Standardization News

A proposed ASTM standard is being developed by Committee E57 on Imaging Systems to provide a standardized set of metrics and a test procedure for evaluating the performance of optical tracking systems. Such systems are used in a wide range of fields, including video gaming, filming, neuroscience, biomechanics, flight/medical/industrial training, simulation, robotics, and automotive applications.

According to ASTM member Tsai Hong, computer scientist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, “Potential users often have difficulty comparing optical tracking systems because of the lack of standard performance metrics and test methods, and therefore must rely on the claims of a vendor.” 
The proposed standard (WK54684, Test Method for Measuring System Latency Performance of Optical Tracking Systems That Measure 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DOF)) will make it possible to compare systems for potential users and allows them to determine if the measured performance results are within the specifications with regard to application requirements. 

Participation in the on-going development of this standard is welcomed, particularly from professionals in the robotics, manufacturing, and research industries.

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.

Technical Contact: Tsai Hong, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Md., tel +1.301.975.3444  
ASTM Staff Contact: Pat Picariello, tel +1.610.832.9720