Teleflex is launching a Windows configuration tool for the Cantrak range of large-format, automotive-grade LCD human-machine interfaces.
The powerful software allows application-specific instrumentation gauges to be created for handling SAE J1939-compatible Canbus engine data for use in vehicles or on diesel-powered equipment such as pumps and compressors.
The software also supports NMEA 2000 - the protocol used for GPS navigational devices - thereby widening the applications potential to leisure and work boats.
The new software is so simple to use that graphical displays can be created in minutes, without any specialist knowledge of real-time programming. When the instrumentation configuration is complete, built-in simulation facilities allow immediate testing - which provides an extremely short development cycle. The tool is expected to appeal to OEMs who build in smaller quantities, as well as those who need a faster and more cost-effective route to creating their own dedicated instrumentation.
Called CCDM (Cantrak configurable display module), Teleflex's software allows a wide range of engine instrument and alarm displays to be created. Instrument formats include single analogue and digital gauges, and screens with up to four gauges or fault alarms presented simultaneously - an attribute made possible of Cantrak's large 110x110mm (4.3x4.3inch) display area. Any J1939 data available can be manipulated and displayed. A row of soft-key pushbuttons on the LCD panel allows users to navigate around multiple display screens.
To create instrumentation, users complete one initial form with basic information on the system, including the Canbus baud rate and data format (29-bit or 11-bit), the language used, and the graphic file to be presented at boot time. Then, all the desired gauge screens are configured one by one, by means of one standard form offering a list of tick-box or fill-in-the-blanks options that determine the style of gauge, the units, minimum and maximum, and the name and soft-key function of the display hardware's pushbuttons and so on. The first gauge in the list is always presented to the user as the default display following boot-up. When the configuration is complete, CCDM's built-in simulator allows the instrumentation to be checked and evaluated, without connection to any real-world equipment.
The instrumentation runs on Teleflex's Cantrak family of human-machine interfaces that are purpose-designed for use in automotive and industrial environments. Key features include: the use of FSTN (film supertwist nematic) LCD technology for visibility in direct sunlight; backlighting; a Deutsch connector interface to the Canbus; protection to IP67; and an operating temperature range of either -25 to +75 or -40 to +75 degrees C.
The new software tool complements Teleflex's existing range of development options for its Cantrak displays that include a real-time software development kit for experienced embedded system developers, a generic diesel engine monitoring utility with a range of commonly required gauges and alarms, and a programming service.
Cantrak is in widespread use by OEMs in the off-highway vehicle and marine fields, and the new CCDM software can be used with any existing display from the Cantrak 26xx family.
For more information, visit www.cantrak-int.com
"
