Introduction

The ACCIMT electronics division carries out performance testing of various consumer items as part of the SLSI certification process. In addition manufacturers also make use of the facilities available to conduct independent testing of their products to verify conformity with the standards.

The nature of the tests varies from product to product. For instance in the case of switches clause number 10 of  SLS 1000requires 30,000 movements at rated voltage and rated current specified by the manufacturer at an ambient temperature of 25°C. This test is conducted to verify the endurance capability of the switch. Each movement takes up 5 seconds which leads to a total testing time of around 42 hours. During this period it is necessary to monitor the voltage and current passed through the pole of the switches. Similarly for RCCB/MCBs clause number 3 of IEC 60898requires a current equivalent to 1.13 times the rated current passed for 28 days to verify the correct operation. The above examples demonstrate that at least4 measurements need to be taken for an extended period of time. 

Data is collected periodically by manual measurements. The data is converted into information which in turn is converted into performance reports which are delivered to the clients. Considerable amount of manpower is spent in gathering the necessary data from various locations. The aim of this project is to reduce the time spent on gathering data and improving the frequency at which the data is gathered by introducing a centralized monitoring system.  

Objective

Develop and install a low cost centralized monitoring system for the testing facilities of the electronics division to improve efficiency within one year.

The following steps are proposed to achieve the objective

• Gather requirements for each test
• Identify time consuming tests and parameters to be monitored
• Identify sensors and controller suitable for the application
• Procurement of sensors and controller
• Develop monitoring system
• Installation of sensors
• Testing of system

Scope & Limitations

While there are about 100 tests in total, not all of them require constant monitoring. Some tests are completed within a minute. Some test equipment come with audible and visual alarms to indicate a fault or test completed conditions. Other tests are completed by visual inspection. Therefore, it is necessary to identify tests that are to be covered by this system..

Role of ACCIMT

ACCIMT will gather requirements and create system specifications. The development & installation of the system can be completed in-house or can be out sourced. Developing in-house will provide exposure and confidence to take on industrial automation projects in the future. Also it will increase competence of the staff in the field of automation whereas outsourcing will lead to a quicker and cheaper solution.