Engineers atSiemens (Munich, Germany) have developed a means of analyzing the defects in frequency converter modules by using a thermal imaging system.
The system captures a number of images of the temperature distribution on the surface of the modules which are then recorded and compared with corresponding images in a reference database.
If sources of faults are identified, the test system automatically details them on a report which not only recommends what repair is needed but also specifies the spare parts required.
The company claims that the system -- which takes just a few minutes to check the modules -- can reduce the time required to diagnose and repair them by up to 30%.
Theimage analysis also provides information about the condition of the modules long before damage would become visible, enabling estimates to be made of their remaining service life.
In addition to identifying the repairs required, the test system can also be used to ensure that the modules meet specific quality requirements. Complete batches can be tested, and a report given to a customer.
-- By Dave Wilson, Senior Editor,Vision Systems Design