1.7. Qualitative Interpretation of Sensor Signals

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does a strain gauge measure?

   Hint

   Think about what happens physically to the gauge.

2. 2.

   What does an increase in voltage from an accelerometer indicate?

   Hint

   Consider what is happening to the motion.

3. 3.

   What does an increase in voltage from a strain gauge indicate?

   • Compression
   • Tensile Strain
   • No Change

   Hint

   Think about the relationship between voltage and strain.

4. 4.

   True or False: An accelerometer only provides analog outputs.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the different output types a device can have.

5. 5.

   A strain gauge on a structural element reads a voltage of 2V under no load, increasing to 3V under load. Calculate the strain if the gauge sensitivity is 1V/μstrain.

   Hint

   Use the sensitivity to deduce how voltage change translates to strain.

6. 6.

   An accelerometer on a bridge detects a consistent frequency in vibrations of 10 Hz. If the amplitude changes, how might this indicate structural health?

   Hint

   Consider how amplitude relates to the health and stability of structures.