Technology Offer

Machine Vibro-Diagnostic Module (VIBCON) for real-time diagnosis of machines, devices, structures etc.
Reference: IRCPK/10/TO/19
Organization: Cracow University of Technology
IRC Name: IRC South Poland  
Country: Poland
Entry Date: Tue, October 16, 2001
Last Update: Thu, December 05, 2002
Deadline: Wed, December 03, 2003
Abstract:

An experienced Polish company has developed a unit dedicated to measuring and storing vibration values at the selected locations. It enables real-time diagnosis of machines, devices, structures, etc. The stored data and vibration overflow values can be subsequently transferred to a computer for visualisation, trending, long-term and short-term measurement prediction, symptom deep analysis, etc. The company is looking for partners for Commercial Agreement with Technical Assistance.

Description:

A unit dedicated to measuring and storing vibration values (VIBCON) has been built by a Polish high-tech engineering company with 10 years of experience in the fields of monitoring systems, noise and vibration measurements and control, damage detection in structures, software development.

Vibration is one of the main indicators of machine or structure damages.
The vibration diagnosis is carried out by periodic or continuous measurements of vibration at selected locations on a structure. To make such diagnostic measurements, the machine must be equipped with appropriate industrial-type vibration sensors (e.g. PCB/IMI series), as well as with dedicated equipment for signal processing, storage and analyses.

The offered vibro-diagnostic module VIBCON integrates all mentioned above elements:
- Signal-processing unit that provides signal filtering, the RMS (root-mean square) values and vibration velocities
- Internal memory for data storage
- Programmable on-line signal threshold overflow detector

The unit converts the RMS signal value into 4-20 mA DC (direct current) signal. Two sensors may be connected to a single signal-processing unit, thus enabling application in automated systems to protect a structure against damage. The module is equipped with two analogue outputs, one for each sensor. One of them is used for DC current or voltage signal proportional to the RMS measured value. The second output enables direct measurement of vibration time-series and may be used for signal analysis, if any fault in the monitoring system occurs.

The measured vibration data can be recorded for extended periods with programmed frequency, for example, every minute for two years. The stored data and alarms can be subsequently transferred to a computer via a serial interface or cellular telephone (GSM). The equipment is delivered together with software for data analysis and review. The software enables visualisation, trending, long-term and short-term measurement prediction, symptom deep analysis, etc. The vibration data stored in the module can be also imported to MS Excel to facilitate data analysis according to the user's algorithms

The signal threshold overflow can be also alerted on-line. The module is equipped with LEDs (light emitting diodes) informing about the current level of vibration and module status. The alarm thresholds can be programmed manually or sent from a computer via one of the implemented communication interfaces.

The module provides the following operator interfaces:
- RS485 connection for data transfer and alarm threshold set-up
- Analogue signal 4 * 20 mA for data transfer (RMS value, time series of vibration signal)
- Cellular telephone (GSM) for stored data transfer and signal threshold overflow alerting.

Vibro-diagnostic module VIBCON is supplied along with appropriate sensors and cables. Sensors are also available in an option enabling simultaneous vibration and temperature measurements (PCB (printed circuit board)/IMI (industrial monitoring instrumentation) series).

Innovative Aspects:
- Wide scope of functionality in compact form (comparing with existing solutions)
- Compatibility with a wide range of external recording equipment and sensors
- Wide operating temperature range (-20°C to +70°C)

Main Advantages:
- Machine-service cost and time savings
- Machine waste parts number limitation (environmental benefits)
- Improvement of operational safety level
- User-friendly operating software

Technology Keywords:
  • Automation, Robotics Control Systems
  • Digital Systems, Digital Representation
  • Electronic circuits, components and equipment
  • Data Processing / Data Interchange, Middleware
  • Mechanical Engineering, Hydraulics, Vibration and Acoustic Engineering related to construction technology
  • Sensory/Multisensory Technology, Instrumentation related to construction technology
  • Storage of electricity, batteries
  • Assessment of Risk
Current Stage of Development: Already on the market
Exploitation of RTD Results: PRIVATE RESEARCH
Intellectual Property Rights: Secret know-how

Comments
Organisation/Company Type:  
Organisation/Company Size: <50
Brief Market Application Codes:
  • Automation/Robotics
  • Industrial manufacture
  • Measurement methods
Comments
Detailed Market Application Codes (VEIC): Keywords
  • Data processing, analysis and input services
  • Industrial measurement and sensing equipment
  • Process control equipment and systems
  • Numeric and computerised control of machine tools
  • Other industrial automation
  • Power transmission equipment (including generators and motors)
  • Other industrial equipment and machinery
Highlights
Damage diagnosis of rotating/moving machines (structures).
Collaboration Type:
  • Commercial Agreement with Technical Assistance

Comments
The prospective partner should provide:
- installation and training at user's site,
- definition of user's needs for future development.
The company is looking for partners from the industrial automation area
Preferred Countries for diffusion: ALL
Additional Information:  
Contact Name: Kubik
Contact First name: Artur
Phone: +48 12 628 28 45
Fax: +48 12 632 47 95
Email: mailto:akubik@transfer.edu.pl