Avalanche Dummy Datalogger

Students:���� Andy Meehan

����������������������� Dave Catania

Advisor:������� Ross Snider

Sponsor:������ Robb Larsen

Project:

����������� The ME department has a test dummy that is equipped with a variety of sensors such as load cells and accelerometers.� This dummy is going to be sent through avalanches to determine the forces that would affect a real human.� Currently the sensors interface with a PC running LabView.� A dedicated data acquisition system needs to be implemented so that the dummy can be sent down in an avalanche and have information from the sensors recorded.�

Requirements:

The data acquisition system needs to be small enough to fit in the dummy or in a small backpack.� The dummy will sit overnight on a snowy mountain so consideration for the cold needs to be taken into account.� The data acquisition system needs to be able to interface with the current sensor bank and record large amounts of data.

Update: 11/01/2007

����������� Several sub-systems of the project are operational.� The analog-to-digital conversion and Compact Flash memory have been proven.� Before designing a PCB for the data logger, tests must be run using a breadboard to verify component operation.� Adapters must be made so that small PCB centric parts can be used with a larger breadboard.� Here are the current adapter board designs that are currently being used on the project.

����������� Analog-to-Digital Converter: ADS7844

����������� ADS7844_Layout_(PDF)

����������� ADS7844_Schematic_(PDF)

����������� Compact Flash Memory Interface

Compact_Flash_Adapter_Bottom_(PDF)

Compact_Flash_Adapter_Top_(PDF)

Compact_Flash_Adapter Schematic_(PDF)

USB to RS-232 Interface

FT232RL_Interface_Layout_(PDF)

FT232RL_Interface_Schematic_(PDF)