Connections to the bearing consist of a 48-Vdc voltage supply and an Ethernet cable for setup and monitoring. The bearing can continuously monitor the health of its power semiconductor devices and the coils. Additionally, key parameters such as load, speed, and vibration are also monitored. The first frame size, which will be available early next year, has a baseline load capacity of 300 lb and a rotational speed of approximately 30,000 rpm. The radial bearing can be lengthened for a capacity of 600 lb. Other frame sizes will be available later in 2007.
Synchrony Inc., 6410 Commonwealth Dr., Roanoke, VA 24018, (540) 989-1541, sychrony.com