Accelerometers are transducers, or sensors, that convert acceleration into an electrical signal which can be used for vibration monitoring and analysis.

This document defines interface requirements for accelerometers and associated interfacing electronics for use in a helicopter Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS). The purpose is to standardize the accelerometer-to-electronics interface with the intent of increasing interchangeability among HUMS sensors/systems and reducing the cost of HUMS accelerometers. Although this interface was specified with an internally amplified piezoelectric accelerometer in mind, this does not preclude the use of any other sensor technology that meets the requirements given in this specification.

These SAE HUMS Interface Specifications include the minimal interface and performance requirements for interoperability with the Rotorcraft Industry Technology Association (RITA) compliant HUMS. Compliance with these Interface Specifications can be referenced in more comprehensive procurement and device specifications.

Classification:

Accelerometers used in current HUM systems fall into three distinct categories, they are a) airframe accelerometers (generally for rotor track and balance), b) drive train accelerometers, and c) engine accelerometers. This document is divided into three sections in recognition of this common industry classification.

Specification Terminology:

The terms "shall" and "should" within this specification observe the following rules:

a. The word "shall" expresses a mandatory requirement of the specification.

b. The word "should" expresses a recommendation or advice on implementing the specification or actions expected of users of the system.