Argus PiCUS TreeQinetic User manual

PiCUS TreeQinetic
Manual
This manual is valid for PiCUS TreeQinetic systems of these versions:
Hardware Version: 0.1.0000
Firmware Version: 0.0.0707
App Version: 1.0
Manual version: 28 Mai 2021
argus electronic gmbh
Erich-Schlesinger-Straße 49d
18059 Rostock
Germany
Tel.: +49 (0) 381 - 496814 –40
www.argus-electronic.de
email: [e-mail]

PiCUS TreeQinetic Manual
2
1 Content
2Abreviations and Acknowledgements............................................................................. 4
3.1 Intended Use........................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Designated Application............................................................................................ 5
3.3 Disclaimer ............................................................................................................... 5
3.4 Packing List (Starter)............................................................................................... 6
4Measuring Instruments................................................................................................... 8
4.1 Description of System Components ........................................................................ 8
4.1.1 Communication Unit......................................................................................... 8
4.1.2 Forcemeter......................................................................................................10
4.1.3 Inclinometer ....................................................................................................11
4.1.4 Elastometer.....................................................................................................14
4.1.5 Overlaod Indicator...........................................................................................16
4.1.6 Cables.............................................................................................................17
4.1.7 Case ...............................................................................................................17
4.1.8 Eightfold Charger (Optional)............................................................................18
4.1.9 Anemometer (Optional)...................................................................................19
4.2 General Operating Instructions...............................................................................20
4.2.1 Ambient Conditions.........................................................................................20
4.2.2 Module Addresses ..........................................................................................20
4.2.3 Automatic switch-off........................................................................................21
4.2.4 Charging .........................................................................................................21
4.2.5 Maintenance ...................................................................................................22
4.2.6 Spread of Infestations .....................................................................................22
4.3 Calibration..............................................................................................................22
5App................................................................................................................................23
5.1 Installation..............................................................................................................23
5.2 Starting the App .....................................................................................................23
5.2.1 Permissions ....................................................................................................23
5.2.2 Features of Android.........................................................................................24
5.2.3 Features of iOS...............................................................................................24
5.3 Control Concept.....................................................................................................24
5.3.1 General...........................................................................................................24
5.3.2 Features of Android.........................................................................................25
5.3.3 Features of iOS...............................................................................................25
5.4 Tab –Control .........................................................................................................26
5.4.1 Page –Communication Unit............................................................................26
5.4.2 Page –Info......................................................................................................27
5.5 Tab –Project..........................................................................................................27
5.5.1 Page –Management.......................................................................................27

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5.5.2 Page –Tree Data............................................................................................27
5.5.3 Page –Test Setup ..........................................................................................28
5.5.4 Page –Forcemeter .........................................................................................29
5.5.5 Page –Elastometer.........................................................................................30
5.5.6 Page –Inclinometer ........................................................................................30
5.6 Tab –Measure.......................................................................................................31
5.6.1 Page –Control................................................................................................31
5.6.2 Page –Live View Numeric ..............................................................................32
5.6.3 Page –Live View Diagram..............................................................................33
5.7 Tab –Data View.....................................................................................................33
5.7.1 Page –Result..................................................................................................33
5.7.2 Page –Forcemeter .........................................................................................34
5.7.3 Page –Elastometer.........................................................................................34
5.7.4 Page –Inclinometer ........................................................................................35
5.7.5 Page –Anemometer .......................................................................................35
5.8 Additional Information / Background Processes .....................................................35
5.8.1 Interruption of the Bluetooth Connection .........................................................35
5.8.2 Vibrating Alert..................................................................................................35
5.8.3 Internal Calculations........................................................................................36
5.9 Managing the Measurement Data ..........................................................................37
5.9.1 Project Structure .............................................................................................37
5.9.2 Data Transmission..........................................................................................37
5.9.3 Compatibility with Arbostat..............................................................................38
6Software........................................................................................................................39
7Technical Information....................................................................................................40
7.1 PTQ Com Unit........................................................................................................40
7.2 PTQ Forcemeter ....................................................................................................40
7.3 PTQ Inclinometer ...................................................................................................41
7.4 PTQ Elastometer....................................................................................................41
7.5 PTQ Überlast-Warner.............................................................................................42
7.6 PTQ Case..............................................................................................................42
7.7 Requirements Mobile Device..................................................................................42
7.8Requirements PC...................................................................................................42

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2 Abreviations and Acknowledgements
PTQ PiCUS TreeQinetic = Name of the whole system
PTQ.App Measuring software to be used under Android or iOS
PTQ Com Unit Communication Unit
Module Part of the PTQ system like Elastometer, Inclinometer,
Forcemeter od Anemometer
Text fields displayed in an app on the mobile phone, in software on the PC or labels on the
outside of a device are shown in this manual in gray color and bold italic letters EXAMPLE.
Data input fields in an app on the mobile phone or in software on the PC are shown in this
manual in green and bold italics EXAMPLE.
Data display elements in an app on the mobile phone or in software on the PC are shown in
this manual in blue color and bold, italicized text EXAMPLE.
Cross-references to other chapters of this manual or references to external sources are written
in italics and underlined.
Potential sources of error are indicated with CAUTION!, notes with the keyword NOTE,
followed by a short explanation in italics.
3 General Information
This chapter deals with general information.
3.1 Intended Use
PiCUS tree measurement technology offers tree experts a comprehensive set of diagnostic
tools for the detection and evaluation of defects in trees.
The tree static pulling test is so far the only method that allows conclusions to be drawn on
uprooting and breaking safety in equal measure.
The PiCUS TreeQineticmeasuring instruments are optimized for such pulling tests andprovide
the necessary data basis for safety calculations.
When using the system, the ambient conditions specified in the General Operating Instructions
and Technical Information must be observed. Otherwise a faultless function of the system
cannot be guaranteed.
The PiCUS product family stands for measuring instruments that not only provide precise
results but are also designed to reliably accompany the user in the field for a long time. They
are designed to be correspondingly robust. Nevertheless, they are highly sensitive, electronic
measuring instruments. Careful handling that takes this into account reduces failures and
maintenance requirements and significantly increases service life and reliability.

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3.2 Designated Application
The PiCUS TreeQinetic System is intended for use as measuring instrument in tree static
pulling tests. In the pulling test, the tree under investigation is subjected to a measured load in
a controlled manner using a pulling rope, while the reaction of the trunk and roots to this load
is recorded. The reaction of the tree to the known load is set in relation to the expected wind
load in a storm, thisratioexpresses the uprootingand breaking safety. TheTreeQinetic system
provides the user with the data basis needed to perform tree statics calculations.
The forcemeter is used to measure the force introduced into the tree and should be installed
between the tree and the entire pulling apparatus. It is designed for loads up to 60 kN (about
6 tons). The Forcemeter may only be attached with the shackles supplied or approved by the
manufacturer.
The elastometer measures the change in the distance between the two measuring points. For
this purpose they are attached to the needles supplied, which are hammered into the tree with
the gauge. Elastometers are designed for measuring elastic elongation or compression in the
range of up to several hundred µm.
Inclinometers measure the inclination of the tree part to which they are attached. First, the
inclinometer mount is attached, onto which the measuring instrument is then placed and
aligned.
The com unit allows to receive and record the measurement data at a safe distance from the
tree in case of unforeseen failure.
All PiCUS TreeQinetic sensor components are designed to measure fine movements and
should never be subjected to shocks or falls. Do not mount measuring instruments on the
respective holders until they are completely tight. After installing the rope, attach themeasuring
devices and disassemble the measuring equipment first to avoid contamination and damage
during other work.
3.3 Disclaimer
Using the PTQ on other objects than trees may damage the PTQ, its components or the object.
The measurement results of the PTMSO require interpretation by qualified experts.
Conclusions about the condition of the tree, derived from the measurement data and analyses
generated by the PTQ, are the sole responsibility of the person drawing the conclusion. Neither
the manufacturer of the devices nor the seller can be held liable for consequences arising from
the application of the PTQ.
Damage to the devices caused by improper handling is not covered by the warranty. It is
strongly recommended to handle all PTQ components with due care to keep them in good
working order for a long time.
All technical specifications are subject to change without notice.

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3.4 Packing List (Starter)
No.
Designation
Amount
1
Case
1
2
Communication Unit
1
3
Forcemeter
1
4
Inclinometer
1
5
Inclinometer mount (in the lid compartment, not pictured)
1
6
Elastometer
1
7
Elastometer needles (in pairs)
5
8
Gauge for Elasto needles
1
9
Overload Indicator
1
10
Measuring Software and digital manual (USB drive)
1
Table 1 –Packing list PTQ Starter Part I
1
2
3
4
6
7
8
2
9

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No.
Designation
Amount
11
PTQ Charging cable
3
12
PTQ USB cable
1
13
Data cablel 5 m
2
14
Data cable 30 m (Forcemeter)
1
15
Shackle (Forcemeter)
2
16
Pliers for Elasto needles (hand riveter)
1
17
Power supply
1
18
Power supply cable
1
Table 2 –Packing List PTQ Starter Part II
11
12
13; 14
15
16
17
18

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4 Measuring Instruments
4.1 Description of System Components
This chapter gives an overview of the components, structure and functions of PiCUS
TreeQinetic.
4.1.1 Communication Unit
The PTQ communication unit (abr. com unit) is the central part of the system. It sends
command signals to the sensor moduls, receives measuring data from them and forwards the
data to the PC or mobile device. Apart from that the com unit works as charger for the PTQ
starter kit.
NOTE
There are various generations of com units. Only the version which was manufactured from
mid 2020 on (serial number ending with -BT5) is able to connect to mobile devices such as
tablets and smartphones.
To ensure communication to older laptop computers a BT5 USB dongle is delivered with these
devices.
No.
Designation
Function
1
Charging Port / Data
Input
•During charging one sensor module can be connected to this port
using a charging cable (45 cm).
•If during a measurement a cable connection is necessary one
sensor module may be connected using the data cable.
2
Charge Input (DC-IN)
•Input for power supply
3
USB Port
•Port for USB cable
4
On / Off
•Turns com unit on or off
5
Arrow Buttons
-
6
OK
-
7
Display
•Displays status of connected sensor modules
8
Radio antenna
•Connection to modules
9
Bluetooth antenna
•Wireless connection to computer
Table 3 –PTQ Communication Unit: Operation and Display Elements
1
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

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Operation
The com unit is switched on or off by briefly holding the on/off switch. After starting, the display
shows device information and the serial number. After a device search has been carried out,
the display lists the connected modules in order of device type.
The individual measuring devices (elastometer, inclinometer, forcemeter, anemometer) are
connected to the com unit via a radio link or a cable connection. Several modules with mixed
connections can be used simultaneously.
Connection via radio link
1. Turn off modules
2. Unplug cable
3. Turn on modules
All modules which are turned on without a cable connected to them automatically activate
the radio link.
Cable connection
1. Turn off modules
2. Plug a data cable to the module on one side and the com unit on the other side
3. Turn on modules
The TreeQinetic system can be connected to a PC via the com unit using Bluetooth or USB.
Using USB:
1. Turn off com unit
2. Connect USB cable to USB socket of the active PC
3. Turn on com unit
4. Start measuring software after establishing the cable connection
Using Bluetooth:
1. Turn off com unit
2. Unplug USB cable
3. Turn on com unit
If the com unit is turned on without a USB cable connected to it, it automatically activates
the Bluetooth mode.

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4.1.2 Forcemeter
The Forcemeter is mounted on the rope to measure the force exerted on the tree.
Explanation of Parts
No.
Designation
Function
1
Attachment eyes
•Attachment points for shackles. Use with delivered iron shackles
only!
2
Display
•Displays menu
3
On / Off
•Turn on / off
4
OK Button
•Navigation in the menu
5
Cable Socket
•Connector for charge or data cable
6
Cable Screw
•Strain relief screw for data cable
Table 4 –Forcemeter: Operation and Display Elements
Operation
The forcemeter is switched on or off by briefly holding the on/off switch. The display shows the
current measuredvaluesfor force and rope angle as well as the battery voltage and the module
address.
By pressing the OK button once, the forcemeter switches to offset mode ("zeroing"). By
pressing the OK button again, the five-second calibration cycle of the offset value is initiated.
In most applications, it is recommended to have the offset value determined by a command
from the com unit for all modules simultaneously. Ideally, this is done immediately before the
actual measurement, theapp doessoautomatically. To set theoffset no load should beapplied
to the Forcemeter.
If the OK button is held down for 3 seconds, the forcemeter switches to the address menu.
Here the module address can be set by pressing the OK button. To save the set address,
press and hold the OK button for three seconds.
1
1
6
5
4
3
2