This 5 station Data Trace system was designed to allow for permanent tracking and data-logging of test measurement during the assembly of air bag inflators. There are four multi-function stations for Weight, Torque and Caliper measurements. There is also one station that is designed specifically for interfacing with a helium leak station. Each station is capable of running multiple tests per build as well as different tests for various serial devices.
Each station consisted of a Panelview Micro for operator interface, a symbol fixed bar code scanner, and a Gageport serial interface device.
A PC Main operator station is used for build setup and debugging. A Visual Basic application was written to provide the primary code that supports the communication between all devices and a custom Access Database used for quality control and data logging. A barcode printer is used to label parts prior to assembly for tracking.
An Allen-Bradley PLC with a SLC 5/05 is used to provide communications between the Bar Code scanners & Panelviews to the PC. |