Data acquisition and control for an innovative thermal conductivity apparatus using LabVIEW® virtual instrument

Abstract

An innovative method and a novel research apparatus are being developed and tested to measure the thermal conductivity of non-Newtonian fluids while they are subjected to shearing flow. The emphasis here is given to the apparatus’ instrumentation and computerized data acquisition and control, while a detailed description of the mechanical design and test results will be presented elsewhere. The measurement and control are accomplished and integrated by using a computerized data acquisition system and a comprehensive virtual instrument, developed using the LabVIEW® application software. In addition, this system allows for easy modification and enhancement of virtual (software) instrument by modification of the software program. © 1998 National Instruments. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Lab Robotics and Automation 10: 107–111, 1998