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K-DUCER: Firmware v38 Now Available

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The K-DUCER system continues to evolve: the v38 firmware version is now available for the KDU-1 and KDU-1A control units.

Updating the system not only results in enhanced performance but also adds several new features. Now, let's take a closer look at the specifics and delve into the primary improvements and features that have been introduced.

PROGRAMS AND SEQUENCES

In a world where production lines must become increasingly flexible, the configuration of a screwdriving system needs to adapt to and fulfill various requirements.
This is why with the v38 release, we have tripled the number of configurable programs and sequences bringing the new total to:

200 total programs
24 different sequences
32 programs in each sequence

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HIGH-RESOLUTION TORQUE AND ANGLE GRAPHS

Torque and angle graphs are crucial for analyzing tightening operations in detail and enhancing the quality of the entire fastening process.

With the v38 firmware, the data for each individual screwdriving operation are captured at 1 ms intervals and are automatically saved as CSV files if a USB drive is connected or through Open Protocol Traces MID or Modbus TCP. The higher resolution is especially useful for joint analysis and failure analysis.

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CALIBRATION REMINDERS

Calibrating your screwdriver is crucial in ensuring a correct assembly and quality of the final product. However, with everything else happening on a production line, it can be challenging to remember when calibration is needed.
That's why the new firmware version allows setting up calibration reminders. The schedule can be based on the number of cycles or the number of days since the last calibration, depending on your needs.

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RESIDUAL TORQUE / BREAKAWAY MEASUREMENT

In Reverse mode, it's now possible to measure residual torque.

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CONNECTIVITY

Connectivity with Modbus TCP, Open Protocol, and Toolsnet is enhanced with the new firmware. The reprogramming speed via Modbus TCP is reduced by 95%; while previous versions took between 2 and 3 seconds, now less than 1/10th of a second is needed for the KDU to update.
Additionally, new functions for Open Protocol have been incorporated, while results and graphs are automatically saved to the Toolsnet software.

USER INTERFACE

Besides the aforementioned new features, the user interface has also been improved to enhance the usability of KDU-1 and KDU-1A units. OK and error messages are now more prominent for easier operator monitoring, supported by greater overall color contrast for better readability.

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Also, the menu and advanced torque mode screens have been reorganized to highlight active states and emphasize when monitoring or compensation modes are engaged. All in all, the user will now find it easier to set even the most advanced torque settings.

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HOW TO UPDATE TO V38?

All K-DUCER systems can be upgraded to v38 for free via one of the following methods:

  • Request a visit by a Kolver representative or distributor to perform the upgrade
  • Send your controllers to Kolver for an upgrade (1-2 days turnaround)

After installing v38, the controller will be capable of self-upgrading to future versions via a USB drive, no upgrade kit or special installation required.

 

The new v38 version and its features are comprehensively outlined in the K-DUCER operational manual, downloadable from the K-DUCER page or the SUPPORT section.