Posted to News on 27th Apr 2012, 21:30
Sensonics develops low-cost, accurate displacement monitoring
Condition monitoring and machine protection experts from Sensonics have recently completed a government-funded feasibility study into the development of an intelligent software algorithm for the processing of accelerometer vibration signals to realise an accurate peak displacement reading. One of the key drivers of this study is the many real-world applications that require low-cost, accurate movement detection and, by removing the price constraint, it would be possible to satisfy the market demand.
The study was successful and this fact, combined with continued developments in wireless technology, has enabled Sensonics to produce a battery-operated prototype unit that will be used in the next stage of the project. As a result of this initiative, Sensonics believes that it is now possible to meet the need for accurate, lower-cost movement detection across a wide range of industrial applications, from railways through to renewables.
In addition, the prototype included a PCB-mounted miniature tri-axial sensor. This provided the project with the option to compare the results with the superior dynamic range and noise performance offered by the ceramic device in comparison to existing MEMS-type devices. The ultimate project aim will be to detect dynamic displacement of up to 50mm peak within a frequency range of 1Hz to 40Hz and to a resolution of 0.1mm.
This initiative is another example of Sensonics' dedication to developing affordable, high-integrity machine monitoring and protection systems for all areas of industry.
