Particle Counting Device Upgrades

After years of successful PSA support of particle counting devices designed for cleanroom monitoring, the client contracted us for the development of its new generation. The main focus was on meeting the criteria of the modern world in terms of usability, functionality, and data integrity. Being a high-precision measurement tool, any enhancement for the device has to be done in view of its major requirements – to ensure the appropriate responsiveness and stability to work 24/7.

Release the next generation of the particle measurement instrument to meet the advanced market demands.

Extend functionality and upgrade UI of particle counter to provide intuitive and reliable operations control in compliance with high precision measurement requirements and data integrity standards.

For the device to meet the requirements of the modern world, PSA designed a complex firmware to control operations for the new generation of particle counting device. Based on Qt, the upgraded UI allows for the following opportunities: 

• Set sampling parameters, and execute sampling 

• See the actual state, configure the device, and run self-tests

• Generate, save in PDF, and print reports

• View & manage alarms, locations, and recipes

• Control operations both locally and remotely due to USB, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet support 

• Choose language from 14 options

For the device to comply with standards for certification, we contributed to data integrity demands. 3-step access & NFC-based login were implemented to enhance security, whereas the opportunity to view up to 30k logs was to verify that data had not been changed. 

Starting from prototyping and moving through development, we implemented the new UI concept for simple air sampling management, and intuitive training using modern interfaces. We updated all UI elements and widgets, created mockups and user stories, and adjusted the interface to fit the new functionality. The device gained improved navigation capabilities, and a more intuitive look and behavior of the new screens and widgets. 

To enhance usability, the PSA team implemented HMI both for:

• The device with built-in display to provide portable particle measurement in the field

• Web app for remote operation, continuous monitoring, and updates of devices

For the system to meet responsiveness requirements, we linked the interface with RTOS, defining the optimal way of data exchange to minimize latencies and optimize memory and CPU performance.

At the final stage, PSA engineers performed Acceptance Testing onsite. We ensured the complete operability of the modernized device and conducted training for the client’s development team in case of further modification to the source code within the components.

As a result, the client gained a more functional, secure, and user-friendly device with extended access opportunities, ready to be launched to market.

• Requirements definition
• HMI proof-of-concept
• Architecture design
• Specifications development
• UI implementation
• Software development
• Qt optimizations
• Quality assurance (onsite)