The microprocessor measurement of low values of rotational speed and acceleration

An algorithm and its microprocessor implementation for the measurement of low values of rotational speed and acceleration/deceleration of rotating machinery are presented. This measuring technique was developed for the special application where the speed reference signal is derived from a pulse train at a frequency of only 1 pulse/r. This fact places severe constraints on the resolution and measuring time of the instrument because an inverse relationship exists between these two parameters. A special feature of this instrument is that it can estimate speed and rate-of-change of speed in between the speed reference pulses by extrapolation of historic data. The instrument is implemented using standard microprocessor components and supporting circuitry. >