System eases stress data acquisition

HBM reckons its Canhead system gives large cost savings when conducting experimental stress analysis tests by removing the need to fit expensive connection cables.

HBM reckons its Canhead system gives large cost savings when conducting experimental stress analysis tests by removing the need to fit expensive connection cables.

The cost savings are increased when there are hundreds or thousands of measuring points needed for the tests.

Canhead works by making the base module independent of the amplifier module.

This benefits users because the amplifiers can be fitted close to the measuring points, significantly reducing the amount of cabling needed compared with a standard installation.

Data gathered during the tests are transmitted via standard CANbus systems to the base module.

In addition to reducing the cabling needed, Canhead allows test preparation to take place before the amplifier is installed.

As an added advantage, the amplifier can be disconnected at any time without the intelligent base module losing its data.

Each Canhead is designed for ten channels and has an analogue to digital (A/D) convertor on each channel allowing all measurement data to be acquired synchronously.

An additional channel is available for temperature compensation using a strain gauge or resistor.

Data from up to 12 Canheads can be transmitted over a single CANbus line using CANopen protocol.

The system's amplifiers operate at 600Hz carrier frequency to eliminate thermal voltages at the contact points and DC-voltage drift.

Bridge excitation voltages of 0.5, 1 and 2.5V are available.

HBM's ML74 communication module is used as the master for uploading data to an MGCplus or MGCsplit system and, for users of the catman measurement software, the system provides plug and play compatibility.

Canhead has been used successfully in various applications leading to enhancements of HBM's product range to include, for example, a strain-gage quarter bridge connection in four-wire technique.

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