hbmhotline

World record with HBM_ High-tech at the loading limit

The fastest sailing boat in the world – with measurement technology from HBM

_ GEN2i – The ultimate portable data recorder

Power, portability, ease of use, and intuitive data handling – all in a single instrument

_ cDAQ ITC

Introducing the latest product family in rugged, mobile data acquisition

Test and measurement technology news

1 2010

2

HBM hotline.com 1 2010

Professional data acquisition

Plug and M

2

In this issue

Editorial Test and measurement world of the future

Dear Reader,

Measurement technology is an important

tool for production development. But it is a

tool and not an end in itself. It must deliver

reliable, precise results and function rap-

idly and simply. What are the requirements

for modern measurement systems, where

are the difficulties? What significance does

measurement technology have in a project,

what expectations and challenges is it

faced with and where are the money traps?

What effects do these have on the supplier

horizon?

Development time is a scarce resource, as

new products need to get to market quickly.

Intelligent measurement technology pro-

vides data for the efficient development

of qualitatively mature products. Measure-

ment must therefore be simple and intuitive

in operation. Even measurement technol-

ogy laypersons, who are focused on their

own production need to be able to interpret

meaningful results from complex data mea-

surements. Plug and Measure is there-

fore essential to measurement technology

through the use of TEDS technology (Trans-

ducer Electronic Data Sheets), automatic

compensation of environmental conditions

and automatic connection testing. Univer-

sal systems recoup costs most rapidly over

the long term. The most effective systems

are those that replace several specialized

devices, making time-intensive test bench

retooling superfluous as they can measure

all parameters reliably and can support all

current transducer technologies. The per-

fect measuring chain also includes powerful

analysis software for post-processing. Only

complete evaluation ensures permanent

success.

All costs are relevant, including hidden

costs. These range from procurement to

commissioning, from operation to replace-

ment, i.e. the oft-cited Total Cost of Owner-

ship. Measurement technology cost blocks

Zoltan Teleki, Marketing Director

Plug and Measure between requirements

Reliable TEDS

HBM innovation, new products

Data acquisition with GEN2i Usability re-defined:

Fast measurement results thanks to GEN2i 04

QuantumX – the new modules 70 % faster with TEDS technology 05

cDAQ ITC Introducing the latest product family in

Rugged, Mobile Data Acquisition 06

HBM innovation, new products

Outdoor vehicle dynamics testing with EGPS-2000 Secure results – even with limited GPS reception 07

Clear view of relevant data Tracing anomalies – with the new version GlyphXE™ 2.0 10

HBM services

HBM nCode material testing Knowledge of material properties offers added value 11

me

… of your tests and measurements

Increase the effi ciency …

Using HBM data acquisition systems

HBM data acquisition systems

DAQ systems …

_ For every budget

_ For static and dynamic measurements

_ With any number of channels

_ In laboratory or fi eld

_ From industrial through maximum precision.

3


3

easure Qualityare training, familiarization time, quality of

results, flexibility, maintenance costs, fu-

ture security and quality of service. An ap-

parently inexpensive product which, due to

time-consuming commissioning, generates

10 times the personnel costs, is expensive

in total cost aspects. Simulation software

is only a sensible alternative to hardware-

supported measurement technology if there

is sufficient data material available. Results

can only be verified with reliable measure-

ment data. Pure simulation is therefore un-

suitable for new materials and scenarios.

Which measurement technology providers

meet all relevant requirements?

Plug and Measure in the true meaning of

the term is rarely offered. One manufac-

turer can optimally provide a perfectly

matched measuring chain without interface

problems. Smaller providers can usually only

configure systems to meet specifications

with the help of system integrators and

products from various manufacturers.

But how future secure are these systems?

Future security means continuous support

and spare parts delivery even after several

years. This includes software upgrades for

new operating system versions along with

the economic stability of the provider and

innovative know-how. Smaller manufactur-

ers reach their limits here and will therefore

continually decrease in significance.

With HBM, users are equipped for the future.

The long-term experience of HBM engineers,

in close cooperation with numerous cus-

tomers, has led to real Plug and Measure

and intuitive operation at all levels of the

measuring chain.

Best regards, Zoltan Teleki

and realityFuture security

Real Plug and Measure from HBM –

for every application area

The new overview brochure helps to quickly iden-

tify the most suitable measurement data acquisi-

tion system for any application. The main techni-

cal data and advantages of the universal systems,

such as QuantumX and MGCplus, as well as the

product families for robust, mobile applications,

such as Genesis HighSpeed and SoMat eDAQ, are

clearly shown.

more … www.hbmhotline.com

Editorial managementHBM Marketing Communication

Textual editingFrauke Frerichs-Waldmann

Design & Artworkwww.contrust-design.de

ImprintPublisherHBM GmbH

Im Tiefen See 45

64293 Darmstadt,

Germany

Email: [email protected]

www.hbm.com

HBM technology

U10 M force transducer – precise and cost-effective U10 M force transducer in HORIBA’s vehicle test bench

VULCAN for torque measurement 08

High-tech at the load limit The fastest sailing boat in the world – with measurement

technology from HBM 09

asurement 2.0


4

GEN2i is both a portable 16-channel data acquisition sys-

tem and a rapid transient recorder with a sampling rate of 100 MS/s.

It can, for example, even replace high-end oscilloscopes in the field.

GEN2i is the successor to the Vision, Dimension and Sigma families,

upgraded with numerous features and improved in performance.

GEN2i combines the finest of technology with easily mastered

operation.

The novel touchscreen user interface has been cleaned up. All es-

sential operator controls are clearly listed in the top menu level.

Functions have been consistently rationalized by considering the

end-users’ needs carefully. All settings and control elements, like the

measurement data, can be seen at one glance – and can be reached

from every level with just one click (“one-touch“ principle).

Working with GEN2i is fun and success is easily achieved. This is

efficient and pays off. The integrated PC with Windows 7 comes with

Perception analysis software ready installed while a single button

leads to evaluation, report generation or the output of comprehen-

sive, equation-supported analyses.

Meaningful information is obtained directly on site, rapidly and

cost-effectively, enabling precise assessment. Whether looking at

rocket start observations, continuous motor testing, troubleshoot-

ing or qualification tests, the GEN2i keeps measurement tasks per-

fectly under control.

A wide range of input modules can be connected. These include

high-speed digitizers – with up to 100 MS/s and electrical isolation

via fiber-optic cables – for measurements in the high voltage sector

or galvanically isolated bridge amplifiers with 1 MS/s for demanding

material tests. The data are recorded live directly onto the hard disk

at 500 kS/s per channel and a transmission bandwidth of 20 MB/s.

The portable GEN2i combines measurement technology peak perfor-

mance with efficient operation.

Klaus Lang, HBM


Usability re-defined:

Fast measurement results thanks to GEN2iMove over the touchscreen with a finger and zoom into the details. Intuitively find the right setting.

Using the same tool for every measurement task: even experienced service technicians are impressed

by this image. The new transportable measurement data acquisition device GEN2i passes all previous

performance limits. The “one-touch“ principle simplifies operation in a revolutionary manner.

HBM innovation Data acquisition with GEN2i

5


15 sensor and transducer types, which can be

connected to eight TEDS-capable channels, a

comprehensive software packet for configuration,

automatic measurement, analysis and graphic

representation, and a library for LabVIEW and APIs

for object-oriented programming make the universal

amplifier MX840A a flexible partner in the laboratory

and for service.

HBM innovation – new modules–

Compared to its proven and well-established predecessor, the

MX840A has been upgraded with two new functions: strain gage

resistance measurement and shunt calibration of HBM torque trans-

ducers. Electrically isolated inputs and a 24 bit Sigma Delta A/D

converter provide stable, precise results. Each single channel can

be individually configured. The amplifiers are cascadable, so that all

channels are synchronized with each other. This scalability provides

additional flexibility for larger measurement projects. The MX840A

is a modular future-proof investment that grows with your tasks.

Real Advanced Plug and Measure

MX840A supports – like all QuantumX modules – “Advanced Plug

and Measure“ (APM) for immediate connection and automatic rec-

ognition of transducers. APM uses TEDS, the Transducer Electronic

Data Sheet. This sensor database from HBM contains details of nu-

merous, predefined transducers to reduce the set up time by more

than 70 %.

Christof Salcher, HBM


MX840A wins … with a clear time advantage

70 % faster with TEDS technology

User-friendly by concentrating on the essentials. Small, compact but

almost as versatile and powerful as its larger brother MX840A, the

MX440A has four TEDS-capable channels.

Service technicians or laboratory engineers who need to rapidly obtain measurement

data, have a versatile compact tool in the MX440A – e.g. in automated tests, long-term

monitoring and general tests.

Connect, measure, evaluate – even with a low number of channels

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cDAQ ITC: Measurement data acquired directly in the engine compartment

The flexible cDAQ modules are compatible with any CAN

ISO 11898 2.0B-based system or vehicle network and have a select-

able baud rate from 20 kbps to 1 Mbps. Connecting multiple modules

through the CAN bus allows for nearly unlimited channel counts,

covering great distances up to 250 m. cDAQ modules are powered

from a user-friendly DC power source from 8 to 36 volts. Once pow-

er is applied to the first module, it is distributed through the rest of

the network.

Although well-matched with any CAN network, cDAQ modules are

optimally designed to interface with the SoMat eDAQ or eDAQlite.

A single module can be powered directly from the Vehicle Network

Communications layer (ECOM or ELCOM), a hardware query self-

recognizes the modules in the system.

The cDAQ-ITC (Isolated Thermocouple) is available in 16-channel

configurations for K-, J- or T-type thermocouples. Each channel has

individual cold junction compensation fully isolated up to 500 V,

with an accuracy of ±0.5 °C. Selectable sample rates are available

for each channel from 0.1 to 15 Hz. The cDAQ-ITC also has digital

and analog filtering to remove high frequency signal components

above 50 Hz and notches at 50 Hz and 60 Hz to prevent aliasing at

the power line frequency bands.

Chad Larson, HBM, Inc.


Introducing the latest product family in

rugged, mobile data acquisitioncDAQ is a new product family of rugged, mobile, CAN based data acquisition providing a flexible distributed

network of HBM world-class signal conditioning in any environment and weather condition. Engineered to

operate within severe temperatures ranges of -40 to 125 °C with an IP 67 degree of protection, the compact

cDAQ modules allow users to take measurements directly in the most difficult test objects. These can include

engine enclosures, gearboxes, pumps, power generation and many industrial applications. This reduces

installation time, cabling and test set-up while lowering overall product testing costs.

HBM innovation cDAQ and cDAQ ITC

6

®®®®®®®


Vehicle test in the Arizona desert, USA

EGPS-200

EGPS-200

The EGPS-200 precision GPS receiver is en-

gineered for non-contact speed measure-

ments in professional vehicle testing appli-

cations such as braking and acceleration, as

well as general vehicle dynamics. It is opti-

mally designed to interface with the SoMat

eDAQ or eDAQlite Vehicle Network Commu-

nications Layer (ECOM or ELCOM).

The EGPS-200 combines data from both

GPS and inertial sensors to provide a robust

200 Hz speed update rate for maximum reli-

ability and accuracy. It is this combination

of GPS and accelerometer data that gives

it outstanding performance, even in areas

with poor or interrupted GPS reception.

Thus the EGPS-200 outperforms non-con-

tact speed devices that are solely dependent

on GPS, as well as “survey grade“ receivers

where the emphasis is absolute position

rather than speeds. The EGPS-200 is avail-

able in two configurations, the base receiver

or enhanced PLUS package.

The base receiver provides 19 channels in-

cluding speed (200 Hz), absolute position,

three-axis instantaneous acceleration,

number of satellites, date and time informa-

tion. A physical input trigger channel is also

integrated within the receiver. The input

trigger allows synchronization of the data

values with external events such as brake

pedal depression or passing a marker point.

The PLUS package provides all the chan-

nels of the base receiver plus IMU (Inertial

Measurement Unit) and RTK (Real Time Ki-

nematic) measurements. The IMU improves

acceleration accuracy and completes the six

degrees of freedom measurements by add-

ing axis rotation (roll, pitch, and yaw).

Chad Larson, HBM, Inc.


New products: EGPS-200

and ELCOM Layer

HBM innovation Outdoor vehicle dynamic tests with EGPS-200

7

ELCOM

The SoMat eDAQlite Vehicle Network

Communications Layer (ELCOM) includes

three dedicated CAN device interfaces,

a vehicle bus module (VBM) interface

and a GPS communications port. It is

an extremely versatile layer, providing

a direct correlation between vehicle bus

channels with physical data (i.e. analog,

thermocouple and frequency) as well as

GPS.

The three CAN device interfaces can be

used as a passive eavesdropper on the

controller network or, when needed,

become an active participant, making

frequent requests for specific informa-

tion. Address information is easily con-

figurable and includes popular data-

bases such as J1939. Up to 254 vehicle

bus channels can be recorded per input,

allowing total eDAQlite system channel

counts to be virtually limitless. Addi-

tionally, the three CAN interfaces are

well matched to work with a network

of SoMat cDAQ modules for extended

signal conditioning.


8

International exhaust emission regulations

specify standardized driving cycles which

can be run on vehicle test benches such as

the “Vulcan“ from HORIBA – with the aim of

evidencing the performance, emission and

consumption patterns of the vehicle. The

test bench uses drives to simulate realistic

loads such as slopes, inclines or level roads.

HORIBA’s vehicle test bench VULCAN has

just one motor per axle, located between

the drive rollers. The result is shorter shafts

and therefore an improved dynamic behav-

ior. The torque of an axle is recorded via a

single force transducer, with the reaction

torque of the motor imparting the force to

the force transducer via a lever.

HORIBA places maximum value on maxi-

mum accuracy, far better than 0.1 % – and

finally found the route to success in a simple

and clever modification of the measurement

process. In addition to a constructive modi-

fication, the use of the U10M HBM force

transducer helped with the breakthrough.

The U10 M force transducer is thereby cali-

brated in the application, where its excel-

lent reproducibility is an advantage. The

U10M has a vibration bandwidth of 200 %

maximum capacity and works reliably in

dynamic operation up to the nominal force.

HORIBA was impressed with the U10M’s dy-

namic properties, reliability and precision.

The transducer is manufactured from stain-

less steel and protected to IP67.

Every test bench is only as good as the mea-

surement technology used in it. The accu-

racy and reliability of measurement results

from the transducer used is decisive for the

meaningfulness of the tests carried out at

a later date.

Thomas Kleckers, HBM


U10 M force transducer in HORIBA’s vehicle test bench

VULCAN for torque measurement

HBM technology U10 M force transducer – precise and cost-effective

The HORIBA Group is one of the world’s leading providers of automotive testing systems. HORIBA faced a

particular challenge during the development of their vehicle test bench VULCAN. How do you achieve the

highest accuracy during the measurement of torque – and still ensure an attractive price/performance ratio?

U10M force transducer

The U10M is a force transducer for de-

termining static and dynamic tensile

and compressive forces. It is available

with nine nominal (rated) measuring

ranges from 0 … 1.25 kN, 2.5 kN, 5 kN,

12.5 kN, 25 kN, 50 kN, 125 kN, 250 kN

and 500 kN. Numerous options, rang-

ing from a double bridge version,

selection of calibration pa-

rameters and connector

selection, means the U10M

force transducer can be

ideally matched to the test

task.

Installation of the U10 M on the engine, which also acts as the brake. The force is applied via the lever.

Winners: The Hydroptère team

digiCLIP amplifier from HBM


9

To reach such speeds, perfect aerodynamics were needed, especially

to control the optimal shape of the sail which is made of flexible, yet

stable material. Strain gages, used to transmit important measured

values, were located at key transition points such as between the

boom, bearing surfaces and rump. Service technicians from HBM

installed 40 full-bridges, connected to a digiCLIP digital modular

amplifier. Measurements and evaluation in real time made test runs

possible right up to the loading limits. The behavior simulations were

based on data from comprehensive series of tests.

Data from strain gages crucial for success

“The main sections of the boat could only be calculated and con-

structed with the help of the strain gage data“, explained Damien

Colgrave, the engineer responsible for the

measurement data and monitoring. The digi-

CLIP amplifier and the strain gages are ro-

bust and suitable for such rough applications.

Even after three years, all parts of the mea-

suring chain are still on board and fully func-

tional, defying the high speeds in salt water

and the strong vibrations.

Expectations for the measurement technology have

been “fully and completely met“

“Our expectations for the measurement technology have been fully

and completely met. Our current CANbus-based measurement sys-

tem was installed in 2006. We compared numerous providers and our

choice went to HBM. The digiCLIP is compact, light, extremely sturdy

and very easy to operate“, concluded Damien about this experience.

Bruno Cathala, HBM France

The video relating to this article:

www.hbmhotline.com

The fastest sailing boat in the world –

with measurement technology

from HBMThe Frenchman Alain Thébault has been following a single aim for

15 years: he wants to build the fastest sailing boat of all time.

Victory not only requires the best materials and endurance – but also

reliable, precise measurement results. This is why Alain Thébault and

his Hydroptère team decided to use measurement technology from

HBM. The result – on the 4th September 2009, Thébault and his crew

achieved a speed of 51.36 knots (95 km/h) in the trimaran Hydoptère

– the world speed record in sailing.

HBM technology High-tech at the loading limit

10


Focus on the measurement signal, automatic correction of flatlines

Data preview allows to rapidly locate the right data packet

The results of numerous tests and

checks are enormous quantities of

data. Not all data are interesting

or relevant. The analysis software

GlyphXE™2.0 from HBM provides

a clear view with numerous sta-

tistical tools that allow the user

to see easily the “real“ statements

underlying gigabytes of data.

Two new functions in the recently available Version 2.0 of

GlyphXE™ simplify the handling of the measurement data even

further.

Detecting anomalies in the measurement data

In long-term observations, interest is only focused on individual,

probably rarely occurring events. All such anomalies like flatlines, drift

and spikes are automatically corrected by the supplementary module

in GlypheXE™2.0 and clear the way to viewing relevant data.

View measurement data directly in the browser

Another new function displays measurement data directly from the

browser. This preview allows you to rapidly locate the right data pack-

et in a large quantity of measurement data and then drag it directly

to the workspace for further analysis. Several series of tests can be

graphically displayed over one another in order to compare them

rapidly and easily. GlyphXE™2.0 increases effectiveness with its new

elements.

Jens Boersch, HBM


The path from the measurement of raw data to engineering decisions has to pass through the analysis of

available data. The powerful analysis software GlyphXE™ makes analysis very easy and more rapid. A new

module in Version 2.0 corrects anomalies in the measurement data and focuses the view on the essentials.

New products Clear view of relevant data

10

Tracking down anomalies – with

the new GlyphXE™ Version 2.0


11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111

The properties of a material determine

how it will respond to loading and

hence influence component durability.

Optional manufacturing treatments

such as heat treatment, shot-peening,

or environmental factors such as oxi-

dization can also influence durability.

The resulting cost-benefit of applying

various manufacturing processes to in-

crease durability can be assessed dur-

ing product development to achieve

target life or optimal product quality.

Specialized in the acquisition and anal-

ysis of fatigue data, the HBM nCode

test lab provides customers with a 360°

report on the fatigue life of materials

used as well as component durability.

In addition to providing precise mea-

surement results, our engineers gather

huge amounts of data for analysis and

processing.

Results for different and combined

conditions can be achieved at a frac-

tion of the cost even for materials that

are difficult to test. In addition, statis-

tical probability analysis backs up the

validity of the interpreted results.

As material specialists, HBM nCode en-

gineers are ready to support you in the

choice of technologies and specific test

methods according to best practices.

Craig Pick, HBM UK


Knowledge of material properties offers added value

Thorough knowledge of the properties and behavior of materials

provides decisive advantages to organizations involved in product

development, raw material sourcing and quality control. One of

the most critical stages in component design is durability testing;

it is here that the know-how and expertise of the HBM nCode test

laboratory assists developers in taking the right design decisions,

based on reliable information about raw and manufactured

materials.

HBM services HBM nCode material testing

11

_ Strain-life fatigue testing in tension/

compression, fully-reversed bending and

torsion

_ Load-controlled fatigue testing for the

derivation of stress-life or load-life

parameters

_ Static and cyclic thermal loading from

-40 °C to 1050 °C

_ Related thermal and mechanical loadings

from -40 °C to 1050 °C

_ Tension/compression from 5 kN to 150 kN.

Torsion up to 5000 Nm

_ Isothermal non-ambient testing in the

range from -40 °C to + 1050 °C.

_ Single and multi-axis, static and dynamic

testing.

_ Full specimen manufacture and

preparation:

· Extraction of specimens from real

components

· Supply of specimens available from a

wide range of production processes.

List of services

HBM news

S2998-1

.0 e

n

HBM GmbH

www.hbm.com

Email: [email protected]

Tel. +49 6151 803-0

Fax +49 6151 803-9100

measure and predict with confidence

Measurement data acquisition systems are the heart of

every measurement task since they determine the system’s

capabilities. HBM offers a choice of five systems:

_ QuantumX – A universal, compact and powerful

system with small dimensions. It is popular with

service engineers and suitable for stationary or

mobile data acquisition.

_ Genesis High-Speed – The fastest device. Very rapid

transient recorder and data acquisition system for

pyrotechnics, turbine and rocket tests, destructive

material tests, high voltage and power engineering.

_ MGCplus – Universal system, scalable and versatile.

Optimally suited for laboratory and test shops,

because it can be optionally installed in 19” racks.

_ SoMat eDAQ – Perfect for the outdoor sector,

rugged and mobile. Can often be found in defence

engineering, aerospace and vehicle engineering.

_ CANHEAD ® – The distributed system administers

numerous measuring points in a simple manner and

is recommended for experimental stress analysis and

investigations relating to a product’s life expectancy.

NEW: BROCHURE “HBM DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEMS“

A suitable tool for every task

An overview of all measurement data acquisition systems

made by HBM can now be found at … www.daq-systems.com

hbmhotline

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