A typical project for Cussons was conducted at the National Technical University of Athens to upgrade their 30 year old towing tank control equipment - to increase the accuracy and repeatability of hull, propeller and propulsion tests. Based around Cussons Autotest IV, the resultant modernised system combined Cussons extensive experience of drive systems with a computer system bristling with advanced features. Utilising some existing carriage based equipment the new control system was integrated seamlessly and efficiently at the clients test facility. The modernised system was able to satisfy and exceed the requirements for accurate and stable speed control, high acceleration, swift control action, measurement accuracy & repeatability and system safety. The combination of improvements in performance and technology translated into greater saving of time and resource over the previous control system, opening new avenues of research in the Marine Hydrodynamics Laboratory.
Cussons Autotest IV is the current version of a family of computer based control and data management systems which have been specifically designed to meet the complex and demanding requirements typical of a wide range of current industrial test applications. First introduced in 1984, Cussons Autotest has evolved through a number of versions, adhering to the original design ethos of uncomplicated yet powerful operation, culminating in the incredibly powerful Autotest IV.
Autotest IV derives its power and flexibility from established VME computer technology - for true analog and digital real time performance - and a PC for the operator interface, data processing and networking. Networking Autotest into established LANs allows complete system integration - essential for today's IT requirements. With Autotest IV's inherently modular design it may also be tailored to the specific applications I/O requirements with the addition of standard 'off-the-shelf' components.
Using the ubiquitous Windows NT platform, Autotest Definition and Test software presents a clear and structured programming interface with built in security, while utilising a Relational Database for data storage and management. Its combination of user friendly interface, powerful adaptability, data acquisition and control ability makes Cussons Autotest IV the essential tool for Industrial Test.
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Revised : Dec 2010