A Robust Laser Interferometer (RLI) for Prognostics and Health Management (PHM)

摘要

It is strongly suggested that consideration of the litany of reasons for the introduction of the Robust Laser Interferometer (RLI) measurement capability in Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) planning is a good idea. A 'half dozen' reasons for this suggestion are explored. They include the following observations supported by measurements with a highly reliable information content, experience and, in some situations, both. 1st - RLI provides quality non-contact, highly linear measurement of the wideband mechanical spectrum information, providing information for a large variety of operational, technical and management interest. 2nd - RLI provides more correct vibration information than contact accelerometer systems. 3rd - RLI provides more correct Acoustic Emissions (AE) information than contact AE systems, something particularly noteworthy for measurements in a noisy environment. 4th - The quality of the RLI information lessens (and sometimes eliminates) the need for approaches such as use of 'multiple sensors with data fusion' that are supported primarily because of sensing shortfalls. 5th - RLI is user friendly and can be employed in a variety of situations where contact sensing is 'out-of-the- realm of choices' or otherwise woefully vulnerable. 6th - The flexibility of RLI technology enables and, in all likelihood, invites new implementation concepts. The rationale and supporting data for each of the selected observations are briefly considered in this paper.