Measurement & Instrumentation

EE-312L

Fall-2023
CLO Marks
Obtained Marks
Lab Engineer

Comments & Signature

Lab Report
Submitted By

Student Name Registration No.

Wasif Mehmood BS-21-UB-112907
M. Sameer Bin Younas BS-21-IB-104668
Raheel Abbas BS-21-IB-100551

Section: B Group: 03
Experiment No. 12 Date of Submission: 15th December , 2023
Experiment Title:
Angle Measurements Using Potentiometer of NI ELVIS II+ Kit
Batch: 2021-2025 Teacher: Dr. Sufi Tabassum Gul & Dr. Mohsin Riaz
Mr. Hasnain Ahmad
Semester 5th
Mr. Asghar Ali

Department of Electrical Engineering

Lab 12: Angle Measurements Using
Potentiometer of NI ELVIS II+ Kit

12.1 Abstract:
This lab was focused on the utilization of potentiometer-based sensing techniques
within the NI ELVIS II+ platform for accurate and reliable angle measurements. The
potentiometer, a key component in this study, serves as a transducer to convert rota-
tional angles into electrical signals. Through careful calibration and signal process-
ing, the potentiometer’s output is translated into precise angular measurements. The
study investigates the performance of the potentiometer-based angle measurement
system in terms of accuracy, repeatability, and response time. Experimental proce-
dures involve the development of calibration method and the implementation of sig-
nal conditioning techniques to enhance the reliability of angle measurements. Results
obtained from the experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the potentiometer-
based angle measurement system in providing accurate and consistent angular data.
The integration of this system into the NI ELVIS II+ platform enhances its capa-
bilities for educational purposes, offering students a practical and engaging learning
experience in the field of instrumentation and measurement. This experiment gives
valuable insights into the application of potentiometer-based sensing technologies for
angle measurements and highlights the potential for their integration into educational
platforms, fostering a deeper understanding of instrumentation principles among en-
gineering students.

12.2 Introduction:
Precision and accuracy are crucial in the field of engineering, and the ability to mea-
sure angles with high reliability is essential for numerous applications. The Angle
Measurements Using Potentiometer experiment, conducted with the NI ELVIS II+
Kit, explores the fundamental principles of angular measurement through the utiliza-
tion of potentiometer sensing. Potentiometers, or variable resistors, serve as versatile
transducers capable of converting angular displacements into measurable electrical
signals. In this experiment we studied the capabilities of the NI ELVIS II+ Kit to
understand the dynamics of potentiometer-based angle measurements. The NI ELVIS
II+ Kit integrates various measurement and control devices, offering a comprehensive
environment for students and engineers to gain hands-on experience in instrumenta-
tion and control systems.
Through this investigation, we aim to not only enhance our understanding of
potentiometer-based angle measurements but also to develop critical skills in utiliz-

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Measurement & Instrumentation Lab 12

ing advanced instrumentation tools for accurate data acquisition. The results and
insights gained from this experiment are anticipated to contribute significantly to our
knowledge of angular measurement systems and their practical implications in the
realm of engineering and technology.

12.2.1 Potentiometer
A potentiometer is a variable resistor that enables precise control of electrical resis-
tance by adjusting the position of a wiper along a resistive track. It is commonly
used in electronic circuits to regulate voltage, volume, or other parameters requiring
variable resistance. Figure 12.1 shows the Front Panel of the VI file on which we will
perform this lab.

How it Works:
A potentiometer works by utilizing a resistive element and a movable wiper. The
resistive element, often a coil of wire or a conductive track, is connected to the
electrical circuit. As the wiper is adjusted along this element, the effective length of
the resistive path changes, leading to a variable voltage output at the wiper’s position.
This alteration in voltage allows for precise control of electrical resistance, making
potentiometers valuable in applications where adjustments to parameters like volume
or voltage are necessary.

Uses and Applications:

Potentiometers have a wide range of uses and applications in various fields due to
their ability to provide variable resistance. Some common applications include:

• Audio Equipment: Potentiometers are extensively used in volume controls,

tone controls, and balance controls in audio systems such as amplifiers, mixers,
and musical instruments.

• Electronics and Circuit Design: Potentiometers are integral components

in circuit design, where they are employed for tasks such as voltage regulation,
signal scaling, and setting bias points in electronic circuits.

• Instrumentation and Measurement Devices: Potentiometers are used in

measuring instruments and devices to provide adjustable calibration and sensi-
tivity settings, ensuring accurate readings.

• Control Systems: They play a crucial role in control systems, acting as ad-
justable resistors in feedback networks, enabling precise adjustments of system
parameters.

• Automotive Industry: Potentiometers are utilized in automotive applica-

tions for tasks like controlling lighting intensity, dashboard displays, and climate
control systems.

• Robotics: Potentiometers are employed in robotics for position feedback in

joints or actuators, allowing for precise control and movement.

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Measurement & Instrumentation Lab 12

• Medical Devices: In medical equipment, potentiometers are used for adjust-

ing settings on devices like infusion pumps, ventilators, and diagnostic instru-
ments.
• Test and Measurement Equipment: Potentiometers are incorporated into
test and measurement instruments to fine-tune calibration and sensitivity, en-
suring accurate and reliable readings.
The versatility of potentiometers makes them essential components in numerous
electronic and electrical systems, providing a means for users to make precise adjust-
ments and control various parameters in diverse applications.

Figure 12.1: The Front Panel of QUANSER QNET Sensor for the Potentiometer
sensor for angle measurement

12.2.2 Objectives of the Lab

The main objectives of this lab are:
1. Understand the Basics of Potentiometers.
2. Explore the NI ELVIS II+ Kit.
3. Interface Potentiometer of NI ELVIS II+ with LabVIEW.
4. Learn to take Angular Measurements.
5. Calibrate Potentiometer using different techniques.

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Measurement & Instrumentation Lab 12

12.3 Equipment
Figure 12.2 shows the NI ELVIS kit used for experimentation, other equipment used
have been listed below:

• Laptop Computer

• NI ELVIS Toolkit

• Lab View Software

Ensure all equipment is in working condition and properly calibrated before con-
ducting the experiment. Proper handling and care of equipment are essential to
obtain accurate and reliable results.

Figure 12.2: NI ELVIS kit used for Experimentation

12.4 Results:
Table 12.1 shows the recorded measurements recorded before calibrating the sensor.

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Measurement & Instrumentation Lab 12

Figure 12.3: Graph showing the measured and fitted curve of the potentiometer
output

Table 12.1: Infra-red Recorded Readings

Pot Angle(deg) Pot Output(V)

30 1.25
60 2.20
90 2.73
120 3.40
150 3.90
180 4.40

12.5 Procedure
12.5.1 Recording and Testing
Power Cycle and Calibration
• Utilize the NI ELVIS II prototyping board’s power switch to initiate the self-
calibration process of the Potentiometer sensor integrated with the QNET
Mechatronic Sensors.

LabVIEW Setup
• Open the LabVIEW project titled ”QNET Mechatronic Sensors.lvproj.”

• Access the ”QNET Sensors Potentiometer.vi” via the Project Explorer window
in LabVIEW.

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Measurement & Instrumentation Lab 12

• Configure data collection settings within the VI by navigating to the ”Collect

Data” tab.

• Choose the specific device from the drop-down menu within the VI to initiate
device selection.

• Execute the VI to commence the data collection process.

Data Collection and Calibration

• Enter target output into the Potentiometer output (V) array and log sensor
outputs in volts using the Un-calibrated Output waveform chart.

• Continue data collection at 30 degrees intervals by inputting target angle and

their corresponding sensor outputs into the respective arrays.

• LabVIEW automatically generates a linear, or a curve calibration curve for po-

tentiometer, that correlates with the collected data points, effectively portraying
the sensor’s calibration.

• The VI computes and displays the slope (deg/V) and offset (degrees) of the
calibration curve as Slope (deg/V) and Offset (deg), respectively.

Data Recording and Export

• Record all acquired data, encompassing target angles and sensor outputs, in
Table 12.1 for future reference or comprehensive analysis.

• For documentation purposes, export the Sensor Readings graph by right-clicking

on it within the VI and selecting ”Export” >”Export Simplified Image”. This
graph is shown in figure 12.3

Adhere strictly to safety protocols and ensure precise measurement techniques

throughout the calibration process to procure accurate and dependable sensor read-
ings. Adjustments may be necessary based on project prerequisites or environmental
variables.

12.5.2 Calibration
1. Access the Calibrate Sensor tab to adjust the potentiometer angle sensor’s out-
put, correlating it with linear target displacement in degrees.

2. Input the previously determined Slope (deg/V) and Offset (degrees) values ac-
quired during data collection into their respective controls.

3. Verify calibration accuracy by rotating the potentiometer knob to various known

angles within the calibrated range. Record both actual and measured angles
while observing the Calibrated Output waveform chart and Angle(deg) slider
indicator.

4. Determine the sensor’s resolution (in degrees) by analyzing the Calibrated Out-
put waveform chart and compare this resolution with the one provided in the
Concept Review.

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Measurement & Instrumentation Lab 12

5. If no further experiments are necessary, conclude by pressing the Stop button

and proceeding to power down the experiment.

Ensure meticulous testing and accurate recording of actual versus measured angles
during the calibration verification process. Evaluate the sensor’s resolution and its
sensitivity in detecting minimal changes in angle for a comprehensive analysis.

12.6 Observation/Results:
1. The potentiometer operates linearly, displaying a curve with a linear fit, ensur-
ing consistent and predictable measurements based on distance.

2. It exhibits a positive voltage coefficient, signifying that as the angle increases,

the sensor’s output voltage also increases proportionally.

3. The software-calculated offset and gradient values are essential inputs for the
calibration menu. Using these values, the meter accurately displays the set
angle, observable through the marked values on the NI ELVIS kit.

12.7 Conclusion
The calibration and testing of the potentiometer using the NI ELVIS lab kit provided
valuable insights into the performance and accuracy of the sensor. Through calibra-
tion procedures, we determined the coefficients necessary to align the potentiometer
readings with known reference points. The iterative calibration process ensured that
the potentiometer’s output closely matched the expected values across the specified
range. The verification phase demonstrated the effectiveness of the calibration, as
evidenced by the minimal deviation between the measured values and the known
standards. This calibration not only enhances the precision of our measurements but
also establishes confidence in the reliability of the potentiometer’s output.
During the testing phase, the potentiometer exhibited a consistent and predictable
response across various positions. The collected data illustrates the relationship be-
tween potentiometer positions and the corresponding measured values. The smooth
and continuous variation observed in the results indicates the reliability and stability
of the potentiometer under different settings.
The experiment’s success in achieving accurate calibration and consistent testing
results underscores the importance of proper calibration in obtaining reliable data
from sensors. The calibrated potentiometer can now be confidently utilized in fu-
ture experiments and applications, providing accurate and trustworthy measurements
within the specified operating range.
In conclusion, this experiment not only provided a hands-on understanding of
potentiometer calibration using the NI ELVIS lab kit but also highlighted the signif-
icance of calibration in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of sensor measurements.
The knowledge gained from this experiment contributes to our broader understanding
of instrumentation and measurement processes in engineering applications.