Process Controls: Batch ArchitectTM
Fluid Air is currently offering the second major release of its Allen-Bradley based manual control system, Batch Architect. This package provides a simple interface for monitoring and manually adjusting process parameters and is also available with an additional phase control option. Phase-based control is ideal for users who desire automated control but want the flexibility to change the process on-the-fly. Batch Architect also provides safety, process alarming, and a standard datalogging system.
Group Security (Optional)
- Unique group name and password identify users for login.
- Each group is configurable to its own unique set of privileges to ensure that crucial operational parameters can only be accessed by appropriate users.
Manual Control
![Batch Architect[TM] Manual Control](images/BAManualControl_sm.jpg)
- The manual control screen gives information regarding the machine status and provides several function keys for control of the machine.
- The manual control screen is configured to match each specific piece of equipment.
Phase Control (Optional)
![Batch Architect[TM] Phase Control](images/BAPhaseControl_sm.jpg)
- Phase control is an optional feature in Batch Architect.
- The phase control screen gives information regarding the machine status and provides several function keys to control the machine in phases.
- Each phase describes a process, such as "cool" or "dry" and is configurable to product requirements.
- The phase control screen is configured to match each specific piece of equipment.
Data Logging
- Batch Architect provides for storage of process data on a compact flash card or USB drive.
- Process data is stored in a comma-delimited format. This data can be imported into a spreadsheet for viewing or printing.
Virtualization Technology and Disaster Recovery
- Batch Architect operates in a virtualized control environment, which allows multiple simulated "virtual" computers to run on a single host computer.
- This enables multiple systems to be configured in a distributed architectiture to provide cost savings and simplified administration.
- Once a control system is in place and operational, virtualization technology helps to simplify disaster recovery procedures. By accessing a copy of the virtual machine, software engineers are able to restore the end user’s malfunctioning control system to an operational state, greatly reducing downtime in the event of system failure.
- Virtualization also enables end users to meet federal regulations for data retention; a virtual system that has been removed or replaced can easily be copied to another computer to maintain data access after it is decommissioned.
Calibration
- Analog inputs can be calibrated within Batch Architect to ensure accuracy.
- Both automatic and manual means of calibration are provided.