Abstract: A method for detecting defects in a rotational element of a machine based on changes in measured vibration energy includes: (a) collecting vibration data over an extended period of time using vibration sensors attached to the machine; (b) processing the vibration data to generate a time waveform comprising processed vibration values sampled during sequential sampling time intervals within the extended period of time; (c) detecting multiple time blocks within the extended period of time during which the processed vibration values exhibit sustained increases at progressively increasing rates; and (d) generating alerts based on detection of the multiple time blocks during which the processed vibration values exhibit sustained increases at progressively increasing rates.

Abstract: A method for detecting defects in a rotational element of a machine based on changes in measured vibration energy includes: (a) collecting vibration data over an extended period of time using vibration sensors attached to the machine; (b) processing the vibration data to generate a time waveform comprising processed vibration values sampled during sequential sampling time intervals within the extended period of time; (c) detecting multiple time blocks within the extended period of time during which the processed vibration values exhibit sustained increases at progressively increasing rates; and (d) generating alerts based on detection of the multiple time blocks during which the processed vibration values exhibit sustained increases at progressively increasing rates.

Abstract: A digital transducer provides a digital output indicative of dynamic characteristics of machines and processes. The transducer sensors may be single-axis or multiple-axis accelerometers and other measurement sensors. The transducer may be hands-free and wireless in machinery monitoring applications. An integral magnetic mount assists with hands-free data collection. Digital data accumulated in transducer memory may be selectively decimated before or after transfer from the transducer to a remote analyzer. Wireless communications are used to upload measurement setups to the transducer and download data from the transducer to a handheld analyzer or remote computer. Analysis and interpretation of dynamic digital data streams are performed after data is downloaded.

Abstract: A computer-executable ratiometric analysis method determines integer components of a rational number ratio or a close approximation of an irrational number ratio. In one embodiment the method uses a ratio of rotational speeds of two rotating assets in a machine or process, generates a new rational number based on the ratio of speeds, and calculates the integer components of the new rational number. The result is the integer ratio relationship between the initial two rational numbers. The method may be used in machinery analysis applications to determine whether a low-order integer ratio relationship exists between two machinery rotating components. Low-order integer ratio relationships in machinery are generally harmful in related machinery rotating components, and detection of such relationships is an important tool in preventing damage to machinery components.

Abstract: A computer-executable ratiometric analysis method determines integer components of a rational number ratio or a close approximation of an irrational number ratio. In one embodiment the method uses a ratio of rotational speeds of two rotating assets in a machine or process, generates a new rational number based on the ratio of speeds, and calculates the integer components of the new rational number. The result is the integer ratio relationship between the initial two rational numbers. The method may be used in machinery analysis applications to determine whether a low-order integer ratio relationship exists between two machinery rotating components. Low-order integer ratio relationships in machinery are generally harmful in related machinery rotating components, and detection of such relationships is an important tool in preventing damage to machinery components.

Abstract: A digital transducer provides a digital output indicative of dynamic characteristics of machines and processes. The transducer sensors may be single-axis or multiple-axis accelerometers and other measurement sensors. The transducer may be hands-free and wireless in machinery monitoring applications. An integral magnetic mount assists with hands-free data collection. Digital data accumulated in transducer memory may be selectively decimated before or after transfer from the transducer to a remote analyzer. Wireless communications are used to upload measurement setups to the transducer and download data from the transducer to a handheld analyzer or remote computer. Analysis and interpretation of dynamic digital data streams are performed after data is downloaded.

Abstract: A computer-executable ratiometric analysis method determines integer components of a rational number ratio or a close approximation of an irrational number ratio. In one embodiment the method uses a ratio of rotational speeds of two rotating assets in a machine or process, generates a new rational number based on the ratio of speeds, and calculates the integer components of the new rational number. The result is the integer ratio relationship between the initial two rational numbers. The method may be used in machinery analysis applications to determine whether a low-order integer ratio relationship exists between two machinery rotating components. Low-order integer ratio relationships in machinery are generally harmful in related machinery rotating components, and detection of such relationships is an important tool in preventing damage to machinery components.

Abstract: An edge tracking apparatus for maintaining a continuous circulating papermaking fabric in an aligned position as it moves through a papermaking machine. The edge tracking apparatus includes a pivotally mounted guide roll and a laser scanner. The laser scanner, which produces a laser screen, is positioned relative to an edge of the papermaking fabric so that the edge bisects the laser screen. A controller is connected with the laser scanner. The controller acts to receive signals from the laser scanner in response to transverse movement of the edge of the papermaking fabric and to convert those signals into control signals which activate a drive in the steering apparatus. The drive shifts the longitudinal position of the guide roll causing it to steer the papermaking fabric back into its aligned position. A recording unit is also connected with the controller and is controlled to plot the position of the edge during operation of the papermaking machine.