■ 11
US Army Corps of Engineers Construction Engineering Research Laboratories
USACERL ADP Report 99/16 December 1998
Delivery and Test of the Digital Hardhat System at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District Annette Stumpf, Liang Y. Liu, Chul-Soo Kim, and Sangyoon Chin
Quality assurance at military construction sites presents a challenge for the Corps of Engineers and other participants. The cost and time required to travel between sites limits the ability of personnel to quickly respond to problems at remote sites and to communicate issues between all necessary decision makers. Also, it is difficult to organize and transmit multimedia project information (digital pictures, video, electronic documents, and audio recordings) so that others can access current project information in an intuitive and timely manner. The Digital Hardhat (DHH) technology enables dispersed users to capture and communicate multimedia field data to collaboratively solve problems, and collect and share information. The DHH is a pen-based personal computer with special Multimedia Facility Reporting System software that allows the field representative to save multimedia information into a
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
■ §uay£o
JTSD3
project-specific database, which is then accessible to others through the World Wide Web. Results of the DHH System test show that the system improves the documentation of site conditions by integrating multimedia and database technologies; structured organization of project information provides easy and timely retrieval for fast and accurate decision-making and problem-solving; easy availability of multimedia project information reduces frequent travel and telephone expenses between sites; videoconferencing and whiteboarding on the Internet improved the collaboration of project participants by sharing construction information in multimedia formats. Although problems still exist, it was proven that the DHH System could enhance the current paradigm in project documentation and collaboration.
19990126 087
The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position, unless so designated by other authorized documents.
DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN IT IS NO LONGER NEEDED DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR
USER EVALUATION OF REPORT
REFERENCE: USACERL ADP Report 98/16, Delivery and Test of the Digital Hardhat System at U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers Fort Worth District Office Please take a few minutes to answer the questions below, tear out this sheet, and return it to USACERL. As user of this report, your customer comments will provide USACERL with information essential for improving future reports. 1. Does this report satisfy a need? (Comment on purpose, related project, or other area of interest for which report will be used.)
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4.
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Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington, VA 22202-4302, and to the Office of Management and Budget, Paperwork Reduction Project (0704-0188), Washington, DC 20503. 1. AGENCY USE ONLY (Leave Blank)
2. REPORT DATE
REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED
December 1998
Final
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE
5. FUNDING NUMBERS
Delivery and Test of the Digital Hardhat System at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District Office
MIPR W45XMA72708807
6. AUTHOR(S)
Annette Stumpf, Liang Y. Liu, Chul-Soo Kim, and Sangyoon Chin
7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)
8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER
U.S. Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratories (USACERL) P.O. Box 9005 Champaign, IL 61826-9005
ADP Report 98/16
9. SPONSORING / MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES)
10. SPONSORING / MONITORING AGENCY REPORT NUMBER
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth District ATTN: CESWF-PM-J (MED) 819 Taylor Street, Box 17300 Fort Worth, TX 76102-0300 11. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES
Copies are available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161.
12a. DISTRIBUTION /AVAILABILITY STATEMENT
12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
13. ABSTRACT (Maximum 200 words)
Quality assurance at military construction sites presents a challenge for the Corps of Engineers and other participants. The cost and time required to travel between sites limits the ability of personnel to quickly respond to problems at remote sites and to communicate issues between all necessary decision makers. Also, it is difficult to organize and transmit multimedia project information (digital pictures, video, electronic documents, and audio recordings) so that others can access current project information in an intuitive and timely manner. The Digital Hardhat (DHH) technology enables dispersed users to capture and communicate multimedia field data to collaboratively solve problems, and collect and share information. The DHH is a pen-based personal computer with special Multimedia Facility Reporting System software that allows the field representative to save multimedia information into a project-specific database, which is then accessible to others through the World Wide Web. Results of the DHH System test show that the system improves the documentation of site conditions by integrating multimedia and database technologies; structured organization of project information provides easy and timely retrieval for fast and accurate decision-making and problem-solving; easy availability of multimedia project information reduces frequent travel and telephone expenses between sites; videoconferencing and whiteboarding on the Internet improved the collaboration of project participants by sharing construction information in multimedia formats. Although problems still exist, it was proven that the DHH System could enhance the current paradigm in project documentation and collaboration. 14. SUBJECT TERMS
Digital Hardhat (DHH) quality assurance project management 17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF REPORT
Unclassified NSN 7540-01-280-5500
15. NUMBER OF PAGES
software multimedia facility reporting system '
96 16. PRICE CODE
18. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE
Unclassified
19. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF ABSTRACT
Unclassified
20. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT
SAR Standard Form 298 (Rev. 2-89) Prescribed by ANSI Std 239-18 298-102
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Foreword This research was conducted for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth District under Military Interdepartmental Purchase Request (MIPR) W45XMA 72708807. The report summarizes the research activities under contracts between the University of Illinois and USACERL (DACA88-96-D-0005-03 and DACA88-96-D-0005-04, 18 February 1997 - 31 January 1998). The Fort Worth District technical monitor was Al Khatena, CESWF-PM-J (MED). The work was performed by the U.S. Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratories (USACERL), Planning and Management Laboratory (PL), Engineering Processes Division (PL-E). The principal investigator for the project was Annette Stumpf (PL-E). Michael P. Case is Chief, PL-E, and L. Michael Golish is Operations Chief, PL. Liang Y. Liu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Acknowledgements are also due to Sangyoon Chin and Chul-Soo Kim at the University of Illinois for their outstanding contribution while developing and field testing the Digital Hardhat System. The USACERL technical editor was Linda L. Wheatley, Technical Information Team. Dr. Michael J. O'Connor is Director of USACERL.
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Contents SF298
1
Foreword
2
List of Figures and Tables
5
1
2
Introduction Background Objective Approach
9 10 10
The Digital Hardhat System
12
Multimedia Facility Reporting System Hardware Software 3
4
5
...9
...12 12 14
Operation of the Digital Hardhat System
18
User Interface Storing and Retrieving Data Project Setup Editing a Project Setting Camera Capture Properties Videoconferencing Retrieving Data Through a WWW Browser
18 19 26 30 34 39 44
Digital Hardhat System Field Test and Results
48
Fort Worth District Field Test Lessons Learned During the Fort Worth Field Test USACERL Field Test and Lessons Learned.'
48 51 53
Summary and Future Development of the Digital Hardhat Technology
65
Summary of the Technology Future Development of the Technology
65 66
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
6
Conclusions and Recommendations
69
Conclusions Recommendations
69 70
.'
Appendix A: Database Description
73
Appendix B: Project File and Data Source Naming Conventions
76
Appendix C: Installation Procedures
78
Distribution
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
List of Figures and Tables Figures 1
The Digital Hardhat in use
10
2
Hardware components
12
3
The server unit
13
4
The mobile unit and a hardhat
14
5
The MFR main user interface
18
6
Select a Project
19
7
Select a Project Breakdown
20
8
User Selection Reminder
9
Select a Description Item
20
10
Preview/Capture buttons
21
11
Image Capture dialog box
21
12
Captured Still Image dialog box
22
13
Audio Play/Record dialog box
22
14
Capturing a video clip
15
Import Image button
16
Select a File to import
24
17
Whiteboard image captured into MFR
25
18
Select an Image Name to display
25
19
Create Project menu
26
20
Input Project Information to Create
26
21
Archive Multimedia menu
27
22
Select a Project to archive
27
23
Transfer Data menu
28
24
The main dialog box for data transfer
29
25
Delete Project menu
30
26
Confirm to delete each file
27
Define Project Information menu
31
28
Edit Project Information-Location and Description
31
29
Define Project Breakdown menu
31
;
20
;
23 :
23
,
30
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
30
Define Project Breakdown dialog box
32
31
Define User menu
32
32
Add/Update User dialog box
33
33
Right-Click an Image Name to delete
33
34
Confirm to delete the image
33
35
Define Video Capture Driver menu
34
36
Select a Driver for the Installed Video Capture Device
34
37
Camera Adjustment menu
35
38
Camera Adjustment dialog box
35
39
Image Size/Quality menu
36
40
Image Size and Quality dialog box
37
41
Compression Format menu
37
42
Compression Format dialog box
38
43
Display Frame Rates menu
38
44
Display Frame Rates dialog
39
45
Internet Phone 4.0
42
46
Using a whiteboard
43
47
The home page of the MFR WWW server
44
48
Issue List Page of MFR WWW
.....45
49
Data List Page of MFR WWW
46
50
An image retrieved through MFR WWW
47
51
Video/audio clips retrieved through MFR WWW
47
A1
Database Relationship Diagram
73
C1
Modems properties
80
C2
Modem maximum speed setting
81
C3
Connection properties of modem
82
C4
Advanced connection settings
82
C5
Network configuration main dialog box
83
C6
Network adapter configurations
84
C7
Network protocols dialog box
85
C8
IP Address input dialog box
86
C9
DNS setup
87
C10
WINS Address dialog box
88
C11
Enable IP Forwarding
;89
C12
Network Services dialog box
90
C13
Remote Access Setup dialog box
90
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
C14
Set Dial out and Receive calls
91
C15
Allow remote clients running NetBEUI
92
C16
Allow remote NetBEUI clients to access the entire network
92
C17
Assign static address pool
93
A1
Master Database
74
A2
Project Database
74
A3
Multimedia Database
75
Tables
Trademarks Conference Card is a trademark of Nogatech, Inc. Etherlink is a registered trademark of 3Com Corporation. Internet Phone is a registered trademark of Vocaltec Communications Ltd. Jaz is a registered trademark of Iomega Corporation. SlimSCSI is a trademark of Adaptec, Inc. Stylistic is a trademark of Fujitsu, Inc. U.S. Robotics and Sportster are trademarks of 3Com Corporation. QuickCam is a trademark of Connectix Corporation. Wavepoint is a trademark of Lucent Technologies. Windows 95, Windows NT, Windows CE, NetMeeting, and Access are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
1 Introduction Background Quality assurance at military construction sites presents a challenge for the Corps of Engineers and other participants. The cost and time required to travel between District, area, installation, and field offices limits the ability of personnel to quickly respond to problems at remote sites. Field decisions often require input from people at other locations. Communication of issues between all necessary decision makers requires time, travel, and accurate documentation of field conditions. Also, it is difficult to organize and transmit multimedia project information (digital pictures, video, electronic documents, and audio recordings) so that others can access current project information in an intuitive and timely manner. The Digital Hardhat (DHH) technology enables dispersed users to capture and communicate multimedia field data to collaboratively solve problems, and collect and share information. The DHH is a pen-based personal computer (PC) running Windows 95. It is used to collect multimedia information (text, sound, video, and images). Special software called Multimedia Facility Reporting System (MFR) allows the field representative to save multimedia information into a project-specific database, which is then accessible to others through the World Wide Web (WWW). The pen-based computer can also be used to communicate between the construction site and other locations using a direct network connection, a wireless network connection, an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) line and modem, a POTS (Plain Old Telephone System) analog line and modem (28.8 kps minimum recommended), or any means of cellular communications and associated modem compatible with the computer. If the field representative is using DHH with a wireless network or modem, s/he will be able to roam around the site and video teleconference live with others to solve problems collaboratively. The project information collected using DHH will help document site conditions, progress, and problems in an organized manner so the information can be retrieved easily as needed by any project participant. The remote user can also access other electronic project information (such as CADD drawings, specifications, or change orders) through a network connection or
10
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
modem. The Digital Hardhat equipment configuration shown in Figure 1 was used in this field test; however, other ways of capturing and sharing multimedia information will work if they can interface with the computer.
Figure 1. The Digital Hardhat in use.
Objective The objective of this research is to improve the usability of DHH hardware and software so that the Fort Worth customer is able to integrate DHH into current operations successfully.
Approach The DHH System (including hardware, software, and communication devices) was installed in June 1997, so that mobile team members could communicate and share multimedia data between remote facilities, sites, or field and District offices. Web-enabled multimedia database management software was provided so that the mobile team could capture accurate site conditions (text, video, sound, or images) into a multimedia database that can be accessed from a Web site using network connections. The DHH System is being evaluated to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the technology. Other issues to be evaluated include: (1) time required to resolve outstanding issues, (2) "quality" of decisions versus traditional methods (using both the DHH and multimedia database system), and (3) which kinds of meetings can be effectively conducted using the DHH.
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
It is expected that the data-sharing capabilities and improved communication offered by the DHH System will result in a reasonable payback period if the costs of avoided travel and extended meetings are considered. Immediate reductions in travel cost will be the most obvious benefit; however, costs associated with more quickly resolving issues, reducing construction claims, and fewer time delays will be the ultimate benefit of this technology. Improved communication between personnel involved in project planning, design, and construction throughout the life of the project is expected to improve the quality of the completed facility. Additional field testing is necessary, with emphasis on streamlining the procedures for usage, operation, and setup of the DHH technology.
11
12
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
2 The Digital Hardhat System Multimedia Facility Reporting System DHH supports the management and communication of multimedia construction information using advanced network technologies such as the MFR, developed for facility management tasks of the Corps of Engineers. MFR allows easy capture and retrieval of multimedia construction information based on a userdefined project breakdown. In addition, captured multimedia information is accessible using WWW browsers on the Internet. To support the real-time communication for efficient problem-solving and decision-making, users can discuss the captured information through videoconferencing and white board conferencing between project sites and District offices. For more detailed information on data fields and relationships in the MFR database, see Appendix A. Appendix B describes the database and file naming conventions. Appendix C describes the steps required to set up a new PC as an MFR server.
Hardware The components of the DHH System are shown in Figure 2. Separate detailed descriptions of the server and mobile units are given on the next two pages. «S if i
Figure 2. Hardware components.
its»
!.„*,
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
13
Note: The DHH system is just one means of multimedia capture. Any of the hardware can be replaced by other technology that achieves the same objective. Advances in technology are inevitable, so none of the hardware or brand names are mandatory, and users should focus on the software product described in this report—the MFR database system. Server Unit
The server unit (Figure 3) is a Pentium-based PC with a Windows NT 4.0 operating system. The unit is also equipped with a SCSI interface external hard disk, a wireless Ethernet device, a high-speed modem, multimedia capabilities, and a digital camera.
Server PC
,
Wavepoint and Antenna
External HDD
Figure 3. The server unit.
In detail, the server unit consists of: •
Pentium based PC Notebook with 32MB or more of RAM and approximately 1GB of hard disk drive Adaptec SHmSCSI PCMCIA SCSI card IOMEGA Jaz Drive with 1GB cartridges 3Com Etherlink III (3C562B/3C563B) PCMCIA network card QuickCam (Gray Scale) digital camera U.S. Robotics Sportster 56K BPS modem Lucent Technologies Wavepoint 915MHz Hub
Mobile Unit
The mobile unit (Figure 4) is a 486-100 CPU pen-based PC with a Windows 95 operating system. It has an audio/video card, a wireless Ethernet card, and a digital camera.
14
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Digital Camera Mobile Unit PC
Microphone and Earphone f
Figure 4. The mobile unit and a hardhat.
The mobile unit has the following hardware items: • • • • •
Fujitsu Stylistic Pen-based PC with 16 MB of RAM and 341 MB of hard disk space Nogatech Conference Card PCMCIA sound/video card Vois Microphone/Earphone Lucent Technologies WaveLAN 915 MHz PCMCIA network card Color QuickCam.
Software Software required for running MFR consists of operating systems, database access system files, image data processing programs, and MFR program files. Operating Systems •
Windows NT The server units use Windows NT Workstation 4.0 as an operating system, primarily because it provides remote access service (RAS).
•
Windows 95 The mobile units use Windows 95 as their operating system. Windows 98 has not been tested with the system, but should be as capable as Window 95.
15
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Database Interface Software
•
32 bit ODBC (Open Database Connectivity): Version 3.40.2728
•
DAO (Data Access Object)
MFR Program Files
•
Program File* MFR.EXE
•
System DLL Files** MSACAL70.OCX
COMCTL32.0CX
MFC42.DLL
MSVCRT40.DLL
MSVCIRT.DLL
OLEPR032.DLL
MSVCRT.DLL
CTL3D32.DLL (for Windows 95 only) •
Registry File*
•
Lead Tools Files* LEAD.LIC
LEAD32.0CX
LFBMP60N.DLL
LFCAL60N.DLL
LFCMP60N.DLL LFEPS60N.DLL
LFFAX60N.DLL
LFGIF60N.DLL
LFICA60N.DLL
LFIMG60N.DLL
LFLMA60N.DLL
LFLMB60N.DLL
LFMAC60N.DLL LFMSP60N.DLL
LFPCD60N.DLL
LFPCT60N.DLL
LFPCX60N.DLL
LFPNG60N.DLL
LFPSD60N.DLL
LFRAS60N.DLL
LFTGA60N.DLL
LFTIF60N.DLL
LFWFX60N.DLL
FWMF60N.DLL
LFWPG60N.DLL LTFIL60N.DLL
LTIMG60N.DLL .
LTKRN60N.DLL
LTTWN60N.DLL LTWND60N.DLL PCDLIB32.DLL OCX Register File* REGSVR32.EXE Template Database Files***
16
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
KEYWORDS.MDB MFRMaster.MDB MFRMultimedia.MDB
MFRProject.MDB
*: The directory where MFR is installed. It would be C:\Program Files\MFR. **: The windows system directory. It usually is C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM for Windows 95 and C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32 for Windows NT operating system. ***: The template and project databases directory. C:\Program Files\MFR\Database. Important note: The current version of MFR works best once Microsoft Access 97 has been installed on the computer. Because of the incompatibility between different versions of Microsoft's system files (i.e., DLL files), it is strongly recommended to use the same DLL versions used to develop MFR. Note especially that, with Access 97, the proper versions of ODBCJT32.DLL (Version 3.50.3602.00 or 3.50.3428.00) and MFC42.DLL (Version 6.00.8047.3) should be used. If Access 95 is used, the proper versions are ODBCJT32.DLL (Version 3.40.27778) and MFC42.DLL (Version 4.2.6068). If you have problems running MFR after loading new software to your computer, check to see what versions of these files are being used. MFR WWW Server Files (For Server Unit Only)
•
WWW HTML File MFR.HTM
•
WWW CGI-BIN Files MFRGetProject.EXE
•
MFRGetDate.EXE
MFRGetIssue.EXE
WWW Image Files Image Files
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
•
WWW DLL Files MFRGetMultimedia.DLL
Communication Software •
Internet Phone 4.0
•
Microsoft NetMeeting is available at no cost over the Internet. This universal availability makes it the preferred means of mobile conferencing. See page 58 for some specific details on working with NetMeeting.
17
18
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
3 Operation of the Digital Hardhat System User Interface MFR is a Windows-based program that operates with graphical user interfaces (GUIs). MFR's main user interface is described in Figure 5. The main user interface of MFR is comprehensive and straightforward. Considering the field use of the pen-based mobile unit, text input using a keyboard is minimized. Most of operations are self-explanatory, and a user can input data and select options as prompted by simply clicking the mouse button. Title Bar Menu Bar Tool Bar Project Selection Box
«., MEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting System - MFR "ProjeeU View
Define
WMJLMMI
Help
&& m% f
-Q Projectlnformation
User Selection Box Project Breakdown Description List Box Image Selection List Box
Champaign VA Hospital ■■j"'"l 1st Floor ■ 38 2nd Floor j' 1 3rd Floor
D 4th Floor 5th Floor
Import Button Video Clip Button Preview/Capture Button Add New Entry Button Figure 5. The MFR main user interface.
fflMtöM cabinets: custom
I..J V.j IS: 1 N 2
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
19
Through the following sections, the operation of MFR is described in a step-bystep tutorial manner. A user can follow these steps to store and retrieve data and to setup software. At the end of the tutorial, a method to retrieve stored data using the WWW is also explained.
Storing and Retrieving Data Capturing and Storing Multimedia Data •
Run MFR. Double click the MFR icon.
•
Select a project.
Select a project name from the Title combo box (Figure 6) or create a new project and select it. tf MEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting Syste» tfjoject, üjetth Define
Help
D&g? O ^Project Jrtfqrmation Title: Ft. Worth Hospital (CS970411) Location:
ChampaignVAHospital .[TEST01
~2
Description Ft. Worth Hospital (CS 970411) U oM Engineering Hall [UH 0001) Figure 6. Select a project.
Select a project breakdown item (Figure 7). Select a project breakdown item to input to or retrieve data from.
20
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
I E~£] Ft. Worth Hospital i \ £3 East Wing 11 HBSSlMain BuildinqB I \ El Qj 1st Floor I { | | £] Room 101 i 1 ! J £3 Room 102 [ I ! C^J 2nd Floor [ &0 West Wing f > Q2 1st Floor ;
'
:
;
! ! !
Figure 7. Select a Project Breakdown.
Reminder - user name selection message box (Figure 8).
Select a user before inserting a new entry. &
Figure 8. User Selection Reminder.
Note: If a user name has not been selected in the 'User' combo box, MFR recommends you do so. Just click the OK button. You can still add image, sound, and video to the existing descriptions without selecting a user. However, you need to select a user name to add a new description. •
Select a description item.
Select a description item to which you want to add image/sound or video (Figure 9). Date 11/22/98 04/16/37 04/30/97 05/01/97 nR/08/97
Description Visual C++ version 4.2 p... packaged liftstations lagging, piling with inter... cabinet safesllpackage... mainte nance materials a... flhhrftvifltinns ahcrl
Figure 9. Select a Description Item.
By I l..\ V.J ji B i.. M.. BL BL. B i.. .li
21
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
•
Preview/Capture
Click the Preview/Capture button (Figure 10) to display image/video capture window. This action will show a live picture fed through the camera. Preview/Capture... Figure 10. Preview/Capture buttons.
Capture Image/Sound Select Image menu, select Capture (Figure 11). Video/Image Capture
mmm
I Video
Figure 11. Image Capture dialog box.
The captured image will be displayed in a separate window. Use the default image name in the format of CAM-MM/DD-HH:MM:SS, or type in a new name for the image (Figure 12).
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
22
>tiil Image
§,, JlfelxB^tesh; :| $ lave,' {iftarKd;-]
l^ame:||CAM-7/25-10:58:6
Figure 12. Captured Still Image dialog box.
•
lb record sound, select the Audio... button to display a window for Audio Play and Record (Figure 13).
E
Audio Play and Record fX-'-' -
'■
JJ Merzan >. ;_J Centia! Deic
»I
Uter
| Annelle Stimpf
3
r f*"
Rsatfy
Figure 19. Create Project menu.
•
Type in project information on the Create Project screen (Figure 20). ID and Name fields should be typed in. The Location and Desc. fields are not necessary to create a project and can be edited later. Click OK to create a new project. Otherwise, click Cancel.
Ix|
BCieate Project - ID Name
CSS70725 Hairy Zackrison Building
OK
1
Cancel
Location Champaign Illinois Desc.
-1
Renovation project in CERL complex, building 3 Add metal studs and drywall to create fixed offices in open areas
A"Figure 20. Input Project Information to Create.
27
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Archiving Multimedia Due to the large size of multimedia data (i.e., image, sound, and video), storing all the data onto the hard disk is not feasible. After the user captures data and stores it onto the system's hard disk, the files need to be moved to a permanent storage space so that the system's resources will be available for further uses. Therefore, it is recommended that multimedia data be archived to a removable storage device. MFR provides a mechanism to archive multimedia data to a JAZ drive up to 1GB at a time. The archived data can be retrieved for viewing; however, it cannot be edited or deleted using the current version of MFR. •
Select Archive Multimedia from the Project menu (Figure 21). ■Tf MEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting System Wew
Define
Help
Create Project Archive Multimedia Transfer Data DspitalfCS 970411) Delete Project orida 'j.
' E#
ni^nujpnJ Renovation ProjectThe ? hospital Renovation Pro|ect asdfasdf jdajst
Figure 21. Archive Multimedia menu.
•
Select a project you want to archive.
Select Project
loil
/Select Archive Drive P^ ;ChampaignVA Hospital ITEST011 Champaign VA Hospital (VAH001) Ft. Worth Hospital (CS970411) 11 of! F.nnineerinn H all IIIH 0001)
Cancel
d
- Selected Proiect Information -
-
Data Source JMFR Project,TEST01 Date Created j&^/97 Project File
•■.'.,
- ■':,•""'•
C:\PROeBA~1\MFR\Database\MFR-TEST01.mdb
Figure 22. Select a project to archive.
-
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
28
•
Click OK. Note: Ensure that the selected archive drive is correct. If not, click the '...' button to select the path for the archive drive (i.e., JAZ drive).
Transferring Data MFR uses two types of systems—a data server and data collecting units. The data server stores all the data collected by the collecting units. It is recommended that the user periodically upload the data captured by the collecting units (pen-based PC, Fujitsu Stylistic 1000). On the other hand, when a new project is created in the server, the collecting units need to acquire the project information data so they can collect data for the new project. Note 1: Transfer Data should only be performed to the server from collecting units referred to as 'Mobile Unit (Local Unit)' in MFR. Note 2: At your Local Unit, the server's C:\Program Files\MFR\ Database directory should be mapped as X: drive. Make sure your computer is a Local Unit (a pen-based PC running Windows 95). Also make sure your X: drive is mapped to the server's C:\Program Files\MFR\Database directory. This can be done using Windows 95 Explorer. •
From the Project menu, select Transfer Data (Figure 23). MEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting System yiew fiefhe :£reate Project
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Dspital(CS 970411) tfie|te Project
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Renovation ProjectThe hospftaJ Renovation Project ascf asdf Jdajst
Figure 23. Transfer Data menu.
As mentioned, Transfer Data does two things. It uploads collected data and downloads project information (Project ID, Name, Project Breakdown, etc.)
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
To upload data (Figure 24), select the radio button From Local to Server Unit. To download data, select the radio button From Server to Local Unit (General Info. Only). •
Select a source project and a target project. If you want to create a new project using the source project, select from the Target Project list.
MRF Data Tiansfer Data Transfer
;
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(* From Local to Server Una C From Server to Local Unft (General Info. 0t#) T"Select Project for Transfer Source Project
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I Champaign VA H ospital (T E S T 01)
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Champaian VA Hospital rVAHOOl I Name
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Champaign VA Hospital
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I
•. Location Champaign, IL | r . Desc. Hospital i
i;
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Figure 28. Edit Project Information-Location and Description.
Editing Project Breakdown
•
Select Project Breakdown from the Define menu (Figure 29).
>Jf MEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting System » Project
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-Project Inter
Title:
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The hospital Renovation ProjeclThe hospäal Renovation Project asdfasdf Iclajsc Figure 29. Define Project Breakdown menu.
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Select a breakdown item (Figure 30). Click Add to add a new item under the selected item. Or, click Remove to delete the item. An item cannot be deleted if it has data associated with it. lb delete such an item, delete the descriptions first. You also cannot delete an item that has subitems. lb delete such an item, delete the subitems first. Dialog B-E3 Ft. Worth Hospital 1 £"3 East Wing
OK
ri ■ £=3 II.H'ffB
Cancel
$£3 1st Floor \ Qj Room 101 ■ Qj Room 102 i Qj 2nd Floor B'[] West Wing ; £j 1st Floor
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Figure 30. Define Project Breakdown dialog box.
Defining Users •
Select User from Define menu (Figure 31). ^rMEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting System project: ¥iew U
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Help Pjoject Information Project Breakdown
rProject Inforr Title:/,:; f::[ Video Capture Driver Location:^ rrWuincriuiiua—Description: The hospital Renovation ProjectThe hospfcal Renovation Project asdfasdf ;klajs< Figure 31. Define User menu.
Select a user to edit or remove and click Update or Remove. Or, type in a new user name and click Add (Figure 32).
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Add/Update User
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Select a Name: 3rd User Another User Bill Clinton Jeff
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Figure 32. Add/Update User dialog box.
Deleting Multimedia Item
Right-click on the image name you want to delete (Figure 33). JiriagerName asdfd
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Figure 33. Right-Click an Image Name to delete.
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Confirm to delete by selecting OK (Figure 34). lx|
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Figure 34. Confirm to delete the image.
j
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Changing the Video Capture Driver •
Select Video Capture Driver from the Define menu (Figure 35). ^r-MEDCOM Multimedia Facility Reporting System
pProject ?View Project Information Project breakdown -Project I nf orr Title:, h Location:
User Video Capture Driver
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Description: The hospital Renovation ProjectJhe hospital Renovation Project asdfasdf ;klajsc Figure 35. Define Video Capture Driver menu.
•
Select a driver from the list (Figure 36). MFR uses Color QuickCam video capture driver as its default driver.
Select MFR Video Source
f Select a source video device: Co or OuickCam video caDture drive Color QuickCam video capture driver Nogatech Video Capture
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Figure 36. Select a driver for the installed video capture device.
Setting Camera Capture Properties Camera Adjustment •
Select Camera Adjustment from the Settings menu of the Video/Image Capture window (Figure 37).
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
IB Video/I mage Capture * Video image Jf& I
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Camera Adjustment... Image Size/Quality...
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Figure 37. Camera Adjustment menu.
•
In the Camera Adjustments dialog box (Figure 38), set brightness, hue, saturation, etc.
Camera Adjustments pf? Auto Brightness
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Saturation
R Low-Light Image Fitter
Figure 38. Camera Adjustments dialog box.
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Image Size and Quality Select Image Size/Quality from the Settings menu (Figure 39). HHBI
| B Video/Image Capture
1 Video Image EaBffia .. .= /■..„■:«,•> |
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Figure 39. Image size/quality menu.
•
Select from Full (640 X 480), Half (320 X 240), Quarter (160 X 120), or Other sizes (Figure 40). You can also set colors and the sharpness of the image. Considering the limitations of hardware performance and storage space, Quarter size is recommended for video capturing. For still image capturing, any size can be selected, although Half size would be appropriate in most cases.
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
[Image Size and Quality
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Height 240
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Figure 40. Image Size and Quality dialog box.
Compression Format Select Compression Format from the Settings menu (Figure 41). B Video/Image Capture
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Video image
Figure 41. Compression Format menu.
Select the default compressor and compression quality as in Figure 42.
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Video Compression
OK
f Compressor: | Cinepak Codec by Radius Compression fluafity:
jQ ^f''''Cancel
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Figure 42. Compression Format dialog box.
Display Frame Rate •
Select Display Frame Rates from the Settings menu (Figure 43). B Video/Image Capture
Figure 43. Display Frame Rates menu.
Select frame rate and time limit for video (Figure 44). Note: Frame rate represents the number of frames per second. Setting this rate to a higher number increases file size considerably and chances of a hardware crash. The frame rate of 1 frame I second is recommended. For shorter videos (less than 5 seconds at an image size of Quarter), 2 or 3 frames I second may be used. When Enable Time Limit for Video Capture is enabled, video capturing will be terminated automatically after capturing video for the time limit specified in the Limit box.
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Video Capture Setup f-
■«Han« Display Hate r-
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|j ftame/sec
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P Enable Time Limit for Video Capture Limit 15
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Figure 44. Display Frame Rates dialog box.
Videoconferencing Videoconferencing is live, two-way video and audio telecommunications technology capable of linking people locally, nationally, and internationally using a variety of communication channels. The image quality and speed of video transmission depend on the equipment and available bandwidth in the chosen communication channel. Bandwidth is a term used to describe the speed with which information flows, usually given in bits/second. Currently, the fastest communication channels are special digital telephone lines ISDN or a fast connection to the Internet (e.g., a Tl line). ISDN connections deliver 128 Kbps, while Tl lines are rated at 1Mbps. Actual transmission rates will depend on the network conditions between the two points and how many other users are transmitting information. During a videoconferencing test, the actual transmission rate was only one quarter of the rated Tl speed. Modems (regular, cell phone, satellite) can also be used while videoconferencing. Again, the transmission rate will depend on the modem-speed, traffic, and phone switching equipment between the users. In the future, cable modems are expected to provide connections that are between 4 and 78 times the speed of ISDN connections (500 Kbps to 1 Mbps compared to 128 Kbps). It is possible to use either two-way (point-to-point) videoconferencing or multipoint videoconferencing (meeting of more than two sites). Multipoint
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USACERLADP Report 99/16
videoconferencing requires either special switching equipment or Internet multicasting capability such as MBONE. MBONE uses the Internet Protocol (IP)-multicast protocols to allow more than two users to share video, audio, and whiteboards over the Internet. A whiteboard enables users to share, communicate, and markup multimedia (graphic, text, audio, and video) information. Using the Internet, modem, or local area network (LAN) connections, users can collaborate on a project more effectively than would be possible using a regular telephone, while seeing video views of the other party. Standards
Recent telecommunications and videoconferencing standards have been developed to ensure compatibility between different software and equipment. All videoconferencing software and hardware purchased should comply with the relevant standard. Room-based Videoconferencing
Room-based videoconferencing systems typically have more expensive equipment, dedicated high speed communication channels, large monitors to display outgoing and incoming video, good quality microphones and videocameras, and additional equipment to allow sharing of computer files, graphics, whiteboards, etc. These systems provide the best quality audio, video, and transmission speed. The Corps of Engineers has an established network of room-based videoconferencing centers for point-to-point and multipoint videoconferencing. Each room can accommodate a reasonably large audience. For more information, see the USACE Video Teleconferencing home page at http://www.usace.army.mil/ inet/functions/cw/cecwe/coexpert/newcoe/doe/vcnm.htm. Desktop Videoconferencing
Of the many different types of desktop videoconferencing systems, the more expensive systems typically require a controller board to be installed in each computer. Depending on the communication channel used, these systems provide better quality video and audio transmission. PictureTel, for example, is a system that can be used at an individual desk or in a small conference room. Desktop videoconferencing systems can be configured to use a variety of communication channels, depending on the user requirements. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has a network of desktop videoconferencing systems connecting all Commanding Officers.
USACERL ADP Report 99/16
Less expensive desktop videoconferencing systems are widely available, and many people are beginning to use them to videoconference from their desktops. Each computer must be configured with the standards-based videoconferencing software, soundcard, speakers or headphones, a microphone, digital videocamera and modem, and ISDN or network connection. Several of the most commonly used videoconferencing software programs are available free on the Internet. Mobile Videoconferencing
Users who wish to videoconference from remote sites have special concerns. If they are using a laptop computer, a pen-based computer, or a palmtop computer, there are fewer options for equipment than with a desktop computer. It is typically more difficult to access high speed communications channels from remote sites. Also, if the user is mobile, the fastest and most reliable communication channels will vary from location to location. The DHH System described in this report is considered a mobile videoconferencing system. The best commercially available videoconferencing software and equipment were chosen for this field test. New commercial developments are watched closely, so that technology improvements can be incorporated into the DHH System. The Digital Hardhat Mobile Videoconferencing System
Currently, commercially available videoconferencing software include CU-See Me, Video Phone, NetMeeting, and Internet Phone. After several tests, VocalTec's Internet Phone 4.0 was found to suit our needs the best in terms of provided features, performance, and stability. Quite simple and easy to operate, Internet Phone 4.0 is included in DHH as a communication feature (Figure 45). Using Internet Phone, a field inspector can communicate with an engineer at a remote office while running the MFR program. Inputting the other party's IP address makes the call and the rest of the operation is similar to regular phone calls (refer to Internet Phone's user manual for details).
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USACERL ADP Report 99/16
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