Single-Probe Vibration Diagnostics With Virtual Probe Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
In cases where only one probe can be used on machinery, the limitations of vibration analysis techniques restrict the ability to effectively monitor the health and performance of rotating components.
Innovation Solution
A method is developed to generate a virtual signal at a second location using a single vibration probe, employing numerical calculations and machine learning techniques to simulate the signal that would be obtained from a second physical probe, allowing for more comprehensive vibration analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only one vibration probe is used due to physical or economical constraints, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but the capability to perform comprehensive vibration analysis (phase angle, shaft orbit, bode plot) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual signal that copies the characteristics of a second physical probe's signal. By using numerical calculations and machine learning techniques, the system generates a synthetic signal from the single physical probe that mimics what a second probe would have measured, enabling comprehensive vibration analysis without requiring additional physical hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of multiple physical probes with a computational system. Instead of physically installing additional sensors on the machinery, the invention uses algorithms, numerical calculations, and machine learning models to substitute for the missing probe, transforming a hardware problem into a software solution
2Reliability
If two physical probes are installed at angularly separated locations, then comprehensive vibration analysis techniques can be performed, but physical space requirements and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual signal generated by the system copies the measurement capabilities of a second probe without requiring its physical presence. The computational model replicates the signal characteristics that would be obtained from a probe installed at the second angular location, maintaining monitoring accuracy while eliminating installation requirements
3Loss of information
If multiple probes are used to enable signal processing techniques requiring phase angle and shaft orbit information, then measurement completeness is improved, but cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual copy of the second probe's signal output through computational methods. By using the single physical probe's data combined with numerical calculations and machine learning, the system generates information that would otherwise require a second physical probe, preventing information loss without increasing hardware complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The single physical probe system is enhanced to perform multiple functions that traditionally required multiple probes. The virtual signal generation capability allows the same hardware to provide phase angle, shaft orbit, and bode plot information, making the system multi-functional without adding components
Data Source
AI summary
A method which includes receiving a first signal from a first probe at a first location monitoring a rotating component, wherein the first location defines a cross-sectional plane that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating component. The method further includes obtaining a vibration model and generating, by a computer processor, a virtual signal at a second location on the machine, where no second probe is present. The second location is in the same cross-sectional plane as the first location and is angularly offset by an angle from the first location. The method further includes performing a plurality of signal processing techniques based, at least in part, on the first signal and the virtual signal and transmitting a plurality of commands based, at least in part, on results of the plurality of signal processing techniques.