Measurement data analysis
- Trend
Central to the BASIC module is the analysis chart or diagram. Trend and recorder objects are used here. Trend objects portray measurement values and can be individually configured. There are no longer any restrictions between online and offline analysis.
Trend objects
Trend objects enable highly flexible line graphs to be generated for measurement data. Various diagram formats are available
- y(t) graph,
- y1..n(t) graph,
- y(x) graph,
- y1..n(x) graph
- Orbit graph
- Cascade graph
- Block charts
- Graph with toolbox functions
Trend objects do not store data but can retrieve data from the central database or TopMessage's decentralized data storage capability. Several trend objects can be utilized simultaneously within one analysis chart.
Trends commence with online representation of measurement data up to the current time. In the background, historical data is being retrieved from the databases. Fast zooming functions are available. As time progresses the graph will automatically extend.
In run time mode, a separate toolbox can be opened for each trend object. The toolbox provides a range of important and useful functions. The toolbox is a tried and tested feature within the MHouse basic software package and has therefore been incorporated into ProfiSignal.
Time axis
The toolbox is used to determine whether the X,Y or Z axis is to be zoomed or moved along. Once an axis has been selected, e.g. the Y (time) axis, the <<, < , >, >> keys can be used to move along this axis. Zooming in or out is easily performed using the ><, <> keys. When zooming, measurement data density is automatically determined. It is possible therefore to switch between a measurement data density of 1 millisecond to a measurement data density of 1 month. In this way, analysis of long term changes is just as simple as analysis of a short malfunctioning event.
Measurement data axis
The X axis can be synchronized with the time axis. Another useful feature is the zoom function using the mouse. A right click on the trend object will activate cross-hairs enabling zoom, drag and pan functions.
Marker and text fields
The toolbox also has functions to set marker and text fields within the graphic. Markers are directly positioned on the graph and highlight measurement data to a fixed time point. Markers are a simple tool to measure out events.
Text fields can be used to mark events during or after measurement. Text fields can either be saved with the measurement data or just stored temporarily during measurement.
Highlighting graphs
Channel lists can be found on the right hand side of the trend objects. Colors can be attributed to each channel. The channel being focused on in the list will appear as highlighted with the graph line being emphasized. This is a particularly useful function when many channels are being represented in one diagram.
- recorder object
Recorder objects
Recorder objects enable individual, user managed saving of measurement data. Using recorder objects takes place in run time.
Recorder objects can either save data directly to a hard disk or to measurement files within the network. They can also issue control commands to the data service which can save data in specific data areas.
Several recorder objects can be used within one visualization chart. Recorder objects are activated or deactivated by mouse clicking. Remote control of recorder objects is also possible using external or internal triggers or time controls.
Formula editor
- Formula editor
The formula editor enables calculations to be performed on channels during measurement data acquisition. Results can either be directly portrayed or saved. The formula editor is equipped with similar functions as found in a scientific pocket calculator, e.g. Boolean functions, arithmetic functions, differentiation, averaging etc..
Calculating a complex formula is just as easy as calculating a temperature difference. It is also possible to link DLL files containing company specific formulas to ProfiSignal. In this way own know-how can be integrated.