CBM for Vibrating Equipment on Rotorcraft

This paper describes a device and an algorithm which is capable of real-time analysis of the Vibration Damage Dosage (VDD) of components mounted on a helicopter platform. The device can be used as part of a Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) system to determine the fatigue life consumed of any component mounted on the aircraft. It is useful for CBM analysis and aircraft relifing. It can also be used to assess the severity of different missions and provide data for creating tailored vibration certification tests in accordance with MIL-STD-810F, Annex A [1]. The paper presents a review of the technology along with a case study of how the algorithms have been used to define qualification tests for the Super Lynx 300 helicopter by AgustaWestland in the UK.