DEWESoft test on-board a helicopter, recording analog, GPS, VIDEO, ARINC, 1553... (click image to zoom by 4.1x)

As far back as 2004, DEWESoft introduced many powerful math functions to the data acquisition system, including a formula editor, user-programmable FIR and IIR filtering, statistical analysis (min, max, ave, RMS, standard deviation, et al), single and three-phase power grid analysis, frequency response functions from modal analysis, order tracking, rotational and torsional vibration, engine combustion analysis, sound analysis, and several more powerful functions.

However, due to the internal structure of DEWESoft, it was only possible for these great features to be calculated during the measurement. It was not possible, for example, to record raw data and then go back and add filtering or re-scaling, or any of the useful analytical features mentioned above.

But with the release of DEWESoft version 7, that has changed, and in a very big way. Not only can all analytical functions be performed on data that has already been captured, but many powerful new capabilities have been added to DEWESoft’s already impressive suite of functions.

DEWESoft 7 users can store “raw” data and perform all of their processing offline, on any computer, anywhere. This allows them to work with the data as if they were at the test bench or on the proving ground.

In fact, math functions can be set up in advanced and processed in real time, or set to process later, or not added at all until after recording - in any combination.

But this is just the beginning of the new and enhanced number crunching and data handling features that are now a part of DEWESoft:

Matrix Channels

DEWESoft 7’s redesigned data structure allows the math engine to handle matrix channels. Accordingly we have added advanced procedures like classification,

rainflow counting and augmented our already powerful FFT capabilities with new permutations, such as short time Fourier transform (STFT).

The Rainflow counting method is used to reduce a matrix of varying stresses into a set of stress reversals. With Rainflow, DEWESoft 7 is now a useful tool in fatigue analysis studies.

On-screen visualization of the resulting analyses has also been enhanced in DEWESoft 7 to support the new functions, especially new 2D and 3D graphs.

The 2D graph is ideal for the output from frequency response function calculations, for one example.

The 3D graph can be used to import geometric models of any object, to be manipulated by the incoming “live” data when performing modal analysis. In this way it can show a 3-dimensional model of the UUT (unit under test), animating it using accelerometer outputs. This model can be rotated to any angle and zoomed in or out.

Data Import Functions

With any data acquisition system, whether it has 8 channels or 8000, the question is always “what to do with all this data?” Basically it comes down to analysis and archiving.

The new structure of data in DEWESoft 7 allows third parties to write import routines easily and add them to their software. This eliminates the need to export the data, which itself takes time, and results in TWO data files to be maintained. The list of third-party analysis software that can or will soon be able to directly open DEWESoft 7 data files includes:

•Flexpro® version 8.0.26

•nCODE® (version 6, ISR2)

•FAMOS© (coming Q4 2010) •MATLAB® (coming Q4 2010)

Fast Data Reloading

Also very important is the speed and ease of data reloading. Many data recorders can make a multi GB data file without a problem, but then they take 10 or 20 minutes to open it for review. This is a huge waste of time for today’s busy test engineers, who are faced with doing more tasks with fewer resources - including precious time.

DEWESoft 6‘s data reloading speed was already impressive, but this has been improved even more with version 7. Now, a file even of 10 GB can be reloaded in less than 15 seconds. Use the cursors and zoom in on any portion of the file in just a few seconds. DEWESoft even handles files that are in the terabytes in size... and even these can be processed in a similar way, whether they contain one channel or thousands of channels.

Built-in Sequencer

The new DEWESoft 7 Sequencer allows the user to build test procedures in a form of workflow diagrams, which are executed step- by-step in an automated fashion. Sequences can control virtually any part of the software, load setups, start and stop measurements, make decisions based on measurements, request decisions from the user at various points, set alarm levels, and much more.

The DEWESoft 7 Sequencer engine can access the multimedia capabilities of the computer hardware, allowing it to play video clips on the screen or replay audio messages, guiding the user through complex test procedures. A great new feature is voice output, where text messages intended for the test operator are spoken out-loud using Windows® text-to-speech and computer speakers.

This is especially useful in applications where the test operator is too busy to look at the screen to read messages and alerts, or take instructions. A perfect example is a brake test, where the sequence will tell the driver “Increase speed to 100 miles per hour.... apply brakes NOW...” and so on.

Enhanced User Interface

DEWESoft already had multiple display screens, and the user could modify their contents. Now the screen names and icons themselves can be modified freely, rearranged, added and deleted, and more, to create exactly the right suite of displays for any project.

Also new in version 7 is a larger channel selector panel on the right side of the display. This includes new and easier way to organize the channels and to find them by any string of characters in their names using the search field. Channel colors can also be changed from this list, without having to stop and go back to the setup mode.

Conveniently, this entire channel selector bar can be hidden with one click, and the contents of the data display objects will stretch to fill the entire screen width. The properties panel on the left side of the screen can be also hidden in the same way.

DEWESoft 7 is Windows 7® compatible, as well as Windows XP® compatible. Windows 7 will be installed on all new Dewetron systems starting in the Autumn of 2010.

Price/size/performance

DEWESoft 7 is available in several versions, as follows:

SE (standard edition), supports one 16-bit A/D card, any Dewetron signal conditioning, and one video camera

PROF (professional edition), supports one or more 16-, 22-, or 24-bit A/D cards, any Dewetron signal conditioning, one or more video cameras

DSA (dynamic signal analysis edition), adds modal analysis (FRF), human vibration analysis, sound level meter, rotational and torsional vibration, and more.

EE (enterprise edition) includes nearly every feature and option, and free upgrades for 5 years.

Upgrades of existing DEWESoft licenses are available for only 30% of the cost of a new license.

For more information, please look on the company’s website at:

www.dewamerica.com/dewesoft

Or contact the company at:

Dewetron, Inc. Tel: +1 401-284-3750 sales@dewamerica.com