Contactless measurement of rolling element rotary motion
Objective
Measurement of kinematic data and vibrations of individual rolling elements in a wind turbine pitch bearing for the identification of slippage conditions
Project period
2020/2021
Challenges
Small installation space and poor accessibility • Integration of measurement technology in a highly stressed component
Optimal radio connection despite heavy covering by metal in the direct vicinity
Contactless battery charging in grease via slim holes without disassembly
Running time of at least 10 hours at 13600 measuring points per second per rolling element
Realization
Measuring system consisting of two interconnected boards per rolling element and a receiver module for data acquisition from several rolling elements
In each rolling element: one sensor and data transmission board and one power management board for battery connection and charging
Integrated measuring chain for recording rolling element rotation (acceleration, rotation rate and magnetic field sensors) and vibrations using high-performance MEMS sensor technology
Wireless data transmission via integrated antenna using nemi Link 2400 radio link in the 2.4 GHz frequency band to a receiver module that is connected to a PC via USB
Battery charging principle: Inductive via self-developed charging stick with integrated coil and USB connection for power supply
Advantages
Fully integrated, encapsulated measurement system with customized boards, wireless data transmission, MEMS sensors and rechargeable battery
Reliable data transmission despite use in bearing component largely surrounded by metal and lubricant
Long battery life due to highly efficient, robust i4M wireless technology
Edge computing capability on the transmitter module
A sensor must be able to do more than output an unfiltered measured value: With nemione, we make elaborate data analysis possible by combining intelligent software and high-tech hardware.
