A new version of Instron’s Bluehill Central software platform is now available, and for the first time, it includes the lab management module as a standalone option. This makes it easier for labs of all sizes to manage their Instron assets and access test data more efficiently.
Bluehill Central 2 enables centralized management of Bluehill Universal software applications that are tied to multiple Instron testing systems, as each system sends and receives data from the central database. It enables labs to remotely manage Bluehill Universal test templates, users, results, file revisions and audit trail data.
Previously available only as part of the traceability module, the lab management tool now enables connected Instron testing systems to access Bluehill Central’s file repository to run controlled test methods, export results, upload and download files and manage user permissions.
With the latest release of Bluehill Central, the lab management module introduces several new features, including offline syncing, enhanced read/write access and file revision status management.
The new offline mode syncs and stores method files on each Instron machine in the lab so that users can continue testing even if a network outage occurs. Files and folders remain available, and tests that are run offline are automatically pushed to the database when the network connection is restored.
An extra layer of security has been added to the read/write access options, giving labs greater ability to restrict access to specific files, folders and methods. Individual files can be locked so they’re editable only by certain people, for example, and specific operators can be prevented from running tests that they aren’t yet trained to run.
The file revision status management available with Bluehill Central 2 makes it easy to view and control a method’s revision status – active, obsolete, draft or pending review – which helps to streamline method lifecycle management.
“Bluehill Central 2 reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that tackle pressing lab challenges, from efficiency to data security. By offering standalone lab management and introducing these key features, we empower laboratories with unprecedented control and productivity,” said Dan Caesar, software product manager at Instron.
The lab management module is now available without the need to purchase the traceability plug-in. However, traceability remains a valuable option for labs seeking the ability to review file changes remotely and filter or print audit trails from their test systems. This compliance-focused plug-in is particularly beneficial for labs in highly regulated industries – one of them being automotive – where FDA oversight is a key concern.
Another widely used plug-in, Bluehill Central’s TrendTracker, supports advanced data analysis by enabling users to export test results from all connected systems and monitor data trends over time.
In an in-depth feature, Andrea Incardona, material engineer at material testing instrumentation manufacturer Instron, explores how tensile impact testing helps engineers simulate real-world conditions, spot weaknesses before failure and build safer, more reliable products. Read the article here