초록 ▼

A machine monitor provides information for ascertaining the health and condition of a machine. The monitor is self-contained, having its own internal power source, electronics, and sensor suite, and attaches directly to the outer frame of the machine. Sensors disposed within the monitor include a ma

A machine monitor provides information for ascertaining the health and condition of a machine. The monitor is self-contained, having its own internal power source, electronics, and sensor suite, and attaches directly to the outer frame of the machine. Sensors disposed within the monitor include a machine frame temperature sensor, flux sensor, vibration sensor, and clock. Electronics are also disposed within the monitor for receiving and processing sensor outputs, producing machine status data which is stored over time. Sensors and electronics are housed in a protective bucket which includes an upper housing element joined with a lower housing element. The monitor is attached to the machine in such a way that an engagement surface formed in the monitor establishes sensory contact with the machine, enabling machine sensors disposed in the monitor to sense the machine characteristics. A communications port enables a peripheral device, such as a notebook computer or portable data collector, to communicate with the monitor and download data stored in memory. Downloaded data can be further analyzed and statistically compared to trend data at a base computer to ascertain the health and condition of the machine. The monitor electronics are configured to consume very little power so that the internal power source will continue to power the monitor for extended periods of time.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A bucket for attaching a sensor to a machine and for protecting the sensor after attachment, said bucket comprising:a first housing element formed of a rigid material and having a substantially continuous wall forming a closed end in opposed relation to an open end;a seco

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A bucket for attaching a sensor to a machine and for protecting the sensor after attachment, said bucket comprising:a first housing element formed of a rigid material and having a substantially continuous wall forming a closed end in opposed relation to an open end;a second housing element formed of a rigid material and having a substantially continuous wall forming a closed end in opposed relation to an open end;an engagement surface formed in the closed end of said second housing element;means for connecting the open end of said first housing element to the open end of said second housing element to form a chamber enclosed by said first and second housing elements;means disposed in said chamber for mounting a machine sensor to sense an operating characteristic of the machine, said sensor producing a sensor output corresponding to the characteristic that was sensed;a seal disposed between the open ends of said first and second housing elements to prevent intrusion of moisture and other contaminants to the chamber when the open ends are connected; andmeans for attaching said second housing element to a machine so that said engagement surface is in sensory contact with the machine.