Structural enclosure for machine sensors

Abstract

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.