NASA Technical Memorandum 103108 

AIAA -90-2386 

A Test Matrix Sequencer for Research 

Test Facility Automation 

Timothy P. McCartney and Edward F. Emery 

Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 

Prepared for the 

26th Joint Propulsion Conference 

cosponsored by the AIAA, SAE, ASME, and ASEE 

Orlando, Florida, July 16-18, 1990 

NI\S/\ 

NASA Technical Memorandum 103108 

AIAA -90-2386 

A Test Matrix Sequencer for Research 

Test Facility Automation 

Timothy P. McCartney and Edward F. Emery 

Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 

Prepared for the 

26th Joint Propulsion Conference 

cosponsored by the AIAA, SAE, ASME, and ASEE 

Orlando, Florida, July 16-18, 1990 

NI\S/\ 
A TEST MATRIX SEQUENCER FOR RESEARCH TEST FACILITY AUTOMATION 

Timothy P. McCartney and Edward F. Emery 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 44135 

Abstract 

This paper describes the hardware and software 

configuration of a Test Matrix Sequencer, a general 

purpose test matrix profiler that was developed for 

research test facility automation at the NASA Lewis 

Research Center. The system provides set points to 

controllers and contact closures to data systems during 

the course of a test. The Test Matrix Sequencer consists of a microprocessor-controlled system which is 

operated from a personal computer. 

The software program, which is the main element 

of the overall system is interactive and menu driven 

with pop up windows and help screens. Analog and digital input/output channels can be controlled from a 

personal computer using the software program. 

The Test Matrix Sequencer provides more efficient 

use of aeronautics test facilities by automating repetitive tasks that were once done manually. 

Introduction 

In aeronautics research, test time in a research 

facility is a valuable and limited resource. Optimal 

facility utilization requires not only an increase in the 

number of test programs, but also in the amount of 

data acquired during any given test program. Any 

-T[5T ...Imlll - S£QUEMCn 'f· , . 

•• ... - . ..!. .: ... 

ANALOG liO 

. DIGITAL 

increase in utilization is greatly desired and the facility 

becomes a more productive resource. 

Remote control of variables, such as model geometry, probe position, and facility valves, has been used 

for sometime at NASA Lewis to enhance productivity 

by reducing the time required to change these 

variables. 

The next logical steps in the path toward increasing facility utilization are to minimize the time between data points and to maximize the quality of data 

taken at each test point. Automating the entire test 

matrix, which consists of a sequence of multiple test 

points, is a means of increasing productivity. 

Previous test matrix automated systems at Lewis 

have required lengthy setup times, inflexible sequencing options, limited analog and digital input/ 

output options, and limited programmability. These 

earlier systems did not allow for on-line adjustments, 

operator intervention, or proficient configuration 

changes. 

For these reasons NASA Lewis set out to develop 

a system that would provide flexibility and increased 

operational capability. The system developed, the 

Test Matrix Sequencer (TMS), is a general purpose, 

programmable, personal-computer-based set-point processor (fig. 1). The TMS consists of a microprocessor 

subsystem with analog and digital input/output channels controlled from a personal computer by a menu 

Fig. 1 Test Matrix Sequencer system. 

1 

A TEST MATRIX SEQUENCER FOR RESEARCH TEST FACILITY AUTOMATION 

Timothy P. McCartney and Edward F. Emery 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 44135 

Abstract 

This paper describes the hardware and software 

configuration of a Test Matrix Sequencer, a general 

purpose test matrix profiler that was developed for 

research test facility automation at the NASA Lewis 

Research Center. The system provides set points to 

controllers and contact closures to data systems during 

the course of a test. The Test Matrix Sequencer consists of a microprocessor-controlled system which is 

operated from a personal computer. 

The software program, which is the main element 

of the overall system is interactive and menu driven 

with pop up windows and help screens. Analog and digital input/output channels can be controlled from a 

personal computer using the software program. 

The Test Matrix Sequencer provides more efficient 

use of aeronautics test facilities by automating repetitive tasks that were once done manually. 

Introduction 

In aeronautics research, test time in a research 

facility is a valuable and limited resource. Optimal 

facility utilization requires not only an increase in the 

number of test programs, but also in the amount of 

data acquired during any given test program. Any 

-T[5T ...Imlll - S£QUEMCn 'f· , . 

•• ... - . ..!. .: ... 

ANALOG liO 

. DIGITAL 

increase in utilization is greatly desired and the facility 

becomes a more productive resource. 

Remote control of variables, such as model geometry, probe position, and facility valves, has been used 

for sometime at NASA Lewis to enhance productivity 

by reducing the time required to change these 

variables. 

The next logical steps in the path toward increasing facility utilization are to minimize the time between data points and to maximize the quality of data 

taken at each test point. Automating the entire test 

matrix, which consists of a sequence of multiple test 

points, is a means of increasing productivity. 

Previous test matrix automated systems at Lewis 

have required lengthy setup times, inflexible sequencing options, limited analog and digital input/ 

output options, and limited programmability. These 

earlier systems did not allow for on-line adjustments, 

operator intervention, or proficient configuration 

changes. 

For these reasons NASA Lewis set out to develop 

a system that would provide flexibility and increased 

operational capability. The system developed, the 

Test Matrix Sequencer (TMS), is a general purpose, 

programmable, personal-computer-based set-point processor (fig. 1). The TMS consists of a microprocessor 

subsystem with analog and digital input/output channels controlled from a personal computer by a menu 

Fig. 1 Test Matrix Sequencer system. 

1 
driven program. Below is a list of the system's major 

features: 

• 14 Analog I/ O • 14 Facility system analog inputs 

• 15 Discrete I/ O • Variable ramping of outputs 

• 0.1 Percent accuracy • 50 Unique test points • Fully programmable • Multiple test sequences • Menu driven • Help screens • Interactive checkout • File handling 

• Simple operator panel • Ease of operation • Serial communications • Data recording control 

T he microprocessor subsystem handles all of the 

low level I/O in a parallel processing fashion. This 

allows the personal computer to continue to run the 

test matrix, monitor the channels, and keep the operator informed of the test status. 

The software program, which is the heart of the 

system, allows the user to configure, store, and run 

complete test matrices as well as to directly control the 

I/ O channels from the keyboard. The system also, at 

each test point, verifies controller operation, turns on 

recorders, waits for user permissives, and handles the 

dat a system communications. Figure 2 shows how the 

system can be integrated in an automated test facility. 

T he TMS has proven to be ideal for use in the 

aeropropulsion research test facilities at Lewis since it 

automates repetitive tasks such as the positioning of 

actuators for multiple test conditions. The TMS 

accomplishes these tasks with far more accuracy, 

repeatability, and speed than manual operation. 

( Integrated Test Automation) 

Fo.c;l;ty Test Section 

~ ~ 

<l 

,,\ '\ '\ 

SUPERVISORY PRIMARY 

COMMAND CONTROL 

LOOPS 

1 I FACDAILI TA T Y J 

I COM PUTER F

CO

AC

NTR

ILITY 

OL t- SYSTEMS 

I 1 T EST =t M ODEL 

MATRIX ~~:1:E ~SL L 

SEQUENCER 

Fig. 2 Test Matrix Sequencer in an automated test facility. 

2 

System Overview 

The TMS (fig. 3) consists of an electronic hardware system with 14 analog and 15 digital user configur able I/O channels and a software program running 

on a personal computer. The system can acquire 14 

additional analog inputs from t he facility data system. 

T he program is written in Turbo Pascal and is a fully 

integrat ed, menu-driven system. 

The electronic hardware, consisting of two microprocessors with digital and analog boards, is housed in 

a 7-in.-high rack-mountable chassis with an active 

front panel. The analog and digital boards each consists of a microprocessor with a passive I/ O rack that 

will accept optically isolated I/ O modules. The modules contain all the signal conditioning required to 

interface with field devices and the onboard microprocessor. Analog modules provide 12-bit resolution in a 

variety of full-scale ranges for both the outputs and 

inputs. Digital modules are used for sensing on/off 

voltages in a wide range of dc voltages as well as dry 

contact closures. 

The Test Matrix Sequencer Software consists of 

four major routines: 

• Run Time Matrix • Print Run Time Matrix • Hardware Configuration • Print Hardware Configuration 

The Run Time Matrix routine allows t he user to 

define, load, save and run the test matrices. The 

Hardware Configuration routine enables the user to 

derme the analog and digital I/ O channel parameters 

for the run time portion of the progr am and perform 

file operations. T he Print Hardware Configuration 

and Print Run Time Matrix routines provide printouts 

of the user-defined sequences and configurations. 

Seri311/o/ 

§J..

.'.........::::: ........:: .... ... - .. ............. 

ESC 10 Qun • 

Software 

Interface 

Serial 1/0 

Hardware 

Interface 

Fig. 3 Test Matrix Sequencer block diagram. 

driven program. Below is a list of the system's major 

features: 

• 14 Analog I/ O • 14 Facility system analog inputs 

• 15 Discrete I/ O • Variable ramping of outputs 

• 0.1 Percent accuracy • 50 Unique test points • Fully programmable • Multiple test sequences • Menu driven • Help screens • Interactive checkout • File handling 

• Simple operator panel • Ease of operation • Serial communications • Data recording control 

T he microprocessor subsystem handles all of the 

low level I/O in a parallel processing fashion. This 

allows the personal computer to continue to run the 

test matrix, monitor the channels, and keep the operator informed of the test status. 

The software program, which is the heart of the 

system, allows the user to configure, store, and run 

complete test matrices as well as to directly control the 

I/ O channels from the keyboard. The system also, at 

each test point, verifies controller operation, turns on 

recorders, waits for user permissives, and handles the 

dat a system communications. Figure 2 shows how the 

system can be integrated in an automated test facility. 

T he TMS has proven to be ideal for use in the 

aeropropulsion research test facilities at Lewis since it 

automates repetitive tasks such as the positioning of 

actuators for multiple test conditions. The TMS 

accomplishes these tasks with far more accuracy, 

repeatability, and speed than manual operation. 

( Integrated Test Automation) 

Fo.c;l;ty Test Section 

~ ~ 

<l 

,,\ '\ '\ 

SUPERVISORY PRIMARY 

COMMAND CONTROL 

LOOPS 

1 I FACDAILI TA T Y J 

I COM PUTER F

CO

AC

NTR

ILITY 

OL t- SYSTEMS 

I 1 T EST =t M ODEL 

MATRIX ~~:1:E ~SL L 

SEQUENCER 

Fig. 2 Test Matrix Sequencer in an automated test facility. 

2 

System Overview 

The TMS (fig. 3) consists of an electronic hardware system with 14 analog and 15 digital user configur able I/O channels and a software program running 

on a personal computer. The system can acquire 14 

additional analog inputs from t he facility data system. 

T he program is written in Turbo Pascal and is a fully 

integrat ed, menu-driven system. 

The electronic hardware, consisting of two microprocessors with digital and analog boards, is housed in 

a 7-in.-high rack-mountable chassis with an active 

front panel. The analog and digital boards each consists of a microprocessor with a passive I/ O rack that 

will accept optically isolated I/ O modules. The modules contain all the signal conditioning required to 

interface with field devices and the onboard microprocessor. Analog modules provide 12-bit resolution in a 

variety of full-scale ranges for both the outputs and 

inputs. Digital modules are used for sensing on/off 

voltages in a wide range of dc voltages as well as dry 

contact closures. 

The Test Matrix Sequencer Software consists of 

four major routines: 

• Run Time Matrix • Print Run Time Matrix • Hardware Configuration • Print Hardware Configuration 

The Run Time Matrix routine allows t he user to 

define, load, save and run the test matrices. The 

Hardware Configuration routine enables the user to 

derme the analog and digital I/ O channel parameters 

for the run time portion of the progr am and perform 

file operations. T he Print Hardware Configuration 

and Print Run Time Matrix routines provide printouts 

of the user-defined sequences and configurations. 

Seri311/o/ 

§J..

.'.........::::: ........:: .... ... - .. ............. 

ESC 10 Qun • 

Software 

Interface 

Serial 1/0 

Hardware 

Interface 

Fig. 3 Test Matrix Sequencer block diagram. 
Hardware 

The Test Matrix Sequencer electronics are contained in one 7-in.-high, rack-mountable chassis. The 

front panel (fig. 4), which is divided into two sections, 

displays the status of the Test Matrix Sequencer independent of the software program. The autoranging digital voltmeter can be used to monitor any of the analog channels as well as to test the power supplies. A 

light-emitting diode on each digital I/ O channel indicates the channel status. Other front panel controls 

include manual overrides for the system input channels 

and a switch to enable or disable data recording system 

sequencing. 

Internally, the system consists of analog and digital I/O boards, power supplies, and a switch panel 

(fig. 5). Each I/O board contains a microprocessor and 

a passive mounting rack. 

Each microprocessor performs the following functions: serial communication with the personal computer, onboard diagnostics, error checking, and low-level 

communication to I/O channels. The microprocessor 

communicates with the host computer via an RS 422/ 

485 bus operating at 19.2K baud. The RS 422/485 

card, which plugs into a slot in the personal computer, 

protects the system from transients and communicates 

serially with electronic hardware up to 5000 ft away. 

The 19.2K baud rate was selected because it can provide maximum throughput communication from a personal computer to the I/O modules. 

The passive mounting racks accept commercially 

available I/0 modules. These racks allow the placement of modules in any position and allow for the 

replacement of modules without disturbing field wiring. 

The analog and digital I/O modules are of a 

general-purpose, optically isolated plug-in type that are 

controlled by a personal computer through the local 

microprocessor. 

The digital input modules are capable of detecting 

voltages from 2.5 to 28 V dc and feature input filtering, high noise rejection, and transient-free switching. 

Two types of digital output modules are available: 

form A mechanical relays and voltage outputs. The 

.,. 

... . 

•• 

~, ... ,.~ 

TEST MATRIX SEQUENCER 

• • 

ANALOG 1/0 

.. ., .. • ..01.... • .. ..... ,If _u .... . DIGITAL 1/0. 

Fig. 4 Test Matrix Sequencer front panel. 

s 

Fig. 5 Test Matrix Sequencer internal view. 

form A mechanical relays furnish a dry contact closure, 

and the voltage output modules control and switch 

voltages from 5 to 60 V dc. 

The analog I/ O modules are available in four voltage ranges (0 to 5, 0 to 10, ±5, ±10 V dc) with 12-bit 

resolution and accuracy of ±0.1 percent of span. The 

analog input modules have differential inputs, and all 

I/O modules are optically isolated from t he field 

devices. Field connections to the TMS are made 

through the two-pin connectors on the back of the 

chassis (fig. 6). 

Software 

The software program that operates the TMS is 

menu driven with windows and fully integrated help 

screens. All options in the program may be selected 

' j 

Fig. 6 Test Matrix Sequencer rear panel interconnect. 

J 

Hardware 

The Test Matrix Sequencer electronics are contained in one 7-in.-high, rack-mountable chassis. The 

front panel (fig. 4), which is divided into two sections, 

displays the status of the Test Matrix Sequencer independent of the software program. The autoranging digital voltmeter can be used to monitor any of the analog channels as well as to test the power supplies. A 

light-emitting diode on each digital I/ O channel indicates the channel status. Other front panel controls 

include manual overrides for the system input channels 

and a switch to enable or disable data recording system 

sequencing. 

Internally, the system consists of analog and digital I/O boards, power supplies, and a switch panel 

(fig. 5). Each I/O board contains a microprocessor and 

a passive mounting rack. 

Each microprocessor performs the following functions: serial communication with the personal computer, onboard diagnostics, error checking, and low-level 

communication to I/O channels. The microprocessor 

communicates with the host computer via an RS 422/ 

485 bus operating at 19.2K baud. The RS 422/485 

card, which plugs into a slot in the personal computer, 

protects the system from transients and communicates 

serially with electronic hardware up to 5000 ft away. 

The 19.2K baud rate was selected because it can provide maximum throughput communication from a personal computer to the I/O modules. 

The passive mounting racks accept commercially 

available I/0 modules. These racks allow the placement of modules in any position and allow for the 

replacement of modules without disturbing field wiring. 

The analog and digital I/O modules are of a 

general-purpose, optically isolated plug-in type that are 

controlled by a personal computer through the local 

microprocessor. 

The digital input modules are capable of detecting 

voltages from 2.5 to 28 V dc and feature input filtering, high noise rejection, and transient-free switching. 

Two types of digital output modules are available: 

form A mechanical relays and voltage outputs. The 

.,. 

... . 

•• 

~, ... ,.~ 

TEST MATRIX SEQUENCER 

• • 

ANALOG 1/0 

.. ., .. • ..01.... • .. ..... ,If _u .... . DIGITAL 1/0. 

Fig. 4 Test Matrix Sequencer front panel. 

s 

Fig. 5 Test Matrix Sequencer internal view. 

form A mechanical relays furnish a dry contact closure, 

and the voltage output modules control and switch 

voltages from 5 to 60 V dc. 

The analog I/ O modules are available in four voltage ranges (0 to 5, 0 to 10, ±5, ±10 V dc) with 12-bit 

resolution and accuracy of ±0.1 percent of span. The 

analog input modules have differential inputs, and all 

I/O modules are optically isolated from t he field 

devices. Field connections to the TMS are made 

through the two-pin connectors on the back of the 

chassis (fig. 6). 

Software 

The software program that operates the TMS is 

menu driven with windows and fully integrated help 

screens. All options in the program may be selected 

' j 

Fig. 6 Test Matrix Sequencer rear panel interconnect. 

J 
from a moving bar type menu or from the function 

keys. The program consists of four major routines: the 

Run T ime Matrix, Print Run Time Matrix, Hardware 

Configuration, and Print Hardware Configuration 

routines. Each routine is selected from the main menu 

(fig. 7) . 

The Run Time Matrix routine allows the user to 

create, test, and run test matrices. It also allows manual operation of the inputs and outputs for checkout 

purposes. When the user runs this routine, a hardware 

configuration file must be specified. The configuration 

file is created with the Hardware Configuration routine 

and provides all the necessary channel information to 

run TMS. 

The Print Run Time Matrix routine provides the 

user with a hard copy of the user-defined test matrix. 

The third option on the main menu, the Hardware 

Configuration routine, allows the user to identify the 

type of hardware to be used, the symbolic names for 

channels, conversion rules, and other information specific to the I/O channel. Once the Hardware Configuration has been set up, it can be saved on disk and 

used to build a number of test matrices. 

The Print Hardware Configuration routine is the 

last option and provides a hard copy record of the 

specific hardware configuration. 

TEST MATRIX SeQUENCER 

Vcr.3.e 

Fl . . .• RUN TIM E MATRIX 

F2 .•.• PRINT RUN TIME MATRIX 

F3 • .. HAROWARE CONFIGURATION 

F4 • . . . . . •• . • . •.• PRINT HARDWARE CONFIGURATION 

ESC TO QU:::'T==========::!.J 

Fig. 7 Main menu. 

Run Time Matrix 

The Run Time Matrix portion of the program is 

where the user actually creates and runs the test matrix. The test matrix is built from multiple test points 

or subsequences. Each test point consists of the following steps : 

• Out£ut analog set points • Verify analog inputs • Check system permissives • Set discrete and digital outputs 

• Check discrete and digital inputs • Start countdown timer • Close data system contact • Wait for data system contact 

Each test point in the test matrix can use some or all 

of these options listed. 

When the Run Time Matrix option is selected 

from the main menu, the user is prompted for a hardware configuration file name. The hardware configuration file contains all of the necessary channel 

information. 

The main screen of the Run Time Matrix routine 

(fig. 8) is in a spreadsheet type of format, with the 

analog channels on the left and the test points across 

the top. Each analog output channel set up in the 

Hardware Configuration routine is displayed on this 

page along with its associated labels and limits. All 

the set points are defined on the Analog Output Page. 

Each set point is entered directly in the spreadsheet by 

moving the cursor to the desired location and entering 

the new data. 

Set points may also be entered dynamically into 

the test matrix through the asynchronous communications channel. This enables the set points to be assigned to the test matrix while the sequencer is running. The facility data system provides the set points 

on the serial communication channel, and the TMS acquires the set points at run time. With this capability 

the set points can be a function of model conditions 

during a run. 

An optional ramp time may be entered with each 

set point on the Analog Output Page. This enables 

the user to ramp an analog output from one test point 

to the next. Ramp durations can extend from 1 msec 

to several minutes. The last column on the Analog 

Output Page lists all ramp times for the test point defined by the cursor position in the spreadsheet. 

ANALOG OUTPUT PAGE 12. 21 

M3trix 1.0. _ CONFIG2.DAT Eng. UnllS 

Ramp 

Namo UnllS OFF 

PROBE_1 INCHES 0 .000 0.025 0.050 0.075 0.100 0. 125 0. 150 0.000 

PROBE_2 INCHES 0.000 0.250 1 •. 0 .5001 0.750 1.000 1.250 1.500 0.000 

PLUG_l INCHES 5.000 4.250 " . 150 ... 050 3..950 3.850 3.750 0.000 

PlUG_2 INCHES 5.000 04 .250 04 .150 04.050 3.950 3.850 3.750 0.000 

ANGl E_ 1 DEGREES 0.000 1.500 2.000 2.250 2.0400 2.500 2.600 0.000 

ANGlE_2 DEGREES 0.000 0.2045 0.3504 0.04 56 0.521 0.656 0.798 0.000 

MAIN_RAMP DEGREES 0.000 -0.500 - 1.000 - 1.500 -1.750 ·2.000 ·2.250 0.000 

Umlts on salOClod ch:lnnol 0.000 to 5.000 

~ FilES DISP UNITS EDIT OPS RUNTIME SPREADSHEET QUIT 

Chango to IDD/AMIog Input Pilgo or OIgilal l/O Pago 

Fig. 8 Run Time Matrix Routine - analog output page. 

from a moving bar type menu or from the function 

keys. The program consists of four major routines: the 

Run T ime Matrix, Print Run Time Matrix, Hardware 

Configuration, and Print Hardware Configuration 

routines. Each routine is selected from the main menu 

(fig. 7) . 

The Run Time Matrix routine allows the user to 

create, test, and run test matrices. It also allows manual operation of the inputs and outputs for checkout 

purposes. When the user runs this routine, a hardware 

configuration file must be specified. The configuration 

file is created with the Hardware Configuration routine 

and provides all the necessary channel information to 

run TMS. 

The Print Run Time Matrix routine provides the 

user with a hard copy of the user-defined test matrix. 

The third option on the main menu, the Hardware 

Configuration routine, allows the user to identify the 

type of hardware to be used, the symbolic names for 

channels, conversion rules, and other information specific to the I/O channel. Once the Hardware Configuration has been set up, it can be saved on disk and 

used to build a number of test matrices. 

The Print Hardware Configuration routine is the 

last option and provides a hard copy record of the 

specific hardware configuration. 

TEST MATRIX SeQUENCER 

Vcr.3.e 

Fl . . .• RUN TIM E MATRIX 

F2 .•.• PRINT RUN TIME MATRIX 

F3 • .. HAROWARE CONFIGURATION 

F4 • . . . . . •• . • . •.• PRINT HARDWARE CONFIGURATION 

ESC TO QU:::'T==========::!.J 

Fig. 7 Main menu. 

Run Time Matrix 

The Run Time Matrix portion of the program is 

where the user actually creates and runs the test matrix. The test matrix is built from multiple test points 

or subsequences. Each test point consists of the following steps : 

• Out£ut analog set points • Verify analog inputs • Check system permissives • Set discrete and digital outputs 

• Check discrete and digital inputs • Start countdown timer • Close data system contact • Wait for data system contact 

Each test point in the test matrix can use some or all 

of these options listed. 

When the Run Time Matrix option is selected 

from the main menu, the user is prompted for a hardware configuration file name. The hardware configuration file contains all of the necessary channel 

information. 

The main screen of the Run Time Matrix routine 

(fig. 8) is in a spreadsheet type of format, with the 

analog channels on the left and the test points across 

the top. Each analog output channel set up in the 

Hardware Configuration routine is displayed on this 

page along with its associated labels and limits. All 

the set points are defined on the Analog Output Page. 

Each set point is entered directly in the spreadsheet by 

moving the cursor to the desired location and entering 

the new data. 

Set points may also be entered dynamically into 

the test matrix through the asynchronous communications channel. This enables the set points to be assigned to the test matrix while the sequencer is running. The facility data system provides the set points 

on the serial communication channel, and the TMS acquires the set points at run time. With this capability 

the set points can be a function of model conditions 

during a run. 

An optional ramp time may be entered with each 

set point on the Analog Output Page. This enables 

the user to ramp an analog output from one test point 

to the next. Ramp durations can extend from 1 msec 

to several minutes. The last column on the Analog 

Output Page lists all ramp times for the test point defined by the cursor position in the spreadsheet. 

ANALOG OUTPUT PAGE 12. 21 

M3trix 1.0. _ CONFIG2.DAT Eng. UnllS 

Ramp 

Namo UnllS OFF 

PROBE_1 INCHES 0 .000 0.025 0.050 0.075 0.100 0. 125 0. 150 0.000 

PROBE_2 INCHES 0.000 0.250 1 •. 0 .5001 0.750 1.000 1.250 1.500 0.000 

PLUG_l INCHES 5.000 4.250 " . 150 ... 050 3..950 3.850 3.750 0.000 

PlUG_2 INCHES 5.000 04 .250 04 .150 04.050 3.950 3.850 3.750 0.000 

ANGl E_ 1 DEGREES 0.000 1.500 2.000 2.250 2.0400 2.500 2.600 0.000 

ANGlE_2 DEGREES 0.000 0.2045 0.3504 0.04 56 0.521 0.656 0.798 0.000 

MAIN_RAMP DEGREES 0.000 -0.500 - 1.000 - 1.500 -1.750 ·2.000 ·2.250 0.000 

Umlts on salOClod ch:lnnol 0.000 to 5.000 

~ FilES DISP UNITS EDIT OPS RUNTIME SPREADSHEET QUIT 

Chango to IDD/AMIog Input Pilgo or OIgilal l/O Pago 

Fig. 8 Run Time Matrix Routine - analog output page. 
The software limits for the current channel are displayed below the spreadsheet. These limits are defined 

by the user and restrict the range of output values 

entered in the test matrix. 

Each test point has associated with it an Analog 

Input Page and Digital I/ O Page in addition to the 

information on t he Analog Output Page. The Analog 

Input Page is used to define the analog input for the 

test point as well as to set up t he system permissives 

and countdown timer for the test point. The Digital 

Input Page is used to define the discrete or digital 

input and output conditions for the test point . 

On the Analog Input page (fig. 9) an input range 

or tolerance may be specified for each input channel. 

These ranges are relative to the value set on the Analog 

Output Page for the associated output channel. 

There are two methods for inputting analog data: 

through input modules on the analog I/O board and 

through an asynchronous communications channel (RS 

232). The communications channel inputs data from 

control room readouts called individual digital displays 

(IDD's). The IDD's are controlled by the facility data 

system via a daisy chain communication network in the 

control room. This gives the TMS the potential for an 

additional 14 analog inputs. 

Other options on the Analog Input page are the 

setting of the system Input Permissives and the test 

point Wait Time. The input permissives are two input 

contacts that can be checked after the analog inputs 

are verified during the run sequence. 

The Digital I/ O page (fig. 10), also associated 

with each test point, allows the user to define the 

digital output and input conditions. The outputs defined in the hardware configuration program are listed 

on the left, and the inputs on the right. Displayed 

with the digital outputs are the initial conditions for 

each channel. The options for the output channels are 

ANALOG INPUT PAGE 

100 INPUTS I ANALOG INPUTS 

NAME ERROR BAND I NAME ERROR BAND 

Use Arrows to movo 

Pross Rei IQedit 

F1Ocopies 

to rest 

Press F1 to dec Tost PI 

Press F2 to )ne Tosl pI 

Usc Esc !cox!! 

PAB_2_IOD 

ANG_1_IDD 

ANG_2_IDD 

RAM P _100 

0.005 

0.050 

0.010 

0.025 

0.005 

0.050 

0.010 

0.025 

PRB]OS_1 

PLUG_POS_, 

PlUG_ POS_2 

Tost Point' 17 

I DIGITAL PERM 1 I YES I I DIGITAL PERM2 1 NO I 

Fs · > Drgllal Perm 1 F6 -> Oigila( Perm 2 

0 .005 0.005 

0.020 0 .020 

0.020 0.020 

F7 .> Wail TImo 

Fig. 9 Run Time Matrix Routine - analog input page. 

5 

UsoArrows 10 move 

PressRo! 

la edit 

F10copios 

to rest 

ProssFl 10 d oc Tost PI 

Press F2 10 IncTostpt 

UsoEsc 

to exil 

01911311/0 Pages 

OlgAalOutputs 

Namo Ie 

STR_CYCLIC OFF 

TAPE_REC OFF 

ESCORTREC 

RESET OFF 

FS - Copy Irom last 

Test Poin! , 42 

Digitalinpui s 

Ccndn Name S ialo 

...r-l..- CYCLIC_OK ON 

ON TAPE_STAT ON 

ON ESCORT ACK I ON 

FtO - Copy 10 rest Esc to return 

Fig. 10 Run Time Matrix Routine - digital I/O page. 

on, off, pulse on, pulse off, and don't care. Each output can be reset to the initial conditions after each test 

point or left in the previously set state. The input 

channels can be set to wait for either an on, off, or 

don't care condition. The data system record and 

acknowledge contacts may be set on the bottom of the 

page. These contacts initiate the data acquisition and 

wait for its completion. 

The conditions defined on the Analog and Digital 

Pages are unique to the test point that is displayed at 

the top of the page. Each Page may be either configured individually or copied from other test points. 

This gives the user maximum flexibility when creating 

the test matrix. 

Once the matrix is defined, the user can save it to 

disk and either run it or build another matrix based on 

the same hardware configuration. This way there can 

be multiple test matrices built and ready to run on 

disk . 

Once the test matrix has been created, the user 

must define the run sequences. The program allows 

four sequences (main, A, B, and C) to be stored at any 

one time. Each sequence can be used individually or 

in combination with other sequences to form loops. 

The TMS may be configured to have the main sequence call one of the lower order sequences such as A, 

B, or C. In addition sequence A may call B, and B 

may call C. This ability to call multiple subsequences 

gives the user four levels of looping when defining a 

test sequence. Each of these sequences is defined with 

a sequence editor. The validity of each sequence is 

verified before it is stored. 

Before the TMS can actually be operated, it must 

be brought on-line. This involves t urning on the analog outputs. This is a software-controlled switch that 

ensures that all the outputs are at a safe value as 

defined by the home position (test point 0) . With the 

The software limits for the current channel are displayed below the spreadsheet. These limits are defined 

by the user and restrict the range of output values 

entered in the test matrix. 

Each test point has associated with it an Analog 

Input Page and Digital I/ O Page in addition to the 

information on t he Analog Output Page. The Analog 

Input Page is used to define the analog input for the 

test point as well as to set up t he system permissives 

and countdown timer for the test point. The Digital 

Input Page is used to define the discrete or digital 

input and output conditions for the test point . 

On the Analog Input page (fig. 9) an input range 

or tolerance may be specified for each input channel. 

These ranges are relative to the value set on the Analog 

Output Page for the associated output channel. 

There are two methods for inputting analog data: 

through input modules on the analog I/O board and 

through an asynchronous communications channel (RS 

232). The communications channel inputs data from 

control room readouts called individual digital displays 

(IDD's). The IDD's are controlled by the facility data 

system via a daisy chain communication network in the 

control room. This gives the TMS the potential for an 

additional 14 analog inputs. 

Other options on the Analog Input page are the 

setting of the system Input Permissives and the test 

point Wait Time. The input permissives are two input 

contacts that can be checked after the analog inputs 

are verified during the run sequence. 

The Digital I/ O page (fig. 10), also associated 

with each test point, allows the user to define the 

digital output and input conditions. The outputs defined in the hardware configuration program are listed 

on the left, and the inputs on the right. Displayed 

with the digital outputs are the initial conditions for 

each channel. The options for the output channels are 

ANALOG INPUT PAGE 

100 INPUTS I ANALOG INPUTS 

NAME ERROR BAND I NAME ERROR BAND 

Use Arrows to movo 

Pross Rei IQedit 

F1Ocopies 

to rest 

Press F1 to dec Tost PI 

Press F2 to )ne Tosl pI 

Usc Esc !cox!! 

PAB_2_IOD 

ANG_1_IDD 

ANG_2_IDD 

RAM P _100 

0.005 

0.050 

0.010 

0.025 

0.005 

0.050 

0.010 

0.025 

PRB]OS_1 

PLUG_POS_, 

PlUG_ POS_2 

Tost Point' 17 

I DIGITAL PERM 1 I YES I I DIGITAL PERM2 1 NO I 

Fs · > Drgllal Perm 1 F6 -> Oigila( Perm 2 

0 .005 0.005 

0.020 0 .020 

0.020 0.020 

F7 .> Wail TImo 

Fig. 9 Run Time Matrix Routine - analog input page. 

5 

UsoArrows 10 move 

PressRo! 

la edit 

F10copios 

to rest 

ProssFl 10 d oc Tost PI 

Press F2 10 IncTostpt 

UsoEsc 

to exil 

01911311/0 Pages 

OlgAalOutputs 

Namo Ie 

STR_CYCLIC OFF 

TAPE_REC OFF 

ESCORTREC 

RESET OFF 

FS - Copy Irom last 

Test Poin! , 42 

Digitalinpui s 

Ccndn Name S ialo 

...r-l..- CYCLIC_OK ON 

ON TAPE_STAT ON 

ON ESCORT ACK I ON 

FtO - Copy 10 rest Esc to return 

Fig. 10 Run Time Matrix Routine - digital I/O page. 

on, off, pulse on, pulse off, and don't care. Each output can be reset to the initial conditions after each test 

point or left in the previously set state. The input 

channels can be set to wait for either an on, off, or 

don't care condition. The data system record and 

acknowledge contacts may be set on the bottom of the 

page. These contacts initiate the data acquisition and 

wait for its completion. 

The conditions defined on the Analog and Digital 

Pages are unique to the test point that is displayed at 

the top of the page. Each Page may be either configured individually or copied from other test points. 

This gives the user maximum flexibility when creating 

the test matrix. 

Once the matrix is defined, the user can save it to 

disk and either run it or build another matrix based on 

the same hardware configuration. This way there can 

be multiple test matrices built and ready to run on 

disk . 

Once the test matrix has been created, the user 

must define the run sequences. The program allows 

four sequences (main, A, B, and C) to be stored at any 

one time. Each sequence can be used individually or 

in combination with other sequences to form loops. 

The TMS may be configured to have the main sequence call one of the lower order sequences such as A, 

B, or C. In addition sequence A may call B, and B 

may call C. This ability to call multiple subsequences 

gives the user four levels of looping when defining a 

test sequence. Each of these sequences is defined with 

a sequence editor. The validity of each sequence is 

verified before it is stored. 

Before the TMS can actually be operated, it must 

be brought on-line. This involves t urning on the analog outputs. This is a software-controlled switch that 

ensures that all the outputs are at a safe value as 

defined by the home position (test point 0) . With the 
outputs active or ON the user may run and control the 

inputs and outputs. With the outputs inactive the 

TMS runs in a simulation mode. This mode of operation runs the same sequences as the normal operation 

except the I/ O are disabled. 

The TMS software provides three ways of modifying the analog and digital I/ 0 . The three modes are 

• Direct interactive • Single test point • Normal sequence 

The direct interactive mode allows the user to 

modify, in engineering units, any output channel from 

the keyboard and to monitor its associated input channel. This mode is useful in the initial setup and in the 

calibration of analog I/0 channels. The original and 

current set points are displayed along with continuously updated input values. The TMS software will 

display the effects of changing the outputs in real time. 

In single test point mode, the TMS software runs 

an individual test point. This mode is also useful in 

the setup and checkout phase of a test. A single test 

point can be checked independently from the rest of the 

matrix. This affords the user the ability to examine 

how modifying multiple set points affects the test 

model. 

In the normal sequence mode the program executes 

the test points in the sequence previously defined. It is 

in this mode that the Run Time Screen is displayed to 

keep the user informed of the status of the run. 

The Run Time Screen (fig. 11) informs the user of 

the status of each item by the use of screen attributes. 

The attributes are reverse video for inactive, blinking 

for active, and normal video for completed items. On 

completion of the run, the display returns to the analog 

output page ready for another run or editing. 

During the operation the user may stop or abort 

the run. Stopping the run simply causes execution to 

FlO · STOP RUN 

Fl TOA80RT 

SETPOINTS 

NAMES 

PROBE_ , 

PROBE_2 

PLUG_ ' 

PlUG_2 

ANGLE_' 

ANGLE_2 

MAIN_RAMP 

Fl - ABOAT RUN 

TEST POINT • 1 FlO TO STOP 

VALUE 

0.025 

0.250 

" .250 

" .250 

1.500 

0.245 

-0.500 

OUTPUTS 

STR_CYCUC 

TAPE_REe 

OIGITAL 

INPUTS 

CYCUC_OK 

TAPE_STAT 

ESCOflT REe I ESCORT ACK 

IWAIT - S. OO I 

Fig. 11 Run Time Matrix Routine - run time screen. 

6 

stop at the current point and returns to the analog 

output page. Aborting causes the execution to stop 

and sets all the outputs to the home position (test 

point 0). 

Other features of the Run Time Matrix portion of 

the TMS software are full featured editing including 

insertion and deletion of full or partial test points, 

multilevel integrated help screens, and operation by 

either a menu selection or function keys. 

Print Run Time Matrix 

The Print Run Time Matrix routine prints the 

test matrix in one of two formats: test point or input/-

output. Both formats prompt the user for a file name 

and display a directory listing of the available matrix 

files. 

The Test Point Format prints all the information 

for each test point specified. 

The I/O Format prints the test matrix information in the following order: analog outputs, analog 

inputs, digital permissives, digital outputs, and digital 

inputs. The user is prompted for the range of test 

points to be printed. 

Hardware Configuration 

The Hardware Configuration routine selected from 

the main menu is used to identify all the necessary 

information for the Run Time Matrix portion of the 

system. When this option is selected, the main configuration screen is displayed identifying the 14 analog 

and 11 discrete user I/0 channels. (Four dedicated discrete I/0 channels are available in Run Time Matrix 

Routine.) An existing configuration file may be loaded 

or a new one created from this screen. When an existing file is loaded, the user specified name of each 

channel is displayed adjacent to the associated channel 

number (fig. 12). These channel numbers are the physical slot numbers on the analog/digital I/0 boards. 

Channels are selected by using the arrow keys to move 

the reverse video block to the desired slot. 

A window pops up on the right side of the screen 

when one of the analog channels is selected. This 

window (fig. 13) identifies and allows editing of the 

configuration associated with this channel. The analog 

edit window contains the symbolic names associated 

with the channel, the type of I/0 it is, the conversion 

information, and the limit setting. The following paragraphs describe the fields in the analog edit window. 

The first field in the analog window defines the 

symbolic name to be associated with that channel 

throughout the program. The next field tells the 

program whether the user has installed an analog 

input or output module. If an analog output is 

outputs active or ON the user may run and control the 

inputs and outputs. With the outputs inactive the 

TMS runs in a simulation mode. This mode of operation runs the same sequences as the normal operation 

except the I/ O are disabled. 

The TMS software provides three ways of modifying the analog and digital I/ 0 . The three modes are 

• Direct interactive • Single test point • Normal sequence 

The direct interactive mode allows the user to 

modify, in engineering units, any output channel from 

the keyboard and to monitor its associated input channel. This mode is useful in the initial setup and in the 

calibration of analog I/0 channels. The original and 

current set points are displayed along with continuously updated input values. The TMS software will 

display the effects of changing the outputs in real time. 

In single test point mode, the TMS software runs 

an individual test point. This mode is also useful in 

the setup and checkout phase of a test. A single test 

point can be checked independently from the rest of the 

matrix. This affords the user the ability to examine 

how modifying multiple set points affects the test 

model. 

In the normal sequence mode the program executes 

the test points in the sequence previously defined. It is 

in this mode that the Run Time Screen is displayed to 

keep the user informed of the status of the run. 

The Run Time Screen (fig. 11) informs the user of 

the status of each item by the use of screen attributes. 

The attributes are reverse video for inactive, blinking 

for active, and normal video for completed items. On 

completion of the run, the display returns to the analog 

output page ready for another run or editing. 

During the operation the user may stop or abort 

the run. Stopping the run simply causes execution to 

FlO · STOP RUN 

Fl TOA80RT 

SETPOINTS 

NAMES 

PROBE_ , 

PROBE_2 

PLUG_ ' 

PlUG_2 

ANGLE_' 

ANGLE_2 

MAIN_RAMP 

Fl - ABOAT RUN 

TEST POINT • 1 FlO TO STOP 

VALUE 

0.025 

0.250 

" .250 

" .250 

1.500 

0.245 

-0.500 

OUTPUTS 

STR_CYCUC 

TAPE_REe 

OIGITAL 

INPUTS 

CYCUC_OK 

TAPE_STAT 

ESCOflT REe I ESCORT ACK 

IWAIT - S. OO I 

Fig. 11 Run Time Matrix Routine - run time screen. 

6 

stop at the current point and returns to the analog 

output page. Aborting causes the execution to stop 

and sets all the outputs to the home position (test 

point 0). 

Other features of the Run Time Matrix portion of 

the TMS software are full featured editing including 

insertion and deletion of full or partial test points, 

multilevel integrated help screens, and operation by 

either a menu selection or function keys. 

Print Run Time Matrix 

The Print Run Time Matrix routine prints the 

test matrix in one of two formats: test point or input/-

output. Both formats prompt the user for a file name 

and display a directory listing of the available matrix 

files. 

The Test Point Format prints all the information 

for each test point specified. 

The I/O Format prints the test matrix information in the following order: analog outputs, analog 

inputs, digital permissives, digital outputs, and digital 

inputs. The user is prompted for the range of test 

points to be printed. 

Hardware Configuration 

The Hardware Configuration routine selected from 

the main menu is used to identify all the necessary 

information for the Run Time Matrix portion of the 

system. When this option is selected, the main configuration screen is displayed identifying the 14 analog 

and 11 discrete user I/0 channels. (Four dedicated discrete I/0 channels are available in Run Time Matrix 

Routine.) An existing configuration file may be loaded 

or a new one created from this screen. When an existing file is loaded, the user specified name of each 

channel is displayed adjacent to the associated channel 

number (fig. 12). These channel numbers are the physical slot numbers on the analog/digital I/0 boards. 

Channels are selected by using the arrow keys to move 

the reverse video block to the desired slot. 

A window pops up on the right side of the screen 

when one of the analog channels is selected. This 

window (fig. 13) identifies and allows editing of the 

configuration associated with this channel. The analog 

edit window contains the symbolic names associated 

with the channel, the type of I/0 it is, the conversion 

information, and the limit setting. The following paragraphs describe the fields in the analog edit window. 

The first field in the analog window defines the 

symbolic name to be associated with that channel 

throughout the program. The next field tells the 

program whether the user has installed an analog 

input or output module. If an analog output is 
Uso Arrow Koys 10 1.40'0'0 Highlightod Coli to Selection 

Return · To Select Option 

File Name: CONFIG2.DAT Esc To Return to Menu 

- ANALOG CHANS - - DIGITAL CHANS -

10 10 

11 11 

5 M" 12 13 

14 

INITIAUZE RETURN 

Edit Current File 

Fig. 12 Hardware Configuration Routine - main screen. 

Use Arrow Keys to Move Highlighted Coli to fji;U:;;;:;o;;iiiI!iiiil:::::::iii:iiliil_iiiliiiiiiiill 

Return - To Select Oplion 

File Namo : CONFIG2.DAT 

- ANALOG CHANS -

5 ~:t 12 

6 ~O~!.~ 13 

7 1l:W.E"'.!''lI 14 

INITIALIZE RETURN 

Edit Current File 

Name .•..•..•..••. 

Input I Output Output 

Verification Address 

Voltage Range ± 5 

Eng. Units. INCHES 

Coelfs 

,..'I. ..... + C • VOI.T8 

·A _ 0.000000 

B - 1.000000 

C - 0.000000 

-{

Upper 

Soh limits 

Lower 

1\1 rg~ El P"'( sc 

5.000 

0,000 

Fig. 13 Hardware Configuration Routine - analog I/0 screen. 

selected, the Verification Address field is displayed. 

This address, which is an analog slot number or IDD 

address, specifies the channel or IDD that the sequencer 

will use to verify any actions taken by the current output channel. This is how the input channels described 

above are set up to monitor output channels. 

The voltage range field identifies for the program 

the voltage range of the I/ O module installed. The 

engineering units label is an optional user specified 

name that will be displayed with the channel 

throughout the TMS software. 

Another field in the analog edit's window is the 

conversion rule setup for both input and output channels. This is accomplished by correctly setting the 

coefficients parameters during the analog configuration. 

The coefficients supplied are fit to a quadratic equa7 

tion . This enables the TMS software to set the outputs 

and display the inputs in engineering units. 

The last two fields in the analog window are the 

soft limits. These may be assigned values to ensure 

that the outputs remain within some predefmed 

bounds. These limits are entered in engineering units. 

Similar to the analog case, the selection of a 

digital channel causes a window to pop up on the left 

side of the screen (fig. 14) . The options associated 

with the selected channel are displayed. The name is a 

label used to identify the channel throughout the TMS 

software as it was in the analog case. The second field 

simply identifies for the program whether the channel 

is an input or an output. If the channel is configured 

as an output, the third option allows the user to 

specify an initial condition (on/ off) . 

The hardware configuration can be saved to a file 

on disk for use by the Run Time Matrix program once 

the configuration is complete. 

Use Arrow Keys to Move Highlighted Celi lc Selection 

Return - To Select Option 

File Name: CONFIG2.DAT Esc To Return 10 Menu 

DIGITAL CHANS 

NAME· ··· c '" 1 il:lI. 

INPUT I OUTPUT Output 

INITIALSTATE ..•. OFF 

11 

UG 0 _, 13-== G 1411 

b l INITIALIZE RETURN 

Edit Current File 

Fig. 14 Hardware Configuration Routine - digital I/O screen. 

Print Hardware Configuration 

This routine, selected from the main menu, provides the user with a hard copy of a specified hardware 

configuration. When selected, this routine displays a 

directory of all configuration files. The print ed copy 

lists all the channels configured starting with the 

analog I/O channels followed by the digital I/ O 

channels. 

Uso Arrow Koys 10 1.40'0'0 Highlightod Coli to Selection 

Return · To Select Option 

File Name: CONFIG2.DAT Esc To Return to Menu 

- ANALOG CHANS - - DIGITAL CHANS -

10 10 

11 11 

5 M" 12 13 

14 

INITIAUZE RETURN 

Edit Current File 

Fig. 12 Hardware Configuration Routine - main screen. 

Use Arrow Keys to Move Highlighted Coli to fji;U:;;;:;o;;iiiI!iiiil:::::::iii:iiliil_iiiliiiiiiiill 

Return - To Select Oplion 

File Namo : CONFIG2.DAT 

- ANALOG CHANS -

5 ~:t 12 

6 ~O~!.~ 13 

7 1l:W.E"'.!''lI 14 

INITIALIZE RETURN 

Edit Current File 

Name .•..•..•..••. 

Input I Output Output 

Verification Address 

Voltage Range ± 5 

Eng. Units. INCHES 

Coelfs 

,..'I. ..... + C • VOI.T8 

·A _ 0.000000 

B - 1.000000 

C - 0.000000 

-{

Upper 

Soh limits 

Lower 

1\1 rg~ El P"'( sc 

5.000 

0,000 

Fig. 13 Hardware Configuration Routine - analog I/0 screen. 

selected, the Verification Address field is displayed. 

This address, which is an analog slot number or IDD 

address, specifies the channel or IDD that the sequencer 

will use to verify any actions taken by the current output channel. This is how the input channels described 

above are set up to monitor output channels. 

The voltage range field identifies for the program 

the voltage range of the I/ O module installed. The 

engineering units label is an optional user specified 

name that will be displayed with the channel 

throughout the TMS software. 

Another field in the analog edit's window is the 

conversion rule setup for both input and output channels. This is accomplished by correctly setting the 

coefficients parameters during the analog configuration. 

The coefficients supplied are fit to a quadratic equa7 

tion . This enables the TMS software to set the outputs 

and display the inputs in engineering units. 

The last two fields in the analog window are the 

soft limits. These may be assigned values to ensure 

that the outputs remain within some predefmed 

bounds. These limits are entered in engineering units. 

Similar to the analog case, the selection of a 

digital channel causes a window to pop up on the left 

side of the screen (fig. 14) . The options associated 

with the selected channel are displayed. The name is a 

label used to identify the channel throughout the TMS 

software as it was in the analog case. The second field 

simply identifies for the program whether the channel 

is an input or an output. If the channel is configured 

as an output, the third option allows the user to 

specify an initial condition (on/ off) . 

The hardware configuration can be saved to a file 

on disk for use by the Run Time Matrix program once 

the configuration is complete. 

Use Arrow Keys to Move Highlighted Celi lc Selection 

Return - To Select Option 

File Name: CONFIG2.DAT Esc To Return 10 Menu 

DIGITAL CHANS 

NAME· ··· c '" 1 il:lI. 

INPUT I OUTPUT Output 

INITIALSTATE ..•. OFF 

11 

UG 0 _, 13-== G 1411 

b l INITIALIZE RETURN 

Edit Current File 

Fig. 14 Hardware Configuration Routine - digital I/O screen. 

Print Hardware Configuration 

This routine, selected from the main menu, provides the user with a hard copy of a specified hardware 

configuration. When selected, this routine displays a 

directory of all configuration files. The print ed copy 

lists all the channels configured starting with the 

analog I/O channels followed by the digital I/ O 

channels. 
Applications 

The TMS has been used in several Lewis aero propulsion research facilities and test programs. A general 

applications block diagram is shown in figure 15. Some 

of these include the Advanced Inlet Test in the 9 by 15 

Foot Low Speed Wind Tunnel, the Counterrotating 

Advanced Turboprop Test in the 8 by 6 Foot 

Supersonic Wind Tunnel, and the Mach 5 Inlet Test in 

the 10 by 10 Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel. 

In its first application the TMS was used to position two bleed valves in the Advanced Inlet Test. In 

this test the TMS was configured with a pair of analog 

outputs used as set points to electro hydraulic servocontrollers. These controllers positioned the variable 

bleed valves. The TMS also had two analog inputs set 

up to read the position of the bleed valves to verify the 

controller's operation. In addition, the TMS was 

configured to take advantage of the permissive inputs 

to verify that the model was aerodynamically at the 

desired condition before data were taken. The TMS 

then provided the contact closure to the data system 

and waited for acknowledgement from the data system 

before proceeding to the next test point. 

In the Counterrotating Advanced Turboprop Test, 

the TMS was set up to position a wake survey probe 

through a 28-point test matrix. The TMS provided the 

analog output to a controller and verified the position 

of the probe before taking data. Once the position was 

verified, the TMS provided a contact closure to the 

TMS Application Block Diagram 

0"" Ig ll a lIfO 

1 I Facility Pe rmissives I 

Analog 

Outputs 

T Analog 

Inpu ts 

M Digital If 0 

S 

Comm

sc rial 

un

L ications 

Digital If 0 

!DDs 

.[ COD trollers 

Aux. Da ta Systems I 

I Facility 

I Data System 

J 

Model I 

Facility 

Actuator 

[ 

Analog 

Inputs 

I 

Fig. 15 General application block diagram. 

8 

data recording system and waited for acknowledgement before continuing. If the probe position could not 

be verified, the TMS notified the operator by displaying an error screen to prompt the operator for action. 

The use of the TMS greatly improved the efficiency 

and repeatability of the probe surveys. 

The TMS was used in the Mach 5 Inlet Test to 

position 12 probes in various configurations through a 

sequence of 25 test points. In this test, several test 

matrices were set up and saved on disk. Since each 

test matrix specified a probe configuration, configuration changes required only loading a new data file. 

The TMS fully automated the data acquisition by 

moving the probes to the required position, waiting for 

the desired model condition, triggering the data system, waiting for acknowledgment, and continuing to 

the next test point. 

Automating the process saved valuable tunnel 

time in that the probes were positioned simultaneously 

instead of manual positioning of each one individually. 

Sununary 

Although test automation is not new in the aeropropulsion facilities at NASA Lewis, never before has 

it been as easy or flexible. The Test Matrix Sequencer 

is a stand alone system dedicated to facility automation and increased productivity at the Lewis Research 

Center. The TMS has been used very successfully in 

three of the Center's major wind tunnels and, because 

of it's success, is targeted for use in several other 

aeropropulsion facilities. In conclusion, the TMS has 

proven to be a valuable tool during the setup, checkout, and running of tests at Lewis as well as providing 

for greatly improved facility utilization. 

Bibliography 

Turbo Pascal: Owner's Handbook (IBM version 4.0), 

Borland International, Scotts Valley, CA, 1987. 

Optoware Digital/Analog Driver for IBM PC (User 

Manual Version 3.0), Opto 22, Huntington Beach, 

CA. Sept. 1986. 

Optomux: Analog User's Manual (3rd ed.)' Opto 22, 

Huntington Beach CA, 1984. 

Optomux: Digital User's Manual (3rd ed.)' Opto 22, 

Huntington Beach, CA, 1984. 

Applications 

The TMS has been used in several Lewis aero propulsion research facilities and test programs. A general 

applications block diagram is shown in figure 15. Some 

of these include the Advanced Inlet Test in the 9 by 15 

Foot Low Speed Wind Tunnel, the Counterrotating 

Advanced Turboprop Test in the 8 by 6 Foot 

Supersonic Wind Tunnel, and the Mach 5 Inlet Test in 

the 10 by 10 Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel. 

In its first application the TMS was used to position two bleed valves in the Advanced Inlet Test. In 

this test the TMS was configured with a pair of analog 

outputs used as set points to electro hydraulic servocontrollers. These controllers positioned the variable 

bleed valves. The TMS also had two analog inputs set 

up to read the position of the bleed valves to verify the 

controller's operation. In addition, the TMS was 

configured to take advantage of the permissive inputs 

to verify that the model was aerodynamically at the 

desired condition before data were taken. The TMS 

then provided the contact closure to the data system 

and waited for acknowledgement from the data system 

before proceeding to the next test point. 

In the Counterrotating Advanced Turboprop Test, 

the TMS was set up to position a wake survey probe 

through a 28-point test matrix. The TMS provided the 

analog output to a controller and verified the position 

of the probe before taking data. Once the position was 

verified, the TMS provided a contact closure to the 

TMS Application Block Diagram 

0"" Ig ll a lIfO 

1 I Facility Pe rmissives I 

Analog 

Outputs 

T Analog 

Inpu ts 

M Digital If 0 

S 

Comm

sc rial 

un

L ications 

Digital If 0 

!DDs 

.[ COD trollers 

Aux. Da ta Systems I 

I Facility 

I Data System 

J 

Model I 

Facility 

Actuator 

[ 

Analog 

Inputs 

I 

Fig. 15 General application block diagram. 

8 

data recording system and waited for acknowledgement before continuing. If the probe position could not 

be verified, the TMS notified the operator by displaying an error screen to prompt the operator for action. 

The use of the TMS greatly improved the efficiency 

and repeatability of the probe surveys. 

The TMS was used in the Mach 5 Inlet Test to 

position 12 probes in various configurations through a 

sequence of 25 test points. In this test, several test 

matrices were set up and saved on disk. Since each 

test matrix specified a probe configuration, configuration changes required only loading a new data file. 

The TMS fully automated the data acquisition by 

moving the probes to the required position, waiting for 

the desired model condition, triggering the data system, waiting for acknowledgment, and continuing to 

the next test point. 

Automating the process saved valuable tunnel 

time in that the probes were positioned simultaneously 

instead of manual positioning of each one individually. 

Sununary 

Although test automation is not new in the aeropropulsion facilities at NASA Lewis, never before has 

it been as easy or flexible. The Test Matrix Sequencer 

is a stand alone system dedicated to facility automation and increased productivity at the Lewis Research 

Center. The TMS has been used very successfully in 

three of the Center's major wind tunnels and, because 

of it's success, is targeted for use in several other 

aeropropulsion facilities. In conclusion, the TMS has 

proven to be a valuable tool during the setup, checkout, and running of tests at Lewis as well as providing 

for greatly improved facility utilization. 

Bibliography 

Turbo Pascal: Owner's Handbook (IBM version 4.0), 

Borland International, Scotts Valley, CA, 1987. 

Optoware Digital/Analog Driver for IBM PC (User 

Manual Version 3.0), Opto 22, Huntington Beach, 

CA. Sept. 1986. 

Optomux: Analog User's Manual (3rd ed.)' Opto 22, 

Huntington Beach CA, 1984. 

Optomux: Digital User's Manual (3rd ed.)' Opto 22, 

Huntington Beach, CA, 1984. 
Nl\SI\ 

National Aeronautics Report Documentation Page and Space Administration 

1. Report No. NASA TM-103108 2. Government Accession No. 3. Recipient's Catalog No. 

AIAA-90-2386 

4. Title and Subtitle 5. Report Date 

A Test Matrix Sequencer for Research Test Facility Automation 

6. Performing Organization Code 

7. Author(s) 8. Performing Organization Report No. 

Timothy P. McCartney and Edward F. Emery E-5432 

10. Work Unit No. 

505-62-36 

9. Performing Organization Name and Address 

11. Contract or Grant No. 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 44135-3191 13. Type of Report and Period Covered 

12. Sponsoring Agency Name and Address Technical Memorandum 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 14. Sponsoring Agency Code 

Washington, D.C. 20546-0001 

15. Supplementary Notes 

Prepared for the 26th Joint Propulsion Conference cosponsored by the AIAA, SAE, ASME, and ASEE, Orlando, 

Florida, July 16-18, 1990. 

16. Abstract 

This paper describes the hardware and software configuration of a Test Matrix Sequencer, a general purpose test 

matrix pro filer that was developed for research test facility automation at the NASA Lewis Research Center. The 

system provides set points to controllers and contact closures to data systems during the course of a test. The 

Test Matrix Sequencer consists of a microprocessor controlled system which is operated from a personal 

computer. The software program, which is the main element of the overall system is interactive and menu driven 

with pop up windows and help screens. Analog and digital input/output channels can be controlled from a 

personal computer using the software program. The Test Matrix Sequencer provides more efficient use of 

aeronautics test facilities by automating repetitive tasks that were once done manually. 

17. Key Words (Suggested by Author(s)) 18. Distribution Statement 

Test matrix sequencer Unclassified - Unlimited 

Setpoints Subject Category 09 

Analog and digital input/output 

19. Security Classif. (of this report) 20. Security Classif. (of this page) 21 . No. of pages 22. Price" 

Unclassified Unclassified 8 A02 

NASA FORM 1626 OCT 86 "For sale by the National Technical Information Service, Springfield, Virginia 22161 

------- - ---

Nl\SI\ 

National Aeronautics Report Documentation Page and Space Administration 

1. Report No. NASA TM-103108 2. Government Accession No. 3. Recipient's Catalog No. 

AIAA-90-2386 

4. Title and Subtitle 5. Report Date 

A Test Matrix Sequencer for Research Test Facility Automation 

6. Performing Organization Code 

7. Author(s) 8. Performing Organization Report No. 

Timothy P. McCartney and Edward F. Emery E-5432 

10. Work Unit No. 

505-62-36 

9. Performing Organization Name and Address 

11. Contract or Grant No. 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Lewis Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 44135-3191 13. Type of Report and Period Covered 

12. Sponsoring Agency Name and Address Technical Memorandum 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 14. Sponsoring Agency Code 

Washington, D.C. 20546-0001 

15. Supplementary Notes 

Prepared for the 26th Joint Propulsion Conference cosponsored by the AIAA, SAE, ASME, and ASEE, Orlando, 

Florida, July 16-18, 1990. 

16. Abstract 

This paper describes the hardware and software configuration of a Test Matrix Sequencer, a general purpose test 

matrix pro filer that was developed for research test facility automation at the NASA Lewis Research Center. The 

system provides set points to controllers and contact closures to data systems during the course of a test. The 

Test Matrix Sequencer consists of a microprocessor controlled system which is operated from a personal 

computer. The software program, which is the main element of the overall system is interactive and menu driven 

with pop up windows and help screens. Analog and digital input/output channels can be controlled from a 

personal computer using the software program. The Test Matrix Sequencer provides more efficient use of 

aeronautics test facilities by automating repetitive tasks that were once done manually. 

17. Key Words (Suggested by Author(s)) 18. Distribution Statement 

Test matrix sequencer Unclassified - Unlimited 

Setpoints Subject Category 09 

Analog and digital input/output 

19. Security Classif. (of this report) 20. Security Classif. (of this page) 21 . No. of pages 22. Price" 

Unclassified Unclassified 8 A02 

NASA FORM 1626 OCT 86 "For sale by the National Technical Information Service, Springfield, Virginia 22161 

------- - ---