Universal Electrical Signature Analysis System

Reference Number(s)
     Laboratory:  180
     DOE reference no.(s): 108,655

Abstract

The concept of the Universal Electrical Signature Analysis System (UESAS) was influenced by the success of the ORNL-invented Fuel Pump Condition Monitor (FPCM), and the desire to broaden the applicability of this ESA-based system to many other electromechanical components and systems.

The concept was to create an Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA) based diagnostic system for a wide variety of electromechanical components and systems. It was decided to create software controlled circuitry to provide the flexibility for a wide variety of applications.

The concept was also to develop a system that could be easily manufactured, with electronics that were modular in design, could be easily replaced when damaged or when additional capabilities were desired.

Application(s) of the Technology

The initial development of the UESAS was for military applications targeted towards aircraft components (pumps, valves, generators, actuators, etc.) The UESAS is therefore immediately ready for use on the equivalent commercial aircrsft components. The flexibility that has been build into the UESAS makes it suitable for use on practically any electromechanical device. The overall market for ESA is expected to grow as a result of the availability of the UESAS.

Main Advantages of Invention

The primary benefit of the new UESAS is that it provides a portable instrument for quickly testing a wide variety of electro-mechanical equipment. The FPCM represents the first easy-to-use diagnostic instrument that is based on Electrical Signature Analysis (ESA) technologies. The UESAS provides ESA, a powerful technology that can non-intrusively pinpoint electrical and mechanical problems so that maintenance can be performed more efficiently, and before costly unexpected failures occur. The UESAS only requires access to the equipment’s electrical lines, so even components hidden behind walls or panels can be quickly tested.

The UESAS was designed as a platform for performing ESA-based diagnostics for years to come. It can be easily adapted to test new components, and to provide the latest in ESA methods. This design describes a system for determining the health of an electric fluid pump by monitoring the pump’s electrical signature.

Status/Availability

Available both Exclusively and Non Exclusively

Patents & Applications

Posting Date:  Thursday, Mar 30 2006

Contact

Mark E Reeves
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
P.O. Box 2008
Building /4500N, Room 145
Mailstop 6196
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
(865) 576-2577
reevesme@ornl.gov