An efficient algorithm for the zero crossing detection in digitized measurement signal

A new algorithm for fast determining the first zero crossing point over an interval is proposed. This problem arises in a number of applications, for example, in the determination of the phase difference between two signals. The method uses only the values of the objective function in its work. The algorithm works also in the cases where there is no any zero crossing point over the search interval, and determines the global minimum of the objective function. Global convergence conditions are established for the new algorithm. Numerical experiments and comparison with methods taken from literature show that the new technique is fast, reliable, and stable to high levels of noise. Finally, experimental results coming out from applications confirm the validity of the proposed algorithm. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.