HyperLab Project

In contemporary laboratory settings, there is a need for flexible and immediate approaches to updating, sharing, and analyzing acquired data. With this vision in mind, we initiated the development of the SLab Tools package at INAF-IAPS, which supports the Spectroscopy Laboratory (SLAB) dedicated to visible and near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy. SLab Tools comprises a database, a web app, and a Windows 10/11 app designed to streamline laboratory work.

As we developed the components, we decided to enhance the initial idea by transforming the SLab-dedicated app into a more general and flexible multi-platform app, offering a broader range of features. Consequently, the project was renamed HyperLab.

HyperLab aims to provide seamless access to SLab data and various statistical algorithms. It is also gaining the capability to open and analyze scientific files saved in the PDS format. Key goals of the project include: a) Simplifying routine tasks for laboratory personnel by relating multiple acquisitions and correlating them with supplementary information on measurements and samples. b) Enhancing the value of scientific data by sharing it with the research community. c) Providing the community with a modern tool that can be accessed via phone or tablet.

HyperLab's features include applying smoothing functions, calculating a continuum-removed spectrum with real-time visualization, and computing common absorption band parameters such as band center, band depth, and band area.

Significant effort has been invested in developing features related to the SLab setup, which played a crucial role at the project's inception. This includes allowing users to apply different data analysis techniques to spectra and accessing ancillary information such as sample type, category (mineral, rock, meteorite, synthetic), and acquisition geometry.

Both the web application and the multi-platform app are designed to offer the same comprehensive functionalities when working with SLab data, ensuring users can seamlessly switch between platforms without losing access to any features. The web app plays a pivotal role in the overall architecture by functioning as both the back-end for the multi-platform app and a self-contained web tool. It is responsible for managing data searches and handling the saving and retrieval of data from the database.

 

Acknowledgments:  This project was funded by INAF in 2023 under the ‘Call for Funding of Fundamental Research 2023’, in the Data Analysis Grant category.