Vibration Trend Plot with Condition Flags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interpreting vibration data from machines is challenging due to variations caused by changes in operating conditions, leading to difficulties in distinguishing between actual machine issues and condition-related changes, which complicates data analysis and often requires time-consuming log searches.
Innovation Solution
A computerized system that plots vibration data from different conditions on a single trend line, using a processor to read and store data with associated conditions and types, and creates flags for condition changes, allowing for easier identification of changes and computation of statistical alert limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If vibration data from different conditions is plotted on separate charts, then each condition can be analyzed individually, but the engineer must search through multiple charts and logs to interpret changes, increasing time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple vibration data sets from different operating conditions onto a single trend line chart. The system plots vibration data points from various conditions (different fluids, sensor setups, etc.) on one unified chart with a single trend line, eliminating the need to switch between multiple separate charts and data logs. This merging approach allows engineers to view all conditions simultaneously, dramatically reducing interpretation time while maintaining the ability to distinguish between actual machine issues and condition-related variations through the use of flags and markers.
2Ease of operation
If vibration data from different conditions is plotted on the same chart without condition indicators, then the chart is simpler to view, but the engineer cannot distinguish between machine problems and condition changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual differentiation techniques including color changes, flags, and markers to indicate when operating conditions change along the trend line. Each condition change is marked with a distinctive visual indicator (such as a flag or color change) that allows engineers to immediately identify condition transitions while viewing the unified chart. This approach maintains chart simplicity and ease of viewing while preserving critical information about condition changes, enabling engineers to distinguish between machine problems and condition-related variations at a glance.
3Reliability
If separate data sets are created for different conditions, then data integrity is maintained, but the analysis becomes more complex and requires multiple charts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal charting system that can handle multiple different operating conditions within a single unified framework. The trend line chart is designed to accommodate various data types and conditions (different fluids, sensor configurations, operating parameters) using a consistent plotting methodology. This universal approach maintains data integrity by treating each condition appropriately while reducing analysis complexity, as engineers no longer need to create and manage multiple separate data sets and charts for different conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A computerized apparatus for presenting vibration data that is read under different conditions as a single trend line on a chart. A sensor measures vibration and produces vibration data. A memory stores the vibration data, an indicator of the condition under which the vibration data was produced, and a type associated with the vibration data. A processor reads the vibration data, the condition, and the type from the memory, and selectively plots the vibration data on the trend line when the type of the vibration data matches a given value, even though the condition might be different from data point to data point on the trend line. The processor selectively creates a flag indicating a condition change, and an interface presents a plot of the trend line, and the flag when a condition change occurs between data points.