Industrial Fluid Dispensing Manufacturer
Impact ES–Rhode Islanddeveloped a next-generation fluid dispensing system featuring a Windows 7 touch screen interface. The client sought to replace aging technology while integrating new capabilities, including enhanced automation and an improved user experience.
The client originally contracted another engineering firm to modernize their fluid dispensing system, but delays prevented timely completion. The key challenges included:
Replicating the exact performance characteristics of the legacy system.
Integrating a modern touch screen Graphic User Interface (GUI).
Adding a new Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) interface for automation.
Completing and refining a partially developed solution.
Meeting strict time constraints for product delivery.
Impact ES–Rhode Island took over the project, addressing hardware, firmware, and software development:
Designed a fluid dispensing system with a Windows 7 touch screen interface.
Developed software that provides a smartphone-like interface for ease of use, networking, remote monitoring, and document viewing.
Implemented the software on a Single Board Computer (SBC), interfacing with a custom electronics board via an RS232 serial connection.
Evaluated and improved the partially developed electronic design to enhance reliability, manufacturing yield, and regulatory compliance.
Redesigned firmware for faceless (automated) operation, refining stepper motor control to precisely match legacy system performance.
Developed a PLC-compatible firmware interface, ensuring seamless communication between the fluid dispensing system and industrial automation networks.
Converted the fluid dispensing software into a WPF application, supporting gesture-based controls for an intuitive user experience.
Added features such as scale and PLC device integration, email notifications, and multi-language support (Spanish, French, German, and Chinese).
Created an additional WPF-based application that mimicked a smartphone interface, enabling touch-based access to fluid dispensing software, Microsoft Office applications, webcams, and other external tools.
Impact ES–Rhode Island successfully delivered a fully functional, modernized fluid dispensing system that met all client requirements within the strict time frame. The upgraded system improved ease of use, automation capabilities, and global accessibility while maintaining legacy performance standards.
Modernizing legacy systems requires careful engineering to maintain existing performance while integrating new capabilities.
Touchscreen interfaces significantly improve usability in industrial applications.
Modular software architecture allows for easy integration of additional features like automation and multi-language support.
Rapid engineering intervention can salvage delayed projects and ensure successful completion.
Strategic team allocation ensures efficient problem-solving and timely project delivery.
