Electromechanica, Inc. developed a custom functional test system to verify the performance of a thermoelectric heat pump device for a major analytic instrumentation company. Electromechanica, Inc. designed this test system capable of verifying the key performance characteristics of the device-under-test (DUT).
Three major performance characteristics of the DUT that are analyzed include temperature profile, current draw and thermoelectric (Peltier) voltage during the cooling cycle. The temperature profiles on each side of the Peltier junction are measured by four thermocouples (two on each side of junction) mounted in direct contact with the device. Electrical characteristics such as current and voltage are measured and logged for analysis. The test system is housed in a custom built modular enclosure. This provides a steady state ambient environment and protects the test operator from high temperatures and voltages generated during the test. The system is equipped with a door interlock switch to ensure operator safety. The power input is universal for use worldwide.
The data from the test is acquired, displayed and logged using a custom LabVIEW program coupled with National Instruments data acquisition hardware. The temperature and voltage profiles are displayed in real-time. The acquired data is compared to reference curves that establish pass/fail criteria. Raw data is simultaneously logged to a delimited text file that includes serial number, date and operator ID for lot traceability and failure analysis.
This project is an example of a total systems integration effort involving our cross functional team of electronics, mechanical, and software engineers.
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