PMI-LOAD – Multi-channel weighing controller with display and alerts

Overview

The PMI-LOAD is a multi-channel weighing controller designed for the acquisition, display and real-time monitoring of loads and mechanical forces.

It allows 1 to 8 sensors to be connected and centralizes measurements on a 7-inch color touchscreen installed directly next to the monitored equipment.

Depending on the configuration, the PMI-LOAD accepts different types of signals:

• strain gauge bridge sensors
• 0–5 V analog outputs
• 4–20 mA outputs
• temperature measurement

The system automatically performs signal scaling so as to display a value directly usable by the operator: load, force, mass or any other quantity defined during configuration.

Local display and control

The integrated touchscreen allows measurements to be consulted directly in the field, without an additional computer.

The user can in particular:

• view loads in real time
• consult several channels simultaneously
• perform a tare
• adjust scaling
• configure high and low thresholds
• view alarm statuses
• check load distribution across several sensors

The system starts automatically when powered on and can run continuously to provide permanent local supervision.

Signal tower indication

The PMI-LOAD integrates a three-color signal tower allowing the operator to immediately identify the load status of the installation.

The indication can be configured according to different thresholds:

• green: normal operation
• orange: caution level
• red: alert threshold or overload

This visual indication allows the status of the installation to be checked quickly, even when the operator is several meters away from the display.

It is particularly useful for filling, loading, lifting or process monitoring operations.

Operating principle

Force or weighing sensors are connected directly to the PMI-LOAD via industrial connectors.

Operation includes:

1. acquisition of each sensor's signal
2. conversion of the signal into a physical value
3. application of tare and scaling
4. display of measurements on the touchscreen
5. comparison with configured thresholds
6. control of the signal tower
7. display of alarm statuses
8. optional transmission of data to a remote system

The multi-channel configuration also makes it possible to track the distribution of a load across several support points or several sensors.

Compatible sensors

The PMI-LOAD can be configured to work with various weighing and force sensors.

Strain gauge bridge sensors

Strain gauge load cells are the preferred configuration for weighing and force measurement applications.

They can notably be used for:

• silo weighing
• hoppers
• machines
• platforms
• structures
• lifting systems

0–5 V sensors

The voltage inputs allow the integration of sensors with a directly conditioned analog output.

4–20 mA sensors

The current inputs facilitate the integration of industrial sensors and in particular allow the use of long cable runs.

Temperature

Temperature inputs can be integrated depending on the configuration in order to add thermal monitoring to the system.

Applications

The PMI-LOAD is particularly suitable for:

• silo load monitoring
• hopper weighing
• structure load monitoring
• industrial machine weighing
• process equipment
• fill level control
• overload detection
• load distribution monitoring
• multi-sensor monitoring
• safety threshold control
• lifting systems
• test benches
• handling equipment
• permanent or temporary monitoring

Installation

The PMI-LOAD is designed to be installed directly next to the monitored equipment or remotely in an area easily accessible to operators.

The enclosure can be installed:

• on a wall
• directly on a structure
• on a dedicated bracket
• on a cylindrical pole with the appropriate accessory

Commissioning generally includes:

1. sensor connection
2. definition of the signal type
3. zero adjustment
4. scaling
5. unit configuration
6. threshold definition
7. signal tower check
8. verification of the various channels

Data transmission

The PMI-LOAD is primarily designed to provide autonomous local supervision.

However, a telemetry option allows the controller to be integrated into a connected monitoring architecture.

Depending on the configuration, measurements can be:

• transmitted to a remote server
• viewed from a PC
• integrated into an existing supervision system
• used to build a load history

This option makes it possible to combine the simplicity of a local display with remote supervision of the installation.

PMI-LOAD enclosure

• Dimensions: 250 × 200 × 65 mm
• Stated dimensions: excluding signal tower
• Weight: approximately 1 500 g
• Material: polyester-coated aluminum
• Mounting: wall-mounted or on structure
• Ingress protection rating: IP65
• Interface: 7" color touchscreen
• Indication: 3-state signal tower
• Sensor connection: industrial push-pull connectors

Options

• 1 to 8-channel configuration
• custom high and low thresholds
• cables suited to high stress
• custom cable lengths
• telemetry
• data transmission to server
• remote viewing on PC
• integration into a connected monitoring architecture

Accessories

• industrial push-pull connectors
• reinforced cables
• mounting brackets
• wall mounting kit
• pole mounting kit
• signal tower
• remote display
• additional enclosure or mechanical protection
• telemetry equipment