What's New at Congress 2002
In-dummy DAS
With the new TDAS G5 technology and a partnership between Diversified Technical Systems (DTS) and First Technology Safety Systems, in-dummy data-acquisition systems (DAS) have been enhanced. The in-dummy systems of the past could only be used in specific dummies, usually with highly modified chest cavities. This limitation was mainly due to the size of the DAS and other packaging constraints. With the TDAS G5, the physical size is less than one-fifth that of any current DAS, and the unique packaging provides easy use in the complete family of crash-test dummies. Some key specifications for the TDAS G5 are less than 4 cm3 (0.24 in3) per channel; 500-g shock rated; 20 kHz per channel simultaneous sampling; nonvolatile memory; software adjustable gain, offset, and calibration; and 100BaseT Ethernet communications. It can be used for motorcycle and ejection seat applications.
Dynamometer control
Dyne Systems Co.'s Inter-Loc V dynamometer control system is a software-based multi-loop controller for up to three dynamometers or throttle control devices. Each control loop is updated 1000 times per second, providing fast, precise, repeatable control, even at rapid transient rates. The Inter-Loc V is modular in design, so only the components required for the specific testing application are integrated into the control system. The basic unit has three slots into which any combination of dynamometer or throttle control modules is inserted. External instrumentation is connected to the MS and Sub-D connections on each module. All popular dynamometers are supported, including ac and dc motoring, eddy current, water brake, chassis, dual-ended, and hydraulic. Control and monitoring of the system is easily accomplished with a rack-mountable unit. It contains a full VGA active-matrix-color LCD with a touch-screen interface, which displays dynamometer and engine speed, torque, power, and vacuum (if implemented).
Support software
e-GIP Software AG has developed an intranet- and Internet-supported innovation process called the electronic-Generic Innovation Process (e-GIP). The software is a knowledge and process platform for the support of innovation and workflow management. It is an assistant for project management, a platform for idea management, and an information center for all project activities. The specific connection to mailing systems enables automatic control of all project-relevant activities, which enables e-GIP to increase the performance of processes and the efficiency of employees by a noticeable margin.
Remote visual inspection
Everest VIT is offering an upgrade program to enhance the video, language, and storage functionality of its VideoProbe XL PRO and Industrial XL PRO inspection devices. The XL PRO is a portable, multi-purpose video borescope incorporated with the firm's iView platform, which allows images to be manipulated, stored, or copied for in-the-field or off-site assessment using a joystick controller. When upgraded to version 2.2 software, the XL PRO allows a user to choose from a menu of up to five operating languages (English, French, Spanish, German, or Italian). The v2.2 software upgrade also provides improved split-screen display, enhanced image zooming with both pan and steer views, and a character generator overlay for both still and live video.
Superalloys
Ferguson Metals, a specialty stainless steel and high-temperature alloy service center, is stocking a greater variety of high-temperature alloys, including A286, Hast-X, 625, and 718. Type A286 alloy (S66286) is an iron-base superalloy useful for applications requiring high strength and corrosion resistance up to 704°C (1300°F) and for low-stress applications at high temperatures. Type 625 alloy (NO6625) is an austenitic nickel-base superalloy possessing good resistance to oxidation and corrosion over a broad range of corrosive conditions. The alloy has high strength and toughness, ranging from cryogenic temperature to 1093°C (2000°F). Type 718 alloy (N07718) is an austenitic nickel-base superalloy that is used in applications requiring high strength to approximately 760°C (1400°F) and oxidation resistance to about 982°C (1800°F). The alloy also exhibits good tensile and impact strength, even at cryogenic temperatures.
Thermal management software
Flowmaster Group extends the capabilities of Flowmaster2 to provide a single common environment to simulate complex thermal systems in vehicles. Complex interaction of heat flows between different underhood systems such as engine cooling, lubrication, air-conditioning, and in-cabin systems can be simulated for any combination of vehicle and passenger operating condition in the transient domain. The true effect of modifications to individual systems can be visualized on two levels. The effects on individual system performance and on vehicle thermal performance give the design engineer increased visibility to the implications of their changes on the vehicle as a whole. Reduced time-to-market is achieved through the integrated-systems modeling approach, increasing product knowledge at an earlier stage in the design process.
