Super-tiny sensor platforms, facile headlights, and “trainspotting” microphones mark STMicroelectronics’ Technology Tour

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Among the more interactive displays was this one which featured two electric motors, one balanced and running smoothly, the other unbalanced and running with a perceptible vibration. Both motors were equipped with ST accelerometers (visible in the enlarged bottom image) for monitoring vibration. ST personnel say that out-of-balance problems often start with vibrations in the ultrasonic range that are imperceptible to humans, but not to accelerometers. ST supplies not only accelerometers that are useful for predictive maintenance applications, but also the software that can be used with the sensor data to discern minute vibration signatures as they develop.
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