MK IV Computer system
Modern and Proven
The ASFT MkIV is a new generation of Surface Friction Testers building on the successful MKII version. The Computer System is completely redesigned to allow more advanced functions and to make the Friction System easy to operate and maintain. Modern electronics with microprocessors are used and controlled by computer software.The MKIV computer system is being used in all our models. Easy to use As the operator works in a stressed situation and can not easily divert his atten- tion from manoeuvring the car it is important that the system is easy to under- stand and to operate. MkIV uses a menu driven technique here the correct and most efficient way of working is shown in a menu on the display unit. The work is thus performed in steps by choosing and accepting (or rejecting) alternatives, of which the most probable one is presented at the top of the menu. The advantages of this technique are: The operator is led in a correct and efficient way through the work scheme. A simple operators panel with few buttons suffice. Future additions in the system logic can be done through software modifications without needs to change the physical layout of the panel. The menus and measurement results are shown on a LCD screen with large characters displaying 4 lines of 20 character length. Graphical information to the operator. Friction Measurement Friction measurements are performed according to ICAO and FAA rules. The results of the measurements are stored in a database in the computer. A par- ticular measurement can be selected and presented either on the display as totals or graphs or printed on the printer. Presentation of measurement can be done in many ways: During measurement the momentary friction value is continuously and clearly displayed as a bar with a length that denotes the value of the current friction. As averages, computed at different phases of the run they are clearly presented on the display. At the end of the measurement the values can be . read directly off the display to the tower. After a run is finished it can be redisplayed on the graphic screen to allow the operator to inspect the run visually and decide if he wants to print it out on paper or send the data to the operational manager or the tower. Earlier runs can be recalled and processed in the same way as the last run. System Structure The new MkIV system is integrated in the front panel of the car and uses the DIN-standard radio cassette places. This is an economic and elegant solution and an improvement from a traffic safety standpoint. The Computer System for friction measurement consists of two co-operating computers with separate programs. The major data processing is done by the main computer which also controls the display, operators panel, printer and relay signals. The measurement computer works as a signal input and pre-processing unit. The communication between the computers is done via a serial data link.
If the data communication option is available the measurement can be sent to a PC in the tower where the measurements can be presented and analysed by ASFT View, a powerful WindowsTM program. The system has been designed in consideration of future needs and wishes to modify the system, e.g. to change measurement procedures or to add new func- tions like a GPS without needing to redesign the original system. The capacity of the computer system is also sufficient enough to accommo- date increased processing or storage requirement. |