Transducer identification system

Citation

(2004), "Transducer identification system", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 76 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2004.12776aad.016

Transducer identification system

Transducer identification system

Keywords: Transducers, Measurement, Software, Aircraft

HBM has launched two types of intelligent transducer identification system to remove possible errors caused by manually entering parameters when configuring a measurement system. Called T-ID (Transducer Identification) and transducer electronic data sheet (TEDS), the systems are based on an identification module in the transducer that enables both the analogue measurement signal and the transducer data, stored in digital format, to be retrieved without the need for any additional wiring.

In the T-ID system, the transducer is assigned an unique ID number that is recognised by HBM's integrated database software to automatically configure the amplifier so that it is ready to take measurements.

In the TEDS system, all the data required for configuring the measurement system are stored in the transducer. This file system has a format and hierarchy that complies with the pending international IEEE 1451.4 standard.

Both transducer types feature identical connections and amplifier hardware requirements. HBM has applied for a patent for its transducer identification systems.

Engineers have wanted to be able to connect transducers and start accurate measurements with minimum delay for some considerable time. An important step in setting up a transducer is to ensure that the correct parameters needed for converting the measurement into physical units are entered in the transducer.

Without the intelligent transducer these have to be entered manually and errors can easily occur leading to measurement errors that may not be detected. The intelligent transducer largely eliminates this source of errors.

Connector plates for HBM's modular MGCplus amplifier system are available that can read the T-ID or TEDS transducer data and catman 4.5, the latest version of HBM's data acquisition software, holds the transducer database needed for the T-ID system.

An example of an application where the technology has proved important is in the use of strain gages (SGs) for structural tests on aeroplanes. The identification module is incorporated either in the cable or is available as a chip that can be bonded to the test object directly in front of the SG measuring point. Within the transducer, the identification module can be fitted into the transducer housing, cable or connector.

Details available from: HBM UK. Tel: +44 (0) 20 8515 6100; Fax: +44 (0) 20 8515 6149; E-mail: mike.johnson@uk.hbm.com; Web site: www.hbm.com