ElektroPhysik QuintSonic 7 Technical Manual And Operating Instructions
ElektroPhysik
Technical Manual and Operating
Instructions
Ultrasonic Coating
Thickness Measuring System QuintSonic 7
ElektroPhysik
Dr. Steingroever GmbH & Co. KG
Pasteurstr. 15
50735 Köln
Deutschland
Tel.: +49 221 752040
Fax.: +49 221 7520467
Internet: http://www.elektrophysik.com/
Mail: info@elektrophysik.com
© ElektroPhysik
Version 0.92 13.08.2013 /Rh/bo-r
Subject to change without notice
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 8
1.1 General Remarks ............................................................................................................ 8
1.2 Field of Applications ........................................................................................................ 8
1.3 Measuring Procedure ...................................................................................................... 8
1.4 The QuintSonic 7 Measuring System ............................................................................... 9
2 First Steps .......................................................................................................................... 11
2.1 Insert batteries and connect sensor ............................................................................... 11
2.2 Switching-on and taking readings .................................................................................. 12
2.2.1 Setting language .................................................................................................... 13
2.2.2 Taking readings ..................................................................................................... 14
3 Description of the System ................................................................................................. 16
3.1 Display unit .................................................................................................................... 16
3.1.1 General properties ................................................................................................. 16
3.1.2 Operating keys ....................................................................................................... 16
3.1.3 Sockets and Interfaces .......................................................................................... 17
3.1.4 Power Supply......................................................................................................... 18
3.2 Sensor ........................................................................................................................... 19
3.2.1 SIDSP®-Technology ............................................................................................... 19
3.2.2 Measuring ranges .................................................................................................. 21
4 User Interface ..................................................................................................................... 22
4.1 Important Menu Screens ............................................................................................... 22
4.1.1 Start screen ........................................................................................................... 22
4.1.2 Measure mode – numerical and graphical screen .................................................. 23
4.1.3 Measure mode – Large numerical screen .............................................................. 24
4.1.4 Measure Mode – A-screen Image with Echo Signal ............................................... 25
4.1.5 Statistics screen ..................................................................................................... 26
4.1.6 Main menu ............................................................................................................. 27
4.2 How to navigate in the main menu ................................................................................. 28
4.3 Parameter setting .......................................................................................................... 29
4.3.1 Setting a switch parameter (Example: Backlight) ................................................... 29
4.3.2 Setting selection parameters (Example: language) ................................................ 30
4.3.3 Setting a numerical parameter (Example: pos. clip-limit) ........................................ 30
4.3.4 Alphanumercial parameter entries (Example: directory name) ............................... 31
5 Calibration .......................................................................................................................... 33
5.1 Particularities of ultrasonic coating thickness measurement systems ............................ 33
5.2 How to calibrate for the sound velocity .......................................................................... 33
6 Measure Mode .................................................................................................................... 36
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6.1 Important remarks on ultrasonic measurement .............................................................. 36
6.2 Limits to the measurement technique ............................................................................ 37
6.3 Settings to make prior to measurement ................................................................ ......... 39
6.3.1 Using the Direct Mode ........................................................................................... 39
6.3.2 How to create or select a batch .............................................................................. 40
6.3.3 Selecting a measuring range ................................................................................. 40
6.4 How to prepare Measurement ....................................................................................... 41
6.4.1 Taking a reference signal ................................................................ ....................... 41
6.4.2 Selecting a couplant............................................................................................... 42
6.4.3 Checking / carrying out calibration ......................................................................... 43
6.5 Taking Readings............................................................................................................ 44
6.5.1 How to use the sensor ........................................................................................... 44
6.5.2 Measuring procedure ............................................................................................. 45
7 Signification and Use of A-scan Images ................................ .......................................... 47
7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 47
7.2 Description of A-scan Image Types ............................................................................... 48
7.2.1 Reference signal .................................................................................................... 48
7.2.2 Raw measuring signal ............................................................................................ 49
7.2.3 Echo signal with echo lines .................................................................................... 50
7.3 Application ..................................................................................................................... 52
7.3.1 Reference signal .................................................................................................... 52
7.3.2 Raw measuring signal ............................................................................................ 52
7.3.3 Echo signal with echo lines ................................................................................... 52
7.4 How to use the A-scan screen ....................................................................................... 59
7.4.1 Zoom-in and zoom-out in amplitude direction......................................................... 61
7.4.2 Zoom- in and zoom-out in time direction ............................................................... 61
7.4.3 Graphics cursor and displacement in time direction ............................................... 62
7.4.4 Zoom and position indicator ................................................................................... 63
7.4.5 A-scan image menu ............................................................................................... 63
7.4.6 Measure mode with A-scan image being shown .................................................... 65
7.4.7 Icons to identify invalid echoes .............................................................................. 65
7.4.8 Quit the A-scan image ........................................................................................... 66
8 Echo Signal Processing .................................................................................................... 67
8.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 67
8.2 Levels of Processing ..................................................................................................... 68
8.3 Preprocessing ............................................................................................................... 68
8.3.1 General remarks .................................................................................................... 68
8.3.2 Time-clipping ......................................................................................................... 69
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8.3.3 Amplitude-clipping ................................................................................................. 69
8.4 Least-Squares Optimisation .......................................................................................... 73
8.5 Postprocessing .............................................................................................................. 74
8.5.1 General remarks .................................................................................................... 74
8.5.2 Multiple-echo suppression ..................................................................................... 74
8.5.3 Manual echo selection ........................................................................................... 75
8.5.4 Blocked domains ................................................................................................... 76
8.5.5 Expectancy domains .............................................................................................. 77
8.5.6 Number criteria ...................................................................................................... 78
9 Tips and tricks ................................................................................................................... 81
9.1 Cross-section ................................................................................................................ 81
9.2 Measuring range............................................................................................................ 81
9.3 How to proceed for a new setting of task ....................................................................... 81
9.4 Amplitude clipping with optimisation enabled ................................................................ . 82
9.5 High level of unwanted echoes in the layers .................................................................. 82
9.6 Inhomogeneous bases .................................................................................................. 83
9.7 Multiple reflections ......................................................................................................... 83
9.8 Measuring object of unidentified nature ......................................................................... 83
9.9 Interaction of preprocessor, optimisation and postprocessor parameters ...................... 84
10 Application examples ........................................................................................................ 86
10.1 Three-layer paint on plastic ........................................................................................... 86
10.2 One-layer paint on wood ................................................................................................ 86
10.3 Two-layer paint on steel ................................................................................................. 87
10.4 Thin one-layer paint on body sheet ................................................................................ 88
10.5 Wall thickness measurement ......................................................................................... 89
10.6 Multi-layer plastics foil ................................................................................................... 89
11 Data Management .............................................................................................................. 91
11.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 91
11.1.1 Batches .................................................................................................................. 91
11.1.2 Memory capacity / using the data memory ............................................................. 91
11.1.3 Parameter sets ...................................................................................................... 91
11.2 Data base ................................ ................................................................ ...................... 92
11.2.1 General remarks / How to call the data base.......................................................... 92
11.2.2 Directories ............................................................................................................. 92
11.2.3 Batches .................................................................................................................. 97
11.2.4 Parameter sets .................................................................................................... 104
12 Setting Parameter Sets .................................................................................................... 106
12.1 Edit a parameter set (alphanumerically) ...................................................................... 106
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12.1.1 General ................................................................................................................ 108
12.1.2 Preprocessor ....................................................................................................... 108
12.1.3 Optimisation ......................................................................................................... 110
12.1.4 Postprocessor ...................................................................................................... 111
12.1.5 Edit the User-values table .................................................................................... 118
12.2 Edit a parameter set (graphically) ................................................................................ 120
12.2.1 How to call the menu ........................................................................................... 121
12.2.2 Clipping ................................................................................................................ 121
12.2.3 Blocked domains ................................................................................................. 131
12.2.4 Expectancy domains ............................................................................................ 134
13 Statistics / Batches ................................................................................................ .......... 139
13.1 General remarks .......................................................................................................... 139
13.2 View statistics .............................................................................................................. 139
13.2.1 Statistical values .................................................................................................. 139
13.2.2 Readings ............................................................................................................. 140
13.2.3 Histogram ............................................................................................................ 141
13.2.4 Trend diagram ..................................................................................................... 142
13.2.5 Help / Extras ........................................................................................................ 143
13.3 Delete a reading from a batch ...................................................................................... 143
13.3.1 Delete single readings ......................................................................................... 143
13.3.2 Delete all readings ............................................................................................... 144
13.3.3 Delete a current value .......................................................................................... 144
14 Data Output / Data Transfer ............................................................................................ 145
14.1 Data print-out ............................................................................................................... 145
14.2 Transfer data to a PC (terminal program) .................................................................... 146
14.3 Data transfer to a PC (QSoft 7) .................................................................................... 148
15 The Menu .......................................................................................................................... 149
15.1 Main menu ................................................................................................................... 149
15.2 Submenu “Database“ .................................................................................................. 149
15.3 Submenu “Statistics” ................................................................................................... 149
15.4 Submenu “A-scan image” ............................................................................................ 149
15.5 Submenu “Active batch” .............................................................................................. 150
15.5.1 Properties ............................................................................................................ 150
15.5.2 Readings ............................................................................................................. 150
15.5.3 Configuration ................................................................ ....................................... 151
15.6 Submenu “Setup” ........................................................................................................ 152
15.6.1 General remarks .................................................................................................. 152
15.6.2 Display ................................................................................................................. 152
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15.6.3 Date / time ........................................................................................................... 153
15.6.4 Data output .......................................................................................................... 153
15.6.5 User preferences ................................................................................................. 156
15.6.6 Gauge specifications ............................................................................................ 157
16 Special Functions ............................................................................................................ 158
16.1 Initialisation .................................................................................................................. 158
16.2 Special functions menu................................................................................................ 159
16.3 Sensor service menu ................................................................................................... 160
16.3.1 Call the service menu .......................................................................................... 160
16.3.2 A-scan images for servicing purpose ................................................................... 160
16.3.3 Readjust the magnetic switch .............................................................................. 161
16.3.4 Readjust the sensor tip echo suppression ............................................................ 162
16.3.5 Readjust the temperature compensation reference point ..................................... 162
17 Connectable accessories ................................................................................................ 164
17.1 General remarks .......................................................................................................... 164
17.2 Direct connection ......................................................................................................... 164
17.3 Connection via the multi-purpose connection box ........................................................ 166
18 Care and Maintenance ..................................................................................................... 167
18.1 Care ............................................................................................................................ 167
18.1.1 Using NiMH storage batteries .............................................................................. 167
18.2 Maintenance.................................................................................................................... 167
19 Technical Data ................................................................................................................. 168
19.1 Gauge specifications ................................................................................................... 168
19.2 1 Gauge specifications ................................................................................................ 168
19.3 Sensor ......................................................................................................................... 169
20 Supply Schedule, Accessories ....................................................................................... 171
20.1 Supply schedule .......................................................................................................... 171
20.2 Accessories ................................................................................................................. 172
21 Appendix .......................................................................................................................... 173
21.1 Error messages and trouble shooting .......................................................................... 173
21.2 Statistical Terms .......................................................................................................... 178
21.3 Safety Notes ................................................................................................................ 180
21.4 Declaration of Conformity ................................................................................................ 181
21.4 After-sales Service ...................................................................................................... 182
22 Change-history ................................................................................................................ 183
23 Index ................................................................................................................................. 183
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Introduction
1 Introduction
1.1 General Remarks
This instruction manual describes how to use the ultrasonic coating thickness measuring system
QuintSonic 7 and provides all necessary information on the manifold application options offered by
the system.
Section 2 provides short instructions along with an operating example. All further sections deal with
the individual subjects. For technical data and general information on care and maintenance,
supply schedule and accessories, please refer to the end of this manual.
1.2 Field of Applications
QuintSonic 7 is an ultrasonic coating thickness measuring system for measuring paint, lacquer and
plastic layers applied on metal, plastic, wood, glass or ceramic. Up to five layers can be measured
non-destructively in one operation. Thanks to the innovative technology, QuintSonic 7 is the first
gauge of its kind to determine exactly the layer thickness applied on components made of GRP or
CRP material. QuintSonic 7 offers a wide range of applications in the automotive industry,
aerospace or any other industrial branch. Additional feature: QuintSonic 7 can also be used for
measuring thin bases through the coating, especially the wall thickness of thin metal sheets
starting from 50 µm.
1.3 Measuring Procedure
The working principle of QuintSonic 7 is based on the reflection of ultrasonic waves at the
interfaces between the individual layers of a coating system. For measurement, a liquid or pasty
couplant is applied on the sample at the point of measurement. The sensor is put on the measuring
spot. The high-frequency ultrasonic sound generator of the sensor head emits an ultrasonic pulse
of a broad bandwidth to travel through sensor head, couplant and finally through the coating
system. At each interface between two layers as well as at the interface to the base, some of the
sonic energy reflects. These portions of pulse – also referred to as “echoes” – return to the
measuring head at different velocities and the receive signals are registered in the measuring
head. As the time of travel is a function on the sound velocity in the respective material, it can be
used as indicator for the coating thickness. Thickness is calculated according to the time of travel
and sound velocity, transferred to the gauge and shown on display.
Unlike in wall thickness measurement, the layers to be measured with ultrasonic coating thickness
gauges are extremely thin and thus travel times very short, i.e. in the nanoseconds range (a
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Introduction
billionth of a second). As a consequence, the sound echoes may overlap in the receive signal.
Before the signal evaluation can take place, it is necessary to separate the individual echoes with
respect to their travel times. This is done in a complex mathematical process. Thanks to the high
computing power of the sensor, the complete measuring result is made available not later than
after one second approximately.
Some measuring samples such as GRP or CRP materials exhibit material discontinuities
(inhomogeneities) or inclusions in the base that may cause false echoes. QuintSonic 7 offers a
wide range of methods for the suppression of unwanted echoes so that only the “true” echoes, i.e.
the sound waves reflected from the layer interfaces, will be used for evaluation.
1.4 The QuintSonic 7 Measuring System
The portable system consists of two elements:
The intelligent ultrasonic SIDSP®-technology based sensor (see section 3.2.1)
The operating and display unit
Both elements are cable connected.
Designed for user-friendly operation, QuintSonic 7 features an intuitive menu control with context-
sensitive online help. Large backlit control keys allow extra comfort. Excellent viewing conditions
provided by the large backlit graphics display allow convenient usage at night and in conditions of
poor visibility.
Special feature of QuintSonic 7: A-scan images (see section 7) are shown directly on the gauge
display for immediate quality assessment of the readings obtained without the need to connect a
computer. On the other hand, additional PC software is available (see below) to provide largesized coloured A-scan images on your computer. This makes QuintSonic 7 the ideal tool for both,
portable use on site or use in the laboratory.
The advanced PC-like data management offers quick creation of folders and easy set-up of
customized batches. QuintSonic 7 simplifies the calibration and parameter set-up allowing to solve
also difficult settings of task in a minimum of time without the need for special skills.
The „QSoft7 Basic“ PC software (supplied with the gauge) enables easy parameter setting via the
usual input devices (keyboard, mouse) of your computer. In addition, large, colour A-scan images
can be displayed on your computer screen.
As an option, the PC software “QSoft 7 Professional” is available, for convenient set up and
evaluation of measuring groups and export in various data formats. The software exports data as
text documents, Excel® spread sheets or in the PDF file format and allows entries of notes and
annotations. Also pictures of your measuring samples may be added to the data reports.
Featuring numerous interfaces, QuintSonic 7 connects to peripheral devices such as the portable
printer MiniPrint 7000 (available as an option). The standard supply schedule of the QuintSonic 7
includes an infrared interface (IrDA® 1.0) as well as a USB adapter cable. Via this cable, a USB
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Introduction
interface is available. As an option, a multi-purpose adapter unit can be supplied to provide an
extra USB interface for connecting a mains unit, headphones, a footswitch and or an alarm device.
If only single functions are requested, an RS232 adapter cable as well as an IR/ USB converter
unit (for connecting a PC) can be supplied.
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First Steps
Open the battery compartment
Insert batteries
2 First Steps
This section is addressed to persons to use the gauge for the first time. It explains the main
features of the gauge and how to take readings. For a better overview and simplification, this
section will not discuss all details. For a detailed description of all subjects please refer to the
relevant sections later in this manual.
2.1 Insert batteries and connect sensor
Take gauge and batteries from the carrying case.
Push the battery compartment lid in direction of the arrow (as shown below).
Insert the batteries supplied with the gauge into the battery compartment. Respect polarities
(as shown below).
Push the battery lid over the housing and close housing.
Take the sensor form the carrying case and connect it to the sensor socket on top of the base
unit (see fig. below). Make sure the nib of plug is correctly inserted into the guide way of
socket. The red marking at the connector must be positioned correctly to the red marking of the
socket.
Fully engage the sensor plug into the sensor socket all the way to the stop.
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First Steps
sensor
socket
multi-purpose
socket
Function keys
ON/OFF-button
Command and
navigation block
2.2 Switching-on and taking readings
The gauge is equipped with a round-shaped navigation key block with the following functions:
“ESC“, ““ and ““ (arrow up/down).
Three functions keys are located below the display. Their current function is shown above the
respective key at the bottom of display.
The “ON/OFF“ -button is located on the left side of gauge.
Prior to the initial operation of the gauge, please proceed according the instructions below. The
menu will guide you through the procedure.
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First Steps
A banner appears with the currently set language.
Use arrow arrow up/down-keys to go to the requested language
option.
Press OK-key or OK-function key to confirm.
Now “Total Reset” appears on display. A Total Reset restores the
factory settings. For the initial operation, there is no need to carry out
this function.
Therefore press the “NO” function key.
To complete the initialisation procedure, the type of power supply is
displayed. Do not change this setting. Just confirm by pressing
“Finish” (Done).
2.2.1 Setting language
Press the red ON/OFF button on the left side of gauge and ESC simultaneously. First release
ON/OFF key. The initialisation menu will appear.
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2.2.2 Taking readings
The start screen appears for about 3 seconds showing company
logo, gauge version and the type of connected sensor.
You will be requested to hold the sensor into the air for taking a
reference signal. Please check the transparent measuring surface of
the sensor tip. Make sure it is clean and free of dust, dirt, grease or
couplant residuals. If necessary, use a moist soft cloth for cleaning.
Lift the sensor and hold it in the air. Press OK to proceed on
acquisition of the reference signal.
Once the signal has been taken, the gauge will switch automatically
to measuring mode.
The gauge is ready for measurement and the measuring screen
appears. At this point, no reading is available.
First Steps
The "Direct mode“ (see section 6.3.1) along with the parameter set "Demo“ are preset. The
current setting is always shown in the status line. In this setting you can take readings at a
medium accuracy. It is not necessary to make further settings prior to measurement.
Take the test foil from the case. Open the bottle with couplant by raising the measure pourer.
Apply a small quantity of couplant on one side of the centre of foil.
Hold the grey spring-loaded sleeve of the sensor with one hand and place the sensor vertically
onto the measuring spot where you have applied the couplant. Push the sensor sleeve fully
down to the stop.
Measurement will launch automatically. This will take around one second.
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Lift the sensor from the measuring spot. The reading is shown on display (see below).
Schematic
representation of the
layer system (here: one
layer only
Active parameter set (in
this figure “Demo“)
Active batch
(here: “Direct mode”)
Current properties of the function
keys
Number of readings
stored in the batch
Coupling
index
flashing antenna icon
(if sensor is connected)
Time
Total thickness
Thickness #1
Sensor
icon
First Steps
Repeat measurement as requested. Make sure a sufficient quantity of couplant is applied on
the measuring surface of the sensor, otherwise no readings will be obtained and an error
message appears “Coupling echo faulty !”. If necessary, apply some more couplant.
After measurement has been completed, use a clean cloth to clean the foil and the sensor
measuring surface. Briefly press ON/OFF-button to switch off the gauge.
The figure above shows all data displayed on the measuring screen. For more details please
refer to the following sections of this manual.
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3 Description of the System
Function keys
ON/OFF button
Command and
navigation key-block
Graphical display
160 x 160 dots
Large backlit display for easy reading of
measuring values, A-scan image, statistical data,
histogram and trend diagram.
Robust scratch resistant plastics housing.
3.1 Display unit
3.1.1 General properties
Description of the System
3.1.2 Operating keys
Use the ON/OFF button to switch the gauge ON or OFF. If, at switch on, you press ON/OFFbutton and ESC simultaneously, the initialising procedure will be launched (for more details please
refer to section 16.1). If you press the ON/OFF-button for a longer time while the gauge is in
switched-on state, the Special Functions menu will be called (s. section 16.2).
The Function keys may assume different functions according to the screen content. Their current
properties are shown on display upper to the function keys.
The command and navigation key block may also assume different functions:
Press OK to confirm settings, store values or select items from the menu.
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Description of the System
Multi-purpose socket
Sensor socket
Infrared interface
Press ESC to abort actions or quit submenus.
Use arrow up/down-keys to navigate through the menu or change settings.
If the alphanumerical block has been activated, OK and ESC keys will also assume navigation
functions.
In poor-lit conditions, the function keys and the command and navigation key-block may be backlit
(see also section 15.6.2).
Most screens dispose of a “Help” Function key for calling the context-oriented on-line “Help“.
Press the “Help” Function key on the left to call the direct help.
3.1.3 Sockets and Interfaces
The sensor socket connects to all SIDSP® coating thickness sensors of the MiniTest 7 series, also
to sensors such as the F-, N- or FN-type (magnetic induction and/or eddy currents principle), i. e.
you only need one display unit and can operate several sensors. The multi-purpose socket is used
for connecting the plug-in mains unit or other optional accessories such as the foot switch, the
alarm device, RS232 interface cable, USB interface cable, headphones or the multi-purpose
connection box (see sections 15.6.4 and 17).
Note:
This manual only describes the operation of the QuintSonic 7 as an ultrasonic coating thickness
gauge. If you wish to connect the display unit to an F, N or FN sensor, please refer to the MiniTest
7400 operating instructions.
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Description of the System
3.1.4 Power Supply
3.1.4.1 Batteries and storage batteries
The QuintSonic 7 gauge is powered by a set of four alkaline-manganese cells, 1.5V, AA LR6 size,
(batteries included in the standard supply schedule). As an alternative, it may be operated on
rechargeable NiMH storage batteries (type AA-HR6 or via a plug-in mains unit (available as an
option). Please use only products recommended by ElektroPhysik. Please also refer to section 17
“Accessories”.
If you wish to use the storage batteries, they must be recharged using the external charger unit
(available as an option). Make sure to adjust the gauge to storage battery operation (see section
16.1). For more details on the use of batteries and storage batteries, please also refer to section 18
“Care and maintenance”.
Important notes:
Remove batteries or storage batteries from the instrument if you are not going to use the gauge
for a longer period of time.
The battery symbol indicates the battery/storage battery state in 6 stages: (0, 20,
40,…100%).
If the lowest stage has been reached, “Battery almost empty” will be indicated.
In case of total discharge, “Battery too low” will be indicated and the gauge will switch off.
Make sure to replace empty batteries within a period of about one minute after you have
removed the exhausted ones. If the gauge remains longer without power, date and time
settings will get lost. If the time interval for battery change has been exceeded, “Check clock
setting” is shown after you have inserted fresh batteries (see also section 15.6.3). Batches and
calibration values, however, are retained in memory.
For field use, replacement batteries should be made available.
Erratic readings due to low battery voltage do not occur. If voltage is too low, the gauge
switches off or will not switch on at all.
Used or defective batteries or storage batteries may contain hazardous substances and must
be disposed according to the legal provisions of your country.
3.1.4.2 Plug-in mains unit
For mains operation, the plug-in mains unit must be used. If operated via the plug-in mains unit,
batteries should be inserted to supply the internal time clock; otherwise the settings of the real-time
clock will get lost approximately one minute after the mains supply has bee cut.
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Description of the System
The plug-in mains unit comes with two different adapter plug versions (Euro and US plug). If the
adapter plug does not match your socket, simply change the adapter plug accordingly.
For this purpose, remove the adapter from the plug-in mains unit and fix the other one as required.
Note: The adapter is not designed for frequent change.
3.1.4.3 USB-Interface
The QuintSonic 7 can also be powered via the USB interface of a PC. For this purpose, please use
the USB adapter cable (supplied as an option). Connect the gauge to your PC. The gauge
switches on automatically. It is recommended to operate the gauge in the permanent mode (see
section 15.6.5) to make sure it is always switched on.
3.2 Sensor
3.2.1 SIDSP®-Technology
SIDSP® is world wide leading state-of-the-art-technology for coating thickness sensors developed
by ElektroPhysik. With this new technology, ElektroPhysik has set another new benchmark for
innovative magnetic induction or eddy-currents based coating thickness gauges. With QuintSonic
7, this new technology has also made its entry into the ultrasonic coating thickness measurement.
Compared to the conventional procedures, the new technology offers considerable advantages
that will be explained in detail in the following section.
SIDSP® stands for sensor-integrated digital signal processing. With this technique, all necessary
measuring signals are generated and processed inside the sensor itself.
The sensor of the QuintSonic sensor emits the ultrasonic signal at a peak voltage of approx.140V.
Unlike conventional methods, the new SIDSP® technology does not transfer this signal via a
cable, but the signal is directly generated in the sensor to be transferred via the shortest way to the
measuring head. As a consequence, an impact on the transmit signal through the cable can be
excluded and at the same time, an optimum protection against contact is given, even if the cable is
damaged.
Conventional methods transfer signals via cable. With the new technology, however, the sensitive
ultrasonic signal is not transferred via cable, but processed directly in the sensor. As a
consequence, an optimal protection against interferences of any kind is given. The complete
process from mathematical editing up to the coating thickness value is performed by a 32-bits
controller. The calculated coating thickness values are available in digital form to be transformed
flawlessly via the sensor cable to the gauge.
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Description of the System
With the SIDSP® technology, adverse interferences through changing cable properties (as they
often occur with conventional methods) that might affect readings can be totally excluded. As a
result, QuintSonic 7 provides long-term stability enabling the user to take full advantage of the
precision and reliability of the system.
During the manufacture of a sensor, sensor calibration values are determined. Such values are
vital for the precision of a sensor. They are stored in the sensor itself to make them available at
any time. They will be retained even if the sensor is connected to another QuintSonic 7 gauge, in
other words, you can use a QuintSonic 7 sensor and connect it to any QuintSonic 7 gauge as
requested.
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Description of the System
3.2.2 Measuring ranges
The sensor offers five different measuring ranges with the following properties:
Measuring range 1: Range limit = 300 ns, resolution = 0.2 ns
Measuring range 2: Range limit = 750 ns, resolution = 0.4 ns
Measuring range 3: Range limit = 1600 ns, resolution = 0.8 ns
Measuring range 4: Range limit = 3300 ns, resolution = 1.7 ns
Measuring range 5: Range limit = 6300 ns, resolution = 3.3 ns
All ranges start at 10 ns. This is the minimum distance required between a layer interface echo and
the second coupling echo (for more details please see section 7.3.3)
As the measuring principle is based on a time-interval measurement, the measuring ranges are
scaled in units of time. The obtainable coating thickness ranges are a function of the ultrasonic
velocities of the materials to be measured. Please refer to the technical data of section 19 for the
different coating thickness ranges resulting from an ultrasonic velocity of 2375 m/s (average values
for industrial coatings).
The resolution represents the smallest possible time unit a multiple thereof the echo positions can
be represented as (see section 7.3.3). This is also referred to as “quantisation unit”. Example: In
the measuring range # 2, echo positions can be obtained only in time intervals of 10.0 ns, 10.4 ns,
10.8 ns, etc. Intermediate values do not occur. Resolution is highest in the lowest measuring
range, whereas it is lowest in the highest measuring range.
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User Interface
4 User Interface
The following sections provide an overview of the most important QuintSonic 7 menu screens
including a short description of the same. For more detailed information, please refer to the
relevant paragraphs.
For a complete description of the menu system, please see section 15.
In section 4.3 you will learn how to enter your settings for the different parameter types.
4.1 Important Menu Screens
4.1.1 Start screen
At switch-on, the start screen appears showing company logo, gauge and type of sensor being
connected.
The start screen is shown for about 3 seconds during which the initialising procedure is running.
Once completed, the system switches to measuring mode.
You will be requested whether to continue the last active batch. If the direct mode (see section
6.3.1) has been set, there will be no such request and you can immediately proceed on
measurement.
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User Interface
Mains or battery operation
with state of charge
Time
Layer thickness 1
Layer thickness 2
Active
parameter set
Number of readings taken
Antenna icon, flashing if
sensor is connected
Coupling index
Total thickness
Active batch
Structure of
layers,
geometric model
Current property of function key
4.1.2 Measure mode – numerical and graphical screen
The screen appears each time a reading has been taken unless you have selected the A-screen
image (see sections 4.1.4 and 7.4.6). The measure mode screen includes a comprehensive and
clear overview of all measuring data.
The total thickness and the individual layers are represented in numerical form (on the right edge
of screen). In addition, readings are shown as a geometric layer model on the left side of screen
with the height of the individual layers being determined by their layer thickness.
The coupling index (on the left) indicates the quality of coupling (see section 6.5.2) achieved during
measurement.
On the upper right, the number of readings stored in the current batch is shown along with the
name of active batch and the name of parameter set relating to this batch (bottom line).
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4.1.3 Measure mode – Large numerical screen
Mains or battery operation
with state of charge
Time
Layer thickness 1
Layer thickness 2
Active
parameter set
Antenna icon,
flashing if
sensor is
connected
Active batch
Number of
readings
Coupling index
Total thickness
Current property of function key
User Interface
If a good readability of readings has priority, it is recommended to call the numerical screen as
shown above. This screen is only includes readings and some additional information such as
coupling index and number of readings. This screen offers sufficient space to represent large
numerical values to enable good readability from the distance.
To call this screen the “Graphics” parameter must be disabled. Go to the “Configuration” submenu
and press the “Configuration” function key (see section 15 5. 3 “Configuration”).
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4.1.4 Measure Mode – A-screen Image with Echo Signal
Current property of function keys
Layer thickness 1
Amplitude value at
cursor position
Crosshair
cursor
Time value at
cursor position
Here the function
keys assume cursor
move functions
Time
Amplitude zoomdetail [%]
Coupling index
Mains or battery operation
with state of charge
Time [ns] on the
left edge of
screen
Time [ns]
(on the right
edge of screen)
Echo pulse
Echo line
Clipping
limits
Percentage [%]
for clipping
limits
Zoom and
position indicator
Layer thickness 2
User Interface
This screen represents the behaviour in time of the so-called echo signal that has been computed
from the measuring signal. The time axis runs from left to right with the time values being
displayed on the left or right side respectively.
The extracted echoes are represented as vertical lines within the echo pulses. Each echo is
marked with an icon to indicate its state and origin.
On the left screen, the thickness of the individual layers is displayed as a numerical value.
The A-scan image includes a crosshair cursor that can be used for moving along the signal curve.
This enables you to read the amplitude value at any point of the curve (numerical value on the
upper right of screen).
The broken lines represent the clipping lines. For their signification and use please refer to section
8.
The A-scan image also includes a zoom function to zoom in or out sections as requested (see also
section 7.4).
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User Interface
Current properties of function keys
Mains or battery operation
with state of charge
Active
parameter set
Time
Active
batch
If a reading is taking whilst the A-scan image is being active, the reading will be immediately shown
on the A-scan image (see section 7.4.6). A previous change to the measure screen will not take
place.
For a detailed description of the A-screen, its significance and how to use it, please refer to
sections 7 and 8.
4.1.5 Statistics screen
All statistical values of a batch will be reported in tabular form.
The figure above represents Layer 1.
Statistics are available for each individual layer as well as for the total thickness.
For more details on the statistical functions please refer to section 13.
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4.1.6 Main menu
Active
parameter set
Active batch
Submenus
Icon for your
selected menu
item
Selected
menu item
Main menu help
User Interface
The figure above shows the main menu. It is the highest menu level (start level). From numerous
screens, this menu can be accessed via the function key “Main Menu”.
Press ”Main menu“ and use the arrow keys to scroll through the submenus. Press OK to confirm
your submenu selection.
From any submenu you can return to the main menu by pressing the ESC-key repeatedly. If you
press ESC in the main menu, you will go back to the measure screen.
The typical items of a menu are shown on the figure above.
Press the Help-key on the left to call up the help menu relating to the currently active menu. A
context oriented help is available for many of the different screens.
For more detailed information please refer to section 4.2.
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User Interface
4.2 How to navigate in the main menu
The numerous QuintSonic 7 functions can be accessed via the hierarchically structured user
menu. The main menu represents the highest menu level. From the main menu you can get
access to various submenus and their respective submenus or to other screens such as statistics
or parameter screens. In this section, a few examples are given to show you how to navigate
through the menu.
Press function key “Main menu” to call the main menu. Note: Some of the screens do not feature a
”Main menu“ function key. In such case, please press ESC repeatedly until you access a screen
featuring such key.
From the main menu, press arrow-up or -down key to select the
requested item, for instance “Setup”. Press OK to confirm. The selected
item will be called up.
The „Setup“ menu includes a submenu. Use arrow keys to select
“User Preferences” and confirm by OK to call up your selection.
The “User Preferences“ menu does not lead to submenus but it
includes a list of parameter options. The following section 4.3
provides more information on parameter options.
.
Press ESC-key to go back to the previous menu level. If you press ESC from the main menu, the
measure screen will appear. By means of the above navigation instructions you can move through
the complete menu and access any menu as requested.
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User Interface
4.3 Parameter setting
Many of the screens do not represent submenus but list parameter setting options. Most of the
parameters are user adjustable. Their setting may vary according to the type of parameter. In this
section, a few examples are given to show you how to set the different types of parameters.
Your parameter selection will be highlighted in grey. Use the arrow-keys to scroll through the
options. If you scroll down over the maximum, the cursor will skip aback to the beginning. This is
for quicker setting action. The cursor does only mark your parameter option without making any
changes to it. How to reach the editing mode for changing a parameter will be explained in the
relevant sections relating to the different parameter types.
Some of the parameters cannot be changed such as “active batch” / “batch properties”. You will
quickly identify such parameters if no selection cursor is available.
4.3.1 Setting a switch parameter (Example: Backlight)
Some parameters only offer two settings such as on/ off or
enabled/disabled. This kind of parameters are referred to as “switch
parameters”.
Example: “Backlight” from the submenu “Setup\Display”.
Select “Setup” followed by “Display” and choose “Backlight”.
Press OK and the parameter will change its state.
If you press again, it will switch back, etc.
The state highlighted state is being active.
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4.3.2 Setting selection parameters (Example: language)
Selection parameters offer more than two states.
Example: “Language” from the submenu “Setup\User Preferences”.
Select “Setup” followed by “User Preferences” and choose
“Language”. Press OK to confirm.
On the left of the options field an arrow up/down symbol will appear to
indicate that you can now set this parameter.
Use the arrow keys from the navigation block to scroll through the
options. Press arrow keys until you reach your requested option, e.g.
“English” and press OK to confirm.
Your setting has become active and the arrow symbol disappears.
If you do not want to change the setting, press ESC instead of
confirming by OK.
User Interface
4.3.3 Setting a numerical parameter (Example: pos. clip-limit)
Some parameters require a numerical setting. Once you select such
parameter, a special entry screen will appear.
Example: “pos. clip limit” from the batch configuration menu. See
section 12.1.2.1 “Clipping”.
The ESC- and OK-keys assume navigation functions to the left/right.
The arrow keys assume their standard navigation function up/down.
The entry method is similar to writing a text message on a mobile
phone. Use ESC, OK or arrow key to move the cursor over the
numerical entry field. Once you have reached the requested value,
wait until the auto-save time delay has passed and the value will be
accepted automatically. The auto-save time delay can be set via
Setup/User Preferences/ Entry accepted: after….sec. See section
15.6.5.
If you wish to enter the same value again, just move the cursor to any
other value and go back immediately to the requested value. If you
have mistyped, you can delete the unwanted value from the entry line
by pressing the “Delete” function key. If necessary, press repeatedly.
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