Announcing EDM 11.1

Our team is thrilled to announce the 11.1 version of Engineering Data Management (EDM) software. Packed with a range of new features and improvements, this update is designed to elevate the user experience.

1. Shutdown Protection System:
Spider systems with digital input and output (DIO) interface, combined with EDM VCS software, can operate as a shutdown protection system. This function serves as an independent hardware system triggered by various signal conditions to swiftly send a shutdown digital output signal in under 10 milliseconds,. Additionally, it incorporates tracking filters mirroring those in the Sine controller.

vibration test shutdown

2. Intelligent Sigma Clipping:
Sigma Clipping, which constrains the peaks of the drive signal distribution by a sigma factor, has been enhanced in the 11.1 release with the Intelligent Clipping algorithm. This improvement reduces the loss of the dynamic range of control by 30 dB, while simultaneously reducing the amplitude of high-frequency content in the drive signal by a significant -40 dB.

Intelligent Sigma Clipping
Vibration Test Sigma Clipping

3. Signal Viewer:
Signal Viewer is a lightweight standalone software that displays signals acquired by Crystal Instruments' hardware. It is an .exe file and does not require installation. Simply run the file and experience the same EDM user interface.

vibration test signal viewer
vibration test signal viewer

4. Execute OMA with Time Stamp Technology on CoCo Analyzers:
The handheld CoCo provides convenient and precise field measurements with its rugged design and compact display, facilitating quick and accurate data recording and analysis. Equipped with patented GPS time synchronization technology (with a time accuracy of 100 ns) and Operational Modal Analysis capabilities, this powerful hardware system is ideal for studying the dynamic characteristics of large structures, such as bridges and buildings.

operational modal analysis

5. Data File Browser:
This independent application was developed by Crystal Instruments to help users select saved recordings and signal files from their PC. Included by default with the installation of EDM or PA version 11.1, users can access this feature when importing a recording or signal as a source file. The application indexes the file system for all recordings and saved signals to display on the user interface. Basic information such as name, time, and date are provided when the cursor is hovered over a file.

 
vibration test data
 

6. Spider operates as Power System Stabilizer:
Ensuring the stability of power generation systems is crucial for their operability. Large transients can lead to instability and eventual blackouts. Power systems must be designed to withstand such disturbances and maintain stability under changing conditions. Devices like the generator automatic voltage regulator (AVR) and power system stabilizer (PSS) play a key role in managing these instabilities. Crystal Instruments' CoCO-80X already serves as a PSS, and with the EDM 11.1 release, a Spider system can also function as a PSS.

 
Power System Stabilizer
 

7. New EDM CoCo Mode:
The user interface has been improved to provide a more intuitive experience. The software now simplifies the process of selecting a CoCo or GRS device. Managing configurations and data across multiple units can be challenging, but the new batch operations feature provides a robust solution. It allows users to simultaneously upload and download files from multiple devices, streamlining data management. The redesigned file viewer offers a cleaner interface for locating and managing files on the CoCo and GRS. Users can now encrypt SD cards with EDM software, and a new sensor library enables downloading and uploading sensor characteristics to CoCo.

handheld vibration analysis
vibration data download

Introducing GPS time-stamping technology to CoCo systems brings millisecond resolution to sampling clock accuracy. When precision time synchronization with GPS or IEEE 1588 PTP is required, the digital input paths must be designed accordingly, particularly the ADC. This new time-stamping technology allows users to synchronize measurements from separate CoCos for functions like spectral analysis. Time-stamped data can be viewed on EDM CoCo DSA, and multiple time-stamped datasets can be synchronized using Post Analyzer.

GPS time stamped vibration data
time stamped vibration analysis

8. New features of Blade Fatigue Testing:
Blade Fatigue Testing was initially introduced in the EDM 10.0 release. Since then, Crystal Instruments has received feedback from several users recommending improvements. Our team attentively reviewed their suggestions and implemented the following enhancements.

Blade Fatigue Testing

9. 4-Shaker MIMO Random Control:
MIMO Random now includes 4x4 (four shaker configuration) control.

4-Shaker MIMO Random
Four Shaker MIMO Random

These additions are poised to significantly enhance the functionality and user experience of the EDM software. All users are strongly recommend to upgrade to the latest version.

A comprehensive overview of the EDM 11.1 release features is outlined below. For detailed information about each feature and other improvements, please refer to the EDM 11.1 Release Notes or reach out to our dedicated user support team.

Thank you for using Crystal Instruments!

Release Highlights:

  • Shutdown Protection System

  • Intelligent Sigma Clipping

  • Signal Viewer

  • Executing OMA Using Time Stamp Technology on Multiple CoCo Devices

  • Data File Browser

  • Spider runs as Power Stabilizer

  • New EDM CoCo Mode

  • New features of Blade Fatigue Testing

  • 4-Shaker MIMO Random Control

New Features and Major Improvements in VCS (Single-axis Vibration Control System)

  • Burst mode in ROR

  • More user notes in checklist and reports

  • Sine oscillator supports up to 512 channels.

  • Test profile tolerance editing improvements.

  • Report builder: new report contents can be appended to an existing word file

  • Random vibration testing: the ramp up rate can be down to 0.1 dB/s to better accommodate hydraulic shakers.

  • Random vibration testing: Kurtosis over time of each input signal can be measured, displayed, and saved.

  • Sine: the Sine Sweep Entry is easier to setup.

  • Shock/TTH/SRS/Earthquake vibration testing: a Displacement Assist Control channel can be enabled in addition to the acceleration control channel to improve the performance of the control.

Miscellaneous Improvements

  • EDM VCS (Vibration Control System) Report Builder Improvements

  • EDM DSA (Dynamic Signal Analysis)

  • EDM Experimental Modal Analysis

  • PA (Post Analyzer software)

  • EDM Transducer Calibration

  • Front-End Calibration Tool

  • General improvements to all EDM applications (e.g., VCS, DSA, EMA, etc.)

  • EDM THV (Temperature, Humidity, and Vibration controller software)

  • Miscellaneous bug fixing