Industrial Automation Magazine India

Virtual instrumentation revolutionises traditional hardware based systems

Published on : Wednesday 03-07-2024

Sureshbabu Chigurupalli, Business Head (Ferro Alloys & Projects), Indian Metal Ferro Alloys (IMFA) Ltd.

What are the current trends and innovations in the test and measuring instruments industry?

The test and measurement instruments industry is buzzing with exciting innovations and trends. Industry 4.0 and IoT integration are bringing smart, connected systems to life, enabling real-time data monitoring and analytics. Modular and software-defined instruments are winning favour for their unmatched flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Cutting-edge high-speed and high bandwidth testing capabilities are emerging to support the latest technologies and data interfaces. AI and ML are revolutionising the field by enhancing data analysis, optimising test parameters, and enabling predictive maintenance. Environmental and EMC testing are critical for ensuring product reliability and regulatory compliance. Portable and field-deployable instruments are making on-site testing and troubleshooting more efficient than ever. Test automation and robotics are driving unprecedented efficiency and productivity. The demand for wireless testing equipment that can handle higher frequencies and wider bandwidths is on the rise. Advanced, reliable, and high-performance devices are being developed to cater to the growing consumer demands. The future of testing and measurement is here, and it’s smarter, faster, and more efficient than ever before.

How do regulations and standards influence the design and manufacture of test and measurement instruments?

Test and measurement instruments are designed and manufactured with regulations and standards in mind, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and performance requirements. Safety standards like UL and IEC are integral to instrument design, safeguarding users from potential hazards. By complying with these standards, manufacturers prioritise user safety and well-being.

In addition to safety, regulations also govern instrument accuracy and reliability. Standards like NIST and ISO provide guidelines for calibration, traceability, and measurement uncertainty, ensuring instruments deliver precise results. By adhering to these standards, manufacturers enable accurate decision-making in various fields, as instrument measurements often form the basis for critical decisions.

Manufacturers must stay up to date with evolving regulations and adapt their designs, accordingly, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and user satisfaction. By prioritising regulatory compliance, the industry ensures test and measurement instruments meet the highest standards, fostering trust with users and driving business success. Adherence to regulations and standards enables manufacturers to build a reputation for quality and reliability.

How do manufacturers/designers ensure the accuracy and reliability of their instruments against growing environmental concerns?

In a world where environmental concerns are paramount, manufacturers and designers are rising to the challenge by creating instruments that not only excel in accuracy and reliability but also embody sustainability. By embracing eco-friendly design practices, cutting-edge technologies, and rigorous testing protocols, they ensure their instruments deliver precise measurements and monitoring capabilities. With the integration of environmental sensors and real-time data analysis, these instruments empower informed decision-making and sustainable practices. Committed to staying ahead of the curve, manufacturers collaborate with experts and continuously update their designs to address emerging environmental issues. The result? Instruments that not only measure the environment but also help preserve it for future generations.

What are the advantages of virtual instrumentation over traditional hardware-based systems; and how has digitalisation impacted the T&M scenario?

Virtual instrumentation revolutionises traditional hardware-based systems by offering numerous benefits. It's significantly more cost-effective, relying on software instead of pricey hardware, and demands less maintenance. These systems are incredibly flexible, allowing for easy updates and reconfigurations through software changes. Integration with other software tools boosts automation and customisation possibilities. Virtual instruments are also highly portable, enabling remote access and requiring minimal physical space. Digitalisation further transforms the test and measurement landscape by enhancing data handling and real-time analysis and integrating with the Internet of Things (IoT) for seamless connectivity. Digital systems deliver superior accuracy, advanced user interfaces, and greater automation, driving efficiency and cost savings to new heights.

How is data generated by test and measurement instruments managed and utilised?

In the era of data-driven insights, test and measurement instruments produce a wealth of valuable information. Advanced software and hardware carefully collect and store this data, while innovative analysis tools and machine learning algorithms uncover hidden relationships and trends.

With data seamlessly shared and monitored in real-time through cloud-based platforms, teams collaborate more effectively and make informed decisions with ease. Actionable reports and visualisations bring data to life, enabling predictive maintenance, automation, and unparalleled efficiency. In this data-rich landscape, innovation flourishes, product quality excels, and the future looks brighter than ever.

How can aspiring engineers and technologists prepare for a career in test and measurement?

To succeed in test and measurement, aspiring engineers and technologists should combine academic excellence in math and science with hands-on experience through internships, projects, and hackathons. Staying current with industry developments and networking with professionals is also crucial.

Honing problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential, and pursuing certifications like CTE or CQE can provide valuable credentials. Engaging with professional organisations like IEEE can also offer valuable connections and resources. By taking these steps, individuals can position themselves for a fulfilling career in test and measurement, where they can drive innovation and advancement.

(The views expressed in interviews are personal, not necessarily of the organisations represented)

Sureshbabu Chigurupalli is Business Head (Ferro Alloys & Projects) at Indian Metal Ferro Alloys (IMFA) Ltd, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. He did his B Tech in Instrumentation from Andhra University (1994). He is an enterprising leader & planner with a strong record of contributions to streamlining operations, invigorating businesses, and heightening productivity, systems & procedures. He has achievement-driven professional experience in spearheading entire unit/ plant operations to maintain continuity and match organisational goals through supervising Operations, Quality Control, Production Goals, Automation, Maintenance, Process Improvements, Safety Guidelines, Manpower Development, New Policy/Procedure Guidelines, Resource Allocation and Cost Optimisations. He is leading and managing all plant operations with effective utilisation of all resources and implementing industry best practices such as TPM, Six Sigma, Lean Management & other Business Excellence initiatives that contribute to improving productivity and efficiency. He has exhibited leadership in closely collaborating with numerous Japanese Consultants to implement TPM to enhance overall plant effectiveness.

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