Objective of the Software : This gauge is intended for use in strip product applications where measurement is not possible through standard contact techniques due to high product temperature or motion. This system acquires data from two or more precision mounted lasers, coordinates that data and provides width and position measurements at high speed. The system includes a server application that processes and stores laser data and a client application that acquires server results over a network connection and displays those results to plant operating personnel. The primary function of this gauge is to "Measure the width of the slab discharged from the furnace". The width measurement is made while the slab is moving towards the roughing mill. The width measurements made at this location serve the following purposes :

• Provide a reference value to setup the roughing mill.
• A check if a slab of incorrect width not suitable for the mill is discharged from the furnace.
• A check at the start of the width spread / squeeze process, both for statistical and control purpose. Reject the slab at this location itself due to bad width and conserve the energy required to roll out a slab of wrong width dimensions.

Simulation approach of this Project : Due to high cost involvement and hazards in industrial environment, it is not possible to develop the software with real data. A simulated environment is created for Proof of Concept, Software development and subsequent validation of results. The details of the simulation parameters are described after the System Overview. The simulation was a multi-level simulation. The same Software is capable of switching between Simulation and Real data in run-time at different levels. The data sources are:

• Raw readings from Laser guns.
• Process Analog and Digital signals, from different sensors.
• Data provided by associated sub-systems in the whole process.

The Software is capable of turn ON or OFF simulation of each of the data sources selectively. For example, the software may be run while the Laser raw data is simulated, but the Process signals are from On-line sensors. This facility enables the Software to be tested module-wise. Also during actual commissioning of the Software, the Real life data sources may be connected one by one facilitating the easy trouble-shoot. The feature is available in the Production software too.