MX MISSILE IN-FLIGHT VIBRATION DATA PROCESSING

Abstract

The quantity of measurements and broad frequency spectrum of interest for dynamic measurements required to support the development phase of the MX Missile, in conjunction with a limited downlink telemetry bandwidth, necessitated a unique vibration measurement system. This was accomplished by on-board vibration data processing comprising a sensor system (transducer/ low noise cable/charge amplifier) and a multichannel digital Vibration Data Processor (VDP). The processor is a 1/3 octave frequency band analyzer, employing digital filter circuitry covering 22 bands over a frequency range from 14 Hz to 2245 Hz, providing an output that represents the energy(G²) per band/time interval. A Master Data Control Unit (MU) controls the VDP operation via a full duplex data bus. This paper will describe the sensor system, with its designed in-post installation test/verification features and the capabilities and design features of the VDP. Processor characteristics such as the self-test operation whereby all 1/3 octave analysis bands are verified, the ability to meet a 60 dB dynamic range, the indivudual instructions code capability along with other features will be presented. The most important facet of this onboard processing allows a downlink data bandwidth conservation ranging up to 184:1 which is compatible with the digital telemetering system.