Wineman Technology Introduces RAPID Test Cell Controller

SAGINAW, Mich., June 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Wineman Technology, Inc. today announced RAPID, an integrated, multi-loop control and data acquisition system designed for applications that demand quick development and low-cost deployment. RAPID is easy to implement and use, and features high-speed, 4 kHz, digital PID loop closure with spare analog and digital inputs to provide extensive data-logging capabilities. The 19" 3U rack-mount controller provides real-time control and acquisition for dynamometers and servo-hydraulics test cell applications, with the flexibility for a wide assortment of custom test applications. It is ideal for motion control and data acquisition applications, including dynamometers, hydraulics test systems, and other test cell applications including materials load frame testing, small engine test cells, tire lab testing, engine and transmission remanufacturing, and contract lab testing.

"The RAPID controller is, at its core, a real-time, digital controller that uses the power of an FPGA for maximum determinism and performance," said Jim Wineman, CEO of Wineman Technology. "With it, engineers get a powerful, open-source solution for multi-axis control and data acquisition."

The new controller offers easy-to-use, out-of-the-box functionality with quick installation, simple configuration, and user-friendly connectivity and wiring, while providing deterministic performance and reliability with the power of an FPGA. The RAPID controllers replace legacy controllers for many engineers, or are used to add functionality to existing systems.

RAPID includes a variety of preconfigured I/O with screw terminal connectors for channel connectivity, and externally accessible switches for configuring voltage or current inputs. The analog I/O channels are configurable between +/- 10 V or 4-20 mA inputs through externally accessible switches. Ribbon cable connectors provide expansion options for signal conditioning backplanes, digital I/O, TTL level I/O, and other connectivity products. The RAPID controller also includes an emergency stop button, and connectivity to safety circuits.

In addition, the RAPID controller ships with a desktop computer preloaded with control software and examples. Software for the controller features extensive user configuration options with flexible control settings, test profile creation, configurable alarms, definable user interfaces, data acquisition, and reporting functions. An easy-to-use, context-sensitive help menu is available throughout the application to aid the operator in using the extensive range of features and available tools. Custom National Instruments LabVIEW function palettes are included to programmatically enhance the system and user interface capabilities. With the NI LabVIEW function palettes, engineers are provided a custom Sub-VIs palette to programmatically enhance the systems capabilities. Included LabVIEW XControls also provide the capability to open, run, probe, and control a test profile and the ability to log data without running a test, all from the GUI.

Specifications

• 4 control output channels (4 kHz loop rates, voltage and current PIDF)
• 4 frequency input channels (5 V or 15-24 V range, 4 kHz sample rate)
• 32 analog input channels (single-ended, 16-bit resolution, +/-10 V or +/-20 mA)
• 40 digital input channels (11 to 30 VDC, 4 kHz sample rate)
• 32 solid-state relays and 8 relays (24 VDC with 1.5 A output per channel)
• 24 input and 21 output TTL digital channels (4 kHz update rate)
• Test profile waveform generation (0.1 Hz to 500 Hz)
• Optional thermocouple input channels
• Desktop computer preloaded with automation software

For more information on the RAPID controller, readers can visit http://www.winemantech.com.

About Wineman Technology

Established in 1991, Wineman Technology, Inc. specializes in providing the right technical solution for solving a wide range of test applications, such as dynamometer systems, servo-hydraulics, data acquisition systems, real time controllers, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) systems and general testing machines. Unlike other companies where test plays a partial role, Wineman Technology's singular focus is the design and development of test equipment for advanced research and development, functional test labs, and manufacturing production.  Wineman Technology's focus on test systems with a diverse range of capabilities enables them to deliver superior system reliability, serviceability, and support.

SOURCE Wineman Technology, Inc.

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