Using sound localization to gain depth perception for the visually impaired through sensory substitution
- Authors: De Klerk, James Carmichael
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with visual disabilities Directional hearing--Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50779 , vital:42674
- Description: The visually impaired do not have the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space, rather, they rely on their other senses to gain depth perception. Sensory substitution is the concept of substituting one sense for another, normally substituting an impaired sense with a functioning sense. Visual-to-auditory sensory substitution substitutes an impaired visual sense with a functioning auditory sense. This research aimed to investigate and develop techniques for visualto-auditory sensory substitution – using sound localization as a sensory substitution for depth perception. The research started by investigating the characteristics of human audition with a particular focus on how humans localize sounds. It then looked at existing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems and the techniques they used. From the existing systems, a system known as MeloSee was chosen as a baseline for developing and evaluating further sensory substitution prototypes. The baseline prototype (𝑃0) was then implemented and a preliminary study performed. Based on the knowledge gained from the preliminary study, baseline implementation and the background research, a set of improvement recommendations were generated. The next iteration – Prototype 1 (𝑃1) – was then developed based on the recommendations. A comparative study between 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 was then performed. Based on the study, another set of improvement recommendations were generated. From the recommendations, a final prototype was developed – Prototype 2 (𝑃2). The last comparative study was then performed between 𝑃0 and 𝑃2, with a third set of recommendations being generated as a result. From the studies it was found that participants using 𝑃0 were able to identify when they were approaching large objects such as walls. 𝑃1 built on that, improving the ability to identify the quadrant of a nearby isolated object. 𝑃2 built on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1, achieving similar results to 𝑃1 for identifying the quadrant of nearby isolated objects, and improving on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 with regard to depth discrimination – especially for navigation tasks where there were no obstacles. Based on the three sets of recommendations and what was learnt over the course of the research, a set of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution techniques were presented. The techniques aim to be useful for implementing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems, which would provide the visually impaired with the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space through sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: De Klerk, James Carmichael
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: People with visual disabilities Directional hearing--Physiological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/50779 , vital:42674
- Description: The visually impaired do not have the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space, rather, they rely on their other senses to gain depth perception. Sensory substitution is the concept of substituting one sense for another, normally substituting an impaired sense with a functioning sense. Visual-to-auditory sensory substitution substitutes an impaired visual sense with a functioning auditory sense. This research aimed to investigate and develop techniques for visualto-auditory sensory substitution – using sound localization as a sensory substitution for depth perception. The research started by investigating the characteristics of human audition with a particular focus on how humans localize sounds. It then looked at existing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems and the techniques they used. From the existing systems, a system known as MeloSee was chosen as a baseline for developing and evaluating further sensory substitution prototypes. The baseline prototype (𝑃0) was then implemented and a preliminary study performed. Based on the knowledge gained from the preliminary study, baseline implementation and the background research, a set of improvement recommendations were generated. The next iteration – Prototype 1 (𝑃1) – was then developed based on the recommendations. A comparative study between 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 was then performed. Based on the study, another set of improvement recommendations were generated. From the recommendations, a final prototype was developed – Prototype 2 (𝑃2). The last comparative study was then performed between 𝑃0 and 𝑃2, with a third set of recommendations being generated as a result. From the studies it was found that participants using 𝑃0 were able to identify when they were approaching large objects such as walls. 𝑃1 built on that, improving the ability to identify the quadrant of a nearby isolated object. 𝑃2 built on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1, achieving similar results to 𝑃1 for identifying the quadrant of nearby isolated objects, and improving on 𝑃0 and 𝑃1 with regard to depth discrimination – especially for navigation tasks where there were no obstacles. Based on the three sets of recommendations and what was learnt over the course of the research, a set of visual-to-auditory sensory substitution techniques were presented. The techniques aim to be useful for implementing visual-to-auditory sensory substitution systems, which would provide the visually impaired with the visual ability to localize objects in three-dimensional space through sound.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Utility of construction automation and robotics in South Africa
- Mkunqwana, Khungelwa Sandisiwe
- Authors: Mkunqwana, Khungelwa Sandisiwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Automation , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Automation Robotics -- South Africa Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46174 , vital:39511
- Description: The construction industry demands active construction organisation, efficient construction processes and innovative construction techniques to effectively compete under increasing market competition and technological advancements in the twenty first century. The problems associated with construction, such as poor quality and slow productivity, labour shortages, occupational health and safety, and inferior working conditions, have opened the possibility of more revolutionary solutions within the industry. One such solution espoused as having tremendous potential to improve construction productivity whilst alleviating the problems associated with construction is Construction Automation and Robotics. Automation and robotics technologies encompass a wide range of innovative technologies using technologically advanced machinery to improve the speed and efficiency of a given process. The aim of this study is to analyse the extent of utility of construction automation and robotics in the South African construction industry. The research adopted the quantitative methodology and online survey to collect data. A detailed quantitative (statistical) data analysis was performed, using web-based software “QuestionPro,” including data analysis for investigating possible relationships between variables. Through this study it has been established that one of the prospective solutions to the problems associated with construction is in the implementation and utility of innovative technologies in construction such as automation and robotics. Moreover, the research found that automation and robotics in South Africa is at an interesting point whereby organisations are taking strides in accepting and implementing the technologies. It is envisaged that the utility of construction automation and robotics would improve the industry in terms of productivity, health and safety and quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Mkunqwana, Khungelwa Sandisiwe
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry -- Automation , Construction industry -- South Africa -- Automation Robotics -- South Africa Robotics
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46174 , vital:39511
- Description: The construction industry demands active construction organisation, efficient construction processes and innovative construction techniques to effectively compete under increasing market competition and technological advancements in the twenty first century. The problems associated with construction, such as poor quality and slow productivity, labour shortages, occupational health and safety, and inferior working conditions, have opened the possibility of more revolutionary solutions within the industry. One such solution espoused as having tremendous potential to improve construction productivity whilst alleviating the problems associated with construction is Construction Automation and Robotics. Automation and robotics technologies encompass a wide range of innovative technologies using technologically advanced machinery to improve the speed and efficiency of a given process. The aim of this study is to analyse the extent of utility of construction automation and robotics in the South African construction industry. The research adopted the quantitative methodology and online survey to collect data. A detailed quantitative (statistical) data analysis was performed, using web-based software “QuestionPro,” including data analysis for investigating possible relationships between variables. Through this study it has been established that one of the prospective solutions to the problems associated with construction is in the implementation and utility of innovative technologies in construction such as automation and robotics. Moreover, the research found that automation and robotics in South Africa is at an interesting point whereby organisations are taking strides in accepting and implementing the technologies. It is envisaged that the utility of construction automation and robotics would improve the industry in terms of productivity, health and safety and quality.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Waste management in the informal settlements of Msukaligwa Municipality
- Authors: Ngema, , Noxolo Nondumiso
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Waste disposal in the ground -- South Africa -- Ermelo , Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Ermelo Squatters -- South Africa -- Ermelo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46827 , vital:39665
- Description: This study focused on waste management, and, sought to evaluate the level of awareness on environmental impact of littering in vulnerable communities in the informal settlements of Msukaligwa municipality, in particular at Ward 16 which is Nyibe newly named as New Ermelo. This study was, thus, concerned with how solid waste is managed within the informal settlements. The study arose with the concern that the environment is mostly affected when informal settlements are developed. If informal settlements are less aware of the damage caused by littering and improper waste disposal, the waste management plan of a local municipality becomes ineffective where local communities do not assume their responsibilities for ensuring healthy and safe living environments. A quantitative research design was applied in this study. Population for this research comprised of Msukaligwa Local Municipality, with a study sample drawn from Ward 16 Nyibe households, church leaders, local business owners, and ward councillor. A nonprobability sampling technique for selection of study participants was used, and this technique applied in both households and stakeholders. Data was collected through self-administered survey questionnaires that were statistically analysed, weaving in filed observations, where deemed necessary. The researcher discovered that Nyibe (New Ermelo) community’s level of awareness of the environmental impact of littering is impressively above average. Majority of households’ respondents identified all the negative environmental impact caused by littering in vulnerable communities and the impact is considered a major challenge within Nyibe. Necessary waste disposal infrastructures are not provided at Nyibe leading to people littering on any open land, burning, or throwing solid waste in their family pit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Ngema, , Noxolo Nondumiso
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Waste disposal in the ground -- South Africa -- Ermelo , Refuse and refuse disposal -- South Africa -- Ermelo Squatters -- South Africa -- Ermelo
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/46827 , vital:39665
- Description: This study focused on waste management, and, sought to evaluate the level of awareness on environmental impact of littering in vulnerable communities in the informal settlements of Msukaligwa municipality, in particular at Ward 16 which is Nyibe newly named as New Ermelo. This study was, thus, concerned with how solid waste is managed within the informal settlements. The study arose with the concern that the environment is mostly affected when informal settlements are developed. If informal settlements are less aware of the damage caused by littering and improper waste disposal, the waste management plan of a local municipality becomes ineffective where local communities do not assume their responsibilities for ensuring healthy and safe living environments. A quantitative research design was applied in this study. Population for this research comprised of Msukaligwa Local Municipality, with a study sample drawn from Ward 16 Nyibe households, church leaders, local business owners, and ward councillor. A nonprobability sampling technique for selection of study participants was used, and this technique applied in both households and stakeholders. Data was collected through self-administered survey questionnaires that were statistically analysed, weaving in filed observations, where deemed necessary. The researcher discovered that Nyibe (New Ermelo) community’s level of awareness of the environmental impact of littering is impressively above average. Majority of households’ respondents identified all the negative environmental impact caused by littering in vulnerable communities and the impact is considered a major challenge within Nyibe. Necessary waste disposal infrastructures are not provided at Nyibe leading to people littering on any open land, burning, or throwing solid waste in their family pit.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Wind damage impacts on Eucalyptus species performance in South Africa
- Authors: Hechter, Heinrich
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Commercial forests -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48368 , vital:40853
- Description: Commercial forestry plantations in South Africa play an important role in the economy of the country, contributing 1.2% towards the gross domestic product, as well as with job creation in rural communities. Currently plantation forests cover 1% (1.2 million hectares) of the South African land surface, of which ±75 000 hectares (±43 000 hectares to Eucalyptus species) are re-established each year. Different timber companies afforest areas with different species to satisfy specific management objectives, with the two main objectives being for either the production of saw-timber or pulpwood. Species of the Eucalyptus genera are preferred as they are fast growing and have desirable wood and pulping properties. However, their productive potential can be negatively impacted by numerous abiotic and biotic risk factors. Of the various risk factors that forest stands are exposed to, wind and wind-related tree damage has received very little attention, both nationally and internationally. Wind-related tree damage may result in wind-throw (uprooting or stem breakage), or trees that tilt (lean off vertical). Trees that are tilting can recover to an upright position, but are likely to retain some level of stem sinuosity or butt-sweep. Although strong winds increase the risk of tree damage, a number of other factors can also act to predispose trees to wind-related damage. These include choice of planting stock (genotype and type of plant stock), planting practices (including soil cultivation), site factors (wind exposure, rainfall, soil texture and soil fertility) or excessive weed competition. Most of the literature dealing with wind-related tree damage has focused on trees growing in natural forests, whereas trees in natural forests differ from forest grown plantation trees in terms of above- and below-ground morphological differences, as well as the stability factors of the trees. There is a need to not only understand the impacts of severe (catastrophic) wind events on mature trees, but also to test management strategies that prevent, or minimize damage prior to any severe wind events. Two existing eucalypt trials were used to provide information on the influence of selected re-establishment silvicultural practices on short-term pulpwood and long-term saw-timber survival, growth and uniformity when influenced by catastrophic wind events, within South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Hechter, Heinrich
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Commercial forests -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/48368 , vital:40853
- Description: Commercial forestry plantations in South Africa play an important role in the economy of the country, contributing 1.2% towards the gross domestic product, as well as with job creation in rural communities. Currently plantation forests cover 1% (1.2 million hectares) of the South African land surface, of which ±75 000 hectares (±43 000 hectares to Eucalyptus species) are re-established each year. Different timber companies afforest areas with different species to satisfy specific management objectives, with the two main objectives being for either the production of saw-timber or pulpwood. Species of the Eucalyptus genera are preferred as they are fast growing and have desirable wood and pulping properties. However, their productive potential can be negatively impacted by numerous abiotic and biotic risk factors. Of the various risk factors that forest stands are exposed to, wind and wind-related tree damage has received very little attention, both nationally and internationally. Wind-related tree damage may result in wind-throw (uprooting or stem breakage), or trees that tilt (lean off vertical). Trees that are tilting can recover to an upright position, but are likely to retain some level of stem sinuosity or butt-sweep. Although strong winds increase the risk of tree damage, a number of other factors can also act to predispose trees to wind-related damage. These include choice of planting stock (genotype and type of plant stock), planting practices (including soil cultivation), site factors (wind exposure, rainfall, soil texture and soil fertility) or excessive weed competition. Most of the literature dealing with wind-related tree damage has focused on trees growing in natural forests, whereas trees in natural forests differ from forest grown plantation trees in terms of above- and below-ground morphological differences, as well as the stability factors of the trees. There is a need to not only understand the impacts of severe (catastrophic) wind events on mature trees, but also to test management strategies that prevent, or minimize damage prior to any severe wind events. Two existing eucalypt trials were used to provide information on the influence of selected re-establishment silvicultural practices on short-term pulpwood and long-term saw-timber survival, growth and uniformity when influenced by catastrophic wind events, within South Africa.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020