Case Study: Supporting Air Quality Research with Data Processing Solutions for UC Davis

Client: University of California, Davis – Crocker Nuclear Laboratory (CNF)

Project: IMPROVE Sampler Compact Flash Data Processing System

Client: University of California, Davis – Crocker Nuclear Laboratory (CNF)

The Challenge

The Crocker Nuclear Laboratory (CNF) at UC Davis plays a pivotal role in managing the IMPROVE (Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments) program—a nationwide initiative to monitor air quality in protected natural areas across the United States.

As part of a technical hardware upgrade, the flash memory cards used in field samplers were updated. However, this change created an urgent need for a new data processing solution that could:

• Convert new flash card data into formats compatible with existing data systems.

• Provide intuitive validation tools for technicians to verify data accuracy.

• Integrate seamlessly with CIRA, CNF’s key partner, using their preferred Microsoft .NET development framework.

Without a timely solution, the upgrade risked disrupting nationwide air quality monitoring efforts.

Crocker Lab

The Solution

Langtech was brought in to design, develop, and implement a custom application that addressed both the immediate and long-term needs of the IMPROVE program.

Key Deliverables:

• Web-Based Application: Built on Microsoft .NET, the secure, web-based system allowed for both local and remote access, giving technicians flexibility and ease of use.

• Automated Data Conversion & Validation: The application converted raw data from the new memory cards into compatible formats automatically. Integrated visual validation tools helped technicians quickly detect and correct any anomalies before data moved downstream.

• Robust Data Integrity Controls: The system featured built-in audit trails and validation checks, ensuring that data quality was maintained and processing errors were minimized.

• Future-Ready Architecture: Designed with adaptability in mind, the system supports easy integration with CIRA and can evolve with future hardware or workflow changes.

  
  

Langtech also provided training and documentation, empowering CNF technicians to manage, maintain, and expand the system independently.

The Results

Langtech’s solution modernized the IMPROVE program’s data workflow, ensuring uninterrupted data collection and improving operational efficiency.

Project Highlights:

• Seamless Hardware Transition: Enabled uninterrupted data collection and compatibility with existing infrastructure.

• Operational Efficiency: Reduced the time required for manual data corrections through intuitive validation tools.

• Local Empowerment: Equipped UC Davis personnel with the tools and training necessary for long-term system sustainability.

  
  

The Impact

By delivering a secure, scalable, and user-friendly solution, Langtech helped UC Davis:

• Preserve the continuity and integrity of a nationally significant air quality research program.

• Improve efficiency in data handling and validation processes.

• Build internal capacity to manage and evolve mission-critical research infrastructure.

  
  

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