Vibration sensor wins technology Oscar

, which is designed to keep watch over roller bearings. The sensor analyses the vibration signals in accordance with the frequency analysis method. A micromechanical accelerometer acts as the sensing element. The VB1001 units can monitor up to two different rolling element bearings and the VE1001 units can be used for monitoring up to 20 different frequencies. Damage to bearings is detected before it actually arises via a bearing monitor which sets the switching output to '1' and indicates damage progress with yellow LEDs. Progressive damage to rolling bearings is signalled via the second switching output and is shown via the bearing monitor's red LEDs, at which point the operator needs to react at once. The basic parameters are set with a PC. Data such as type of bearing, rotational speed and input/output function are transmitted to the sensor via the RS 232 interface. The reference conditions of the machine are 'taught-in' after mounting by pressing a pushbutton on the sensor. DP Pointers * The sensor can monitor up to 20 different bearing frequencies * A clever arrangement of algorithms and coloured LEDs on the bearing monitor signals bearing damage to the operator before it actually occurs * The design was selected as a finalist for the prestigious 'Hermes Award' at the Hanover Fair this year and won the 'Leonards Trophy 2003' in the 'Best components and automatism periphery' category