PC-Based Vibration Monitoring and Diagnostics System (PC-VMDS) for Machinery 

Al Signal Research, Inc. 

Huntsville, AL 
 

PC-based Vibration Monitoring & Diagnostics System (VMDS) is a low-cost high-performance software/hardware system that can acquire and process high frequency dynamic measurement signals to monitor and identify various machinery dynamic characteristics caused by vibration sources including cavitation, bearing defect, gear box, etc.

• Development state:  Prototype.

• Product/service name or trademark name:  PC-VMDS
• Primary target/potential market sectors -- Rocket engine manufacturers, transportation industry, nuclear power industry, and pump manufacturers
• Unique competitive advantage -- Unique and effective signal processing software allows engineers to perform vibration analysis using a very cost effective system.

• PC-VMDS is a PC-based real-time signal analysis system operating under standard Microsoft Windows environment.  The unique signal analysis software of PC-VMDS can aid engineering in performing engine diagnostic evaluation for bearing defect signature, cavitation-induced vibration signature, etc.  The system also includes a unique signal enhancement software which is highly effective for anomaly identification within a rotor system.  These analysis tools have been tested and demonstrated with actual application to space shuttle main engine test data.
• Actual:  PC-VMDS has been utilized by NASA engineers to analyze rocket engine test data to assess various engine dynamic characteristics including pump cavitation, bearing signature, blade-passage waveform, signal enhancement and anomaly identification.
• Potential:  PC-VMDS has applications for health monitoring and diagnostics of turbomachinery systems in transportation, the electrical power industry, and ship building industry.

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