Patent Description:
A tachometer is a device that measures rotation speed of a rotating mechanical element. A tachometer generally displays the rotational speed via an analog dial or a digital display. For further processing, a tachometer can generally transmit an analog signal that includes one or more measurements of the rotating mechanical element to a central processing unit. However, processing of the analog signal by the central processing unit is generally prone to reduced performance and/or processing failures. Moreover, the analog signal processed by the central processing unit is generally susceptible to noise.

<CIT> describes a machine rotating speed acquisition apparatus comprises a speed sensor and a controlling unit. The speed sensor is operative to count the pulses triggered during the rotation of the machine so as to acquire the machine's rotating speed. The controlling unit is operative to record the triggering moment of each pulse. <CIT> describes a method of monitoring and balancing a rotary machinery utilizing bus-based smart vibration sensors with dedicated tachometer signals fed, via a wire or wirelessly, to each bus-based smart vibration sensor. <CIT> describes sensor modules which are triggered to start and stop a measurement approximately synchronously by sending a broadcast message. <CIT> describes a device for monitoring and diagnosis of the state of a machine, machine component or system, with a housing, with a measured value detection unit for detecting measured values supplied by at least one sensor which is connected to the machine, machine component, or system.

The scope of the present invention is defined by independent claims <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> and dependent claims are directed to advantageous embodiments.

The following description and the annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects of the specification. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the specification may be employed. Other advantages and novel features of the specification will become apparent from the following detailed description of the specification when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

The analog measurement component, the encoder component and the communication component referred to in the description and drawings respectively correspond to the analog measurement step, the encoder step and the communication step as defined in the claims.

Numerous aspects, implementations, objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout, and in which:.

Various aspects of this disclosure are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. It should be understood, however, that certain aspects of this disclosure may be practiced without these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate describing one or more aspects.

Systems and techniques for generating and/or encoding rotational data associated with a mechanical element are presented. For example, a device that monitors rotational frequency and rotational phase of a rotating mechanical element can provide frequency information and phase information to a plurality of distributed sensors via a digital network. The plurality of distributed sensors can employ the frequency information and/or phase information for further processing of data associated with the rotating mechanical element. In an aspect, the rotational frequency and/or rotational phase of the rotating mechanical element can be captured as analog data. Furthermore, in accordance with the claimed invention, the rotational frequency and the rotational phase are encoded into a digital data packet that is transmitted to the plurality of distributed sensors via digital data over a digital network. In one example, a set of reference point measurements associated with the rotating mechanical element can be encoded into a digital data packet that is transmitted to the plurality of distributed sensors via a digital network. Compared to a conventional analog tachometer system, the digital data packet associated with the frequency information and the phase information can provide improved accuracy and/or greater adaptability for calculating rotational data associated with a rotating mechanical element. As such, earlier indications of a failure associated with a rotating mechanical element can be realized and/or a number of false failure alerts associated with the rotating mechanical element can be reduced. Therefore, maintenance associated with the rotating mechanical element can also be reduced and/or availability of the rotating mechanical element can also be improved. Moreover, failures associated with a sensor system (e.g., a tachometer sensor system) can be reduced and/or noise associated with rotational data for a rotating mechanical element can be minimized. Synchronization of data transmitted between a plurality of distributed sensors and/or modeling of a rotating mechanical element can also be improved.

Referring initially to <FIG>, there is illustrated an example system <NUM> that generates and/or encodes rotational data associated with a mechanical element, according to an aspect of the subject disclosure. The system <NUM> can be implemented on or in connection with a network of sensors (e.g., a network of sensors associated with an enterprise application). The system <NUM> can be employed by various systems, such as, but not limited to monitoring systems (e.g., synchronous vibration monitoring systems), sensor systems, aviation systems, vehicle systems, health management systems, industrial systems, manufacturing systems, factory systems, energy management systems, power grid systems, water supply systems, transportation systems, healthcare systems, refinery systems, and the like. In one example, the system <NUM> can be associated with a digital prognostics system and/or a digital diagnostics system. Moreover, the system <NUM> and/or the components of the system <NUM> can be employed to use hardware and/or software to solve problems that are highly technical in nature (e.g., related to sensor devices, related to digital data processing, related to digital data analytics, related to machines, etc.), that are not abstract and that cannot be performed as a set of mental acts by a human.

The system <NUM> can include a sensor component <NUM>. The sensor component <NUM> can be communicatively coupled to a mechanical element <NUM>. In <FIG>, the sensor component <NUM> includes an analog measurement component <NUM>, an encoder component <NUM> and a communication component <NUM>. Aspects of the systems, apparatuses or processes explained in this disclosure can constitute machine-executable component(s) embodied within machine(s), e.g., embodied in one or more computer readable mediums (or media) associated with one or more machines. Such component(s), when executed by the one or more machines, e.g., computer(s), computing device(s), virtual machine(s), etc. can cause the machine(s) to perform the operations described. The system <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM>) can include memory <NUM> for storing computer executable components and instructions. The system <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM>) can further include a processor <NUM> to facilitate operation of the instructions (e.g., computer executable components and instructions) by the system <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM>).

The mechanical element <NUM> can be a mechanical element that rotates (e.g., the mechanical element <NUM> can be a rotating mechanical element). For instance, the mechanical element <NUM> can be a mechanical shaft (e.g., a crankshaft), a mechanical disk, or another mechanical component that rotates. In one example, the mechanical element <NUM> can rotate to facilitate transmission of power to a machine coupled to the mechanical element <NUM>. The sensor component <NUM> can be associated with a sensor (e.g., a smart sensor) such as, for example, a tachometer sensor (e.g., a smart tachometer sensor). In an embodiment, the sensor component <NUM> can be integrated on the sensor. In another embodiment, the sensor component <NUM> can be contained within a device (e.g., an in-line device) in a physical wire between a sensor and a network (e.g., a digital network).

The analog measurement component <NUM>, the encoder component <NUM> and/or the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM> can be employed to generate and/or encode rotational data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. In an embodiment, the analog measurement component <NUM> can measure rotational data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. The rotational data can be one or more analog measurements associated with rotation of the mechanical element <NUM>. For example, the rotational data can include rotational speed data. The rotational speed data can include rotational frequency information for the mechanical element <NUM>. For instance, the rotational speed data can be indicative of a speed of rotation of the mechanical element <NUM> (e.g., revolutions of the mechanical element <NUM> per unit time) with respect to a reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the rotational data can include phase data. The phase data can be indicative of phase information for the mechanical element <NUM> with respect to the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. In an embodiment, the analog measurement component <NUM> can determine a set of reference point measurements (e.g., a set of reference points) associated with the mechanical element <NUM> during a defined interval of time (e.g., a defined period of time). The set of reference point measurements can be measurements with respect to the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. As such, the analog measurement component <NUM> can determine the set of reference point measurements based on a reference point (e.g., a phase reference point) associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. For example, the analog measurement component <NUM> can recognize the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM> based on current induced in a coil by ferrous material. Passing of the ferrous material approximate to the coil can induce a pulse indicating the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. In an aspect, a geometry of the ferrous material associated with the mechanical element <NUM> can induce n pulses per revolution with a phase reference provided by a double pulse or a triple pulse.

In another example, the analog measurement component <NUM> can recognize the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM> based on a wheel or a gear that induces pulses per revolution of the wheel or the gear. In yet another example, the analog measurement component <NUM> can recognize the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM> based on a gear (e.g., a phonic gear) with an indicator (e.g., a missing tooth of the gear, a tooth of a gear that comprises a different shape than other teeth of the gear, etc.) that provides the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. In yet another example, the analog measurement component <NUM> can recognize the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM> based on an optical sensor associated with the sensor component <NUM> where light levels on the optical sensor correspond to a phase reference associated with a reflective patch on the mechanical element <NUM>. In yet another example, the analog measurement component <NUM> can recognize the reference point associated with the mechanical element <NUM> based on electrical generator signal associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the phase data can include the set of reference point measurements. The set of reference point measurements can be accumulated over a defined interval of time (e.g., a predetermined time period). For example, the set of reference point measurements can be accumulated since a previous transmission period associated with a previous set of reference point measurements associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. In another embodiment, the analog measurement component <NUM> can measure the rotational data based on a clock signal. The clock signal can be provided to the sensor component <NUM> and the one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor component <NUM>. The clock signal can facilitate synchronization of processing between the sensor component <NUM> and the one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor component <NUM>.

The encoder component <NUM> can encode the rotational data (e.g., the one or more analog measurements) into a digital data packet (e.g., DIGITAL DATA PACKET shown in <FIG>). In accordance with the claimed invention, the encoder component <NUM> encodes the rotational speed data and the phase data into the digital data packet. In one example, the encoder component <NUM> can encode the set of reference point measurements into the digital data packet. The rotational data (e.g., the rotational speed data, the phase data and/or the set of reference point measurements) can be encoded in the digital data packet as a block of data (e.g., a block of fixed size data) in the digital data packet. The digital data packet can also include other data such as, for example, clock signal data (e.g., timing data for the rotational data), an identifier associated with the mechanical element <NUM> and/or statistics associated with the rotational data and/or the mechanical element <NUM>. In accordance with the claimed invention, the digital data packet is formatted for transmission over a digital network. For instance, the digital data packet can be formatted for transmission over a wired digital network and/or a wireless digital network.

In accordance with the claimed invention, the communication component <NUM> transmits the digital data packet to one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor component <NUM>. The communication component <NUM> can transmit the digital data packet via a digital network (e.g., a wired digital network and/or a wireless digital network). In an embodiment, the communication component <NUM> can transmit the digital data packet to the one or more sensor devices based on control data received from a control device in communication with the sensor component <NUM> and/or one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor component <NUM>. In another embodiment, the communication component <NUM> can transmit diagnostic data that comprises at least the rotational data to a display device that displays the diagnostic data in a human interpretable format. For instance, in certain embodiments, the digital data packet can include the diagnostic data. The diagnostic data can be generated based on the rotational data. Furthermore, the diagnostic data can provide diagnostics and/or prognostics related to the mechanical element <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the analog measurement component <NUM> can generate a tachometer pulse signal based on the rotational data. Furthermore, the communication component <NUM> can transmit the tachometer pulse signal to an analog measurement device.

While <FIG> depicts separate components in the sensor component <NUM>, it is to be appreciated that two or more components may be implemented in a common component. Further, it can be appreciated that the design of system <NUM> and/or the sensor component <NUM> can include other component selections, component placements, etc., to facilitate generating and/or encoding rotational data.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a non-limiting implementation of a system <NUM> in accordance with various aspects and implementations of this disclosure. The system <NUM> can be employed by various systems, such as, but not limited to monitoring systems (e.g., synchronous vibration monitoring systems), sensor systems, aviation systems, vehicle systems, health management systems, industrial systems, manufacturing systems, factory systems, energy management systems, power grid systems, water supply systems, transportation systems, healthcare systems, refinery systems, and the like. In one example, the system <NUM> can be associated with a digital prognostics system and/or a digital diagnostics system. Moreover, the system <NUM> and/or the components of the system <NUM> can be employed to use hardware and/or software to solve problems that are highly technical in nature (e.g., related to sensor devices, related to digital data processing, related to digital data analytics, related to machines, etc.), that are not abstract and that cannot be performed as a set of mental acts by a human. The system <NUM> can include a sensor component <NUM>. The system <NUM> can include the sensor component <NUM> and the mechanical element <NUM>. In <FIG>, the sensor component <NUM> includes the analog measurement component <NUM>, the encoder component <NUM>, the communication component <NUM>, the processor <NUM>, the memory <NUM> and an analysis component <NUM>.

The analysis component <NUM> can generate analysis data based on analysis of the rotational data (e.g., the rotational speed data, the phase data and/or the set of reference point measurements). The analysis data can facilitate determination of network behavior associated with the sensor component <NUM> and/or one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor component <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, the analysis data can facilitate diagnosing installation issues associated with the sensor component <NUM> and/or one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor component <NUM>. In an embodiment, the analysis component <NUM> can generate a snapshot of a digitized analog signal generated by the encoder component <NUM>. For example, the snapshot of the digitized analog signal can be a set of digital rotational data for the mechanical element <NUM> that is associated with an interval of time (e.g., a beginning time value and an ending time value for capturing the rotational data). The snapshot of the digitized analog signal can facilitate improved real-time prognostics and/or diagnostics of the rotational data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. In an aspect, the analysis data can include configuration data and/or error checking data. For instance, the analysis component <NUM> can determine a rate of change of time between phase reference measurements included in the set of reference point measurements. The analysis component <NUM> can also determine whether the rate of change of time between the phase reference measurements exceed a defined threshold value. Additionally or alternatively, the analysis component <NUM> can calculate a magnitude of the rotational data. The analysis component <NUM> can also determine if the magnitude of the rotational data satisfies a defined criterion. For example, the analysis component <NUM> can determine if the magnitude of the rotational data is greater than or less than a defined threshold. Additionally or alternatively, the analysis component <NUM> can determine time periods between phase reference measurements included in the set of reference point measurements. The analysis component <NUM> can also determine whether a time period between phase reference measurements drops below a first defined threshold value (e.g., a minimum configurable limit) or exceed a second defined threshold value (e.g., a maximum configurable limit). In an embodiment, the communication component <NUM> can transmit the analysis data associated with the analysis component <NUM> to a display device in response to a determination that the analysis data (e.g., the rotational data) satisfies a defined criterion. In one example, the digital data packet can include the analysis data. In another example, the analysis data can be transmitted separate from the digital data packet.

In certain embodiments, the analysis component <NUM> can employ one or more artificial intelligence techniques and/or machine learning to generate the analysis data. In an aspect, the analysis component <NUM> can employ an automatic classification system and/or an automatic classification process to facilitate learning and/or generating inferences for the rotational data and/or the analysis data. For example, the analysis component <NUM> can employ a probabilistic and/or statistical-based analysis (e.g., factoring into the analysis utilities and costs) to learn and/or generate inferences for the rotational data and/or the analysis data. The analysis component <NUM> can employ, for example, a support vector machine (SVM) classifier to learn and/or generate inferences for the rotational data and/or the analysis data. Additionally or alternatively, the analysis component <NUM> can employ other classification techniques associated with Bayesian networks, decision trees and/or probabilistic classification models. Classifiers employed by the analysis component <NUM> can be explicitly trained (e.g., via a generic training data) as well as implicitly trained (e.g., via observing user behavior, receiving extrinsic information). For example, with respect to SVM's that are well understood, SVM's are configured via a learning or training phase within a classifier constructor and feature selection module. A classifier is a function that maps an input attribute vector, x = (x1, x2, x3, x4, xn), to a confidence that the input belongs to a class - that is, f(x) = confidence(class). The analysis component <NUM> can also employ, in certain implementations, historical data in addition to the rotational data to facilitate learning and/or generating inferences for the rotational data and/or the analysis data.

In an embodiment, the analysis component <NUM> can include an inference component that can further enhance automated aspects of the analysis component <NUM> utilizing in part inference based schemes to facilitate learning and/or generating inferences for the rotational data and/or the analysis data. The analysis component <NUM> can employ any suitable machine-learning based techniques, statistical-based techniques and/or probabilistic-based techniques. For example, the analysis component <NUM> can employ expert systems, fuzzy logic, SVMs, Hidden Markov Models (HMMs), greedy search algorithms, rule-based systems, Bayesian models (e.g., Bayesian networks), neural networks, other non-linear training techniques, data fusion, utility-based analytical systems, systems employing Bayesian models, etc. In another aspect, the analysis component <NUM> can perform a set of machine learning computations associated with the rotational data and/or the analysis data. For example, the analysis component <NUM> can perform a set of clustering machine learning computations, a set of decision tree machine learning computations, a set of instance-based machine learning computations, a set of regression machine learning computations, a set of regularization machine learning computations, a set of rule learning machine learning computations, a set of Bayesian machine learning computations, a set of deep Boltzmann machine computations, a set of deep belief network computations, a set of convolution neural network computations, a set of stacked auto-encoder computations and/or a set of different machine learning computations.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a non-limiting implementation of a system <NUM> in accordance with various aspects and implementations of this disclosure. In a non-limiting embodiment, the system <NUM> can be a synchronous vibration monitoring systems. The system <NUM> includes the mechanical element <NUM>, a sensor device <NUM> and one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N. In an embodiment, the sensor device <NUM> can include the sensor component <NUM>. For example, the sensor component <NUM> can be embedded on the sensor device <NUM>. In an alternate embodiment, the sensor component <NUM> can be contained within a device (e.g., an in-line device) in a physical wire between the sensor device <NUM> and the network <NUM>. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can be communicatively coupled to the mechanical element <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can also be in communication with the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via a network <NUM>. The network <NUM> can be a wired network and/or a wireless network. Furthermore, the network <NUM> can be a digital network.

The sensor device <NUM> can be an electronic component (e.g., a sensor) that detects and/or measures rotational data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. For instance, the sensor device <NUM> can be a sensor device (e.g., a smart sensor) that acquires and/or processes one or more speed signals and/or one or more phase signals. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> can be implemented as a measuring device that combines acquisition elements and/or processing elements for the one or more speed signals and/or one or more phase signals into a single package. The sensor device <NUM> can provide the rotational data to the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM> (e.g., via the digital data packet transmitted over a digital network). The one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can be electronic component(s) (e.g., sensor(s)) that detect and/or measure other data that is different than the rotational data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. For instance, the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can be sensor device(s) (e.g., smart sensor(s)) that acquire and/or process one or more time domain signals associated with synchronous analysis and/or monitoring system processing (e.g., synchronous vibration monitoring system processing). Furthermore, the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can be implemented as a measuring device that combines acquisition elements and/or processing elements for the one or more time domain signals into a single package. As such, the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can receive rotational data with improved accuracy (e.g., an accurate phase reference) from the sensor device <NUM>. In one example, the sensor device <NUM> can be a first type of sensor (e.g., a category <NUM> sensor) and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can be a second type of sensor (e.g., category <NUM> sensor(s)). In a non-limiting example, the sensor device <NUM> can be a tachometer sensor and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can be one or more accelerometer sensors.

In an embodiment, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can obtain the rotational speed data (e.g., ROTATIONAL SPEED DATA shown in <FIG>) and/or the phase data (e.g., PHASE DATA shown in <FIG>) from the mechanical element <NUM>. The rotational speed data and/or the phase data can be rotational data measured by the analog measurement component <NUM>. Furthermore, the rotational speed data and/or the phase data can be associated with one or more time domain analogue signals obtained by the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>). In accordance with the claimed invention, based on the rotational speed data and the phase data, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) generates the digital data packet by encoding the rotational speed data and the phase data into the digital data packet. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) transmits the digital data packet (e.g., the digital data packet associated with the rotational speed data and the phase data) to the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>. The one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can employ the digital data packet (e.g., the rotational speed data and/or the phase data encoded into the digital data packet) to perform further processing of data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a non-limiting implementation of a system <NUM> in accordance with various aspects and implementations of this disclosure. In a non-limiting embodiment, the system <NUM> can be a synchronous vibration monitoring systems. The system <NUM> includes the mechanical element <NUM>, the sensor device <NUM>, the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N and a control device <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> can include the sensor component <NUM>. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can be communicatively coupled to the mechanical element <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can also be in communication with the control device <NUM> via the network <NUM>.

The control device <NUM> can be, for example, a central control unit that controls one or more functions of the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and/or the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N. For example, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can be networked together, under control of the control device <NUM>, to provide rotational information associated with the mechanical element <NUM> and/or to provide diagnostic coverage associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. The control device <NUM> can generate a control signal (e.g., CONTROL SIGNAL shown in <FIG>). The control device <NUM> can also transmit the control signal to the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and/or the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>. For instance, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the analog measurement component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can measure the rotational speed data and/or the phase data based on the control signal provided to the sensor device <NUM> and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>. In an embodiment, the control signal can be a clock signal. For instance, the control device <NUM> can transmit the clock signal to the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and/or the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the analog measurement component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can measure the rotational speed data and the phase data based on the clock signal provided to the sensor device <NUM> and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>.

In accordance with the claimed invention, the clock signal is synchronized to a time reference (e.g., a common high resolution time reference). In another embodiment, the control signal can be control data. For instance, the control device <NUM> can transmit the control data to the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and/or the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can transmit the digital data packet to the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N based on control data received from the control device <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a non-limiting implementation of a system <NUM> in accordance with various aspects and implementations of this disclosure. In a non-limiting embodiment, the system <NUM> can be a synchronous vibration monitoring systems. The system <NUM> includes the mechanical element <NUM>, the sensor device <NUM>, the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N and a display device <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> can include the sensor component <NUM>. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can be communicatively coupled to the mechanical element <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) and the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N can also be in communication with the display device <NUM> via the network <NUM>.

The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can generate diagnostic data (e.g., DIAGNOSTIC DATA shown in <FIG>). The diagnostic data can include, for example, at least the rotational speed data and the phase data. In an embodiment, the diagnostic data can include information regarding abnormalities, patterns and/or events associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. The abnormalities, patterns and/or events associated with the mechanical element <NUM> can be determined based on the rotational speed data and/or the phase data. In another embodiment, the diagnostic data can indicate whether the a value of the rotational speed data and/or the phase data is greater than a defined threshold. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can also transmit the diagnostic data (e.g., the diagnostic data that includes at least the rotational speed data and the phase data) to the display device <NUM> via the network <NUM>. The display device <NUM> can display the diagnostic data via a display of the display device <NUM>. For instance, the display device <NUM> can display the diagnostic data in a human interpretable format.

In an embodiment, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can a user interface, for display, that outputs the diagnostic data in a human interpretable format. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can render a display associated with the diagnostic data to the display device <NUM>. The display device <NUM> can be associated with a display, a monitor, a user interface and/or a web browser. Furthermore, the display device <NUM> can be a computing device and/or can be included in a computing device such as, but not limited to, a smart device, a smart phone, a mobile device, a handheld device, a tablet, a computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a monitor device, a portable computing device or another type of computing device. The display device <NUM> can render a user interface for presentation of the diagnostic data. For instance, a user interface rendered on the display device <NUM> can present content associated with the diagnostic data. In one example, the display device <NUM> can present one or more graphical elements associated with the diagnostic data. The one or more graphical elements can be in a human interpretable format to allow a user employing the display device <NUM> to interpret the diagnostic data. In one example, the diagnostic data can be presented graphically via the display device <NUM> in an easily comprehensible manner. The diagnostic data can be presented via the display device <NUM> as one or more of alphanumeric characters, one or more graphics and/or one or more animations. Additionally or alternatively, diagnostic data can be presented via the display device <NUM> as audio data and/or video data. Furthermore, the diagnostic data can be static or updated dynamically to provide the diagnostic data in real-time as changes or events occur with respect to the mechanical element <NUM>.

The display device <NUM> can display and/or facilitate display one or more display elements associated with the diagnostic data. In accordance with one aspect, a graphical element (e.g., a graphical representation) associated with the diagnostic data can form all or part of a complete display rendered on the display device <NUM>. In addition to a graphical representation of the diagnostic data, one or more items can form part of a display of the display device <NUM>. In one example, the display device <NUM> can generate a notification associated with the diagnostic data, a message associated with the diagnostic data, an icon associated with the diagnostic data, a thumbnail associated with the diagnostic data, a dialog box associated with the diagnostic data, a tool associated with the diagnostic data, a widget associated with the diagnostic data, a graph associated with the diagnostic data, and/or another display element associated with the diagnostic data. A graphical element associated with the diagnostic data can be transparent, translucent or opaque. A graphical element associated with the diagnostic data can also be various sizes, various colors, various brightness, and so forth as well as being animated (e.g., for fading in and out, etc.). In an embodiment, the display device <NUM> can additionally or alternatively present information regarding the mechanical element and/or a machine associated with the mechanical element <NUM> in a human interpretable format. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the network <NUM> can be a communication network, a wireless network, an IP network, a voice over IP network, an internet telephony network, a mobile telecommunications network and/or another type of network to facilitate communication between the display device <NUM> and the sensor device <NUM>. In one example, the display device <NUM> (e.g., a user interface presented on the display device <NUM>) can be integrated with a web-based application in communication with the sensor device <NUM> via the network <NUM>. The web-based application can allow the diagnostic data to be visualized in human interpretable format. Furthermore, the web-based application can allow a user to monitor and/or analyze the rotational speed data, the phase data and/or the mechanical element <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a non-limiting implementation of a system <NUM> in accordance with various aspects and implementations of this disclosure. In a non-limiting embodiment, the system <NUM> can be a synchronous vibration monitoring systems. The system <NUM> includes the sensor device <NUM>, the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N and a machine <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> can include the sensor component <NUM>. Furthermore, the machine <NUM> can be associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. For example, the machine <NUM> can include the mechanical element <NUM>. In another example, the machine <NUM> can be mechanically and/or electrically attached to the mechanical element <NUM> (e.g., the mechanical element <NUM> can be implemented separate from the machine <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can be communicatively coupled to the machine <NUM> associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can also be in communication with the one or more sensor devices <NUM><NUM>-N via the network <NUM>. The machine <NUM> can be an asset, an equipment, a vehicle, a device or another type of machine. Furthermore, the mechanical element <NUM> can be a moveable part (e.g., a rotating part) of the machine <NUM>. The machine can be associated with an aviation system, a vehicle system, a health management system, an industrial system, a manufacturing system, a factory system, an energy management system, a power grid system, a water supply system, a transportation system, a healthcare system, a refinery system and/or another technological system. In one example, the mechanical element <NUM> can rotate to facilitate transmission of power to the machine <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a non-limiting implementation of a system <NUM> in accordance with various aspects and implementations of this disclosure. The system <NUM> includes the mechanical element <NUM>, the sensor device <NUM> and an analog device <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> can include the sensor component <NUM>. Furthermore, the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can be communicatively coupled to the mechanical element <NUM>. The sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM>) can also be communicatively coupled to the analog device <NUM>. The analog device <NUM> can be a device that receives analog input. In one example, the analog device <NUM> can be an analog sensor device. In another example, the analog device <NUM> can be an analog measurement device (e.g., an analog tachometer device). In an embodiment, the sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the analog measurement component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can generate conditioned output (e.g., CONDITIONED OUTPUT shown in <FIG>) based on the rotational speed data and/or the phase data associated with the mechanical element <NUM>. The conditioned output can be, for example, an conditioned analog signal. In one example, the conditioned output can be a tachometer pulse signal (e.g., a conditioned tachometer pulse signal). The sensor component <NUM> of the sensor device <NUM> (e.g., the communication component <NUM> of the sensor component <NUM>) can transmit the conditioned output to the analog device <NUM>. In one example, the analog device <NUM> can display the conditioned output via an analog dial of the analog device <NUM> or a digital display of the analog device <NUM>.

The aforementioned systems and/or devices have been described with respect to interaction between several components. It should be appreciated that such systems and components can include those components or sub-components specified therein, some of the specified components or sub-components, and/or additional components. Sub-components could also be implemented as components communicatively coupled to other components rather than included within parent components. Further yet, one or more components and/or sub-components may be combined into a single component providing aggregate functionality. The components may also interact with one or more other components not specifically described herein for the sake of brevity, but known by those of skill in the art.

<FIG> illustrate methodologies and/or flow diagrams in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. For simplicity of explanation, the methodologies are depicted and described as a series of acts. It is to be understood and appreciated that the subject innovation is not limited by the acts illustrated and/or by the order of acts, for example acts can occur in various orders and/or concurrently, and with other acts not presented and described herein. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement the methodologies in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that the methodologies could alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events. Additionally, it should be further appreciated that the methodologies disclosed hereinafter and throughout this specification are capable of being stored on an article of manufacture to facilitate transporting and transferring such methodologies to computers. The term article of manufacture, as used herein, is intended to encompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device or storage media.

Referring to <FIG>, there illustrated is a methodology <NUM> for generating and/or encoding rotational data for a rotating mechanical element, according to an aspect of the subject innovation. In an embodiment, the methodology <NUM> can be associated with the sensor component <NUM>. As an example, the methodology <NUM> can be utilized in various applications, such as, but not limited to, a monitoring system (e.g., a synchronous vibration monitoring system), a sensor system, an aviation system, a vehicle system, a health management system, an industrial system, a manufacturing system, a factory system, an energy management system, a power grid system, a water supply system, a transportation system, a healthcare system, a refinery system, etc. At <NUM>, a set of rotational measurements associated with a rotating mechanical element is captured (e.g., by analog measurement component <NUM>). The set of rotational measurements can be measured, for example, based on a reference point associated with the rotating mechanical element. The set of rotational measurements can be a set of analog rotational measurements. In accordance with the claimed invention, the set of rotational measurements is associated with rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and with the phase of the rotating mechanical element. In one example, the set of rotational measurements can be a set of reference point measurements associated with the rotating mechanical element. The set of reference point measurements can be captured during a defined interval of time.

At <NUM>, the set of rotational measurements is encoded (e.g., by encoder component <NUM>) into a digital data packet. In accordance with the claimed invention, rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and phase of the rotating mechanical element is encoded into the digital data packet. In one example, the set of reference point measurements can be encoded as a block of data in the digital data packet.

At <NUM>, the digital data packet associated with the set of rotational measurements is transmitted (e.g., by communication component <NUM>) to one or more sensor devices.

In accordance with the claimed invention, the digital data packet that includes rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and phase of the rotating mechanical element is transmitted to the one or more sensor devices. In one example, the digital data packet that includes the set of reference point measurements can be transmitted to the one or more sensor devices. The digital data packet associated with the set of rotational measurements can be transmitted to the one or more sensor devices via a digital network. The one or more sensor devices can be in communication with a system associated with the methodology <NUM>. In an aspect, the one or more sensor devices can employ the digital data packet associated with the set of rotational measurements as input for further processing associated with the rotating mechanical element. In an embodiment, the digital data packet associated with the set of rotational measurements can be transmitted based on control data received from a control device. The control device can be in communication with a system associated with methodology <NUM> and/or the one or more sensor devices. In an embodiment, the methodology <NUM> can include generating analysis data based on analysis of the set of rotational measurements. Additionally, the methodology <NUM> can include transmitting the analysis data to a display device that displays the set of rotational measurements in a human interpretable format.

Referring to <FIG>, there illustrated is a methodology <NUM> for monitoring rotational data for a rotating mechanical element, according to an aspect of the subject innovation. In an embodiment, the methodology <NUM> can be associated with the sensor component <NUM>. As an example, the methodology <NUM> can be utilized in various applications, such as, but not limited to, a monitoring system (e.g., a synchronous vibration monitoring system), a sensor system, an aviation system, a vehicle system, a health management system, an industrial system, a manufacturing system, a factory system, an energy management system, a power grid system, a water supply system, a transportation system, a healthcare system, a refinery system, etc. At <NUM>, a set of rotational measurements associated with a rotating mechanical element is captured (e.g., by analog measurement component <NUM>). The set of rotational measurements can be measured, for example, based on a reference point associated with the rotating mechanical element. The set of rotational measurements can be a set of analog rotational measurements. In accordance with the claimed invention, the set of rotational measurements is associated with rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and with the phase of the rotating mechanical element. In one example, the set of rotational measurements can be a set of reference point measurements associated with the rotating mechanical element. The set of reference point measurements can be captured during a defined interval of time.

At <NUM>, the set of rotational measurements is encoded (e.g., by encoder component <NUM>) into a digital data packet. In accordance with the claimed invention, rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and the phase of the rotating mechanical element are encoded into the digital data packet. In one example, the set of reference point measurements can be encoded as a block of data in the digital data packet.

At <NUM>, diagnostic data comprising at least the set of rotational measurements is transmitted (e.g., by communication component <NUM>) to a display device that displays the set of rotational measurements in a human interpretable format. For instance, the diagnostic data can be generated based on and/or can include rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and/or phase of the rotating mechanical element. In one example, the diagnostic data can be generated based on and/or can include the set of reference point measurements. The diagnostic data can be transmitted to the display device via a digital network. The display device can be in communication with a system associated with the methodology <NUM>. The display device can be associated with a display, a monitor, a user interface and/or a web browser. Furthermore, the display device can be a computing device and/or can be included in a computing device such as, but not limited to, a smart device, a smart phone, a mobile device, a handheld device, a tablet, a computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a monitor device, a portable computing device or another type of computing device. The display device can render a user interface for presentation of the diagnostic data. For instance, a user interface rendered on the display device can present content associated with the diagnostic data. In one example, the display device can present one or more graphical elements associated with the diagnostic data.

Referring to <FIG>, there illustrated is a methodology <NUM> for conditioning a signal associated with a rotating mechanical element, according to an aspect of the subject innovation. In an embodiment, the methodology <NUM> can be associated with the sensor component <NUM>. As an example, the methodology <NUM> can be utilized in various applications, such as, but not limited to, a monitoring system (e.g., a synchronous vibration monitoring system), a sensor system, an aviation system, a vehicle system, a health management system, an industrial system, a manufacturing system, a factory system, an energy management system, a power grid system, a water supply system, a transportation system, a healthcare system, a refinery system, etc. At <NUM>, a set of rotational measurements associated with a rotating mechanical element is captured (e.g., by analog measurement component <NUM>). The set of rotational measurements can be measured, for example, based on a reference point associated with the rotating mechanical element. The set of rotational measurements can be a set of analog rotational measurements. In accordance with the claimed invention, the set of rotational measurements is associated with rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and with the phase of the rotating mechanical element. In one example, the set of rotational measurements can be a set of reference point measurements associated with the rotating mechanical element. The set of reference point measurements can be captured during a defined interval of time.

At <NUM>, a conditioned tachometer pulse signal is generated (e.g., by analog measurement component <NUM>) based on the set of rotational measurements. For instance, a waveform of a tachometer pulse signal can be modified based on the set of rotational measurements to generate the conditioned tachometer pulse signal. The conditioned tachometer pulse signal can be, for example, an conditioned analog tachometer pulse signal. In one example, a tachometer pulse signal can be conditioned based on rotational speed for the rotating mechanical element and/or phase of the rotating mechanical element to generate the conditioned tachometer pulse signal. In another example, a tachometer pulse signal can be conditioned based on the set of reference point measurements to generate the conditioned tachometer pulse signal.

At <NUM>, the conditioned tachometer pulse signal is transmitted (e.g., by communication component <NUM>) to an analog device. For example, the conditioned tachometer pulse signal can be provided to the analog device. In one example, the analog device can display analog data associated with the conditioned tachometer pulse signal via an analog dial of the analog device or a digital display of the analog device.

In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter, <FIG> and <FIG> as well as the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable environment in which the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter may be implemented.

With reference to <FIG>, a suitable environment <NUM> for implementing various aspects of this disclosure includes a computer <NUM>. The computer <NUM> includes a processing unit <NUM>, a system memory <NUM>, and a system bus <NUM>. The system bus <NUM> couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory <NUM> to the processing unit <NUM>. The processing unit <NUM> can be any of various available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures also can be employed as the processing unit <NUM>.

The system bus <NUM> can be any of several types of bus structure(s) including the memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus or external bus, and/or a local bus using any variety of available bus architectures including, but not limited to, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA), Micro-Channel Architecture (MSA), Extended ISA (EISA), Intelligent Drive Electronics (IDE), VESA Local Bus (VLB), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), Card Bus, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Advanced Graphics Port (AGP), Personal Computer Memory Card International Association bus (PCMCIA), Firewire (IEEE <NUM>), and Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI).

The system memory <NUM> includes volatile memory <NUM> and nonvolatile memory <NUM>. The basic input/output system (BIOS), containing the basic routines to transfer information between elements within the computer <NUM>, such as during start-up, is stored in nonvolatile memory <NUM>. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory <NUM> can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or nonvolatile random access memory (RAM) (e.g., ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM). Volatile memory <NUM> includes random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and Rambus dynamic RAM.

Computer <NUM> also includes removable/non-removable, volatile/non-volatile computer storage media. <FIG> illustrates, for example, a disk storage <NUM>. Disk storage <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, devices like a magnetic disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, Jaz drive, Zip drive, LS-<NUM> drive, flash memory card, or memory stick. The disk storage <NUM> also can include storage media separately or in combination with other storage media including, but not limited to, an optical disk drive such as a compact disk ROM device (CD-ROM), CD recordable drive (CD-R Drive), CD rewritable drive (CD-RW Drive) or a digital versatile disk ROM drive (DVD-ROM). To facilitate connection of the disk storage devices <NUM> to the system bus <NUM>, a removable or non-removable interface is typically used, such as interface <NUM>.

<FIG> also depicts software that acts as an intermediary between users and the basic computer resources described in the suitable operating environment <NUM>. Such software includes, for example, an operating system <NUM>. Operating system <NUM>, which can be stored on disk storage <NUM>, acts to control and allocate resources of the computer system <NUM>. System applications <NUM> take advantage of the management of resources by operating system <NUM> through program modules <NUM> and program data <NUM>, e.g., stored either in system memory <NUM> or on disk storage <NUM>. It is to be appreciated that this disclosure can be implemented with various operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

A user enters commands or information into the computer <NUM> through input device(s) <NUM>. Input devices <NUM> include, but are not limited to, a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, TV tuner card, digital camera, digital video camera, web camera, and the like. These and other input devices connect to the processing unit <NUM> through the system bus <NUM> via interface port(s) <NUM>. Interface port(s) <NUM> include, for example, a serial port, a parallel port, a game port, and a universal serial bus (USB). Output device(s) <NUM> use some of the same type of ports as input device(s) <NUM>. Thus, for example, a USB port may be used to provide input to computer <NUM>, and to output information from computer <NUM> to an output device <NUM>. Output adapter <NUM> is provided to illustrate that there are some output devices <NUM> like monitors, speakers, and printers, among other output devices <NUM>, which require special adapters. The output adapters <NUM> include, by way of illustration and not limitation, video and sound cards that provide a means of connection between the output device <NUM> and the system bus <NUM>. It should be noted that other devices and/or systems of devices provide both input and output capabilities such as remote computer(s) <NUM>.

Computer <NUM> can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer(s) <NUM>. The remote computer(s) <NUM> can be a personal computer, a server, a router, a network PC, a workstation, a microprocessor based appliance, a peer device or other common network node and the like, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to computer <NUM>. For purposes of brevity, only a memory storage device <NUM> is illustrated with remote computer(s) <NUM>. Remote computer(s) <NUM> is logically connected to computer <NUM> through a network interface <NUM> and then physically connected via communication connection <NUM>. Network interface <NUM> encompasses wire and/or wireless communication networks such as local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), cellular networks, etc. LAN technologies include Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), Copper Distributed Data Interface (CDDI), Ethernet, Token Ring and the like. WAN technologies include, but are not limited to, point-to-point links, circuit switching networks like Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN) and variations thereon, packet switching networks, and Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL).

Communication connection(s) <NUM> refers to the hardware/software employed to connect the network interface <NUM> to the bus <NUM>. While communication connection <NUM> is shown for illustrative clarity inside computer <NUM>, it can also be external to computer <NUM>. The hardware/software necessary for connection to the network interface <NUM> includes, for exemplary purposes only, internal and external technologies such as, modems including regular telephone grade modems, cable modems and DSL modems, ISDN adapters, and Ethernet cards.

<FIG> is a schematic block diagram of a sample-computing environment <NUM> with which the subject matter of this disclosure can interact. The sample-computing environment <NUM> includes one or more client(s) <NUM>. The client(s) <NUM> can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The sample-computing environment <NUM> also includes one or more server(s) <NUM>. Thus, sample-computing environment <NUM> can correspond to a two-tier client server model or a multi-tier model (e.g., client, middle tier server, data server), amongst other models. The server(s) <NUM> can also be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The servers <NUM> can house threads to perform transformations by employing this disclosure, for example. One possible communication between a client <NUM> and a server <NUM> may be in the form of a data packet transmitted between two or more computer processes.

The sample-computing environment <NUM> includes a communication framework <NUM> that can be employed to facilitate communications between the client(s) <NUM> and the server(s) <NUM>. The client(s) <NUM> are operatively connected to one or more client data store(s) <NUM> that can be employed to store information local to the client(s) <NUM>. Similarly, the server(s) <NUM> are operatively connected to one or more server data store(s) <NUM> that can be employed to store information local to the servers <NUM>.

It is to be noted that aspects or features of this disclosure can be exploited in substantially any wireless telecommunication or radio technology, e.g., Wi-Fi; Bluetooth; Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX); Enhanced General Packet Radio Service (Enhanced GPRS); Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Long Term Evolution (LTE); Third Generation Partnership Project <NUM> (3GPP2) Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB); 3GPP Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS); High Speed Packet Access (HSPA); High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA); High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA); GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution) Radio Access Network (GERAN); UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN); LTE Advanced (LTE-A); etc. Additionally, some or all of the aspects described herein can be exploited in legacy telecommunication technologies, e.g., GSM. In addition, mobile as well non-mobile networks (e.g., the Internet, data service network such as internet protocol television (IPTV), etc.) can exploit aspects or features described herein.

While the subject matter has been described above in the general context of computer-executable instructions of a computer program that runs on a computer and/or computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure also can or may be implemented in combination with other program modules. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks and/or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inventive methods may be practiced with other computer system configurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, mini-computing devices, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices (e.g., PDA, phone), microprocessor-based or programmable consumer or industrial electronics, and the like. The illustrated aspects may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. However, some, if not all aspects of this disclosure can be practiced on stand-alone computers. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

As used in this application, the terms "component," "system," "platform," "interface," and the like, can refer to and/or can include a computer-related entity or an entity related to an operational machine with one or more specific functionalities. The entities disclosed herein can be either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers.

In another example, respective components can execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate via local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be an apparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric or electronic circuitry, which is operated by a software or firmware application executed by a processor. In such a case, the processor can be internal or external to the apparatus and can execute at least a part of the software or firmware application. As yet another example, a component can be an apparatus that provides specific functionality through electronic components without mechanical parts, wherein the electronic components can include a processor or other means to execute software or firmware that confers at least in part the functionality of the electronic components. In an aspect, a component can emulate an electronic component via a virtual machine, e.g., within a cloud computing system.

Various aspects or features described herein can be implemented as a method, apparatus, system, or article of manufacture using standard programming or engineering techniques. In addition, various aspects or features described herein can be realized through program modules, the program modules being stored in a memory and executed by at least a processor. Other combinations of hardware and software or hardware and firmware can enable or implement aspects described herein. The term "article of manufacture" as used herein can encompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device, carrier, or storage media. For example, computer readable storage media can include but are not limited to magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic strips. ), optical discs (e.g., compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), blu-ray disc (BD). ), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., card, stick, key drive. ), or the like.

As it is employed in the subject specification, the term "processor" can refer to substantially any computing processing unit or device comprising, but not limited to, single-core processors; single-processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-core processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; and parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, a processor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Further, processors can exploit nano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular and quantum-dot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimize space usage or enhance performance of user equipment. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.

In this disclosure, terms such as "store," "storage," "data store," data storage," "database," and substantially any other information storage component relevant to operation and functionality of a component are utilized to refer to "memory components," entities embodied in a "memory," or components comprising a memory. It is to be appreciated that memory and/or memory components described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory.

By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or nonvolatile random access memory (RAM) (e.g., ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM). Volatile memory can include RAM, which can act as external cache memory, for example. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and Rambus dynamic RAM (RDRAM). Additionally, the disclosed memory components of systems or methods herein are intended to include, without being limited to including, these and any other suitable types of memory.

It is to be appreciated and understood that components, as described with regard to a particular system or method, can include the same or similar functionality as respective components (e.g., respectively named components or similarly named components) as described with regard to other systems or methods disclosed herein.

What has been described above includes examples of systems and methods that provide advantages of this disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of this disclosure are possible. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes," "has," "possesses," and the like are used in the detailed description, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claim 1:
A sensor system (<NUM>), comprising:
a memory (<NUM>) arranged to store computer executable instructions; and
a processor (<NUM>) arranged to execute computer executable instructions stored in the memory, wherein the computer executable instructions stored in the memory, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to carry out the following steps:
an analog measurement step (<NUM>) that measures, based on a clock signal provided to the sensor system, analog data indicative of rotational speed data, and phase data associated with a mechanical element (<NUM>) that rotates, wherein the clock signal is synchronized across the sensor system and a group of sensor devices;
an encoder step (<NUM>) that encodes the clock signal, the analog data indicative of the rotational speed data and phase data into a digital data packet in a format that enables transmission via a digital network; and
a communication step (<NUM>) that transmits the digital data packet to one or more sensor devices in communication with the sensor system,
wherein the clock signal is synchronized to a time reference signal.