Low-Cost, High-Precision Vibration Analysis: Enhancing SHM and Seismic Data Acquisition Systems

Abstract

The development of a low-frequency vibration detection device is essential for testing vibrations in crucial applications such as structural integrity, seismic activity detection and industrial machinery maintenance. Current data acquisition systems suffer from lack of sensitivity and high cost. This paper presents the design and development of a low-cost vibration detection device that uses a 3-axis accelerometer and a geophone with a resonant frequency of 4.5 Hz, where the signals are filtered using a second order low-pass filter with a 250 Hz cutoff frequency. The device is integrated with a 24-bit analog to digital (ADC) converter for ensuring a precise data acquisition and the device ensures to monitor real-time vibrations of x, y and z axis using a accelerometer and the z axis with a geophone. The effectiveness of the device was validated via experimental simulations. This developed device is a solid and cost-effective solution for engineers and professionals, where reliable low-frequency vibration monitoring is required in critical applications.