Products

Prototype development

In practice, some assignments turn into unique one-off solutions that are not available commercially. In most cases, the test model or prototype developed by the Electronics Department is also the definitive end product. Wherever possible, prefabricated components or subsystems are used to keep costs and construction time to a minimum.

Electronic and electrotechnical control/regulation

This includes electrotechnical or electronic control and/or regulation systems for physical and/or chemical processes. Examples are temperature control (ON/OFF PID), pressure regulation, flow control, alerts when certain values are exceeded, as well as motor/position/speed regulation, etc. Also included are general process-monitoring and security systems.

Automation

This relates to large-scale systems designed to coordinate and/or automate several related measurement and control tasks. In many cases, the Electronics Department will use technical software and other information technologies, and the many data-acquisition resources and systems commercially available.

Technical Software

Today, technical software is virtually indispensable for many electronic systems and automated environments. The software required is usually produced by the Electronics department using LabView, but solutions based on microcontrollers – including the relevant specific software – are also possible.

Mechatronics

We speak of ‘mechatronics' when the realization of a project involves strong synergy between the possible electronic and/or software solutions on the one hand and mechanical solutions on the other. At the beginning of the assignment, it is not obvious where the ‘solution interface’ between the two disciplines lies. The total solution is therefore realized through direct and intensive simultaneous cooperation among electronic, electrotechnical and mechanical specialists. This means that during the design stage there is room to ‘play with’ and ‘shift’ the boundaries of what is feasible in mechanical or electronic/software terms.

CE inspections

All equipment, including that built in-house, must comply with CE marking guidelines. The best way to ensure compliance is to work according to harmonized European standards. In the field of engineering and electronic engineering, the Electronics Department can assist with regard to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in terms of complying with the relevant directives (Low Voltage Directive, EMC Directive). The department has a number of relevant standards at its disposal as well as the required testing and measuring equipment (see also Facilities).

NEN 3140 inspections

All electrical equipment must be approved. This is indicated by the NEN 3140 label. This category includes all equipment that is powered by electricity. Health and safety legislation stipulates that the employer is responsible for ensuring that this equipment is safe to work with. One of the main ways of doing this is by carrying out periodic safety inspections (in accordance with NEN 3140) of all electrical equipment, including extension leads, table sockets, cable reels, etc. The Electronics Department has the test equipment stipulated under NEN 3140. Certain members of staff have also been authorized by the Faculty, in accordance with the NEN 3140 standard, as skilled and competent to carry out the periodic safety inspections (see also Facilities).