Data Acquisition & Recording System

Abstract

The Data Acquisition & Recording System (DARS) is a totally self-contained, high technology data conversion and acquisition system, especially designed for unconstrained and hostile test environments. This system's initial use is for the Advanced Dynamic Anthropomorphic Manikin (ADAM), a test article for acquiring physical event and performance information from both the fully instrumented manikin which contains this system, and from the advanced technology CREST ejection seat upon which it rides. The ADAM development program was sponsored by the Air Force's Aeronautical Systems Division, Life Support Systems Program Office, and the Armstrong Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory. This paper presents the system level design of the DARS with emphasis on techniques used to solve special applications problems including survival in high 'G' tests, high speed computer controlled acquisition activities emulating PCM functions, simultaneous Telemetry and onboard data storage techniques, special sensing techniques, and a custom generic signal conditioning front end system. The presentation will conclude with several types of test environments and scenarios chosen to demonstrate the capabilities of the DARS, including the ADAM application.