Crystal Instruments Vibration Diagnostics System (VDS)

The Vibration Diagnostic System (VDS) is a vibration data management system designed specifically for the machinery Predictive Maintenance (PdM) community. It leverages the graphic display capabilities of Crystal Instruments EDM software so users can quickly access and compare machine data, supports tri-axial and single-axis views, builds average (baseline) data for machine classes, and provides cursors tuned for PdM analysis. It pairs with the handheld CoCo-70X vibration analyzer for field data collection.

At its core is an extensible machine modeling system. Using Machine Builder, users create machine elements, build common components, and assemble physical machines, drawing on a comprehensive component library. A model is known as a Machine Class; users designate pickup locations and assign attributes to elements, components and classes to track physical and manufacturer details. These models serve as references and support the automated diagnostic system. The diagnostic engine is rule-based and probabilistic, using a forward-chaining inference engine built on the Lua scripting language and shipped with a comprehensive set of rules for identifying machinery faults. A crucial aspect is building Average (baseline) data for each pickup of a Machine Class; analysts typically want two acquisition ranges per pickup, one high-resolution range for rotating-element signatures and one lower-resolution range for high-frequency phenomena such as gear mesh and motor bars, and VDS supports this two-range approach while accommodating more ranges as needed.

VDS maintains one or more machine routes, loaded onto the CoCo-70X like a to-do list; collected data is downloaded and grouped into a Test Group so a collection cycle is always identifiable without checking timestamps. Data is saved in ASAM-ODS format and can be exported to CSV with customizable units, precision and scaling. The database is Microsoft SQL Server, structured as Factory, Space, Machine and Pickup, and can be served locally or on a network for multi-user access with per-user names, passwords and access levels (Administrator, Local Administrator, User). Analysis offers single-axis or tri-axis waveform and spectrum views, signal trend graphs for a single frequency or order plus RMS and Crest Factor, overlays against prior dates or other machines and against Average and Average plus one standard deviation, and a full cursor set including single-axis, divider, harmonic, sideband and spline-snap cursors. Each diagnosis records overall machine health, identified faults, recommended actions and analyst comments, and drives tree color codes and sorting by health.