Vision Analytical has launched a portable on-line shape analyzer system, called Pi PMS, that can serve as a temporary or dedicated system to enable real-time monitoring of shape and size.
The system is essentially a combination of numerous Pi Sentinel PRO instruments—the most sophisticated dynamic image analyzers incorporated into analysis modules and exploited by a master computer into a portable control unit powered by batteries.
The Pi PMS is perfect for applications where it is important to monitor both the diameter and shape of raw materials for on-line processes. In many industrial and pharmaceutical processes, it is important to make sure that the same morphology is maintained, so that the efficacy of the end product is guaranteed.
A high-resolution analytical tool, which can deliver a maximum amount of data about the formation of crystals over time, is very important.
Image Credit: Vision Analytical
The analysis modules of the Pi PMS have been particularly developed to work where raw material manufacturing processes are performed and need real-time feedback to make important process decisions.
In other words, the sample to be analyzed is directly taken by the Pi PMS system from the process or reactor. The raw material is then analyzed “on-line,” proximal to the reactors and without causing any significant modification or interruption to customer resources. As soon as the analysis is completed, the analysis modules can be separated from that group of reactors and subsequently connected to a different group.
Image Credit: Vision Analytical
The performance of two or more instruments is concurrently monitored by a master touchscreen all-in-one computer mounted on the top section of the control unit. The computer performs this function through a wireless remote-control application designed to monitor the raw material analysis directly across the reactors or process.
The system is powered by a powerful battery, which features a smart charger or controller to keep the battery fully charged all the time. A continuous duty cycle is thus ensured round the clock.
Users can perform remote troubleshooting only if the process owner provides access to the system (an arbitrarily created password that can be used only once).
Control unit
Upper section
The upper portion features a touchscreen all-in-one computer that acts as a master computer and a display. This PC controls both the wireless modules via a remote-control application software.
Image Credit: Vision Analytical
Lower section
The lower portion features the battery that includes the smart charger or controller, and also the inverter to supply power to the upper part of the tower.
Image Credit: Vision Analytical
Wireless analysis module
The wireless module features a Microsoft Surface PRO 4 computer and a Pi Sentinel PRO instrument (modular version). This allows autonomous monitoring of a process while being tracked and controlled by the master computer.
Image Credit: Vision Analytical