ATi | Heavy Equipment Applications

Inductively Powered Telemetry Systems

March 15, 2017 by

ATi Inductively Powered Telemetry Systems are typically used to transmit data from rotating shafts or machinery to a stationary receiver. The Miniature Strain Gage Transmitter can be connected to strain gages adhered to your shaft in order to transmit shaft torque and thrust while the system is running.

Power is supplied to the transmitter inductively for continuous, non-interrupted measurements. No batteries are required because the induction power supply delivers power through a stationary loop antenna to a rotating antenna. The rotating loop antenna and induction power converter are embedded into the collar assembly.

Specialized systems are available for automotive half shafts (drive shafts) and prop shafts.

Low Power Digital Prop Shaft Telemetry Systems

April 29, 2019 by

ATi’s Low Power Digital Telemetry System can operate one year or longer on a single battery pack, providing extreme flexibility in shaft torque measurement solutions. A high resolution data link incorporates infallible error checking that does not produce spikes or drop-outs in the signal. In addition to a high quality, digital data link, simultaneous status/control signals provide feedback of battery voltage and Transmitter module temperature while enabling Remote Shunt Calibration.

The 2140LP Digital Miniature Strain Gage Transmitter can be connected directly to strain gages adhered to a shaft converting it into a torque sensor. Since the system is wireless, it can transmit shaft torque while the shaft is turning. Often used as a testing tool to obtain real-time torque measurements from vehicle drivelines, the system can be installed on most any size shaft and is completely field installable by the end user.

The LP Series Digital Transmitters measure only 0.285” thick, which enables installation on shafts with very little radial clearance. Battery power eliminates the need for an inductive power stationary loop antenna. This simplifies the installation and provides 1m or more of signal range.

For multiple channel applications, up to 16 Low Power 1-Channel Transmitters can be simultaneously operated on unique frequencies in close physical proximity to each other without causing interference.

The LP series Transmitters can be taped directly onto the rotating shaft or clamped to the shaft using one of our standard or custom collars or housings.

The 2-piece collars clamp directly onto the rotating shaft. Sizes can be provided for most any size of shaft. Collars can be adapted to smaller shafts using rubber shim kits. The collars and cover plates provide protection from debris.

ATi’s Band-On housings are mounted to the rotating shaft using a Kevlar strap. Having straps of varying lengths on hand allows the system to be mounted onto just about any size of shaft quickly. Protective cover plates are also included with the Band-on systems.

Whether it is for a temporary or long term application, the batteries and transmitter module can be taped directly to a shaft. In this configuration, the antenna wires are wrapped around a rubber spacer to separate them from the metal shaft.

There are multiple battery choices available for powering the Low Power Digital Transmitters. Options include a 3.6V rechargeable lithium cell, rechargeable Lithium battery packs, or standard and high temperature (Tadiran) non-rechargeable batteries.

Depending on the battery/cell combination selected, a minimum of 100 hours of continuous data collection is expected. The use of larger capacity single cells or multiple cell battery packs can increase the run time of the Transmitter to over one year. Eight high temperature AA cells will power the Transmitter for over one year’s worth of eight hour days.

Low Power Digital Telemetry Systems

August 10, 2018 by

The LP series Transmitters can be taped directly onto the rotating shaft or clamped to the shaft using one of our standard or custom collars or housings.

Miniature Dual Axis Wireless Sensors

April 23, 2013 by

ATi can build a custom telemetry system to fit virtually any requirement. This custom, miniature, dual axis wireless sensor measures both torque and thrust (axial force). Two super miniature strain gage transmitters, housed within the sensor body, are powered inductively. Onboard sensor excitation and signal conditioning is also contained within the transmitters. In addition to the display, the stationary receiver provides real time analog outputs that can be recorded for further analyzing. Analog outputs can be ±2 VDC, ±5 VDC, ±10 VDC, 4-20 mA or other tailored to your requirements.

ATi manufactures custom single axis and dual axis sensor systems for a number of applications. In some situations an existing component can be “transducerized” converting it into an inline sensor. In many cases, the existing component can be used with little or no modification, allowing parameters to be measured without expensive and time consuming alterations to the machine.

Battery powered and rechargeable telemetry systems are also available. Click Here For More

Transmitters for other sensors or measurements are also available. Click Here For More

Multi-channel and multiplexing telemetry systems are also available. Click Here For More

Miniature Telemetry Transmitters

April 23, 2013 by

ATi manufactures digital and digital multiplexing telemetry transmitters in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit any application. Custom shapes for special applications or embedded transmitters can also be created. Transmitters are available for many different sensors and inputs:

Acceleration Telemetry Transmitters – Acceleration transmitters are compatible with most ICP type accelerometers and have a 1 milliamp constant current source.

Current Telemetry Transmitters – Current transmitters are designed for use with any current output type sensor or current source.

LVDT Telemetry Transmitters – LVDT transmitters are compatible with most AC type LVDTs and have a built-in 3 Vrms, 5 kHz excitation source. Current output or voltage output LVDTs can be used with other transmitters listed on this page.

RTD Telemetry Transmitters – RTD transmitters are designed for use with 100 or 1000 Ohm, Platinum, 3-wire RTDs. These transmitters have a 2 milliamp excitation source or they can be tuned to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Strain Gage Telemetry Transmitters – Strain gage transmitters are designed for use with strain gages or other Wheatstone bridge type sensors with millivolt outputs. The transmitters have a built-in voltage excitation source.

Thermocouple Telemetry Transmitters – Thermocouple transmitters are designed for use with Type J or Type K thermocouples. Transmitters can be optimized for the customer’s specific measurement range.

Voltage Telemetry Transmitters – Voltage transmitters are available in AC, DC or RMS types for use with any type sensor or voltage source with outputs from 50 millivolts to 480 volts. A built-in excitation source is optional on voltage transmitters

General Specifications:

1 Channel ………………………………….. 10,000 samples/sec*

2 Channels …………………………….. 5000 samples/sec/ch*

4 Channels …………………………….. 2500 samples/sec/ch*

Resolution ……………………………………………… 14 Bits*

*Other configurations (number of channels, sample rates and resolutions) are available

Integral Non-Linearity ………………………………. ± 0.10%

Repeatability ………………………………………….. ± 0.025%

Maximum Error …………………………. < 0.15% Full Scale

Prop Shaft Torque Measurement Systems

April 23, 2013 by

ATi’s Prop Shaft Telemetry Systems transmit torque signals from rotating shafts to a stationary telemetry receiver. It connects directly to strain gages adhered to the shaft, converting it into a torque sensor, allowing it to transmit shaft torque while the vehicle is operating. This system is a testing tool used by automotive and racing engineers to obtain real-time torque measurements from vehicle drivelines. The system can be installed on most any size shaft and is completely field installable by the user.

Power to the transmitter and rotating electronics can be supplied several ways. The best way for you depends on your application. The following paragraphs will give you a quick overview of the benefits of each method:

Low Power Digital Prop Shaft Telemetry Systems

Power can be supplied by a rechargeable lithium cell, rechargeable Lithium battery packs, or standard and high temperature (Tadiran) non batteries. To extend battery life, the Transmitter continuously checks for control signals from the Receiver. When it detects that the Receiver is turned off or is out of range, the Transmitter automatically goes into an ultralow power Sleep mode conserving battery power. When in Sleep mode, it periodically wakes up to check for the presence of the Receiver’s control signal. When this signal is sensed, the Transmitter fully powers up and resumes transmitting sensor data. See more…

Rechargeable Battery Powered Prop Shaft Telemetry Systems

Power is supplied by an ATi provided, Lithium battery pack. The transmitter can be turned on and off remotely from the receiver. Additional features include transmitter status and battery level presented on the Model 2125B or 3125B Receiver display. See more…

Rechargeable Battery Powered Systems are also available in a Band-On version. See more…

Inductively Powered Prop Shaft Telemetry Systems

Power is supplied to the transmitter inductively for continuous, non-interrupted measurements. No batteries are required because the Induction Power Supply (IPS) delivers power through a stationary loop antenna to a rotating loop antenna. The rotating loop antenna and Induction Power Converter are embedded into the collar assembly. Additional features include transmitter status and induction power level presented on the Model 2125i(R) or 3125i(R) Receiver display. See more…

Rechargeable Battery Powered Telemetry Systems

April 23, 2013 by

ATi’s 2100R Series Rechargeable Telemetry System offers more performance and features while providing solutions to common shaft mounted obstacles. Separate but simultaneous data and status signals allow a variety of control functions independent of the high quality data stream ATi is known for. Battery power means lower noise floors, more versatile installations, no active power generation or tuning.

The 2140R Series Telemetry Transmitters feature a contoured profile, which reduces radial and axial clearances required for installation. Transmitters are available for any type of measurement.

Manufactured from fiberglass composites, the 2110RB Telemetry Collars can be used to house the transmitter and battery for easy installation. Single or multi-piece collars mount to the rotating part and transmit the signal to a stationary receiver. The 2140R Miniature Strain Gage Transmitter can be connected directly to strain gages adhered to a shaft, converting it into a torque sensor. Since the system is wireless, it can transmit shaft torque while the shaft is turning.

Often used as a testing tool by automotive and racing engineers to obtain real-time torque measurements from vehicle drivelines, the system can be installed on most any size shaft and is completely field installable by the end user. A rechargeable Li-Ion battery pack supplies power for about 25 hours of continuous run-time to the transmitter. The system comes with a spare battery pack and charger so that power is always available.

The Model 2125B Receiver features a programmable, multi-function, digital backlit display. Transmitter mode (On/Sleep/Off) and remote calibration (+/-) are selected from a menu based display. The receiver can be powered directly from 12 VDC or with a 110/220 VAC 50/60Hz adapter and provides an analog output for use with any data acquisition system.

Rechargeable Battery Powered Systems are also available in a Band-On version. See more…

Rotating Telemetry Systems

March 15, 2017 by

ATi’s 2100LP Series Low Power Telemetry Systems can be powered by a rechargeable lithium cell, rechargeable Lithium battery packs, or standard and high temperature (Tadiran) non batteries. To extend battery life, the Transmitter continuously checks for control signals from the Receiver. When it detects that the Receiver is turned off or is out of range, the Transmitter automatically goes into an ultralow power Sleep mode conserving battery power. When in Sleep mode, it periodically wakes up to check for the presence of the Receiver’s control signal. When this signal is sensed, the Transmitter fully powers up and resumes transmitting sensor data. See more…

ATi’s 2100R Series Rechargeable Telemetry Systems offer more performance and features while providing solutions to common shaft mounted obstacles. Separate but simultaneous data and status signals allow a variety of control functions independent of the high quality data stream ATi is known for. Battery power means lower noise floors, more versatile installations, no active power generation or tuning. See more…

Rechargeable Battery Powered Systems are also available in a Band-On version. See more…

ATi’s 2100i Series Inductively Powered Telemetry Systems are ideal for long term, uninterrupted measurements or for installations on which changing or charging batteries is not feasible. Power is supplied to the Telemetry Collar inductively via the stationary loop. See more…

Torsional Vibration Monitoring Systems

April 23, 2013 by

ATi’s Torsional Vibration Monitoring Systems are used for Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH) testing and analysis in automotive drivetrain, wind turbine gearbox and various other applications where measuring or monitoring rotating vibration is important. These systems are used to transmit torsional acceleration from a rotating shaft or component, while the machinery is running.

The system consists of a transmitter and two accelerometers housed in a rotating collar. The accelerometers are mounted 180 degrees apart with the output processed by the transmitter such that gravitational effects are cancelled. This proprietary circuitry permits extremely high sensitivity measurements. The conditioned signal is then transmitted to the receiver. Available in multiple and single piece versions, the rotating collars are available to clamp onto most any size shaft.

Transmitter Power is supplied in one of three ways: battery, rechargeable battery, or inductively. Inductive power delivered through a stationary loop antenna to a rotating antenna in the collar and is recommended for continuous, non-interrupted measurements. Visit our Power Options page for more information.

In addition to a display, the receiver also has analog outputs which can be monitored or recorded for analysis. Each system comes complete with all required accessories including: antennas, AC power adapter or DC power cord for Receiver, and all required cables.

Wheel Mounted Telemetry Systems

April 23, 2013 by

ATi’s Wheel Mounted Telemetry System is designed for the measurement of critical parameters from a rotating wheel. In today’s highly competitive automobile marketplace, the safety and comfort of passengers is more important than ever and has higher consideration when consumers are choosing a new vehicle.

This system comes in a multitude of configurations, allows manufacturers of wheel and tire components, as well as suspension and drive train mechanics, to accurately and thoroughly measure various parameters to best optimize the performance of their product. Designed to be mounted directly on the existing wheel rim without any modifications of the wheel hub, the system can be used to provide data on tire characteristics, suspension systems, brake performance, drive train and more.

Capable of withstanding the harsh environments of automobile road testing, the system can operate over the full speed range of cars, trucks and SUV’s. The optional angle encoder determines the angular position of the wheel and the modular design allows transmitters to be easily swapped so different parameters or test setups can be configured. Hub adapters can be designed to accommodate both 4 or 5 lug patterns or customized lug patterns and include special lug nuts that are designed to replace stock lug nuts.

Consisting of one or more 2100 Series Transmitters, this wireless system can accommodate acceleration, pressure, temperature and most any other measurement from a rotating wheel. These transmitters provide the needed excitation and signal conditioning of the sensor data which is transmitted via telemetry to a receiver module located within the vehicle cab for data collection and analysis. No FCC license is required to operate these transmitters.

Wireless Torque Sensor Systems

April 23, 2013 by

ATi’s Wireless Torque Sensor Systems are utilized in applications where conventional torque transducers are not practical due to high shaft speeds, vibration, and dirty, oily environments. These factors pose major problems for conventional foot-mounted rotary torque transducers with bearings and slip rings.

The use of RF telemetry to transfer data eliminates the need for slip rings. This makes our wireless torque meter highly reliable and durable. Batteries or induction power is used to provide energy to the rotating sensor and transmitter. These technologies permit a great deal of movement between the rotating sensor and stationary loop antenna with no affect on the signal quality. Minimal alignment between the stationary and rotating components is required.

RF telemetry and induction power are also immune to dust and oil build-up, unlike infrared torque sensors which are sensitive to not only dirt build-up but shaft movements as well. Anyone who has struggled with an old-fashioned infrared keyless remote entry system for a vehicle will understand why all major automobile manufacturers have switched to RF technology – no pointing or aiming is required.

A Dual Range Torque Sensor is available which allows a second range that can be 10% of the higher range’s full scale. Torque sensors are available in standard Disk, Flange and Shaft styles or can be customized to fit any application. ATi can also turn an existing system component into a wireless torque sensor.