Test & Measurement Case Studies

 
Automatic FPGA Reprogramming in an Expandable Data Acquisition System

With an interest in improving their existing industrial product range our client came to us for the development of a new versatile high-performance data acquisition system. We conceived a product based upon their existing system that uses commercial off-the-shelf NI hardware and software. We employed National Instruments' CompactRIO technology, incorporating the Xilinx FPGA chip for high-speed digital and analogue signal acquisition coupled with the determinism of a Real-Time operating system for data collection, processing, storage and analysis. We developed a module-detection algorithm that matches the operator’s chosen arrangement of modules to a suitable FPGA bitstream. The final product provides operators with a highly versatile high-speed acquisition system that automatically adapts to changes in the hardware configuration, allowing an operator to expand their system capabilities by inserting a further module into an empty CompactRIO slot without the need to redefine any program configurations or settings.
Coupled with this was the design of a powerful LabVIEW application for control of the CompactRIO system. Using LabVIEW server, the PC application allows the operator to create any number of fully customisable control and indicator layouts on the interface panels, tailoring the user interface to suit their individual requirements. From their customised layouts, the operator can launch acquisition processes, inspect data graphically and compare data from separate runs, as well as design and publish PDF reports for test certification purposes.

Full article available here

Software upgrade for Fluke

When Fluke Precision Instruments wanted to upgrade the software component of their 7000 Series Automated Voltage Measurement System, they turnd to Product Technology Partners for help.
The instrument uses a LabWindows^TM/CVI^TM software application for the configuration of and download to the 7000S Reference Modules with a bespoke Excel add-in that allows the user to view and manage the data collected. Fluke needed the software to be compiled under the latest version of CVI and they had a number of support issues with the newer versions of Excel. They were also looking for advice on how to connect the instrument to a PC via USB.
The combination of our extensive experience in LabWindows/CVI programming and the robust nature of the development platform from National Instruments ensured that the upgrading was achieved in a cost effective and timely manner. We were then able to address the support issues in Excel and make recommendations for the USB connectivity.
A full report was generated which detailed all the code changes carried out and listed the alternative ways for the equipment to be connected by USB. This was then followed by a site visit to Norwich to hand over the completed software and ensure that all issues had been satisfactorily addressed.

Automated Test Equipment (ATE)

A well-known international manufacturer of fire detection systems required automated functional test equipment for a new range of fire detectors. We worked with mechanical and electrical designers to provide a turnkey solution for their immediate requirements and continue to work with the client as the product line develops. Other ATE projects include test sequencing and monitoring equipment that interface with our clients' works order databases for full integration in the production process.

Specialised measurement and data logging systems

A railway maintenance company required automated equipment to be mounted on a rail grinding train to measure longitudinal corrugations in rail, both for audit purposes and for interactive use when grinding rail in situ. In collaboration with the client's mechanical engineering consultant we developed a PC-based on-board system for measuring, analysing and recording corrugation that functions accurately even in the hostile environment of a rail grinding train.

Other case studies to be added soon!