A Framework for Test to Test Averaging and Representation of Asynchronous Spatial Measurements

Abstract

Many experimental programs utilize traversing probes to measure spatial profiles of a variable. These measurements are taken asynchronously because the probe measures one location at a time. During an experiment of this nature, the test conditions are held constant by experimental controls. However, all control systems operate within limits rather than maintaining a truly constant condition. Results of these tests can be contaminated by variations in test conditions depending on the sensitivity of the dependent variable. In addition, spatial trends can be altered by probe positioning uncertainty. This paper discusses these two error sources and develops an experimental framework that alleviates their impact on results. The goals are to assess the effects of measurement position uncertainty and to obtain scientifically useful results in experiments whose control systems allow test condition variations that result in measurable changes in the dependent variables.