Monitoring system for vibration dampening device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system for monitoring a vibration dampening device, wherein the vibration dampening device comprises: a first section having a first section support assembly for supporting vibratory equipment; a second section having a second section support assembly for allowing the vibration dampening device to be supported by a support apparatus; and one or more fluid fillable absorbers located between the first and second sections, wherein the one or more fluid fillable absorbers are configured to absorb at least a portion of a vibratory force transferred from operation of the vibratory equipment; wherein the system comprises: at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure inside the one or more fluid fillable absorbers; at least one vibration sensor configured to measure the vibrations through the vibration dampening device and a device including same.

Description

MONITORING SYSTEM FOR VIBRATION DAMPENING DEVICETechnical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a monitoring system for a vibration dampening device.Background of the Disclosure

[0002] A common technique for installing sheet elongate members such as piles, anchor members, caissons, and mandrels is to use a vibratory machine, such as a pile driver or vibratory hammer, supported by a support apparatus, such as a crane or the like. In the instance of a pile driver, one end of the vibratory pile driver is supported by the crane, such as via the hook connected to a sling, and the other end of the vibratory pile driver drives against the piling to thereby drive the pile into a ground surface.

[0003] Generally, the vibratory pile driver can include a set of eccentric weights, such as cams, which are rotated at high speed to cause the vibratory pile driver to vibrate. The vibratory force created by the vibratory pile driver is then transferred against the end of the pile to thereby drive the pile into the ground surface.

[0004] During start-up and shutdown phases of such vibrating equipment, there is generally a considerable amount of vibratory force that transferred to the support apparatus, such as the crane, via the sling. In particular situations, the vibratory force transferred to the crane can lead to a number of failures. This can include boom failure, excessive wear and tear to major structural components such as pins, sheaves, track gear, and acceleration of structural and metal weld fatigue. These failures can therefore drastically reduce the lifetime of the machines.

[0005] Dampening devices generally use elastomeric material to absorb a portion of the vibratory force. However, due to shear strain that is applied to the elastomeric material, these components of these device wear. Furthermore, depending upon the vibratory force that is being transferred, dampening properties of the elastomeric material cannot be altered according to operating conditions.

[0006] An alternative dampening device is disclosed by PCT / AU2011 / 000133. This vibration dampening device includes a first section having a first section support assembly for supporting vibratory equipment, a second section having a second section support assemblyfor allowing the vibration dampening device to be supported by a support apparatus; and one or more fluid fillable absorbers located between the first and second sections, wherein the one or more fluid fillable absorbers are configured to absorb at least a portion of a vibratory force transferred from operation of the vibratory equipment; a displacement feedback assembly for detecting displacement between the first and second sections; and a fluid control system, operatively connected to the displacement feedback assembly and in fluid communication with the one or more fluid fillable absorbers, wherein the displacement feedback assembly actuates the fluid control system to control the flow of fluid to and from the one or more fluid fillable absorbers in response to detection of the displacement.

[0007] These vibration dampening devices including fluid fillable absorbers may produce superior dampening compared to elastomeric materials, however they are also more complex compared with the more simple elastomeric dampeners. The fluid fillable absorbers may be filled with different amounts of fluid at different stages of operation and in response to different conditions according to the displacement feedback assembly, and it is not sufficient to simply perform visual inspections between uses. These fluid fillable absorbers may also introduce an additional hazard if they are filled to an unsafe amount.

[0008] It may thus be beneficial for a user or supervisor to monitor the operation of the vibration dampening device, in particular the fluid fillable absorbers, for safety and / or efficiency reasons. There is thus a need to provide a monitoring system for these vibration dampening devices.Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to a first broad aspect, there is provided a system for monitoring a vibration dampening device, wherein the vibration dampening device comprises: a first section having a first section support assembly for supporting vibratory equipment; a second section having a second section support assembly for allowing the vibration dampening device to be supported by a support apparatus; and one or more fluid fillable absorbers located between the first and second sections, wherein the one or more fluid fillable absorbers are configured to absorb at least a portion of a vibratory force transferred from operation of the vibratory equipment; wherein the system comprises: at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure inside the one or more fluid fillable absorbers; at least one vibration sensor configured to measure the vibrations through the vibration dampening device.

[0010] In some embodiments, the system includes at least a first vibration sensor and a second vibration sensor; wherein the first vibration sensor is located on the first support assembly and the second vibration sensor is located on the second support assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments, a measure of the efficiency of the vibration dampening device can be obtained by comparing vibrations measured by the second vibration sensor with vibrations measure by the first vibration sensor.

[0012] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a real-time clock for recording periods when the vibration dampening device is in use.

[0013] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a visual warning indicator located on the vibration dampening device, wherein the visual warning indicator is configured to emit a warning when the at least one pressure sensor or at least one vibration sensor detects a pressure or vibration value outside of a pre-determined range.

[0014] In some embodiments, the visual warning indicator includes a light.

[0015] In some embodiments, the system includes a data logger which records and stores measurements from the at least one pressure sensor and / or vibration sensor when the visual warning indicator is activated.

[0016] In some embodiments, the system is configured to wirelessly transmit pressure and / or vibration readings from the at least one pressure sensor and / or at least one vibration sensor to a remote display.

[0017] In some embodiments, the remote display is configured to show a warning when the at least one pressure sensor or at least one vibration sensor detects a pressure or vibration value outside of a pre-determined range.

[0018] In some embodiments, the system is configured to wirelessly transmit pressure and / or vibration readings from the at least one pressure sensor and / or at least one vibration sensor to a cloud-based database.

[0019] In some embodiments, the vibration dampening device further comprises a casing including a cavity located above the first section; wherein the visual warning indicator is located on an outside surface of the casing.

[0020] In some embodiments, a wireless transmitter for wirelessly transmitting pressure and / or vibration readings from the at least one pressure sensor and / or at least one vibration sensor is located in the cavity of the housing.

[0021] In some embodiments, the vibration dampening device further comprises: a fluid control system in fluid communication with the one or more fluid fillable absorbers, wherein the fluid control system is configured to control at least one of the flow of fluid to and from the one or more fluid fillable absorbers; and the system further comprises: a supply pressure sensor configured to measure a supply pressure at a fluid source in fluid communication with the fluid control system.

[0022] In some embodiments, the vibration dampening device includes a plurality of fluid fillable absorbers, the fluid control system configured to fill a first set of fluid fillable absorbers at a different fluid rate to a second set of fluid fillable absorbers; and the system includes at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a fluid fillable absorber of the first set of absorbers and at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a fluid fillable absorber of the second set of absorbers.

[0023] According to a second aspect, there is provided a vibration dampening device including a monitoring system according to the first aspect.

[0024] Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are a part of this disclosure and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of the inventions disclosed.Brief Description of the Figures

[0025] The present disclosure will become better understood from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments thereof, described in connection with the accompanying figures, wherein:

[0026] Figure 1 illustrates a cross-sectional plan view of an example vibration dampening device;

[0027] Figure 2 illustrates a horizontal cross-sectional view of the vibration dampening device of Figure 1 ;

[0028] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of an example of a crane supporting the vibration dampening device of Figure 1 supporting a vibratory pile driver;

[0029] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of a further example of a vibration dampening device, wherein the first and second section plates are displaced toward each other;

[0030] Figure 5 illustrates a side view of a further example of a vibration dampening device in an equalised position;

[0031] Figure 6 illustrates a side view of the vibration dampening device of Figure 4, wherein the first and second sections are displaced away from each other; and

[0032] Figure 7 illustrates a block diagram of a plumbing arrangement for the vibration dampening device;

[0033] Figure 8 illustrates a block diagram of an alternate plumbing arrangement for the vibration dampening device;

[0034] Figure 9 illustrates a cross-sectional plan view of another example vibration dampening device;

[0035] Figure 10 illustrates a front view of another example of a vibration dampening device;

[0036] Figure 11 illustrates a side view of the vibration dampening device of Figure 10;

[0037] Figure 12A illustrates a front view of the second section of the vibration dampening device of Figure 10;

[0038] Figure 12B illustrates a side view of the second section of Figure 12A;

[0039] Figure 12C illustrates a front exploded view of the second section of Figure 12A;

[0040] Figure 12D illustrates a side exploded view of the second section of Figure 12A;

[0041] Figure 13A illustrates a front view of the first section of the vibration dampening device of Figure 10;

[0042] Figure 13B illustrates a side view of the first second of Figure 13 A;

[0043] Figure 13C illustrates a front exploded view of the first section of Figure 13 A;

[0044] Figure 13D illustrates a side exploded view of the first section of Figure 13A;

[0045] Figure 14 illustrates a plan view of the second section plate of the vibration dampening device of Figure 10;

[0046] Figure 15 illustrates a plan view of the first section plate of the vibration dampening device of Figure 10;

[0047] Figure 16 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another example of a vibration dampening device including a casing;

[0048] Figure 17 illustrates a front view of another example of a vibration dampening device; and

[0049] Figure 18 illustrates an example of a human machine interface with display for a monitoring system for a vibration dampening device.Detailed Description

[0050] The monitoring system for vibration dampening devices including fluid fillable absorbers is preferably integrated within the device, though in other embodiments may be a separate system which may be installed into an existing device. Accordingly, it is important to also consider elements of the vibration dampening device alongside the monitoring system.

[0051] Referring to Figure 1 there is shown an example of a vibration dampening device 10. The vibration dampening device 10 includes a first section 20, a second section 30, and one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40. The first section 20 includes a first section support assembly 25 for supporting vibratory equipment 140 (see Figure 3). The second section 30 includes a second section support assembly 35 for allowing the vibration dampening device 10 to be supported by a support apparatus 100 (see Figure 3). The one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40 are located between the first section 20 and second section 30. The one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40 are configured to absorb at least a portion of a vibratory force transferred from operation of the vibratory equipment.

[0052] Advantageously, the vibration dampening device 10 intercepts and dampens vibratory forces via the compression of the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40. Thisconfiguration is particularly successful at startup and shut down phases of operation of the vibratory equipment 140 where low-frequency vibratory forces are a significant proportion of the vibratory force transferred to the support apparatus 100. Furthermore, the vibratory force that is transferred to the support apparatus 140 during startup and shut down phases of operation of the vibratory equipment 140 is generally significantly greater than during normal operation. Thus, violent shaking of the support apparatus 100 is reduced during these phases utilising the vibration dampening device 10.

[0053] As shown in Figure 3, the support apparatus 100 which supports the vibration dampening device 10 can be provided in the form of a crane 100. However, other forms of support apparatus can be used to support the vibration dampening device 10 such as an excavator or some other type of hoisting machinery. The vibratory equipment 140 coupled to the first section support assembly 25 can be provided in the form of a vibratory pile driver. However, other forms of vibratory equipment 140 can be used such as a vibratory hammer 140 or the like.

[0054] In use, the first and second sections 20, 30 are urged toward each other when a downward force is applied to the first section support assembly 25 via a lower sling 130. As the first and second sections 20, 30 are urged together, the first and second sections displace toward each other, thereby causing the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40 to compress and at least partially absorb the vibratory force. The partial absorption of the urging force by the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40 reduces the vibratory force transferred to the support apparatus 100 via an upper sling 120.

[0055] A monitoring system for this vibration dampening device 10 includes a pressure sensor located at each of the fluid fillable absorbers 40. The monitoring system further includes a vibration sensor located on the body of the vibration dampening device. Preferably, the monitoring system is integrated with the vibration dampening device 10 and may be sold and / or provided with the monitoring system as a single device. In other embodiments, the monitoring system may be separate, and installed by the user on a suitable vibration dampening device.

[0056] The pressure sensor is preferably a pressure transmitter, but may in other embodiments be a pressure transducer or other suitable pressure sensing means. The pressure transmitter is preferably capable of measuring pressures in a range between 0 and 1000 kPa. The function of the pressure sensor is to measure the internal pressure of a fluid fillableabsorber, and may be located on the body of the fluid fillable absorber. In embodiments where this is the case, the fluid fillable absorbers may include ports or other connection points for receiving the pressure sensor in a fluid-tight manner. For example, the fluid fillable absorber may include a port for filling the absorber with the fluid, and the pressure sensor may be located at this port.

[0057] The vibration sensor is securely affixed to the body of the vibration dampening device, such as by screwing a thread on the sensor to an opening with a corresponding thread on the device, or by use of a strong adhesive. Preferably, the vibration sensor is a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), capable of measuring vibrations in the range of 0 to 45 mm / s. The function of the vibration sensor is to record when the device is operating. The system may also include a real time clock which, when used in conjunction with the vibration sensor, can provide a log of when the vibration dampening device was operated and for how long.

[0058] In preferred embodiments, the system includes two vibration sensors. The first vibration sensor is provided on the first section 20 of the vibration dampening device 10, and the second vibration sensor is provided on the second section 30. As the first section 20 is connected to the vibratory equipment 140 and the second section 30 is connected to the support apparatus 100, the first vibration sensor will measure the vibrations generated from the vibratory equipment, and the second vibration sensor will measure the vibrations transmitted to the support apparatus. By comparing the output of the second vibration sensor to the first vibration sensor, a measure of the efficiency of the vibration dampening carried out by the device can be obtained. The second vibration sensor may also measure the harmonics travelling through the support apparatus.

[0059] The vibration sensors, pressure sensors, and real time clock can be connected to each other by suitable cables. In preferred embodiments, the sensors and clock are connected by an internal network of programmable logic controller (PLC) nodes and linked by cables using a CAN bus protocol. It will be understood that in other embodiments, other vehicle bus protocols may be used, or other known means of creating a network of sensors. Preferably, the cables connecting the PLC nodes and sensors are selected to be vibration and shock-resistant given the vibratory environment of the monitoring system, for example cables with locking coupling rings to ensure secure connections throughout operation of the vibratory equipment and the resultant vibrations through the device.

[0060] In preferred embodiments, the pressure sensors, vibration sensors, and real time clock are connected to a wireless transmitter. The wireless transmitter utilizes known transmission protocols such as but not limited to Wi-Fi, WLAN, or Bluetooth to wirelessly transmit the output from the pressure and vibration sensors of the system. The system may also include a human machine interface comprising a display and a receiver, to receive and display the transmitted output. In particular, the display may show the system pressures and efficiency of vibration reduction. This human machine interface is preferably small enough to be carried by a user, and may be carried by an operator into the cab or cabin of the support apparatus and placed in a suitable location such as a dashboard so that they can monitor the pressure within the fluid fillable absorbers while operating the support apparatus / vibratory equipment. Otherwise stated, the system allows for real time monitoring of the vibration dampening device during operation of the vibratory equipment and support apparatus.

[0061] The wireless transmitter may also transmit the output from the pressure and vibration sensors to a cloud-based storage or database. The storage may be accessible by a web portal (preferably secured) so that other personnel can view and monitor the operating parameters of the vibration dampening device remotely in real time, or alternatively review the usage of the vibration dampening device after operation.

[0062] Referring more specifically to Figure 1, the first section 20 can include a first section plate 21 and the second section 30 can include a second section plate 31. The first section plate 21 includes a first section aperture 65 located in a central position thereof. The second section plate 31 includes a plurality of second section apertures 60 located radially thereabout. In preferred embodiments, the first and second vibration sensors are mounted on the first section plate and the second section plate respectively.

[0063] The first section support assembly 25 can include a plurality of first section support arm 50 that are connected to the first section 20 and extend downwardly therefrom. The first section support arm 50 are located radially about the first section aperture and are spatially distributed evenly. A portion of each first section support arm 50 protrudes through a respective one of the second section apertures 60 provided in the second section plate 21. Each second section aperture 60 may include a substantially frictionless bush 37 on the inner surface thereof, such as a Teflon insert, to reduce friction between the first section support arms 50 and the second section plate 31 during operation.

[0064] The protruded portions of the first section support arms 50 connect to a stop member 70 which rests under the second section plate 31 to restrict the second section 30 and the first section 20 separating via withdrawal of the first section support arms 50 from the second section plate 31. The stop member 70 may be releasably attached to the first section support arms 50 via coupling elements. For example, each first section support arm 50 may include a screw thread to allow for threaded element to be coupled thereto. The stop member may be a coupling plate 70 which is releasably secured under the second section plate 31. Alternatively, it will be appreciated the first section support arms 50 can be fixed permanently to the stop member 70.

[0065] The first section support assembly 25 includes a first section coupling element 26 for coupling the lower sling 130 to the first section support assembly 25. In particular, the first section coupling element 26 is provided in the form of a lug or eyelet which can extend from the stop member 70.

[0066] The second support assembly 35 includes a second support arm 55 that is centrally located on the second section plate 31 and extends substantially perpendicularly therefrom. Whilst the second section support arm 35 is shown for clarity purposes having a beam-like profile in Figure 1, the second section support arm 55 can have a tapered profile wherein a widened area is provided in contact with the second section plate 31 and tapers away as it extends from the second section plate 31.

[0067] A portion of the second section support arm 55 protrudes through the first section aperture 65 located centrally in the first section plate 20. The second support assembly 35 includes a second section coupling element 80 for coupling the upper sling 120 to the second section support assembly 35. The second section coupling element 80 is provided in the form of a lug or eyelet which can extend from the second section support arm 55.

[0068] Whilst it is shown in Figures 1 to 6 that the vibration dampening device 10 includes a single second section support arm 55 that protrudes upwardly from the second section plate 31, in another variation, a plurality of second section support arms 55 can extend upwardly from the second section plate 31 and protrude through the first section plate 21 similarly to the configuration used for the first section support arms 50 but in a reverse arrangement. The first section aperture 25 may include a substantially frictionless bush 67 on the inner surface thereof,such as a Teflon insert, to reduce friction between the second section support arm 55 and the first section plate 21 during operation.

[0069] As shown in Figure 2, the first section support arms 50 are distributed evenly and radially about the first section plate 21, and the second section support arm 55 is located centrally on the second section plate 31. As shown in Figure 2, the first section support arms 50 are located between adjacent fluid fillable absorbers 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d which extend between the first section plate 21 and the second section plate 31.

[0070] The monitoring system may also include warning indicators in the event that the pressure in the fluid fillable absorbers measured by the pressure sensors is outside of a predetermined range of safe operating pressures, the supply pressure is low, the sensors cease functioning, or other predetermined conditions. This event may be termed a 'warning event'. The use of warning indicators may prevent or discontinue use of the vibration dampening device in situations where continuing to operate would be dangerous. In some embodiments, these warning indicators may take the form of lights on an exterior surface of the vibration dampening device, which change colour (for example from green to red) if a warning event is triggered. These provide a visual indicator to workers and personnel outside the support apparatus that the vibratory equipment should be stopped before any accident can occur. At the same time, the monitoring system may transmit a warning signal to the human machine interface so that the operator of the support apparatus is also aware that operation should stop and can effect this. There may be multiple lights for different warning conditions, providing a person in the general proximity of the vibration dampening device with more information about the nature of the warning event. There may be labels next to each light to allow easy identification of which light corresponds to which event.

[0071] For example, the visual warning indicator on an exterior surface of the vibration dampening device may comprise a panel with three vertically arranged lights. The panel may be brightly coloured so as to draw attention, such as a vibrant yellow. The top-most light is a red LED with a label to the right of it reading 'DO NOT OPERATE'. In the event of any warning event, the red LED illuminates to provide an obvious warning indicator to personnel around the device. The other two lights are green LEDs and have labels to the right of them reading 'SYSTEM PRESSURE' and 'SUPPLY PRESSURE'. In the event that the pressure in the fluid fillable absorbers, and the supply pressure, respectively, are within the acceptable ranges, these green LEDs illuminate to provide an indication to personnel around the device that the deviceis ready for use. In some embodiments, the vibration dampening device may include an exterior top casing located around or above the first section of the device, and the warning indicators may be included on this exterior top casing.

[0072] The system may also be configured to record the system parameters when a warning event is triggered. These system parameters may include the pressure and vibration measurements from the pressure and vibration sensors, as well as the length of time the device was operated. These system parameters may also include data processed by the vibration sensors, such as the vibration reduction and the harmonics going back through the crane. These can be transmitted by the system to the cloud-based storage for later review via the secured web portal. This can be used to verify that the vibration dampening device was being used correctly at the time of the warning event being triggered, which may be useful in investigating the cause of the warning event, preventing future repeats of the warning event, and / or proving a warranty claim, for example.

[0073] Referring to Figure 7, the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40 are in fluid communication with a fluid source 710 so as to be able to at least partially supply and at least partially fill the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 70 with fluid. The vibration dampening device includes a fluid control system 740 which controls the supply of fluid to and from the one or more fluid fillable absorbers. In these embodiments, the monitoring system may also include a further pressure sensor located at the fluid source, so as to provide an indication of the supply pressure, or the pressure of the fluid being supplied to the fluid fillable absorbers. This may also be displayed on the human machine interface and / or stored in a cloud-based storage and accessed via a web portal. In some embodiments, the pressure sensors for measuring the internal pressure of the fluid fillable absorbers are located at an inlet or port for allowing fluid communication with the fluid source.

[0074] The fluid source 710 is preferably a gas source, such as a pressurised gas supply, wherein the fluid fillable absorbers 40 are inflatable with pressurised gas. The pressurised fluid source can be provided in the form of a pressurised fluid reservoir, such as a pressurised air tank, which can be supported on the device 10, such on an upper surface of the first section 20.

[0075] The fluid source 710 can be in fluid communication with a compressor 760 to resupply fluid to the fluid source 710 when fluid is distributed to the fluid fillable absorbers 40. The compressor may be operably connected to a motor 761, such as a diesel motor. Thefluid source 710, compressor 760 and or motor 761 can be supported upon the vibration dampening device 10. Due to the device 10 being able to operate on air pressure only, the device is safe in areas where electrical systems may be hazardous. Additionally the expulsion of air is environmentally advantageous. In these embodiments, the pressure sensors may be air pressure sensors, that is to say specifically designed to measure air pressure, and may preferably measure a range of pressures between 0 and 1000 kPa. It will be appreciated that other forms of fluid can be used such as a hydraulic liquid, however gas has been found advantageous for particular applications, particularly due to the relatively light weight of gas. In these embodiments where other fluids are used, pressure sensors adapted for the specific fluid may be used instead and may have different pressure ranges.

[0076] The vibration dampening device 10 can include a displacement feedback assembly 730 for detecting displacement between the first and second section plates 21, 31 and for maintaining the separation of the first and second sections 21, 31 to a particular defined spacing. The defined spacing can generally be defined as a preferred ride level of the fluid fillable absorbers 40.

[0077] The displacement feedback assembly 730 is operatively connected to the fluid source 710 to selectively supply fluid from the fluid source 710 to maintain the separation between the first and second section plates 21, 31 in the event that the first and second section plates 21, 31 are displaced toward each other. The displacement feedback assembly 730 can be also operatively connected to the exhaust assembly 720, wherein in the event that the displacement feedback assembly 730 detects that the second section plate 31 has been displaced away from the first section plate 21, the exhaust assembly 720 is actuated to allow fluid to be expelled from the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40. In some embodiments, the pressure sensors for measuring the internal pressure of each fluid-fillable absorber may be located at an exhaust port, the exhaust port allowing fluid to be expelled from the fluid fillable absorber.

[0078] Referring to Figures 4 to 6 there is shown a plurality of positions that the device 10 can be moved between.

[0079] In particular, Figure 5 illustrates the device 10 in an equalised position wherein the force being applied to the first and second section support assemblies 25, 35 is balanced by the force being applied by the pressure in the fluid fillable absorbers 40.

[0080] Figure 4 illustrates the situation where the force being applied to the first and second section support assemblies 25, 35 is greater than the pressure being exerted by the fluid fillable absorbers 40. In this position, the device is in a compressed position. The displacement feedback assembly 730 detects this imbalance of forces via the displacement of the first and second section plates 21, 31 toward each other, and actuates the fluid supply to at least partially fill the fluid fillable absorbers 40 to return the device to the equalised position as shown in Figure 5.

[0081] Figure 6 illustrates the situation where the force being applied to the first and second section support assemblies 25, 35 is less than the pressure being exerted by the fluid fillable absorbers 40. In this illustration, the device is in an expanded position. The displacement feedback assembly 730 detects this imbalance of forces via the displacement of the first and second section plates 21, 31 away from each other, and actuates the exhaust assembly to expel fluid from the fluid fillable absorbers 40 to return the device 10 to the equalised position as shown in Figure 5.

[0082] The displacement feedback assembly 730 can be constructed using many configurations. Referring to Figures 4 to 6, there is shown by example a specific mechanical arrangement for the displacement feedback assembly 730 that includes an arm member 410, a first leveller 420, and a second leveller 430.

[0083] The arm member 410 is operatively coupled, at a first end, to the second section plate 31. The first leveller 420 is operatively coupled to a second end of the arm member 410 and the fluid source 710, wherein the first leveller is actuable by displacement of the arm member 410 when the second section 30 is displaced toward the first section 20 as shown in Figure 4. Actuation of the first leveller 420 causes the supply of fluid from the fluid source 710 to the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40, thus returning the first and second section plates 21, 31 to the predetermined spacing therebetween as shown in Figure 5.

[0084] The second leveller 430 is operatively coupled to the second end of the arm member 410 and the fluid source 710, wherein the second leveller 430 is actuable by displacement of the arm member 410 when the second member 30 is displaced away from the first section plate 21 as shown in Figure 6. Actuation of the second leveller 430 causes the expulsion of fluid from the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40 via the exhaust assembly720 to thereby return the first and second section plates 21, 31 to the predetermined spacing therebetween as shown in Figure 5.

[0085] Referring to Figure 7, the displacement feedback assembly 730 can be operatively connected to the fluid control system 740. The fluid control system can be provided in the form of a directional control valve unit 740. The directional control valve unit 740 includes a plurality of ports 746. In particular, the directional control valve unit 740 includes a first port 741 in fluid communication with the first leveller 420, a second port 742 in fluid communication with the second leveller 430, a third port 743 in fluid communication with the fluid source 710, a fourth port 744 in fluid communication with the fluid fillable absorbers 40, a fifth port 745 in fluid communication with the exhaust assembly 720. The fifth port 745 can simply be an exhaust vent.

[0086] The directional control valve unit 740 is configured to allow supply of fluid from the fluid source 710 to the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40, or to expel fluid from the fluid fillable absorbers 40 via the exhaust assembly 720, based upon whether the first or second leveller 420, 430 is actuated. The directional control valve unit 740 includes a plurality of control elements associated with respective ports 746 which detect fluid being provided thereto wherein the actuation of one of the control elements 747 at a respective port 746 results in opening and / or closing one or more valves at one or more ports 746 of the directional control valve unit 740.

[0087] In the event that the control element 747 at the first port 741 is actuated via fluid supply from actuation of the first leveller 420, the directional control valve unit 740 actuates valves at the third and fourth port 743, 744, allowing fluid to be supplied from the fluid source 710 to the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40. The pressure sensors for each of the fluid- fillable absorbers 40 may be located at valves of the third and fourth port 743, 744, or in the directional control valve 740.

[0088] Alternatively, in the event that the control element 747 at the second port 742 is actuated via fluid supply from actuation of the second leveller 430, the directional control valve unit 740 actuates valves at the fourth and fifth ports 744, 745, allowing fluid to be expelled from the fluid fillable absorbers 40 via the exhaust assembly 720.

[0089] As shown in Figure 7 by a double headed arrow, the fluid transfer line between the directional control valve unit 740 and the fluid fillable absorbers 40 is via one or morebidirectional fluid transfer lines. As such, fluid can transfer from the fluid source 710 to the fluid fillable absorbers 40, via the directional control valve unit 740, using the same fluid transfer line that is used to expel fluid from the fluid fillable absorbers 40 to the exhaust vent 720, via the directional control valve unit 740.

[0090] It will be appreciated that the displacement feedback assembly 730 described above is a mechanical type arrangement which is advantageous due to the type of vibrational forces that are being exerted on the device. Whilst the displacement feedback assembly 730 described above is based on a mechanical arrangement to detect displacement between the first and second section plates 21, 31, other arrangements can be utilised.

[0091] In particular, one or more electronic sensors (not shown), such as a laser or an ultrasonic sensor, can be used to detect displacement of the first section plate 21 toward or away from the second section plate 31. The one or more electronic sensors can be used as input to an electromechanical directional control valve, wherein depending upon the electrical input from the one or more electronic sensors indicative of the displacement of the first section plate 21 toward or away from the second section plate 31 relative to a displacement threshold, the supply of fluid or expulsion of fluid is actuated by the electromechanical directional control valve. Other arrangements for the displacement feedback assembly 730 are also possible.

[0092] Referring to Figures 4 to 6, the one or more fluid fillable vibratory force absorbers 40 can be provided in the form of inflatable absorbers such as air bags, specifically truck suspension air bags, which use a rolling-lobe and piston configuration 45. When fluid is supplied to the air bags 40, the air bags 40 extend substantially perpendicularly to the first and second sections 20, 30, as shown in Figure 5 and more predominately in Figure 6, to urge the first and second section plates 21, 31 apart.

[0093] When fluid is expelled from the air bags 40, the air bags 40 allow the first and second section plates 21, 31 to move toward each other, as shown in Figure 4. In one form, the second section plate 31 includes a plurality of legs that extend upwardly from the second section plate 31. The legs support the first section plate 21 above the second section plate 31 a particular distance when the fluid fillable absorbers 40 are substantially empty and cannot support the first section 20. In particular, an underside surface of the first section plate 21 rests against a foot of each leg when the fluid fillable absorbers 40 are substantially empty. It will be appreciated that a reverse arrangement can be utilised wherein the legs downwardly extendfrom the first section plate 21 and rest against an upper surface of the second section plate 31 when the fluid fillable absorbers 40 are substantially empty and cannot support the first section plate 21.

[0094] In one optional embodiment 800 as shown in Figure 8, the fluid expelled from the fluid fillable absorbers 40 can be expelled into a holding tank 810 in fluid communication with the exhaust assembly 720. The holding tank 810 is in fluid communication with the fluid source 710, wherein the fluid is recycled by communicating this expelled fluid back into the fluid source 710 for supplying the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40. The supply pressure sensor may be located on this holding tank instead of the fluid source in order to measure the pressure within the holding tank prior to fluid communication with the fluid fillable absorbers.

[0095] The holding tank 810 includes a pair of one-way valves to restrict fluid flowing in from the fluid source 710 and fluid flowing out to the fluid fillable absorbers 40. The holding tank 810 may pressurise the fluid which flows into the holding tank 810 prior to transferring the pressurised fluid back to the fluid source 710 for resupply to the fluid fillable absorbers 40 when required. The supply pressure sensor can thus provide an indication to the operator (via the HMI display) and / or other personnel (via the web portal) that the holding tank is correctly pressurising the fluid. This optional embodiment 800 thereby reduces the expulsion of fluid to the external environment. In the event that temperature of the environment lowers, the fluid source 710 may need to be topped up with further fluid to adequately provide a sufficient amount of fluid pressure to the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40. In the event that the temperature of the environment increases, there may be an increase in the fluid pressure in the system 810, wherein a blow-off valve (not shown) may be automatically actuated to expel fluid from the holding tank, fluid source 710, or the exhaust assembly 720.

[0096] The device 10 can include a casing 1200 as shown in Figure 16. The casing can restrict an external object, such as a user's appendage being placed between the first and second section plates 21, 31. In one form, the casing 1200 may surround at least a portion of the first and second section plates 21, 31.

[0097] Referring more specifically to Figure 16, the first section plate 21 includes first walls 1210 extending orthogonally from edges thereof toward the second section plate 31. Similarly, the second section plate 31 includes second walls 1220 extending orthogonally from edges thereof toward the first section plate 21. The first and second walls 1210, 1210 arearranged in an overlapping arrangement such that telescopic movement occurs between the first and second walls 1210, 1220 as displacement occurs between the first and second sections 20, 30 in use. The walls can be made from the same material as the first and second plates 21, 31, such as polyethylene. The casing can include a cavity 1230 located above the first section 20 which can house various components of the vibration dampening device, such as the fluid supply 710, the compressor 760 and the motor 761. In some embodiments, the cavity 1230 can also include the wireless transmitter 1250, and / or the visual warning indicators of the monitoring system 1240 may be located on an exterior surface of the casing over the cavity, which may for example be a series of lights which change from green to red if pressure or vibration readings outside of predetermined safe operating ranges are sensed by the pressure or vibration sensors respectively. The cavity 1230 may also include elements of the internal communication network of the monitoring system, for example PLC nodes and cabling between the sensors and other elements of the system such as the wireless transmitter 1250.

[0098] In an alternative, the casing may be provided in the form of a baffle, in particular a concertinaed baffle, which extends between the edges of the first and second section plates 21, 31 to surround the sides of the device 10.

[0099] In another embodiment, shown in Figure 17, the casing may surround the ribs 39 and 41. In this embodiment, wireless transmitter 1250 and other components of the monitoring system are located above the first section plate 21 within the cavity formed by the ribs 41.

[0100] In a preferable form, a substantially constant fluid pressure is to be provided by the fluid source 710 when actuated to supply fluid to the fluid fillable absorbers 40. A selectable control valve may be provided with the fluid source 710 to selectively adjust and control the fluid supplied to the fluid fillable absorbers 40. In one form, the fluid source 710 is provided between a pressure range of 90 psi to 110 psi, and more preferably 100 psi. This may be verified by the pressure sensors in the fluid fillable absorbers 40 and fluid source 710, and a user can observe the pressure in the fluid fillable absorbers and the fluid source by means of the hmi interface or by accessing the cloud based storage. When fluid is provided to the fluid fillable absorbers 40, the fluid source 710 increases the volume of fluid provided in the fluid fillable absorbers 40 at a constant pressure until the displacement feedback assembly detects that the displacement between the first and second section plates 21, 31 is satisfactory.

[0101] As shown in Figures 2, 7 and 8, four fluid fillable absorbers 40 can be used. In one variation, different fluid flow rates may be provided to at least some of the fluid fillable absorbers 40 to absorb varying frequency components of the vibratory force. In particular, each fluid fillable absorber 40 of a diagonal pairs of fluid fillable absorbers (i.e. 40a and 40d is a first diagonal pair, 40b and 40c is a second diagonal pair) can be supplied with the same fluid flow rate, however the fluid flow rate is different between the pairs of fluid fillable absorbers 40. Pressure sensors may be located in each of the fluid-fillable absorbers, or alternatively the monitoring system may include a pressure sensor for each pair of fluid fillable absorber. Otherwise stated, in embodiments where there are different sets of fluid fillable absorbers, each set being supplied with a different fluid flow rate to the other sets, there may be a pressure sensor for each set of fluid fillable absorbers. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, two fluid transfer lines 791, 792 may supply fluid to and receive fluid from the fluid fillable absorbers 40. Each fluid transfer line 791, 792 transfers fluid to a respective pair of diagonally located fluid fillable absorbers, however each fluid transfer line transfers the fluid at a different flow rate. For example, fluid transfer line 791 may supply and receive fluid in relation to fluid fillable absorbers 40a and 40d as shown in Figure 2, and fluid transfer line 792 may supply and receive fluid in relation to fluid fillable absorbers 40b and 40c as shown in Figure 2. Fluid transfer line 791 and 792 can be differently sized to allow for the variation in the flow rates between the respective fluid transfer lines 791, 792. The different fluid flow rates to and from the fluid fillable absorbers results in the fluid fillable absorbers 40 being able to at least partially fill and empty at different rates, thereby allowing for varying frequency components of the vibratory force to be absorbed.

[0102] In another variation, the vibration dampening device 10 can also include one or more mechanical vibration absorbers. In particular, referring to Figure 9, the one or more mechanical vibration absorbers 90 may be provided in the form of shock absorbers which extend between the first and second section plates 21, 31. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more mechanical vibration absorbers 90 may be provided in the form of heavy duty springs which extend between the first and second section plates 21, 31.

[0103] In another variation, the fluid source 710 may be provided in the form of a compressor of the support apparatus 100. In particular, a number of support apparatuses 100 such as cranes and excavators include a hydraulic compressor that can be fluidly connected to the device 10 to at least partially fill the one or more fluid fillable absorbers 40.

[0104] In a further variation, the vibration absorbing device 10 may be integrated within vibratory equipment 140. In this configuration, the vibration absorbing device 10 is integral with the vibratory equipment 140, thereby reducing the need for two separate pieces of equipment.

[0105] In a further variation, whilst the first and second sections 20, 30 can be made of steel, a polymer material can also be used to lighten the device 10. In particular, the polymer material can have a low coefficient of friction, such as Teflon. Not only is the device lighter, but advantageously due to the low coefficient of friction of the material which the first and second section is made of, the need for substantially frictionless inserts for reducing the friction between the first and second support arms 50, 55 with the second and first section plates 21, 31 is not required. The polymer material may also provide some additional dampening properties to the vibration dampening device.

[0106] In another variation, the vibration dampening device 10 can operate using a liquid rather than a gas, such hydraulic fluid. The air bags of the previous described embodiments may be substituted for a plurality of hydraulic vibration absorbers which are in fluid communication with a hydraulic accumulator, such as a pulse hydraulic accumulator.

[0107] As shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6, the underside surface of the second section plate 31 can include a number of ribs 39 that radially extend from a centre point thereof. The ribs form a diagonal arrangement on the underside surface of the second section plate 31. The ribs 39 can provide additional structural support for the second section plate 31.

[0108] As shown in Figure 17, in addition to the underside surface of the second section plate 31 including a number of ribs 39 that radially extend from a centre point thereof, the first section plate 21 also includes a number of ribs 41 that radially extend from a centre point thereof. As well as providing additional structural support for the first section plate 21, the ribs 41 may also define a cavity in which components of the monitoring system, such as the wireless transmitter 1250, can be located. The PLC nodes, real time clock, and cabling connecting sensors and other elements of the system can be also be located within a cavity created by ribs 41. This allows elements of the monitoring system to be protected from the environment.

[0109] Referring to Figure 10 and 11 there is shown another example of the vibration dampening device 10. For clarity purposes, the displacement feedback assembly 730 has not been shown in the figures, however, it will be appreciated that the displacement feedbackassembly 730 can be connected to the vibration dampening device 10 as previously discussed and shown in relation to Figures 4 to 6.

[0110] The first and second section plates 21, 31 are made from a polymer. In particular, the polymer is ultra high density polyethylene. The first section 20 includes an upper and lower rigid sheet 1040A, 1040B which is generally made from steel or similarly rigid material to provide additional strength. The polymer material of the first section plate 21 is sandwiched between the upper and lower sheets 1040A, 1040B.

[0111] Similarly, the second section plate includes an upper and lower sheet 1040C, 1040D. The second section 30 includes an upper and lower sheet 1040C, 1040D which is generally made from steel or similar to provide additional strength. The polymer second section plate 31 is sandwiched between the upper and lower plates 1040C, 1040D.

[0112] The upper sheet 1040A of the first section plate 21 may also include a threaded opening for receiving a first vibration sensor of the monitoring system, which in these embodiments includes a corresponding screw thread for mounting the vibration sensor to the upper sheet 1040A. Similarly, the lower sheet 1040D of the second section plate 31 may also include a threaded opening for receiving the corresponding screw thread of a second vibration sensor of the monitoring system. This allows the first and second vibration sensors to be securely attached to the first section 20 and second section 30 respectively so that they can accurately measure the vibration dampening effectiveness of the device. In other embodiments, the vibration sensors may instead be attached to the lower sheet 1040B and upper sheet 1040C of the first and second section plates 21 and 31 respectively.

[0113] The first and second section 20, 30 in this example include no welded joints, but rather a number of keyed arrangements in order to reduce failures to welded components when under significant load.

[0114] In particular, referring to the exploded view in Figures 12C and 12D, the second section 30 includes a plurality of second section support arms 50 that extend between a second section coupling arrangement 85 for attachment to the crane or the like and the second section plate 31. Each second section support arm 50 includes a first hole 51 and a second hole 52. A triangular lifting plate 1035 is placed between first ends of the second section support arms 50 and a lifting plate pin 1030 is received through the respective first holes 51of the arms 50. A second end of the second section support arm 50 protrudes through a respective aperture in thesecond section plate 31 wherein a pin 1010 is located in the first hole 52 to prevent the second section support arm 50 being withdrawn therefrom. The first hole 52 Lifting eyelets 80 are coupled at apertures 1037 of the triangular lifting plate 1035. The coupling arrangement to the crane allows for swivelling movement in a first and second plane which are orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the second section support arms 50.

[0115] Similarly, referring to the exploded view in Figures 13C and 13D, the first section 21 includes a plurality of first section support arms 55 that extend between a first section coupling pin 25 for attachment to the vibratory equipment and the first section plate 21. Each first section support arm 55 includes a first hole 56 and a second hole 57. Each end 26 of the first section coupling pin 25 is received through a respective second hole 57 of the first section support arms. A first end of the first section support arm 55 protrudes through a respective aperture in the first section plate 21 wherein a pin 1010 is located in the first holes 52 to prevent the second section support arm 50 being withdrawn therefrom.

[0116] As shown in Figure 14, the second section plate 31 includes apertures 1080, 1085. Apertures 1080 are used to allow the first section support arms to pass through the second section plate 31 when displacement occurs between the first and second sections 20, 30. Apertures 1085 are used for securing, via keying, the second section support arms. Apertures 1081, 1086 are used for securing an underside of a respective fluid fillable absorber 40.

[0117] Similarly, as shown in Figure 15, the first section plate 21 includes apertures 1090, 1095. Apertures 1090 are used to allow the second section support arms to pass through the first section plate 21 when displacement occurs between the first and second sections 20, 30. Apertures 1095 are used for securing, via keying, the first section support arms. Apertures 1097 are used for securing an underside of a respective fluid fillable absorber 40.

[0118] In another variation, the vibration dampening device 10 can include a battery source 716 electrically connected to a heat source 715. The heat source 715 can be selectively activated to thermally heat the fluid supply 710 due to changes in environmental temperature which can effect pressure within the plumbing arrangement of the vibration dampening device 10. The vibration dampening device 10 may include a thermometer to measure the environmental temperature, wherein in the event that the temperature is below a threshold temperature, the heat source 715 is activated.

[0119] In another variation, the vibration dampening device 10 includes a remote control unit 763 and a receiver unit 762. The receiver unit 762 is operatively coupled to the motor 761. The remote control unit 763 can be operated by a user thereby controlling the operation of the vibration dampening device 10. In one form, the remote control unit 763 includes an interface to activate the motor 761, wherein the remote control unit 763 generates and emits a radio signal indicative of an activation command. The receiver unit 762 receives the radio signal indicative of the activation command, and in response activates the motor 761. The activation of the motor 761 thereby activates the compressor 760, thereby activating the supply of fluid to the fluid fillable absorbers 40. The remote control unit 763 can also include an interface to deactivate the motor 761, wherein the remote control unit 763 generates and emits a radio signal indicative of a deactivation command. The receiver unit 762 receives the radio signal indicative of the deactivation command, and in response deactivates the motor 761, thereby deactivating the compressor 760 and the supply of fluid to the fluid fillable absorbers 40. The fluid control system 740 may also expel the fluid contained in the fluid fillable absorbers in response to the deactivation signal being received by the receiver unit 762.

[0120] In another variation, a rigid sheet 1099, such as a steel sheet, may be embedded within the polymer plate of the first and second section plates 21, 31. The embedded rigid sheet 1099 may be embedded during the manufacturing process of the polymer plates 21, 31. The embedded rigid sheet may have apertures cut therein prior to embedding in the plates, wherein the apertures correspond to apertures of the first and second plates.

[0121] Figure 18 shows an embodiment of a human interface device 1300 for a user, such as the operator of the support apparatus on which the vibration dampening device is secured, to monitor the vibration dampening device. The human interface device 1300 consists of a display 1301 and receiver 1302, as well as a power source such as a battery (not shown). The receiver includes an antenna 1303 for receiving data from the monitoring system such as pressure sensor and vibration sensor outputs. The display 1301 includes a screen 1305 and buttons 1304 for interacting with the displayed output on the screen. The human interface 1300 is sized so as to be portable so as, for example, to allow the operator of a crane acting as the support apparatus, to carry the human interface device into the cab of the crane and place it on a dashboard or in a similarly easily viewed located while operating the crate.

[0122] Figure 18 also shows an example of an output displayed on the screen 1305. A visual representation of the fluid fillable absorbers in the form of fluid fillable absorber icons1306a, 1306b, 1306c, 1306d, and 1306e is displayed in the centre of the screen. In the corresponding vibration dampening device, there are five fluid fillable absorbers arranged in an 'X' pattern, with diagonal pairs of absorbers being fluidly connected to share the same fluid filling rate and internal pressure and a single fluid fillable absorber in the centre of the 'X' shape. The output on the display reflects this, with a line connecting icons 1306a and 1306e, and another line between 1306c and 1306d. As these diagonal pairs are fluidly connected, and will share the same internal pressure, pressure sensors are only located in the fluid fillable absorber corresponding to icons 1306a and 1306c. These diagonal pairs of fluid fillable absorbers may be filled at a different rate and thus have differing pressures from each other. The pressure reading from these sensors is shown on the corresponding icons 1306a and 1306c. The fifth fluid fillable absorber located in the centre of the 'X' shape corresponding to the icon 1306b is not linked to any other fluid fillable absorber, and thus a pressure sensor is also provided to measure the internal pressure of this absorber, the output of which is also displayed on icon 1306b. Further, the display also shows a visual representation of the supply pressure in the form of supply pressure icon 1307. The output of a pressure sensor located in a fluid source or a holding tank for supplying fluid to the absorbers is shown in the supply pressure icon 1307. In this embodiment, the pressures are shown in bar units, however it will be understood that other units may be displayed, or the user may be able to change the units using the inbuilt software settings using the buttons 1304. As a result, the user can quickly monitor the pressures in the fluid fillable absorbers during operation of the vibration dampening device. The icons may also be coloured according to whether they are in a predetermined safe range of operating pressures, for example the icons may be coloured green or include green elements when within the safe range, and turn red when outside the safe range.

[0123] The screen 1305 also shows vibration sensor icons 1308a and 1308b. These icons are arranged vertically to reflect the placement of the corresponding vibration sensors on a first support section and a second support section of the vibration dampening device respectively, and show the output of each vibration sensor next to the corresponding icon. In this embodiment, the vibration is shown in mm / s units, however it will be understood that in other embodiments, other units may be used, or the user may be able to change the units using inbuilt software settings.

[0124] The screen 1305 may further include other information, for example an indicator of the signal strength 1309 between the wireless transmitter of the monitoring system and thehuman interface device 1300. There may also be an indication of whether the vibration dampening device is currently operating 1310. The screen may also include an indication of the system voltage 1311, and a timer showing how long the vibration dampening device has been used in this session. There may also be a manual alarm button 1312 which allows the user to manually trigger the visual indicators on the vibration dampening device in the event that they deem it necessary to warn workers in the surrounding area. There may also be a settings button, for example for changing the units shown on the relevant icons, or configuring the connection between the wireless transmitter and the human interface device.

[0125] In the event that the monitoring system records pressure readings from any of the pressure sensors that fall outside of the predetermined safe operating range, the screen 1305 may show numerous visual warnings to inform the user that they must stop operation of the vibratory equipment and or support apparatus immediately. These may include the aforementioned colour changes in the relevant icons, as well flashes, pop-up warning messages, and / or colour changes to the background of the display, for example turning from a neutral colour such as grey to red. It will be understood that in other embodiments, other visual warnings may be used in addition to or instead of these examples.

[0126] In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose.

[0127] In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its “open” sense, that is, in the sense of “including”, and thus not limited to its “closed” sense, that is the sense of “consisting only of’. A corresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words “comprise”, “comprised” and “comprises” where they appear.

[0128] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0129] In addition, the foregoing describes only some embodiments of the invention(s), and alterations, modifications, additions and / or changes can be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments, the embodiments being illustrative and not restrictive.

[0130] Furthermore, invention(s) have described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the invention(s). Also, the various embodiments described above may be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, e.g., aspects of one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment to realize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A system for monitoring a vibration dampening device, wherein the vibration dampening device comprises: a first section having a first section support assembly for supporting vibratory equipment; a second section having a second section support assembly for allowing the vibration dampening device to be supported by a support apparatus; and one or more fluid fillable absorbers located between the first and second sections, wherein the one or more fluid fillable absorbers are configured to absorb at least a portion of a vibratory force transferred from operation of the vibratory equipment; wherein the system comprises: at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure inside the one or more fluid fillable absorbers; at least one vibration sensor configured to measure the vibrations through the vibration dampening device.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system includes at least a first vibration sensor and a second vibration sensor; wherein the first vibration sensor is located on the first support assembly and the second vibration sensor is located on the second support assembly.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein a measure of the efficiency of the vibration dampening device can be obtained by comparing vibrations measured by the second vibration sensor with vibrations measure by the first vibration sensor.

4. The system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a real-time clock for recording periods when the vibration dampening device is in use.

5. The system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a visual warning indicator located on the vibration dampening device, wherein the visual warning indicator is configured to emit a warning when the at least one pressure sensor or at least one vibration sensor detects a pressure or vibration value outside of a pre-determined range.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the visual warning indicator includes a light.

7. The system of either claim 5 or 6, wherein the system includes a data logger which records and stores measurements from the at least one pressure sensor and / or vibration sensor when the visual warning indicator is activated.

8. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to wirelessly transmit pressure and / or vibration readings from the at least one pressure sensor and / or at least one vibration sensor to a remote display.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the remote display is configured to show a warning when the at least one pressure sensor or at least one vibration sensor detects a pressure or vibration value outside of a pre-determined range.

10. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to wirelessly transmit pressure and / or vibration readings from the at least one pressure sensor and / or at least one vibration sensor to a cloud-based database.

11. The system of any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein the vibration dampening device further comprises a casing including a cavity located above the first section; wherein the visual warning indicator is located on an outside surface of the casing.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein a wireless transmitter for wirelessly transmitting pressure and / or vibration readings from the at least one pressure sensor and / or at least one vibration sensor is located in the cavity of the housing.

13. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration dampening device further comprises: a fluid control system in fluid communication with the one or more fluid fillable absorbers, wherein the fluid control system is configured to control at least one of the flow of fluid to and from the one or more fluid fillable absorbers; and the system further comprises: a supply pressure sensor configured to measure a supply pressure at a fluid source in fluid communication with the fluid control system.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the vibration dampening device includes a plurality of fluid fillable absorbers, the fluid control system configured to fill a first set of fluid fillable absorbers at a different fluid rate to a second set of fluid fillable absorbers; and the system includes at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a fluid fillable absorber of the first set of absorbers and at least one pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of a fluid fillable absorber of the second set of absorbers.

15. A vibration dampening device including a monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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