regard to reverse engineering techniques, photogrammetry may be suitable for reconstructing devices with large sizes. The aim of the work was to report and provide an analysis on the last progresses related to the feasibility of the photogrammetric approach in the hydrofoil research, summarising a specific methodology reported in the literature to acquire and reconstruct the outer sector of the front wing of a Kolkhida-class hydrofoil. The potential of computational fluid dynamics was also stressed in the evaluation of the characteristic curves, focusing on drag and lift coefficients as well as on the error due to the reconstruction through photogrammetry. Data analysis and research generally require the possibility of sifting through a great amount of information, thus providing a very overwhelming and time-consuming approach. In this scenario, the focused summarising approach may play an important role in providing a simplification of the complex content and technical features into digestible insights. This means that the proposed summarising approach should be able to boost retention providing a help in remembering key features more effectively through their condensation to a reduced number of information and steps.

Keywords: computational fluid dynamics | Design methods | hydrofoil | measurements | reverse engineering

Abstract: Objective. Objective evaluation of operational training remains challenging, particularly when comparing physical training with virtual reality (VR) training. Behavioral and subjective measures capture performance and perceived workload but provide limited insight into the underlying neurocognitive adaptation. This study proposes and validates a synthetic EEG-derived cognitive training index (CTI) that integrates multiple training-sensitive neurometrics into a single composite metric, with two aims: to validate CTI as an objective marker of training progression in a physical training group, and to test whether VR-based training leads to neurocognitive adaptation comparable to physical training when participants subsequently execute the task in the real environment. Approach. Participants completed three repetitions of a realistic confined-space industrial maintenance procedure structured into Entrance, Rolling shutter, and Pipe replacement phases. Behavioral outcomes (execution time, procedural errors) and subjective workload NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) were collected after each trial. Wearable EEG was recorded continuously; six neurometrics were computed from cleaned EEG using band-specific Global Field Power over predefined electrode sets. CTI was obtained via principal component analysis applied at the trial level to the multivariate neurometric time series, followed by segment-wise analysis. Temporal specificity of CTI was assessed through phase-randomized surrogate-data analyses. Main results. Execution time decreased across trials (F = 14.82, p <.001, η2p = 0.35), procedural errors decreased similarly (F = 10.31, p <.001, η2p = 0.27), and NASA-TLX declined (F = 11.94, p <.001, η2p = 0.30). CTI increased significantly with training (F = 18.21, p <.001, η2p = 0.39) and was selectively higher in learning-relevant phases (Entrance and Pipe replacement), while remaining near baseline in the low-demand Rolling shutter phase. Surrogate analyses showed that real CTI exceeded null expectations, supporting temporal specificity. Repeated-measures correlations indicated significant negative associations between CTI and procedural errors (R = − 0.42, p <.01) and between CTI and NASA-TLX (R = − 0.38, p <.01), while CTI was not significantly related to execution time (R = 0.18, p =.12). Significance. CTI provides a psychologically grounded, multivariate EEG marker that tracks training progression and aligns with operationally meaningful outcomes, namely procedural accuracy and perceived workload, rather than task speed alone. This approach supports objective comparison of cognitive adaptation across training modalities and provides a practical basis for neurophysiologically informed training evaluation and future adaptive training systems.

Keywords: EEG | principal component analysis | training

Abstract: In recent years, maritime industries have focused their attention on hydrofoils as one of the main technologies for the development of eco-sustainable solutions in the field of boating. The aim of the current research was to analyze the front wing of a Kohlkida class hydrofoil and to describe the methodology employed for the reconstruction of the 2-D airfoils by means of photogrammetry. Considering the limitations of the photogrammetry methods, some sections were extracted from the model. The airfoils were properly scaled and first compared with the model obtained by means of a laser scanner. Under the operating condition of the hydrofoil and with the use of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations, the behavior of the airfoils was simulated, allowing us to verify how the geometric differences due to the photogrammetry approach affect the fluid dynamics, in comparison to the model obtained from laser scanning. The proposed methodology led to a geometry reconstruction with adequate accuracy for the identification of both the characteristic curves for the lift and drag coefficients with a maximum error of 6% in the angle-of-attack range investigated in the study, also highlighting fluid dynamics problems that characterize this type of airfoils with a flat bottom and a knife-sharp leading edge.

Keywords: Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) | hydrofoil design and modeling | laser scanning | measurements | photogrammetry | reverse engineering

Abstract: The maritime sector faces an ecological revolution. In addition to the use of green propulsion systems and reducing the environmental impact of non-recyclable parts, global performance enhancement of the vessels is essential to this change. Hydrofoils are one of the technologies that is significantly impacting this shift: using wings under the hull, may significantly decrease drag and, in the case of powered boats, emissions. Similar to aircraft, the design of hydrofoil wings entails a process that adjusts parameters such as attack angles, profile types, and overall wing geometry to satisfy moments and forces, often requiring extensive design efforts. Through a visual programming language, this paper introduces a new parametric method of designing hydrofoils wings with the aim of speeding up the process. Starting from the 2D airfoil geometry data the logic created makes it easier to edit parametrically the characteristics dimensions of the wings using user-friendly controls and coefficients as inputs of the design. This method in output produces both Brep surfaces and important preliminary information including estimating lift and drag. A case study is presented for the design of hydrofoil moth main wings.

Keywords: Design | Hydrofoil | Parametric

Abstract: The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection facility (HERD) will be a calorimetric experiment on board the China Space Station. Starting from 2027, HERD will perform the first direct measurement of cosmic rays in the PeV region and the gamma-ray full-sky survey from 100 MeV. The detector will be equipped with a scintillating-fiber tracker (FIT) read out with silicon photomultipliers. A miniature of a FIT sector, called MiniFIT, was designed, built and tested with particle beams at CERN. The FIT design, together with the design and physics performance of MiniFIT will be presented in this contribution.

Abstract: Submerged lifting surfaces technology, born in the early 1900s, allows boats to lift the hull above the water and, in some cases, halves the resistance compared to dislocated and planning boats. This paper illustrates the state-of-the-art on hydrofoil technology, highlighting the fundamental aspects of the study of submerged wings and focusing on the problems that this technology presents, evaluating the solutions currently used to optimize its work. Key aspects of hydrofoil design are addressed, such as the choice of geometric configurations and two-dimensional profiles suitable for each type of mission. This results in addressing issues associated with cavitation and ventilation and emphasizing structural solutions that reduce these phenomena, thus improving hydrofoil efficiency. The study analyses and discusses the problems of wing systems used in existing applications, with the aim of developing a sustainable transport technology compatible with ecological propulsions such as hydrogen and electric.

Keywords: green | hydrodynamics | hydrofoil | sustainable

Abstract: The CRYSTAL EYE detector is proposed as a space-based X and gamma ray all-sky monitor to be active from 10 keV up to 30 MeV. In its full scale configuration, it consists in a 40 cm diameter hemisphere, made by 112 pixels, with an overall weight lower than 50 kg, wide Field Of View (FOV, about 6 sr), full sky coverage and very large effective area (about 6 times higher than Fermi-GBM at 1 MeV) in the energy range of interest. Each pixel consists of two layers of scintillating LYSO crystals, read out by arrays of Silicon PhotoMultipliers (SiPMs), equipped with a segmented anticoincidence detector for charged Cosmic Ray (CR) identification and hard X-ray detection. The primary scientific goals include the observation of transient X and gamma flashes from Gamma Ray Bursts (GRBs), Gravitational Wave (GW) follow up, Supernovae (SN) explosions, etc. and stable gamma-ray source observation in the MeV energy range. The pioneering design optimizes these observations in terms of localization of the source and timing. By using specific triggers for charged particles, solar flares and space weather phenomena could also be studied. A pathfinder mission is foreseen onboard of the Space Rider vehicle run by European Space Agency (ESA), allowing technology tests, qualification and both deep space and Earth observation during the mission. We here present the CRYSTAL EYE technology.

Keywords: Citiroc | Gamma ray bursts | LYSO | SiPM | Space detectors

Abstract: The paper presents a preliminary design activity and virtual prototyping of an innovative boat equipped with hydrofoils and hybrid propulsion, with the aim of extending the foil technology from the field of competition boats to recreational day-cruiser yachts and creating a craft with minimal environmental impact. Hydrofoils allow boats to rise from the water, greatly reducing resistance and increasing performance. The current work dealt with the preliminary design of a daysailer with foil technology and hybrid propulsion that allow to combine green and comfortable navigation both under sail and motor and that, when required, can sail in a more performing way by exploiting the foil technology and the thrust of the wind. After having deepened the theory and physics of sailing on foils, a MATLAB code was created to integrate the stability equations that characterize hydrofoil sailboats: connecting the acting forces and allowing to define the dimensions of the geometries, the code was fundamental in speeding up the iterative preliminary design process. The next step was to model the geometry of the hull and the appendages in the CAD environment and, subsequently, the wing movement mechanism so that it could both manage the incidence of the wings and retract the foils when the boat is moored. The hull, profiles, and wings were subsequently placed in a CFD and VPP virtual environment for testing their resistance. Future developments will include a detailed design and the physical prototyping of a first boat for water testing.

Keywords: Green | Hybrid | Hydrofoil | Virtual prototyping

Abstract: Factory acceptance test is the inspection of equipment and components at the supplier's premises before delivery or final inspection. However, this control can represent a considerable cost for the customer, especially when the manufacturer's company is geographically far from the customer one and inspections must be frequent. In this paper, the authors present a framework to support the factory acceptance test based on augmented reality (AR) techniques and model-based definition aimed at dimensional checks that does not require the physical presence of the customer at the supplier's premises. The supplier must be previously equipped with an automatic measuring machine. Once the component under inspection is placed inside the machine, this reads the type and the position of the features to be measured along with the related specification limits directly from the annotated 3D model of the component. The results are automatically transmitted to the customer's site. Through a tablet, the supplier, guided by the customer, reads the results of the measures directly on the measured object through augmented or mixed reality techniques. Any out-of-specification dimension can be remeasured in real time with the customer's remote assistance using traditional measurement techniques. The proposed architecture, at an advanced stage of experimentation, is discussed with reference to an industrial case study proposed and using an entry level commercial 3D scanner.

Keywords: Augmented reality | Dimensional inspection | Factory acceptance test | Metrology

Abstract: Helping workers return to work as soon as safe and functionally possible after a workplace injury is a subject of major interest in the context of occupational health. For this, we developed a serious game for construction industry aimed at training workers about the proper use of an electric pallet truck inside a simulated environment. The simulation platform is endowed with a physical control interface and three training missions were implemented. During the game experience, the player is also asked to answer to some questions about the possible risks and the related protection measures. The results of preliminary experiments about the usability of our training framework are here reported and discussed.

Keywords: learning | product interface design | serious games | usability assessment | virtual training

Abstract: This work is focused on the development of a “serious game”, i.e., a software with no playful purpose adopted to train and verify the skills of users to improve safety in the workplace. Particular attention has been given to the accidents that occur during typical operations done in factory sites, e.g., driving forklifts. Firstly, the different types of “serious games” already available on the market have been analyzed to identify the best way to carry on tests and simulations by means of virtual, mixed, and augmented reality. Afterward, once the best solution has been identified, the Unity development environment has been considered to define a standard that could also be used for future projects. So, the result is the development of a powerful editor of the scene, in which the user can program all the components adjusting the game to the tasks to be performed by the worker, the tools, the environment and the targets. So, an upgradeable “parametric path” has been created, which will be followed by the forklift, realizing a new game and test environment for the worker. Then, modular components have been conceived to contemplate the future developments of the project, including a graphic editor: these will lead to a software that can be easily modified according to the customer's requests.

Keywords: Occupational safety | Serious games | Virtual reality

Abstract: Crystal Eye is a new concept of all sky monitor for the observation of 10keV-30MeV cosmic photons exploiting a new detection technique, which foresees enhanced localization capability with respect to current instruments. This is now possible thanks to the use of new materials and sensors. The proposed detection module is designed to be easily installed either on free flyer satellites or onboard space stations. Science goals include Gamma Ray Bursts, electromagnetic counterpart of Gravitational Wave emissions, Active Galactic Nuclei and line emission from supernova explosions observations. A Crystal Eye pathfinder, made by 4 pixels, has been set up to fly aboard of the Space RIDER, an uncrewed reusable orbital spaceplane aiming to provide the European Space Agency (ESA) with affordable and routine access to space. The mission will follow a LEO orbit (400 km, 5.3° of inclination) for two months then it will come back at the base. We here present the Crystal Eye detection method and characteristics and the first characterization of the pathfinder.

Abstract: The High Energy cosmic-Radiation (HERD) detector is one of the prominent space-borne instruments to be installed on-board the Chinese Space Station (CSS), around 2027. Primary scientific goals regarding this initiative include: precise measurements of cosmic ray (CR) energy spectra and mass composition, at energies up to the PeV range; contributions to high energy gamma-ray astronomy and transient studies; as well as indirect searches for Dark Matter (DM) particles via their possible annihilation/decay to detectable products. HERD is configured to accept incident particles from both its top and four lateral sides. Owing to its pioneering design, an order of magnitude increase in acceptance is foreseen, with respect to previous and ongoing experiments. The Plastic Scintillator Detector (PSD) constitutes an important sub-detector of HERD, particularly aimed towards anti-coincidence (discriminating incident photons from charged particles), while providing precise charge measurement of incoming cosmic-ray nuclei in a range of Z = 1-26. Main requirements concerning its design, include: high detection efficiency, broad dynamic range and good energy resolution. In order to select the optimal layout, two geometries are currently under investigation: one based on long scintillator bars and the other on square tiles, with both layouts being readout by Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs). Ongoing activities and future plans regarding the HERD PSD will be presented in this work.

Abstract: The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) facility has been proposed as a space astronomy payload onboard the future China's Space Station. HERD is planned for operation starting around 2027 for about 10 years In addition to the unprecedented sensitivity for dark matter searches and cosmic-ray measurements up to the knee energy, it should perform gamma-ray monitoring and full sky survey from few hundred MeV up to tens of TeV. We present the first study of the HERD gamma-ray performance obtained with full simulations of the whole detector geometry. HERD will be a cubic detector composed with 5 active faces. We present a study conducted inside the HERD analysis software package, which includes a detailed description of the detector materials. In this work we present the HERD effective area, the point spread function and the resulting gamma-ray sensitivity.

Abstract: The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) facility is a next generation spaceborne detector to be installed onboard the Chinese Space Station for about 10 years. HERD will address major problems in fundamental physics and astrophysics, providing precise measurements of charged-cosmic rays up to PeV energies, performing indirect searches for dark matter in the electron spectrum up to few tens of TeV and monitoring the gamma-ray skymap for surveys and transient searches. HERD is composed of a 3D imaging calorimeter (CALO) surrounded by a scintillating fiber tracker (FIT), a plastic scintillator detector (PSD) and a silicon charge detector (SCD). In addition, a transition radiation detector (TRD) is placed on a lateral side to provide accurate energy calibration. Based on this innovative design, the effective geometric factor of HERD will be one order of magnitud larger than that of current space-based detectors. The HERD trigger strategy is designed to accomplish the scientific goals of the mission, and is based on trigger definitions that rely on the energy deposited in CALO and the PSD. The trigger performances are evaluated using a detailed Monte Carlo simulation that includes the latest HERD geometry. In addition, alternative trigger definitions based on the event topology can be established thanks to the photodiode readout of CALO crystals. The feasibility of these topological triggers is also investigated and presented.

Abstract: The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) facility is a space payload proposed to be installed onboard the China's Space Station (CSS). The aims of HERD are the indirect detection of dark matter, the direct detection of cosmic rays towards the “knee” of the spectrum (∼ 1 PeV) and the monitoring of the full gamma-ray sky from 100 MeV. The HERD core is a calorimeter capable of accepting particles incident on its top and four lateral sides, each equipped with a sector of the scintillating fiber tracker: FIT. The FIT sectors host 7 tracking planes made of modules. The module, composed of a fiber mat and three arrays of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs), is the elementary brick of FIT. Several FIT modules have been built and tested with particle beams at CERN. A FIT demonstrator, made of two partially instrumented tracking planes, has been assembled and sent through vibration tests. The results of the performed tests as well as the current design of FIT are presented in this contribution.

Abstract: The High Energy cosmic-Radiation Detection (HERD) is a future space experiment which will be installed on the China's Space Station around 2027. The main goal of the experiment is the measurement of cosmic rays up to energies which are not explored by the instruments currently operating in space, in particular protons with energies up to PeV, nuclei up to hundreds of TeV per nucleon and electrons up to tens of TeV. HERD will consist of silicon charge detectors, anti-coincidence scintillators, scintillating fiber trackers, a transition radiation detector and a calorimeter. The latter is a homogeneous, deep, 3D segmented calorimeter made of about 7500 LYSO cubic crystals: thanks to this innovative design, it will achieve large acceptance, good energy resolution and excellent electron/proton discrimination. In order to increase both energy calibration capabilities and redundancy of the instrument, the LYSO scintillation light will be read-out by two independent systems: the first is made of wave-length shifting fibers coupled with imaged intensified CMOS cameras, and the second one consists of photodiodes with different active areas connected to a custom front-end electronics. Both read-out systems are designed to have a large dynamic range, up to 107, and a low power consumption. The design of the calorimeter is validated by several Monte Carlo simulations and beam test results obtained with detector prototypes. In this paper we describe the anticipated performances of the calorimeter and the current status of the double read-out system, and we discuss the recent developments of both the HERD prototype and the flight model design.

Abstract: The main aim of this article is to describe the design of a new sensor to study the electromagnetic field portions of gravitational waves. On August 17, 2017, the observation of the gravitational wave event started the era of multi-messenger astronomy. Therefore, new tools and optimal synchronization of the available telescopes are needed. The sensor that is designed is a cross-cutting technology, it is named Crystal Eye: a wide field of view in the energy field from 10 keV to 10 meV with a structure made of pixels. As the detector will be involved in the mission in 2023, the virtual prototype phase needed for optimization and production of the payload has been completed. Particular attention was paid to the results of the FEM analysis carried out to examine and predict the thermal and vibration behavior of the conceived mock-up during the launch phase and under strong temperature variations in the space environment.

Keywords: Detector | FEM | Vibration and thermal analysis | Virtual prototyping

Abstract: Main targets of this activity research are the making and the optimization of new detectors by means of the Systems Engineering methods. With the observation of the gravitational wave event of August 17th, 2017 and then with those of the extragalactic neutrino of September 22nd, the Multimessenger Astrophysics era began. It is a new way of exploring the Universe, powered by globally coordinated observations of several experiments. So, new X and gamma rays' detectors solutions are needed in order to provide competitive results in the energy range 10 keV–10 meV. Here is briefly described how the Systems Engineering can improve the development of the proposal of a new technique: The Crystal Eye, a wide field of view detector with a good spatial resolution obtained thanks to a high pixelation.

Keywords: Astrophysics | Crystal Eye | Detectors | Optimization | Systems Engineering

Abstract: This paper presents an innovative safety training method based on digital ergonomics simulations and serious games, which are games that focus on education. Digital ergonomics is intended to disseminate the culture of safety among workers, while serious games are used to train the operators on specific safety procedures and verify their skills. The results of the experimentation in a real industrial environment showed that, compared to the traditional training methodology, multimedia contents and quantitative ergonomic analyses improve the level of attention and the awareness of the workers about their own safety. However, serious games turned out to be promising training tools with regard to standard operating procedures that are usually difficult or dangerous to simulate in a real working scenario without stopping production. Practitioner summary: Digital ergonomics and serious games are used to disseminate the culture of safety among the workers and for safety training. Our results show that the proposed methodology improves the level of attention and provides a better feedback about the actual skills of the workers than the standard educational strategies. Abbreviations:.

Keywords: Digital humans | occupational safety | serious games | training methods

Abstract: Main target of this paper is to describe the conceptual design and the virtual prototyping phases of a new detector, named Crystal Eye, aimed at the exploration of the electromagnetic counterpart of the gravitational wave events. Such events generated by neutron stars collision (or mergers) are associated with γ-ray bursts. With its characteristics, Crystal Eye will provide the continuous exploration and monitoring of the Universe after a Gravitational Wave event with a better resolution than that of other detectors such as the Fermi Gamma-ray Burst Monitor (GBM). Thanks to its large field of view and its design, it has the potentiality to be the trigger for those present X-ray astronomy missions (Chandra, Swift, Integral XMM Newton) that are based on high angular resolution pointing experiment but that have unfortunately a very small field of view. An intense brainstorming phase, involving a team of physicians and engineers for the generation of concepts, started the design process. So, many preliminary sketches and CAD models were realized to well identify the main requirements of the new detector. Afterwards, considering the features and the constraints of the project, a refinement of the possible solutions among all the alternatives thought was performed, and three virtual prototypes were selected according to the Multi-Voting Method. Lastly, the AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) Multi Criteria decision making approach was considered to designate the best concept.

Keywords: AHP | Concept Design | Detector | Gravitational Wave | Mechanical Design | Multi-Voting method | X-rays

Abstract: With the observation of the gravitational wave event of August 17th 2017 the multi-messenger astronomy era has definitely begun. With the opening of this new panorama, it is necessary to have new instruments and a perfect coordination of the existing observatories. Crystal Eye is a detector aimed at the exploration of the electromagnetic counterpart of the gravitational waves. Such events generated by neutron stars' mergers are associated with gamma-ray bursts (GRB). At present, there are few instruments in orbit able to detect photons in the energy range going from tens of keV to few MeV. These instruments belong to two different old observation concepts: the all sky monitors (ASM) and the telescopes. The detector we propose is a crossover technology, the Crystal Eye: a wide field of view observatory in the energy range from 10 keV to 10 MeV with a pixelated structure. A pathfinder will be launched with Space RIDER in 2022. We here present the preliminary results of the characterization of the first pixel.

Keywords: Crystal Eye | Gamma-ray detector | GRB | LYSO | Multi-messenger astronomy | X-ray detector

Abstract: The key findings about the use of a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) at University of Naples Federico II are shown. In particular, the Engineering Drawing course for Industrial Engineering students was the pilot to evaluate the benefits of new Web-Based Platforms and Environments in higher education. The combination of In-Class and On-Line lessons is defined “Blended Course” and can be attended by students both in traditional classrooms and On-Line. It was provided during the last four academic years allowing the use of new tools (e.g., multimedia contents, interactive files). Thanks to about 7000 students involved in this project, several data were gathered for statistics and analysis purposes. Therefore, the access to the MOOC was monitored and the correlation with the homework was examined. At the end of the course, the level of satisfaction of the students about the interaction with the new platform was evaluated. The analysis of the results provided useful hints for the updating of the course in order to improve skills and interactive experience.

Keywords: Distant learning | eLearning | Engineering design education | Interactive learning

Abstract: The International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility-DEMO Oriented Neutron Source (IFMIF-DONES) consists of complex systems and massive components that need to be on site assembled and maintained. For several of them it is required to perform maintenance, inspection and monitoring tasks over many years in a hostile environment and in efficient, safe and reliable manner. The maintenance of IFMIF-DONES' systems and components, located mainly in the Test Systems (TS), in the Lithium Systems (LS) and in the Accelerator Systems (AS), is classified as a Remote Handling (RH) Class 1st activity and as such is considered a crucial and essential activity whose success will strictly depend on the IFMIF-DONES RH capability. According to this, a Remote Handling System (RHS) for IFMIF-DONES, which comprises the whole set of Remote Handling Equipment and tooling for the execution of maintenance tasks, has been designed. A wide range of technologies is involved: special cranes, manipulator arms, lift interface frames, special cameras, control systems and virtual reality. In this paper an overview on status of the design of the main robotic systems and tooling of the RHS of IFMIF-DONES, including design requirements, functions and maintenance tasks to be performed, is given.

Keywords: IFMIF-DONES | Maintenance | Remote handling maintenance

Abstract: First aim of this paper is to describe a methodology developed to create virtual fragments of archeological archetypes in CAD (Computer Aided Design) environment. A simple Reverse Engineering (RE) technique was adopted to reconstruct the shape of vases allowing the archeologists, and so the CAD inexpert personnel, to use it. Moreover, another relevant aspect is the definition of a procedure to simulate shape errors on the virtual prototypes to make more realistic the results. The characteristics of the fragments to be reproduced were selected by means of Design of Experiment (DOE) techniques. So, an algorithm was implemented to simulate the shape error, related to the working operations, that represents the typical noise for the feature recognition of archeological findings. Furthermore, this algorithm can make more complex the hypotheses related to the Gaussian model of simulation of the error and can adapt the value of the shape error (i.e. increasing it) according to the data gathered in archaeological excavation. The case study was based on the definition of a catalogue of archetypes of the black Campanian vases studied and classified by the archeologist J.P. Morel. The procedure conceived was applied to five (among one hundred) vases of the virtual catalogue obtaining forty instances of fragments affected by errors and so creating virtual mock-ups of typical pieces which may be found in the archeological site considered for the case study.

Keywords: Archetype | Design of experiments | Geometric modeling | Profile reconstruction | Simulation of the shape and recognition errors

Abstract: In a complex case of speech disorder, the communication is entrusted to systems equipped with a speech synthesizer. When the user has a motor disability, in addition, hardware and software interfaces are personalized to make technology more accessible. Interaction design methods can be applied to develop improved assistive systems and, particularly, for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Interaction design methods and usability evaluation could have a positive impact in reducing product barriers and improving performances as the effort state associated to its use can be reduced. Minimizing cognitive and physical efforts through the development of new solutions and interface optimization can be challenging. A usability test and an interface optimization of a personalized AAC system developed for a student of the University of Naples Federico II with complex communication needs due to a traumatic injury and motor impairment are discussed to fix usability issues, highlight critical areas and design new prototypes.

Keywords: Augmentative and alternative communication | Biomedical devices | Disability | Interaction design | Learnability | Usability

Abstract: This work focuses on an innovative training methodology based on the use of Virtual ergonomics and “serious games” in the field of occupational safety. Virtual Ergonomics was chosen as an effective and convincing tool for disseminating the culture of safety among the workers, while a “serious game” was developed to train operators on specific safety procedures and to verify their skills. The results of the experimentation in a real industrial case study showed that, compared to the traditional training methodology, multimedia contents and quantitative ergonomic analyses improve the level of attention and the awareness of the operators about their safety. On the other hand, Serious games turned out as promising tools to train the workers about safe operating procedures that are difficult to implement in a real working environment.

Keywords: Ergonomics | Occupational safety | Serious game | Virtual humans | Virtual reality

Abstract: The paper describes the activities of conceptual design of tools and procedures and the virtual simulation of the Remote Handling (RH) tasks provided in the maintenance of the systems present in the Access Cell (AC) of DONES (DEMO Oriented Neutron Source) facility. In particular, the RH maintenance of the Target Assembly (TA) is critical because of its position in the most severe region of neutron irradiation, the Test Cell (TC), where the material specimen are tested to understand the degradation of the materials properties throughout the reactor operational life. The main RH maintenance activity includes the replacement of the entire TA and the cleaning of the surfaces of connection in the TC. The cleaning operation is fundamental because it allows the removal of any lithium solid deposition from the surfaces: any further deposition on the surfaces could compromise the sealing of the TA. The RH is based on the idea of a reconfigurable modular chain of devices connected to the Access Cell Mast Crane (ACMC) located in the AC. To increase the modularity and to reduce the costs of the Remote Handling System (RHS), a telescopic boom is used equipped with a Gripper Change System (GCS) that allows the use of different end effectors. To perform the tasks, a Parallel Kinematic Manipulator (PKM) and a Robotic Arm (RA) are proposed, allowing the tools to move with more degree of freedom in the AC space. The modeling of the devices and the 3D kinematic simulations maintenance operations tasks were simulated and tested in virtual reality environment, aimed at developing and validating the implemented maintenance procedures, in collaboration with the IDEAinVR Laboratory of CREATE/University of Naples Federico II, and the research center at ENEA Brasimone, Italy.

Abstract: The use of Augmented Reality (AR) technologies is the new challenge of management models born under the “Industry 4.0” paradigm. The aim of the work is to evaluate the usability of two types of AR devices (tablet and see-through) employed in the training and information activities of workers according to the ISO/IEC 9126 and ISO 9241 standards. Starting from the state of the art, evaluating market and competitors and developing different concepts of interfaces, a dedicated application was programmed and, then, the usability of such devices for the professional figures involved was evaluated through experimental tests. Two reference scenarios were defined, the Department of Industrial Engineering of University of Naples Federico II and INAIL (National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) laboratories, an user interface was designed and developed, as an aid in the drafting of the document for risk evaluation and subsequent training of workers. The activity is part of the IDEE Project (Interactive Design for Ergonomics), born by the collaboration between Joint Lab IDEAS and Contarp-INAIL-Regional Management for Campania. The data analysis allowed to evaluate the goodness of the devices and the degree of satisfaction in their use on the basis of the sample of users who conducted the tests. The use of AR devices produces better results than paperwork in terms of efficiency and effectiveness, but not all devices produce appreciable results in terms of user satisfaction. Although AR technologies are mature, the tasks need to be carefully defined to avoid rejection phenomena. The strong expectation, that they generate in potential users, risks to remain disappointed today for some usability limits found in currently available devices. It is necessary to start testing in pilot applications in various industrial fields in order to capture in time and adequately support this opportunity of innovation in Italy.

Keywords: Augmented reality | Risk assessment | Usability

Abstract: In the field of movement disorders, each disabled person is different for both motor performance for functional requirements and expectations. This paper describes the development of a personalized device for a student with spastic quadriplegia at Federico II. This device is an Alternative Augmentative Communication system and it consists of hardware and software, which have been adapted to the individual characteristics of the student. According to participatory design and using the task analysis, we proceed to the hardware prototyping and to the software interface improving. An approach based on Analytic Hierarchy Process and Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis is used. Tests under laboratory conditions are performed for evaluating the usability index of the device. Considering the data analysis, some critical issues are identified. The knowledge acquired in the case study is a point of strength of the proposed paper because it can be re-used for other persons with severe motor disabilities to improve their inclusion, integration and participation and to carry out tasks in different areas of application with minimum stress and maximum efficiency and effectiveness.

Keywords: Alternative augmentative communication | Participatory design | Spastic quadriplegia | Usability assessment

Abstract: The objective of the work is to describe the design and the realization of a virtual simulator of a metropolitan railway cockpit, aimed at improving the perception of safety by means of tests made by users in Virtual Reality, analysed through statistical methodologies. The user lives the experience of a driver in an immersive and interactive Augmented Reality session, interacting with the train dashboard and all its control and signalling devices. In particular, the user is proposed to test different dashboards, different configurations of the controls and different signalling and safety devices in order to compare different concept and select the optimum in terms of perception of dangerous situation, reaction to an event and cognitive response in different situations of the rail vehicle driving. The simulator consists of a simulacrum integrating different technologies, physically composed of a dashboard of the cockpit of a metropolitan train and a real seat. The geometry of the dashboard has been acquired through Reverse Engineering techniques from a real train dashboard. The user's immersion in the virtual environment during the simulation is guaranteed by the scene displayed on the Augmented Reality device, while, simultaneously, the stereoscopic projection on a screen above the dashboard makes available the experience even to users not directly involved, seeing the scene from the driver's point of view. The immersive Augmented Reality is realized through a Head-Mounted Display (HMD) by which the user, protagonist of the driving experience, sees the configuration of the virtual control devices (CAD geometries) overlapped with the physical dashboard in order to naturally interact into the immersive environment. The interaction between user and simulator happens through the NUI (Natural User Interfaces) based on markerless tracking of parts of the user's body.

Keywords: Augmented reality | Head-mounted display | IDEAinVR | Natural user interfaces | Preventive safety | Railway design | Reverse engineering | Train dashboard | Vehicle driving | Vitual simulator

Abstract: Main target of this paper is to analyse the advantages in the use of the Direct Modeling in the Virtual Prototyping processes and in the multiphysics analyses with the help of Reverse Engineering procedures. It is a recent CAD technique that allows the creation and/or modification of models that don't need parameters and constraints, as on the contrary happens in the Feature Based Modeling. So, it is possible to change the shapes and the dimensions of the original prototypes very easily. Hence, in this paper a methodology devised to acquire and modify a “reconstructed” (non-parametric) model to improve and then to submit it to FEM analysis is presented. Furthermore, it is realized and doesn't even need the Feature Recognition phase of a typical Reverse Engineering process. In particular, this methodology was applied to a frame of a bicycle used as case study. Its shape was acquired by means of a laser scanner and its virtual prototype was “reconstructed”. In addition, starting from it, two alternative frames were obtained and then easily modified by means of the Direct Modeling techniques. Then, they were submitted to FEM analyses to get different solutions with less weight but similar mechanical performances. Afterwards, the ergonomics of the modified configurations was tested by means of different percentile virtual manikins to plan the physical prototyping of a new improved bicycle.

Keywords: Bicycle | CATIA manikin | DELMIA simulations | Direct modeling | Feature based modeling | Feature recognition | FEM analysis | Reverse engineering

Abstract: The paper deals with the relationship between geometrical or topological entities of complex systems and the physics in which the systems are involved. In particular, the paper deepens the integration of thermal physics with geometrical constraints. Therefore, the results of the work could be used within the development of a 3D-multiphysical sketcher viz., a tool for the preliminary design of complex systems, characterized by the presence of one or more overlapping physics. Firstly, the model of Topologically &amp; Technologically Related Surfaces (TTRS) is used and related Minimal Reference Geometrical Elements (MRGEs) and constraint conditions are implemented by means of Modelica language. Then, the implementation of new objects for MRGEs and constraint conditions are applied to a mechanical assembly. Finally, the integration of TTRS model within thermal physics is applied to the case of the layout designing for electronic boards.

Keywords: Modelica language | Multiphysics | preliminary design | TTRS

Abstract: The aim of the paper is to make up a virtual showroom and work-through of a train model in order to allow railway companies showing new trains prototypes, in phase of concept, and present their new design in more exhaustive way than simply technical documentation. The possibility of applying Virtual Reality (VR) methodologies to make a scene more realistic as possible is a great advantage for the effectiveness of the presentation, in order to increase their competitivity. Shader technology allows the programmers to have control over shape, appearance (such as colour, lighting, reflection) and animation of objects, in order to make very realistic real-time rendering. In the paper the authors describe the use of shader technology in Virtual Design 2 (VD2) for realistic presentation of train prototypes in VR. The software VD2 is an extensive tool that allows following many phases of product development, from the creation of showroom for realistic presentations supporting shader technology to the assembly simulation or ergonomics analysis. Moreover, the possibility of interfacing with a wide range of input/output devices and the possibility to access to the API made this software to be chosen for Virtual Reality applications in the VR laboratory of the Competence Center for the Qualification of Transportation Systems founded by Campania Region (www.centrodicompetenzatrasporti.unina.it).© 2006 The Eurographics Association.

Keywords: Concept design | Shader technology | Train design | Virtual Reality