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Wireless "wear and tear" sensors for machinery

From "Wireless sensors being developed in Europe," United Press International, 22 February (via Science Daily):

"University of Manchester scientists say sensors able to predict when machinery parts will fail might be available by 2010. The researchers say such sensors would substantially slash maintenance costs across the manufacturing, automotive and plant machinery industries.

"The wireless sensors now being developed will be able to remotely monitor mechanical parts and systems. The aim is to produce a sensor that can be seamlessly fitted inside gearboxes, motors, diesel engines, wheel bearings and door mechanisms. Once fitted, the sensors would enable the 'health' of the parts to be remotely monitored by computers that would use the data to predict when parts would require maintenance or need replacing. Andrew Starr, who will lead the Manchester side of the European-wide project, said, 'In theory, we could get breakdowns down to zero with this technology.'

"One type of sensor would measure a range of parameters, such as vibration, temperature and pressure. Yet another type would be inside lubricated machinery, measuring concentrations of metallic elements created through 'wear and tear' from which the life-span of the part could be calculated.

"The sensors will be developed as part of a $7 million initiative [known as DYNAMITE - "Dynamic Decisions in Maintenance"] funded by the European Union."

© Copyright 2006 by United Press International. All Rights Reserved.

[For additional information, contact Simon Hunter, Media Relations Officer, telephone: +44 161 2758387 or email: simon.hunter@manchester.ac.uk. "DYNAMITE will create an infrastructure for mobile monitoring technology and create new devices which will make major advances in capability for decision systems incorporating sensors and algorithms. The key features include wireless telemetry, intelligent local history in smart tags, and on-line instrumentation."]

[Sensors: 26 February 2006]