Lockheed Martin selects HBM and MTS to control load application and measure strain and pressure on Atlas.

Lockheed Martin Space Systems has selected MTS and HBM to supply an MTS AeroST load controller and data acquisition system, featuring HBM's MGCplus data acquisition system, for use in the design and development program for its Atlas V launch vehicles.

The MGCplus, a scalable, computer-controllable signal conditioning and data acquisition system, will be used by Lockheed Martin to measure structural strain and pressure on the Atlas rockets while structural loads are applied using the MTS AeroST controller with MTS' AeroPro control and data acquisition software.

Lockheed Martin Space Systems' test system will incorporate a total of 1,532 MGCplus measurement channels with individual A/D converters on each channel and a 32-channel MTS controller. "Two key advantages of the MGCplus are its modular design and the dynamic data capability not found in scanning systems," said John Bradford, senior test engineer for Lockheed Martin. "In addition, the system breaks down into smaller channel-count systems that we can utilize wherever we need them in the future."

The MGCplus acquires data from a variety of sensors placed on the rocket, including strain gages, thermocouples, load cells and LVTDs, and presents it to engineers in native or engineering units.

The MGCplus delivers 24-bit resolution, and synchronous data acquisition at high sampling rates. By digitizing from the outset, the system allows better accuracies with less drift to be achieved, and a much higher resolution. It encourages future flexibility by allowing the large system to be split up into smaller channel counts, along with the ability to utilize HBM's Catman software for smaller tests. Lockheed Martin's MGCplus system will be configured with a wide array of HBM's multi-channel amplifiers, connection boards and input modules, further demonstrating the system's adaptability.

The MTS AeroST controller features the most advanced processor architecture available with the highest resolution signal conditioning available in a controller today.

HBM, with U.S. headquarters located in Marlborough, is a leading global supplier of measurement technologies, products and solutions for industrial test and measurement applications. HBM provides complete measurement solutions--from sensor to software--for industrial and laboratory applications. Its wide range of measurement parameters includes force, torque, weight, strain, displacement and pressure, displacement. Primary markets include aerospace, automotive and manufacturing. HBM is a wholly owned subsidiary of Spectris plc.

MTS Systems Corp. is a global supplier of integrated simulation solutions that help customers accelerate and improve their design, development and manufacturing processes. MTS supplies products for determining the mechanical behavior of materials, products and structures--including computer-based testing and simulation systems, modeling and testing software, and consulting services--as well as products for automating manufacturing processes.