Investigating Torsional Vibration Monitoring Using Optical Sensors and Encoder Wheels

Abdool Sattar Cassim, Daniel Makundwaneyi Madyira, Ronny Thapelo Tebeta

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Torsional vibrations are unwanted phenomena induced by varying torque in power transmission systems. This study investigated torsional vibration measurements using optical sensors and encoder wheels. To achieve this, a test rig was built utilizing a motor, a gearbox with varying speed, a shaft, two bearings, an encoder wheel mounted onto the shaft, an optical sensor, and an Arduino Uno to power the optical sensor and a sensor mount. A National Instruments Data Acquisition System was also used to obtain voltage signals from the optical sensor. These signals were measured at 25, 50, and 75 rpm shaft speeds. The measurements showed a peak at the frequency of the running speeds of 0.42 Hz, 0.83 Hz, 1.25 Hz, and an anomalous signal of 610 Hz. Dividing the 610 Hz signal by the input motor speed of 22 Hz, gave a value of 27, which corresponded to the number of teeth of the gear in the gearbox. Therefore, the 610 Hz signal was caused by gear meshing in the gearbox. Common sources of error induced are Analog-to-Digital conversion errors, encoder wheel defects, or low sensor sensitivity. However, optical sensors and encoder wheels successfully measured torsional vibration signals. This method can be improved by using a higher sensitivity sensor, a high-quality encoder wheel, and a machine learning model to reduce inaccuracies in the data.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2024 15th International Conference on Mechanical and Intelligent Manufacturing Technologies, ICMIMT 2024
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages74-79
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9798350362664
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024
Event15th International Conference on Mechanical and Intelligent Manufacturing Technologies, ICMIMT 2024 - Cape Town, South Africa
Duration: 17 May 202419 May 2024

Publication series

Name2024 15th International Conference on Mechanical and Intelligent Manufacturing Technologies, ICMIMT 2024

Conference

Conference15th International Conference on Mechanical and Intelligent Manufacturing Technologies, ICMIMT 2024
Country/TerritorySouth Africa
CityCape Town
Period17/05/2419/05/24

Keywords

  • Encoder Wheels
  • Frequency Signal
  • Instantaneous Angular Speed
  • Optical Sensors
  • Voltage Signal

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Investigating Torsional Vibration Monitoring Using Optical Sensors and Encoder Wheels'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this