Siemens Case Study - Creep Lab Data Logger
Using National Instrument hardware and software to replace their old and dated data logging system, TBG Solutions has provided Siemens with a solution that allows them to log
data from 178 channels that span across 32 Creep machines simultaneously.
System Design
The data logging system utilises National Instruments compact FieldPoint (cFP) technology. Three cFP-8-slot back planes provide a platform for the required analog input and
thermocouple input modules. The three cFP-2000 headers are configured in a master slave configuration, with the master header acquiring data from the two slave headers across an
Ethernet network. The master is then responsible for relaying the data back to the main computer. Should the main computer not be available the master header buffers the data
until it becomes available again.
Once the main computer code receives the data from the cFP header, an operator defined calibration routine is applied to each of the analogue input signals before being
displayed and logged to file. The software also applies alarm limits to the data and sends email notification should a channel move outside of the user defined input range.
Design Challenges
The main design challenge for the project was to provide Siemens with a new system that would give them the flexibility, scalability and reliability, which their old
off-the-shelf system could not. To meet these design challenges the software allows for the operator to select which machines and channels to log, as well as individually set
different calibration and alarm limit settings for each individual channel. To meet the scalability and reliability criteria, cFP technology was the logical choice due to its
proven reliability.
Siemens also requested a new and innovative way in which to calibrate their Creep machines. To meet this requirement the system incorporates a wireless network and a PDA
combined with viewing software created with the LabVIEW PDA tool kit to allow the operator to receive live up-to-date readings from any Creep machine without the need to
be within reach of the main computer.
As a result, the operator is able to view the effect of the calibration process accurately and almost immediately without the need for a second person, who would have
ordinarily had to watch the main PC and give verbal updates on the state of calibration for each machine.
The systems also incorporates a database that stores and monitors the calibration state of all the thermocouples within the test system. Using a simple colour coded
system the operators can clearly see those thermocouples which are close to requiring calibration and those that have expired.
System Results
The systems also incorporates a database that stores and monitors the calibration state of all the thermocouples within the test system. Using a simple colour coded system
the operators can clearly see those thermocouples which are close to requiring calibration and those that have expired.