What makes a modular measurement system revolutionary? Niina Reponen Published: May 5, 2020 Industrial Manufacturing and Processes Industrial Measurements The concept of modularity The basic idea of modularity is that modules or components can be combined in a flexible way across a system. Modular components are designed to be used independently or as part of an integrated whole. The components may be separated and recombined, giving flexibility and variety in use. A modular design allows a solution to be tailored to the needs of the application in question without resource-heavy customization. In this way, modularity reduces the complexity of a system. While modularity is not a new concept, it can be increasingly seen in various fields, including cars, computers, furniture, piping systems, and buildings. The modular approach is also gaining popularity in industrial measurement systems. Interchangeable measurement probes, transmitters, and software are providing remarkable benefits to users across various measurement applications. Increased flexibility for changing measurement needs A major benefit of modular measurement systems is flexibility. With a plug-and-play design, probes can be easily changed, allowing different parameters to be measured. Also, being able to quickly swap probes ensures minimal operational downtime, which can result in significant cost savings. Transmitters that allow dual probe support, like the Vaisala Indigo500, offer even greater flexibility. The same transmitter can be used to measure the inlet and outlet conditions of a process, for example, or even various parameters simultaneously – like CO2, humidity, dew point, temperature, or vaporized hydrogen peroxide – and the probes can be easily switched. Effortless installation, maintenance, and calibration with plug-and-play design A plug-and-play modular design also ensures smooth installation. The probes can be easily attached to the transmitter, and the system is ready for use. If installation or connection cables are needed, they are typically shared across a modular design, making it more cost efficient and easier to handle. Maintenance and calibration are also easier because probes can be easily removed for service without needing to remove the transmitter body. This also makes the process of installing replacement probes much easier. Vaisala’s modular Indigo family The Vaisala Indigo family takes industrial measurement to the next level. Interchangeable smart probes, transmitters, and Indigo Insight software create a strong chain of data to ensure energy efficiency, safety, and end-product quality in your operations. Indigo family smart probes offer a flexible solution to measure humidity, dew point, temperature, moisture in oil, carbon dioxide (CO2), or hydrogen peroxide vapor (H2O2). Find out more about the Vaisala Indigo family.
