Vibrating Pump Sensing Module with 360-Degree Visual Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for monitoring vibrating machines or structures, such as pumps, suffer from inconsistent measurements due to varying data collection and handling methods, and are not feasible for processing large datasets, especially in industrial settings.
Innovation Solution
A sensing module with a multicolored light array and domed lens that projects information about the machine's condition via a 360° visible beam, utilizing encapsulated electronics including accelerometers and temperature sensors, and can be configured with a Bluetooth Low Energy radio for real-time data transmission to mobile devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If handheld vibration analyzers are used for monitoring, then portability is improved, but measurement consistency deteriorates due to varying data collection and handling methods
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring device performs self-diagnosis and automatic condition assessment, eliminating the need for manual interpretation by operators. The device automatically collects vibration data, processes it through embedded algorithms, and generates condition reports, ensuring consistent measurements regardless of operator variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transforms raw vibration data into standardized condition parameters through automated processing. By converting multiple vibration parameters into unified condition assessments, the system ensures measurement consistency across different operating conditions and operators.
2Measurement precision
If permanent monitoring installations are used, then measurement consistency is improved, but cost and complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into independent modular components that can be attached to different pump locations. Each module contains its own sensors, processing unit, and communication interface, allowing decentralized monitoring without requiring complex centralized installation infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex wired permanent installations with wireless communication technology. The monitoring devices transmit data wirelessly to central systems, eliminating the need for extensive cable routing, electrical connections, and mechanical mounting infrastructure required by traditional permanent installations.
3Measurement precision
If large datasets are collected for comprehensive monitoring, then measurement accuracy is improved, but data processing feasibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts only the most relevant vibration parameters and condition indicators from the full dataset for transmission and analysis. By filtering and selecting critical parameters locally at the sensor node, the system maintains measurement accuracy while significantly reducing the volume of data requiring centralized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
Data processing and analysis are performed preliminarily at the edge device before transmission to central systems. The monitoring device pre-processes raw vibration data, identifies anomalies, and generates preliminary condition assessments, reducing the computational burden on centralized systems and improving overall processing efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and consistent monitoring of vibrating machines, allowing for proactive maintenance by providing clear visual indicators and remote data analysis, reducing costs and increasing productivity through proactive fault detection and management.
Implementation Method 1
configured to reflect, re-reflect and project the at least one beam of light outwardly in relation to the projection axis with a visibility of 360°
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2C2
AI summary
A sensing module for configuring on a vibrating machine or structure, such as a pump or pump assembly is provided. The sensing module includes an outer shell configured with a recessed portion, and encapsulated electronics having a multicolored light array arranged inside the outer shell. The multicolored light array responds to signaling containing information about a condition being sensed or monitored by the sensing module and provides along a projection axis at least one beam of light containing information about the condition. The signaling is received from one or more of the other encapsulated electronics, including an accelerometer or temperature sensing device. The sensing module includes a domed lens configured in the recessed portion of the outer shell, and configured to project the at least one beam of light along the projection axis with a visibility of 360° for viewing from afar, by an observer visually monitoring the sensing module.