Data Acquisition (DAQ)
Voltage Measurement for the Automotive Manufacturing Industry
Though most people associate concepts such as voltage with the increasingly popular electric vehicles, vehicles with IC-based engines also require electrical current to run. The battery powers the starter motor, which initiates the internal combustion motor. This subsequently powers the alternator that’s in charge of recharging the battery and powering the vehicle’s electrics.
Since precise measurement in the automotive manufacturing industry isn’t a matter of technical necessity but rather safety, this principle also applies to voltage measurements. KEYENCE offers voltage-measuring transducers that can measure the voltage and store the recorded data for subsequent analysis and use. Read more about our sensors below.
Collecting Voltage Data During On-Vehicle Testing
On-vehicle testing, in the context of voltage measurements, is where the theory and quality assurance meet to practice on the open road, as the vehicle’s electrical systems are put to the test under simulated real-world conditions. Voltage measurement is critical during on-vehicle testing as it can help identify potential discrepancies before the product reaches the market.
KEYENCE’s NR-X Series multi-point data logger provides an easy and reliable way to read and record voltage levels from various critical points within the vehicle. Since it can be connected to multiple remote units, this data logger significantly reduces the need for complex wiring of the test points often associated with voltage measurement during on-vehicle tests.
Data Logging for Vehicle Electrical System Testing
Data logging for vehicle electrical system testing refers to monitoring and recording voltage measurements for vehicle electrical systems over time. This provides a more comprehensive view of the electrical system’s operation under various conditions.
Voltage Measurement Data Loggers for Automotive Manufacturing Industry
The NR-X Series by KEYENCE is often paired with several different processing units, including the NR-HV04 high-speed, high-voltage measurement unit, as well as NR-HA08, both of which are more than capable of detecting even the smallest fluctuations in voltage, thanks to high sampling rates, and bit resolution.
These devices will capture the voltage measurements, process them into adequate signals, and send them to the NR-X Series data logger for further processing and storage.
Applications and Examples
Understanding Automobile Manufacturing
Electrical voltage and electrical current are interconnected concepts that hold immense significance not only in vehicle operation but in the entirety of the automobile manufacturing industry. Robots on the assembly lines rely on electricity at specific voltage levels to function, and virtually all digital sensors produce voltage signals, which are then interpreted as various other physical properties.
Voltage measurements are crucial in the automotive manufacturing industry when assessing the electrical system of a vehicle. This includes evaluating the voltage output of the car battery and inspecting the wiring and other electrical components like window motors, wipers, windshield sprays, radio, AC, and engine control units (ECU). These measurements ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle's electrical systems.
Benefits of Voltage Measurement in Automotive Part Manufacturing
Voltage measurement ensures that the electrical components, the wiring, and the vehicle’s subsystems, from the battery to the load, are functioning within their specified parameters. This is particularly important for components like onboard sensors, ECUs, and other electronic systems requiring a consistent voltage level to function properly.
By detecting deviations from standardized voltage levels in automotive parts, professionals in the automotive manufacturing industry can identify faulty components before they’re installed into the vehicles. This type of proactive approach ensures the vehicle adheres to all the necessary safety and reliability standards while also cutting down on time and resources.
Integrating Voltage Measurement into Automotive Manufacturing Processes
The automotive manufacturing industry relies on precise voltage measurement to test out the electrical parts, components, and systems on a vehicle, ensuring regulatory compliance and driver and passenger safety. If you’re interested in integrating KEYENCE sensors into your production line, contact us today!
