ITT i-ALERT2, Application Manual

Page: 12 / 64

i-ALERT2 Application Guide 12 of 64
SYSTEM OVERVIEW
DEVICE TECHNOLOGY BACKGROUND
Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems, or MEMS, is a technology that is best defined as miniaturized mechanical and electro-
mechanical elements that are made using the techniques of microfabrication. MEMS represent the next generation of
sensing technology. OEMs in all industries including automotive, industrial and aerospace are migrating away from older
macro-scale transducers due the various advantages MEMS can provide. The physical dimensions of MEMS devices can be
less than a micron up to several millimeters. MEMS devices can vary from relatively simple structures having no moving
elements, to extremely complex electromechanical systems with multiple moving elements under the control of integrated
microelectronics. One of the most prevalent uses for MEMS is the construction of miniaturized sensors that convert energy
from one form to another, known as transducers. In the case of MEMS sensors, the device typically converts a measured
mechanical signal into an electrical signal.
Over the past several decades a large number of micro-sensors have been developed for almost every type of physical
measurement including temperature, pressure, inertial forces, vibration, magnetic fields, etc. Surprisingly many of these
MEMS sensors have proven to be more accurate and precise than their macro-scale counterparts. In example, the MEMS
version of a pressure transducer usually outperforms a pressure sensor made using the most precise macro-scale level
machining techniques. Not only is the performance of MEMS devices exceptional, but their method of production leverages
the same batch fabrication techniques used in the integrated circuit industry – which translates into low per-unit
production costs.
The latest generation of MEMS includes micro-sensors, micro-actuators and micro-electronics integrated onto a single
microchip. This has resulted in the explosive development of smart products which integrate computing intelligence with
sensing and control. Because MEMS devices are manufactured using batch fabrication techniques, similar to integrated
circuits, high levels of reliability are being achieved at very low costs. The i-ALERT2 monitor leverages recent advancements
in MEMS vibration transducers to achieve impressive performance at a minimum cost. The sensors’ data gathering
capabilities are then mated to another leading technology known as Bluetooth Smart or Bluetooth Low Energy.
Bluetooth is a wireless signal protocol that was first developed in 1994 as a way for computers to communicate to other
devices without cables. Bluetooth is an open standard that allows disparate devices to communicate using the same
“language”. Over the last few decades the technology has been steadily improved to be able to transmit more data faster
while simultaneously reducing the amount of power the wireless radios consumed. Bluetooth Smart allows tiny batteries to
power wireless radios for years at a time without recharging and is one of the technologies enabling the rapid rise of the
Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT). IIOT is a term that describes the reality of hundreds (or thousands) of smart devices
communicating hordes of data to enable smarter, more efficient operations.
Many of the existing condition monitoring hardware manufacturers are aware of the potential for MEMS and Smart sensors
however they are reluctant to offer this new technology due to the potential for cannibalization of their existing macro-
scale sensor products. ITT is free from this commercial constraint and will continue to utilize the best and latest technology
that allows our customers to optimize the reliability of their rotating equipment assets.