1 Explanation of the work carried per WP
1.1 Specification Freeze (WP1)
This work package has been carried out between March and June 2016. The set of requirements has been provided by Thales.
1.2 State of the Art and Methodology Choice (WP2)
Sensors are detection methodologies were assessed and selected.
1.3 Methodology Freeze (WP3)
A mock-up was designed, manufactured, and tested. Dozens of tests have been planned and carried out to assess the mock-up robustness.
1.4 Data Processor Prototype Design (WP4)
During this work package, Cranfield University developed condition indicators suitable for data analysis and identification of patterns in measurements that would suggest early degradation of bearings; Schaeffler prepared a test rig for experiments; Active space tested and validated the mock-up to ensure high-quality data acquisition.
1.5 Data Processor Prototype Manufacturing (WP5)
This WP needed restructuring. The digital module of the prototype was postponed because of technology maturity issues (e.g. digital components available for 200ºC are scarce). Moreover, some good progress could be made with the analogue module of the prototype, and the consortium decided to push those developments further to expand technology maturity of some components to harsh environment. The initial objective was a prototype for 150ºC, but Active Space decided to push the temperature envelope up to 200ºC.
The mock-up was delivered by Active Space in May 2017 and experiments in the test rig started in June 2017 at Schaeffler. The test campaign extended to the end of the project. During this period, Cranfield University worked in data analysis (tests generated more than 1 TB).
1.6 Verification tests (WP6)
This task has been somewhat overlapped with WP5. During this activity, Cranfield work in algorithm development and validation, Schaeffler carried out tests at different speeds and loading, and Active Space developed and tested the analogue module of the prototype up to 200ºC.
1.7 Summary of major tasks by partner
1.7.1 Cranfield University
• Critical review of the literature;
• State of the art and outreach deliverables (D11-D12);
• Data analysis of test rig experiments;
• Development of prognosis and diagnosis algorithms;
• Dissemination activities.
1.7.2 Schaeffler
• Test rig development;
• Design, manufacturing of adapter for sensors and test rig;
• Test planning and execution (seven tests).
1.7.3 Active Space Technologies
• Project coordination;
• Technical reports (e.g. D2-D4, D8-D10);
• Mock-up design, manufacturing, test, and validation;
• Development, manufacturing, assembly, and test of the prototype (analogue module suitable for harsh environment - up to 200ºC);
• Dissemination activities.
1.7.4 Common tasks
• Sensor selection;
• Test rig critical parameterization (e.g. loading, rotation speed);
• High-level data analysis and interpretation.
2. Achievement of project objectives
According to the final review of iBearing at Thales, Chatou, Paris, the main results of the project can be summarized as follows:
• Performance of the mock-up was almost flawless;
• The analogue module was able to withstand 200ºC during tests;
• Sensors were adequate for proof-of-concept validation;
• Partners and the topic leader concluded that iBearing was able to reach proof-of-concept validation of the mock-up; concerning the project, partners have stated that technology readiness level was pushed from 1 to 3.
The next important steps to enable critical technologies should be developing the digital module of the prototype and improving the algorithm level of significance. A critical task is also running reliable tests at higher speeds (e.g. 30 000 RPM). Some achievements have been shown at Le Bourget and in a publication of the international conference on high value products and through-life engineering. Progress has been regularly reported online and in the technical reports of the project.
