Abstract: A hand-held laser based biosensor including modular components, combining absorption spectrophotometry and molecular fluorescence spectrophotometry, and including a sample cell module having an improved absorption path length.

Abstract: A hand-held biosensor including a housing having a lower handgrip portion and an upper target portion extending substantially perpendicular to the lower handgrip portion. An electromagnetic radiation emitter is received within the lower handgrip portion for emitting a laser beam toward a band pass filter received within the upper target portion. The band pass filter is configured to reflect the laser beam toward a target, and to permit passage therethrough of fluorescence emissions from the target. A photo-detector is received within the upper target portion of the housing and is configured to receive the fluorescence emissions from the target. A signal display is configured to provide an indication of fluorescence spectral data from the photo-detector. An adapter may be releasably coupled to the upper target portion of the housing for receiving atmospheric air.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method of effectively quantifying a target material by performing both colorimetry and fluorescence analysis on the same sample, based on metal nanoparticles and an aptamer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multi UV-LED probe system for detection of a characteristic of a sample, the system including a device comprising a probe head, the probe head including a plurality of UV-LEDs, an optic fiber bundle, an optional heating surface, an optional cooling surface and a light directing means adapted to transfer UV from the plurality of UV-LEDs to a region of the sample and further adapted to receive fluorescent light from the region to focus it into the optic fiber bundle and a power source adapted to provide electrical energy to the plurality of UV-LEDs, a spectrophotometer configured to receive the fluorescent light from the optic fiber bundle and a processor adapted to receive signals associated with the fluorescent light and to process the signals to provide the detection of the characteristic of the sample.

Abstract: Provided is a fluorescence image acquisition apparatus for acquiring fluorescence images and phase images using optical signals that are modulated at the same frequency and that have different time delays. The fluorescence image acquisition apparatus may include a light source configured to generate, at different time delays, a plurality of optical signals that are modulated at the same frequency, an illuminator configured to control paths of the plurality of modulated optical signals so that the plurality of modulated optical signals are illuminated onto a sample including a plurality of fluorescent materials, a photodetector configured to detect a plurality of fluorescence signals that are emitted from the plurality of fluorescent materials, respectively, and a controller configured to acquire a plurality of fluorescence images and a plurality of phase images from the plurality of detected fluorescence signals.

Abstract: Methods and systems for detecting a particle defect on a wafer surface, transforming the particle to a spectroscopically active state, and identifying a material composition of the activated particle by a spectroscopic technique are described herein. Particle defects are transformed by chemical treatment, thermal treatment, photochemical treatment, or a combination thereof, such that an activated particle exhibits atomic vibrational bands that can be observed spectroscopically. In one embodiment, a surface inspection system detects the presence of a particle defect on a wafer surface, activates observable Raman bands in one or more of the detected particles, and identifies the material composition of the activated particle by a spectroscopic technique.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a stand-off optical measuring system based on Raman scattering for detecting and identifying chemical threat substances. The system comprises a spectrometer that comprises a dispersive device (104) in front of a 2-dimensional detector (105), the entrance of the spectrometer being a coded aperture (106-109). The measuring system is designed to be able to quickly adapt to different measuring conditions by the coded aperture being a programmable coded aperture.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward the early detection of harmful algal blooms. The system employs the ability of whole cell non-contact micro Raman spectroscopy to detect cell pigmentation in such a way that distinct patterns or fingerprints can be assembled. Light field microscopy will provide a fundamentally innovative increase in image and sample volume. Furthermore, darkfield microscopy is employed to capture high-resolution, color images of the detected plankton to increase the accuracy of species identification and classification. Together, this new instrument will provide a powerful yet elegantly simple solution to detection of HAB cells and characterization of environmental conditions.

Abstract: Provided herein are surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-active reagents and methods for detecting one or more analyte in a sample. Said SERS-active reagents are adaptable, sensitive, and easy-to-use in the diagnosis of infectious diseases in a patient, or the detection of toxins, bacteria, viruses, pathogens, hormones, cytokines, antigens, antibodies or illicit drugs in a biological sample. Such methods may be handled by police, soldiers, or health care workers in the field, and do not require specialized training.

Abstract: A method and a system for detection of presence or absence of analytes in fluids, the method comprising the steps of: a) contacting a fluid sample and a plurality of nanoparticles, the nanoparticles being functionalized with a selective ligand, the contact of the fluid sample with the nanoparticles being under conditions such that, the nanoparticles aggregate selectively on surface of their target analyte, forming a nanoparticle-analyte complex, the aggregation promoting the concentration of the nanoparticles on the surface of the target analyte; b) subjecting a fluid mixture of the fluid sample and the plurality of nanoparticles to SERS; c) measuring at least a SERS signal associated with the fluid mixture; d) spectrally analysing the at least one SERS signal of step c); e) recognizing at least one defined SERS spectrum of the nanoparticle-analyte complex, through a SERS signal enhanced by the at least one narrow inter-nanoparticle gap.

Abstract: A method and system for detecting foreign particles in a liquid, the method and system include transmitting transmitted pulses of radiation, by a transmitter, towards a liquid conduit that is filled with liquid; wherein the transmitted pulses comprises pulses that differ from each by being associated with absorbance frequencies of different foreign particles; receiving, by a receiver, received pulses that propagated through liquid as a result of the transmission of the multiple transmitted pulses; comparing between the transmitted pulses and the received pulses to provide a comparison result; and determining a liquid contamination based on the comparison result.

Abstract: An X-ray imaging system and method are provided. The system may include: an X-ray source configured to irradiate X-ray beams; a first grating and a second grating arranged sequentially in an irradiation direction of the X-ray beams; a detector arranged at downstream of the second grating in the irradiation direction; and a controller and data processing device configured to control the X-ray source to irradiate the X-ray beams, to control the detector to receive X-ray beams passing through the first grating and the second grating to generate phase contrast information and/or dark field information, and to perform CT check on an object under check based on the phase contrast information and/or the dark field information to obtain a CT image. In this way, it is possible to obtain more characteristic information about the object under check, so as to achieve more precise material recognition and security check.

Abstract: A system for analyzing intact cotton, wherein the system comprises an X-ray scanner system and a plurality of sample containers, wherein at least one seed cotton sample container is structured and operable to retain a respective one of a plurality of intact cotton samples. The system additionally comprises a sample support platform that is structured and operable to move the plurality of sample containers past an image data generation assembly of the X-ray scanner system. The system further comprises a computer based system that is structured and operable to execute image analysis software to determine at least one metric of at least one of the intact cotton samples.

Abstract: Certain techniques for Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) whole core logging are described. NMR tests are performed on a standard sample using a NMR radio frequency (rf) coil having a length. A response map of the NMR rf coil is determined. The response map relates multiple relative NMR rf coil positions to multiple relative signal intensities. The NMR tests are performed using the NMR rf coil on a rock sample containing fluid. A length of the rock sample is greater than the NMR rf coil. Fluid content in the sample is determined using results of the NMR tests using the NMR rf coil on the rock sample and using the response map for the NMR rf coil and a mathematical deconvolution to obtain high resolution. The same method can be used to obtain high spatial resolution NMR log measurement in the reservoir.

Abstract: A heating system includes a power source connected to a heater to heat a workpiece via the heater and a controller. The controller is configured to receive the first temperature measurement signal, the first temperature measurement signal corresponding to a first temperature of the workpiece. The controller is to turn on the power source to activate the heater to heat the workpiece, receive the second temperature measurement signal in response to heating the workpiece, the second temperature measurement signal corresponding to a second temperature of the workpiece. The controller calculates a change in temperature of the workpiece based on the first and second temperatures, and determines a physical characteristic of the workpiece based on the change in temperature.

Abstract: Methods and systems for measuring and/or estimating a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of a component of a fuel cell system. A CTE measurement technique includes securing a measurement member over a surface of the component via a seal having a melting point, heating the seal above its melting point of the seal, cooling the component, measurement member and seal to a second temperature below the melting point of the seal, and determining the CTE of the component based on the change in the span of the measurement member after cooling. A fuel cell component characterization technique includes measuring an electrical resistivity (ER), conductivity (EC), resistance or conductance of the component, measuring at least one additional property of the component which, together with ER, EC, resistance or conductance, correlates to the CTE of the component, and sorting the component based on the measurements.

Abstract: A nanoscale probe includes a substrate and a pair of nanoscale wires each having a first end disposed on the substrate and a second end. The second ends of each nanoscale wire are in contact with one another such that the pair of nanoscale wires form a bridge extending over the substrate. The nanoscale wires may be electrically connected to electrodes residing on the substrate. The electrodes, in turn, are connected to an active electronic device such as a readout device or microprocessor formed in the substrate on which the probe is located. In this way a property of the nanoscale wires, and thus of the cell, may be determined.

Abstract: A method for operation of an electronic device and an electronic device are provided. The method includes determining if an object is detected at a first terminal and a second terminal among a plurality of terminals of an ear jack. If the object is detected, the impedance of the second terminal is calculated, and a type of the object is determined according to the calculated impedance.

Abstract: An integrated electronic device, for detecting for detecting changes in an environmental parameter indicative of an environment surrounding the device, includes: a first conductive element and a second conductive element; a measurement circuit including a first measurement terminal and a second measurement terminal respectively coupled to the first conductive element and the second conductive element. The measurement circuit is configured to provide an electrical potential difference between the first conductive element and the second conductive element is configured to determine a change in an impedance of an electromagnetic circuit including the first conductive element and the second conductive element and formed between the first measurement terminal and the second measurement terminal. The device determines that an increase in a presence of water within the environment has occurred in response to a decrease in a real part of the impedance of the electromagnetic circuit.

Abstract: Systems and methods for determining a concentration of an analyte in a physiological fluid are presented. A test voltage is applied between a first electrode and the second electrode of a biosensor, in which the first electrode includes a reagent and the second electrode is uncoated with the reagent. The reagent is selected for a reaction with the analyte, but not with the interferent. First and second current values are measured at the first and second electrodes during first and second time periods after application of the test voltage, respectively. First and second current parameters are determined by taking the sums of the current values and subtracting factors dependent on at least one of the current values. The analyte concentration is determined as a function of a ratio of the first current parameter and the second current parameter.

Abstract: Methods for forming an electrode structure, which can be used as a biosensor, are provided in which the electrode structure has non-random topography located on one surface of an electrode base. In some embodiments, an electrode structure is obtained that contains no interface between the non-random topography of the electrode structure and the electrode base of the electrode structure. In other embodiments, electrode structures are obtained that have an interface between the non-random topography of the electrode structure and the electrode base of the electrode structure.

Abstract: Voltage is applied across a counter electrode and a working electrode, with which a blood sample is in contact, in such a state that an oxidant in a redox substance is not substantially in contact with a working electrode but is in contact with a counter electrode and a reductant is not substantially in contact with the counter electrode but is in contact with the working electrode, whereby the reductant and the oxidant are respectively oxidized and reduced to measure current produced upon the oxidation and reduction. According to the above constitution, while lowering the voltage applied across the working electrode and the counter electrode, the Hct value of the blood sample can be measured stably with a satisfactory detection sensitivity. This measurement can be carried out with a sensor chip comprising a working electrode (11), a counter electrode (12), and a blood sample holding part (14) having branch parts (18a, 18b).

Abstract: Contemplated methods and devices comprise use of a charged probe and a neutralizer in the electrochemical detection of a wide range of analytes, including nucleic acids, proteins, and small molecules. In certain embodiments the neutralizer forms a complex with the probe that has a reduced charge magnitude compared to the probe itself, and is displaced from the probe when the complex is exposed to the analyte.

Abstract: A DNA sequencing device, and related methods, include a nanopore or nanochannel structure, and a nanoelectrode. The nanoelectrode includes electrode members having free ends exposed within the nanopore or nanochannel structure, an electrode gap defined between of the free ends, and plated portions formed on the free ends to provide a reduced sized for the electrode gap.

Abstract: A DNA sequencing device includes a first layer having a nanochannel formed therein, and a pair of electrodes arranged vertically relative to each other and spaced apart to define an electrode gap. The electrode gap is exposed in the nanochannel, and the electrode gap is in the range of about 0.3 nm to about 2 nm.

Abstract: New approaches for selective detection of chemical agents such as sarin are necessary because of the high toxicity of sarin and related compounds, the potential of these compounds to be used as weapons of mass destruction, and the limitations of current detection methodologies. Herein is described an apparatus and a method for selective and amplified detection of sarin simulants deposited via an aerosol process. The simulant absorbs into a hydrogel, where it hydrolyzes upon contact with water producing elemental ions. The elemental ions are then concentrated via an ionic chemical potential gradient to a sensor, where it is detected. This technique has potential to amplify the capture efficiency of a sensor by a 1000-fold within couple of minutes.

Abstract: A three-electrode mixed-potential electrochemical sensor coupled with an artificial neural network data analysis approach can extract concentrations from voltages and identify gas streams consisting of single and binary mixtures of NO2, NO, CO, and C3H8. By using the data from the sensors in biased and unbiased mode, single and binary mixtures can be identified with >98% accuracy identify all single and binary mixtures. While concentrations can be readily extracted from single test gas mixtures through a linear fit to the most sensitive electrode pair, binary mixture concentrations analyzed with an artificial neural network resulted in error distributions with a 95% peak accuracy in concentration with 80% of the data points having an accuracy at the 88% level. The sensor is suitable for control and monitoring of diesel and gasoline engines, turbines, steam power plants, and other combustion technologies.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to electrodes and related sensor apparatus for the detection of nitric oxide (NO) and/or peroxynitrite (PON). The electrodes and sensors incorporate electrically conducting boron-doped diamond (BDD) to provide a selective and quantitative detection platform. The sensing electrode for detection of NO includes metallic nanoparticles for oxidation of NO as well as anionic polyelectrolyte layer over the electrically conducting BDD layer. The sensing electrode for detection of PON includes an electrically conductive polymeric layer including a metal-complexed porphyrin for redox reaction with PON over the electrically conducting BDD layer. A corresponding sensor apparatus includes one or two electrochemical cells with associated electrolytes, separate working electrodes for the separate, selective detection of NO or PON, and associated reference electrode(s) and counter electrode(s).

Abstract: A gas sensor (100) includes a sensor element (120), a metallic shell (110), a powder filler member (133), a first ceramic holder (135) in contact with the rear end of the powder filler member and from which the sensor element protrudes, and a second ceramic holder (131) in contact with the forward end of the powder filler member and from which the sensor element protrudes. The powder filler member has a higher thermal expansion coefficient than that of the first and second ceramic holders. The first ceramic holder, powder filler member, and second ceramic holder are pressed by force application means (118). A relation 0.40<(L?M)/L<0.58 holds, where L is the axial distance between the rearward-facing surface of the first ceramic holder and the forward end of the second ceramic holder, and M is the axial length of the powder filler member.

Abstract: A gas sensor is provided with a sensor element having a detecting portion; an insulator supporting the sensor element in a state where the detecting portion is protruded therefrom, the sensor element being inserted through the insulator; a housing supporting the insulator; an inner cover covering the detecting portion; and an outer cover covering the inner cover. An inner flange portion of the inner cover and an outer flange portion of the outer cover are supported between the insulator and the housing. A protrusion is formed on a corner portion facing the insulator, the protrusion contacting with the insulator. An end face of the outer flange portion is positioned radially closer to an outer side with respect to a radial direction, than a position of an end face of the inner flange portion.

Abstract: A gas sensor includes a sensor element having a detecting portion; an insulator supporting the sensor element inserted therethrough; a housing supporting the insulator; an inner cover covering the detecting portion; and an outer cover covering the inner cover. An inner flange portion of the inner cover and the outer flange portion of the outer cover are supported between the insulator and the housing. An end face of the inner flange portion is positioned towards outer side R1 with respect to the radial direction R than the position of an end face of the outer flange portion. A corner portion between the end face and a surface in the outer flange portion protrudes into a surface of the inner flange portion.

Abstract: In one implementation, a method for manufacturing a chemical detection device is described. The method includes forming a chemical sensor having a sensing surface. A dielectric material is deposited on the sensing surface. A first etch process is performed to partially etch the dielectric material to define an opening over the sensing surface and leave remaining dielectric material on the sensing surface. An etch protect material is formed on a sidewall of the opening. A second etch process is then performed to selectively etch the remaining dielectric material using the etch protect material as an etch mask, thereby exposing the sensing surface.

Abstract: The described embodiments may provide a method of fabricating a chemical detection device. The method may comprise forming a microwell above a CMOS device. The microwell may comprise a bottom surface and sidewalls. The method may further comprise applying a first chemical to be selectively attached to the bottom surface of the microwell, forming a metal oxide layer on the sidewalls of the microwell, and applying a second chemical to be selectively attached to the sidewalls of the microwell. The second chemical may lack an affinity to the first chemical.

Abstract: The electrophoresis method includes the following steps: electrically injecting a sample into an electrophoresis flow path through one end thereof; subjecting the injected sample to electrophoresis to be separated by applying a voltage to both ends of the electrophoresis flow path; detecting the separated sample component at a detection position of the electrophoresis flow path; obtaining a peak area of the detected sample component; and correcting the obtained peak area on the basis of an injection rate of each sample component. Correction based on the injection rate includes, a correction based on a relative mobility of the sample component and at least one of: a correction based on the linear velocity at the time of sample injection for each sample component and a correction based on the current integral value at the time of sample injection.

Abstract: Isoelectric focusing devices configured for multiplex separation of sample components of interest in a polymeric separation medium are provided. Also provided are methods of using the devices as well as systems and kits that include the devices. The devices, systems and methods find use in a variety of different applications, including diagnostic and validation assays.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for monitoring renal disease in a subject, comprising subjecting a sample comprising albumin from that subject to electrophoresis, preferably capillary electrophoresis, wherein carbamylated albumin is used as a bio-marker for the monitoring of the renal disease, which is preferably achieved by measuring the symmetry of the albumin peak in the assay. The invention further comprises the use of capillary electrophoresis for determining the amount of carbamylated albumin. Also claimed is a system for the determination of carbamylated serum albumin.

Abstract: The invention relates to a closure for an electrochemical reaction vessel, in particular a potentiostat, the closure comprising: a holder for holding electrodes arranged at an inner side of the closure such that, when the closure is attached to a reaction vessel, electrodes held by the holder extend into an interior space of the reaction vessel and into an electrolyte contained in the reaction vessel; and a plurality of contacts arranged at an outer side of the closure for providing electrical contacts with the electrodes.

Abstract: The present invention quickly carries out quantitative evaluation of a defect of a magnetic member. An inspection probe (100), which includes: a third magnet (4) polarized in a direction intersecting a counter surface facing a magnetic member; a Hall element (11) that detects a density of a magnetic flux passing through the third magnet (4) and the magnetic member, is used to apply, to an output signal from the Hall element (11), an evaluation algorithm which is selected according to whether a defective surface is a front surface or a back surface.

Abstract: A probe device for a rotating head of a rotary system comprises at least one support arm that is mounted so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation, at least one probe that is connected to the support arm, and at least one cable guide for guiding a probe cable. The cable guide comprises a first end portion that extends along the support arm, from the probe to the axis of rotation, and a second end portion that originates essentially at the axis of rotation.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for generating virtual inspection channels mid-way between the physical inspection channels of an eddy current array probe, thereby reducing the coverage loss and improving defect sizing and imaging. The method is based upon a calibration to determine the mid-channel coverage loss for parallel defects having their long axis parallel to the scanning direction. Based on the coverage loss measurement, a vector analysis system is constructed enabling generation of virtual channel signals which are available for processing in the same way as physical channels, with impedance plane representation including real and/or imaginary signal components. The system differentiates between parallel and perpendicular defects and employs different algorithms to generate virtual channel signals for parallel and perpendicular defect orientations.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for inspecting a section of piping are disclosed. In one example embodiment, an apparatus includes first and second excitation coils, a plurality of magnetometers, and a data acquisition system. The first excitation coils are disposed at a first axial location and are energized with a first swept frequency waveform and the second excitation coils are disposed at a second axial location and are energized with the swept frequency waveform. The plurality of magnetometers are disposed at an axial location between the first and second axial locations and are positioned to detect magnetic fields generated by eddy currents induced in the section of piping by the first and second excitation coils. The data acquisition system is operatively connected to receive output data from the plurality of magnetometers.

Abstract: A fluid monitoring system includes, a channel having a first end configured to be fluidly coupled to a first portion of a conduit of a mineral extraction system to enable fluid to flow from the conduit into the channel and a second end configured to be fluidly coupled to a second portion of the conduit to enable return of the fluid from the channel into the conduit. The system also includes an actuator assembly positioned along the channel and configured to isolate a portion of the fluid within a chamber of the actuator assembly. The actuator assembly is configured to expand a volume of the chamber to reduce a pressure while the portion of the fluid is within the chamber to facilitate identification of an indicator of dissolved gas within the fluid.

Abstract: An ultrasonic flowmeter configured to detect impurities in a fluid, such as impurities in water. The flowmeter sends an ultrasonic signal through a flow tube and measures a deviation in a measured travel speed, which corresponds to a concentration of a measured impurity. The flow tube of the flowmeter can either have a straight configuration or a u-shaped configuration.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method is used for diagnosing a deterioration of a utility pole having at least one bolt and a plurality of holes provided for attaching the bolt. In the method, an impact is applied to the bolt. Elastic waves generated due to the impact are detected by a sensor shaped like a bolt. The sensor is attached to at least one of the holes. A propagation situation of the elastic waves in the utility pole is derived, based on the elastic waves detected, and each position of the bolt and the sensor.

Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to systems and methods for determining a toughness value for a material of a metal part, wherein the method comprises detecting a texture of a carbon steel material using an ultrasonic microscopy unit, wherein the ultrasonic microscopy unit uses one or more waveforms including at least one of straight beam, phased array, shear wave, and time-of-flight diffraction (TOFD); determining elemental analysis of the carbon steel material; combining the texture with the elemental analysis to generate a toughness value for the steel; comparing the generated toughness value with a standard curve, wherein when the toughness value falls below the curve, the carbon steel material comprises an acceptable toughness, and when the toughness value falls above the curve, the carbon steel material comprises an unacceptable toughness.

Abstract: A system for non-destructive inspection of a structure includes at least one magnetostrictive strip, a plurality of coil circuits, a jacket having at least one component layer, and a tensioner. The at least one magnetostrictive strip is configured to be induced with a bias magnetic field and be wrapped at least partially around an outer surface of the structure. The plurality of coil circuits are configured to be disposed adjacent to the at least one magnetostrictive strip, and the jacket is configured to be disposed adjacent to at least one of the plurality of coil circuits. The tensioner is configured to provide a mechanical pressure coupling between said at least one magnetostrictive strip and said structure. At least one of the plurality of coil circuits is individually controllable by a number of channels to at least one of excite or detect guided waves in said structure.

Abstract: A wireless ultrasound sensor 404 for non-destructive testing of a test object 502, the sensor comprising: an ultrasound transducer 406; a first induction coil 408, electrically coupled to the ultrasound transducer; a second induction coil 414, electrically coupled in parallel with the first induction coil; wherein the first and second induction coils are arranged to enable the transducer to be inductively operated by a remote device 504; and wherein the diameter of the second induction coil is greater than the diameter of the first induction coil.

Abstract: An apparatus for bolt inspection are presented. The bolt has a cylindrical threaded surface delimited by a pair of end faces that are opposite to each other. An ultrasonic transducer device contacts one of the pair of end faces for performing a scan operation. A guide structure is engaged with the bolt that guides a motion of the ultrasonic transducer device such that only a portion of a transducer contact surface contacts the one of the pair of end faces during the scan operation. The guide structure delimits a radial extent of the motion of the ultrasonic transducer device during the scan operation.

Abstract: A wear life sensing system may use nondestructive testing techniques to determine when ground engaging tools (GETs) are worn down and reach the ends of their useful wear lives. The wear life sensing system may include a wear sensing body and a wear sensor assembly embedded within the body of the GET. The wear sensing body is positioned proximate a maximum wear point of the GET and is fabricated from a material having a different material density than the material of the GET body. The wear sensor assembly outputs distance sensor signals in the direction of the wear sensing body and determines the presence or absence of the wear sensing body based on the reflected distance sensor signals received at the wear sensor assembly. The wear sensor assembly may transmit a GET replacement message when it no longer detects the presence of the wear sensing body.

Abstract: Vibration data indicative of the health of a machine is collected using a vibration sensor connected to a vibration data collector. After the vibration sensor has been attached to a measurement point on the machine, vibration data is collected that includes a bin of data having a begin time and an end time, and the vibration data is stored in memory of the vibration data collector. First and second average amplitudes of the bin of vibration data collected during first and second time windows in the measurement time period are determined. The slope of the vibration data is calculated based on the ratio of the amplitude difference between the first and second average amplitudes and the time difference between the first and second time windows. The vibration data is either retained in the memory or discarded based on the comparison of the slope to a threshold level.