Structure and main operation principles of ships' information system "TTC-C" product of Precision Systems Technologies company.
"TTC-C" system structure is based on typical stations of data acquisition implemented as multi-function modular system of distributed input-output approved by RMRS.
Broad spectrum of different purpose modules allow to adapt the system to requested tasks optimally. Interface modules provide station ability of direct connection to electric and optic communication PROFIBUS DP channels, electric communication channels PROFINET IO, ability to pre-process data and to support PROFISAFE profile for systems devoted to safety. Distributed system of some microcomputers including mobile support "hot" redundancy for electronic and power modules by means of high class programmable controllers.
One modular station structure may include up to 63 different purpose modules, which provide up to 386 discrete, or up to 96 analogue channels, or combination of the channels. Data exchange between stations and higher level device is rated under 12 Mega bits per second in PROFIBUS DP network. PROFINET IO network has 100 Mb/s speed of data exchange between station and sources of data.
Standard minimal system configuration consist of two input-output station integrated by redundant PROFINET communication channel. High level control is implemented as pair of microcomputers for industrial application in ultra-compact form intended to install on standard DIN-rail near control equipment and had approved by all leading marine classification societies. These microcomputers mean to work round-the-clock and have vide range of thermo- and vibro- tolerance. The microcomputers using SSD as system disk are not equipped with ventilators or any other devices with rotating components. Such solution allow to apply TTC-C system as "Embedded" application, when other PC usage seems to be the problem. Software of both data processing stations are synchronized and it provides the hundred percent redundancy in case of failure or maintenance of one station.
Visual interface consist of two touch-sensitive monitors providing IP65 protection class at front side and approved by RMRS.
Power supply of all components of the system (including monitors) is provided by UPS 24VDC module. All power supply equipment of the module, including batteries, approved by leading marine classification societies.
TTC-C system operates as following:
Powering on, measuring elements of input-output stations upload data buffers of microcomputers with information describing status and conditions of inputs. Data processing stations make decision to resolve control authority: one of the stations is assigned as "server", other station-as "client". These assignments act up to termination of current session of operation, or up to switching off or failure of one of the stations. Switching off or failure of current server makes next able to work station receiving "server" authority (in general, structure of the system allows to use up to 63 data processing stations, including mobile devices). Server receives requested by clients data and distributes its on the networks as router, which function eliminates traffic and therefore makes date exchange in the system significally faster. Server and clients display receiving information, register alarms, impose on its multi-level mask of cross-reference blockages and output signal to ships' light & sound signaling system.
