an upgraded control and data acquisition system for the...
TRANSCRIPT
An Upgraded Control and Data Acquisition System for the Universal Element Tester at
the University of Houston
Brent Lindelof, REU Student
A. Laskar, Graduate MentorAnd
Y. L. Mo, Faculty Member
Introduction:
The Universal Element Tester at the University of Houston
Why do we need it? What is it?
Why do we need an upgrade?What does the upgrade consist of?
How will this benefit UH?
Why do we need the UET? To explore the mechanical behavior of
different structure types including, box girders, bridges, shear walls, concrete offshore structures, and nuclear containment vessels.
What is the Universal Element Tester?
• Built by Dr. Hsu from 1986-88
• Tests full-scale elements• 37 in-plane jacks, 100
tons each• Sophisticated servo-
control hydraulics• Extensive data and
graphical analysis capabilities
Servo-Control System
• Installed in 1993• Produced by Gardner
Systems• Allows strain control
during testing• Allows Poisson ratios
to be accurately measured
• Utilizes cyclic loading to simulate earthquakes
Data Analysis for UET
96 channels for data input including;
• Strain gauges on steel reinforcement
• Load cells on jacks• Pressure transducers on
manifolds• Linear Variable Differential
Transformers, (LVDT), on panel faces
• Real-time graphing displayed on CPU
Why do we need an Upgrade?Several important reasons
• Run-time control
• Flexibility
• Efficiency
• Antiquated computer system
Run-Time Control
• Run-time control means the ability to change
test parameters during the test
Flexibility and Efficiency
This will mean a ‘more’ user friendly interface
including less error malfunctions and more awareness by the programming
Antiquated computer system?
What do you think?
What does the upgrade consist of ?
Software• Windows-based
operating system• Ramp control software• Load profile
modification • New method of data
collection and transfer
Hardware• GS 2100P program
generator• GS 2100D data
acquisition unit• GS 2100 PC integration
package• New CPU• Serviced controllers and
signal conditioners
How will this benefit the University of Houston?
• New areas of research
• New student interest
• More research grants
• Development of new materials
• More prestige
Most importantly,
The ability to have a positive impact on the world around us.
Conclusions:
• The UET at the University of Houston is currently being upgraded for the further development of advanced concrete designs.
• Gardner Systems is implementing our needs into a practical solution package for the UET.
• This will benefit the entire world through international, multi-disciplinary cooperation.
Special Thanks
• National Science Foundation
• UH Civil and Environmental Engineering Department
• Dr. T.T.C. Hsu
• Dr. Y.L.Mo
• Norm Hoffman
• Arghadeep Laskar
• Gerald McTigret
Questions????
Thank you for your attention.Alan Brent Lindelof