Lifetime observer: an application of mechatronics in vehicle technology
Jörg Wallaschek, Sebastian Wedman, Wiro Wickord · International Journal of Vehicle Design · 2002
This paper presents the concept of a lifetime observer for application in vehicle technology. The basic idea is to equip the mechanical systems with sensors and information-processing components in order to monitor stress in critical components on-line, and to predict potential damage, failures, and the remaining lifetime by using a mathematical damage model. Systematic aspects in the design of lifetime observers and condition monitoring systems are discussed, and existing applications of lifetime observers in vehicle technology introduced.