On-Line Shape Analyzer System: Pi PMS

Vision Analytical’s Pi PMS system is a portable on-line shape analyzer that can serve as a temporary or dedicated system to track the shape and size of particles in real-time.

The system is typically a combination of different Pi Sentinel PRO instruments, which are the most sophisticated dynamic image analyzers in-built into analysis modules and controlled by a Master computer in a portable battery-operated control unit.

This system is best suited for applications in which it is required to monitor not just the diameter but also the shape of raw materials during on-line processes. In various industrial and pharmaceutical processes, it is crucial to ensure the same morphology to ensure the final product’s efficacy.

The use of a high-resolution analytical tool that can offer as much data as possible on the formation of crystals over time is crucial. The Pi PMS has been engineered specifically to work where raw material manufacturing processes require real-time feedback to take critical process decisions.

Image Credit: Vision Analytical

The Analysis Modules of the Pi PMS system have been designed particularly to work where raw material manufacturing processes occur and require real-time feedback to take important process decisions.

This means the sample for analysis is fetched directly by the Pi PMS from the process or reactor. Analysis of the raw material is performed “on-line,” near the reactors and without any disturbance or substantial modification of customer resources. As soon as the analysis is completed, the Analysis Modules can be disconnected from that group of reactors and subsequently connected to another group.

Image Credit: Vision Analytical

A master touchscreen all-in-one computer positioned on the upper section of the control unit tracks the performance of two or more instruments simultaneously, using a wireless remote-control application to monitor the raw material analysis directly over the process or reactors.

The system is powered by a robust battery that includes a smart charger/controller to maintain the battery completely charged at any time. Thus, it is possible to maintain a continuous duty cycle of 24/7/365.

Remote troubleshooting is possible only if the process owner provides access to the system (a randomly generated password that is valid only once).

Control Unit

Upper Section

A touchscreen all-in-one computer provided in the upper section serves as a master computer and a display. The computer manipulates both the wireless modules through remote-control application software.

Image Credit: Vision Analytical

Lower Section

The lower section includes the battery with the smart charger/controller, as well as the inverter that powers the upper section of the tower.

Image Credit: Vision Analytical

Wireless Analysis Module

A Pi Sentinel PRO instrument (modular version) and a Microsoft Surface PRO 4 computer provided in the wireless module allow autonomous monitoring of a process tracked and regulated by the master computer.

Image Credit: Vision Analytical