Analysis of vibration and acoustic sensors for machine health monitoring and its wireless implementation for low cost space applications

Vibrations produced by machinery are vital indicators of machine health. Vibration analysis is used as a tool to determine a machine´s condition and the specific cause and location of problems, expediting repairs and minimizing costs. Machinery monitoring programs record a machine´s vibration history. Monitoring vibration levels over time allows prediction of problems before serious damage can occur. Acoustic signal and vibration are correlated as pressure variations due to vibration create acoustic signals. The current trend of spacecraft design is to use complex and lightweight space structures to achieve increased functionality at a reduced launch cost. The goal of this research is to analyse output signals from suitable MEMS vibration as well as acoustic sensor ICs and to compare them with piezoelectric sensors. The study also aims in wireless monitoring of vibration as well as acoustic signals from rotating mechanical structures. MEMS sensors are low cost high resolution sensors with promising applications in low cost space applications such as Sounding rockets, Nano satellites and other terrestrial applications.