Heartbeat Technology, which was introduced in 2013, reflects Endress+Hauser’s long-term commitment to enhancing measurement reliability and efficiency across a growing product portfolio. It’s been integrated into the latest generation of instruments and incorporates three essential features, Heartbeat Diagnostics, Heartbeat Verification and Heartbeat Monitoring, which are all designed to provide optimal performance and reliability.
Heartbeat Diagnostics is an integral part of the instrument’s base design, providing continuous self-monitoring with high diagnostic coverage. This feature helps identify potential issues or deviations from normal operation, improving overall reliability. To unlock the full potential of Heartbeat Technology, users are encouraged to configure their instruments with the dedicated ‘Heartbeat Verification + Monitoring’ option. This feature is strongly recommended as it enables periodic Heartbeat Verification checks, enhancing confidence in the instrument’s functionality.
Devices with Heartbeat Technology meet traceable verification requirements according to ISO 9001:2015 by using traceable internal references to identify defective components or device drift. These references can either be redundant components within the device or comparisons between the actual device state and a factory fingerprint.
Heartbeat Verification relies on these traceable and redundant internal references to assess the instrument’s functional performance comprehensively. During verification, current test data is compared with baseline data obtained during factory calibration, securely stored in the instrument’s non-volatile memory and retained in the factory alongside the original calibration certificate as part of the common equipment record (CER).
The comprehensive analysis, defined by a total test coverage in line with IEC 61508, the international standard for the functional safety of electrical and programmable systems, reliably detects electronic component failures or mechanical deterioration that might impact the device’s output signal and measurement accuracy. The total test coverage accounts for potential random failures, identified through a thorough failure modes, effects and diagnostic analysis (FMEDA) conducted during the device’s design process.
A ‘passed’ result from a Heartbeat Verification confirms that, based on total test coverage, all diagnostic checks have been successfully completed and the instrument continues to meet the criteria defined during factory production. These criteria are related to the measuring tolerance established in the factory calibration, as indicated on the factory calibration certificate. As a result, the instrument can be expected to perform as required in the application. In the event of a ‘failed’ result from a Heartbeat Verification, it is recommended to repeat the verification under defined and stable process conditions. If a subsequent Heartbeat Verification yields a ‘passed’ result, the previous verification result can be disregarded.
If subsequent Heartbeat Verifications continue to produce ‘failed’ results, this indicates that one or more diagnostic checks cannot be performed successfully or that a Heartbeat Technology parameter is outside the tolerated range. In such cases, it is not advisable to continue using the instrument in the application as it may no longer fulfill its intended purpose. Appropriate corrective actions should be taken based on the failure information provided in the Heartbeat Technology verification report and related diagnostic information. If uncertain, conducting a calibration is advisable.
Each Heartbeat Verification generates a traceable, tamper-proof result, stored in the instrument according to the ‘first in, first out’ principle. The instrument can store up to eight verification results, assigned sequential identification numbers (1, 2, 3 and so on). These results cannot be overwritten or replaced, ensuring full transparency of the instrument’s verification history. Heartbeat Technology verification reports, including relevant instrument details, are recommended to be downloaded and filed as part of the instrument’s maintenance documentation.
Heartbeat Verification can be initiated directly on the instrument, displaying a ‘passed’ or ‘failed’ result. This process, along with downloading the verification report, can be facilitated remotely via the instrument’s web server via Bluetooth and the SmartBlue app, DeviceCare or FieldCare. For safe connectivity in hazardous areas, an appropriately certified mobile device such as the FieldXpert tablet can wirelessly connect to the instrument.
In applications where systematic faults such as corrosion, abrasion, build-up, inhomogeneous medium, foam, sensor aging or mechanical or thermal stress may affect measurements, Heartbeat Technology can effectively detect these issues, depending on the specific device capabilities. The Heartbeat Technology verification report provides the current status, offering insight into potential problems. By regularly conducting Heartbeat Verifications, users can monitor the progression of these effects and assess any trends. Relevant parameters can also be transmitted to an external condition monitoring system using Heartbeat Monitoring. Both approaches offer valuable insights, enhancing confidence in the instrument’s performance. If any issues are detected, appropriate maintenance actions should be taken to mitigate potential impacts on the instrument, process performance or the overall health of the larger asset.
For more information contact Endress+Hauser South Africa,
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