Short Range Radio Telemetry For Rotating Instrumentation

Wireless telemetry technology for transmitting power and data to and from sensors located inside a gas-turbine engine is reviewed. Two scenarios are considered: a rotating sensor hardwired to a shaft-mounted, inductively-coupled system; and a stationary or rotating microsensor telemetry module. Applications of these telemetry scenarios in the gas-turbine operating environment, the types of sensor measurements, the principles of telemetry, and a review of the current state of microfabricated components for telemetry systems are given. Inductive coupling for both data and power transmission is emphasized in the first scenario. The microsensor telemetry module discussed in the second scenario would need battery power or an alternative power source. These technologies are emerging and do not represent available products. A brief list of alternative technologies for providing power is presented at the end.