The sputtering machine of the University of Groningen
Old situation
The University of Groningen (RUG) had been using a sputtering machine for the composition of materials for many years. But the whole operating system was hopelessly outdated. The PC still ran on Windows XP and could not be connected to a network for remote control. There was also no clear separation between control and operation. This was quite confusing for students, who are of course allowed to make mistakes, but preferably not on a system that cannot cope with them. Incorrect input and procedures frequently caused downtime, annoyance and repair costs.
End result
In consultation with Mr. Johan Holstein of the RUG, Pro Control completely changed the design. ‘Flexible’ and ‘student-proof’ were the key words. First of all, Pro Control replaced the PC with a Beckhoff PLC featuring solid security and the possibility of remote control. We then installed a LabVIEW application for easy and unambiguous operation, and the Dizanta Suite for automated procedures, data acquisition and reporting.
The PC is now only used as an operator interface, for data storage and as a recipe manager for automatic procedures. The controls and alarm handling are no longer dependent on the PC. So students do not have to worry about making mistakes. Because they will learn from them.
The PC is now only used as an operator interface, for data storage and as a recipe manager for automatic procedures. The controls and alarm handling are no longer dependent on the PC. So students do not have to worry about making mistakes. Because they will learn from them.
Gallery
