Smart Test Machines

About this technology

Overview

Vern Wedeven, president of Wedeven Associates, developed the WAM4, a computer-aided smart" test machine for simulating stress on equipment based on his bearing lubrication expertise gained while working for Lewis Research Center. During his NASA years from the 1970s into the early 1980s Wedeven initiated an "Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Tribology an effort that involved NASA, six universities, and several university professors. The NASA-sponsored work provided foundation for Wedeven in 1983 to form his own company. Several versions of the smart test machine, the WAM1, WAM2, and WAM3, have preceeded the current version, WAM4. This computer-controlled device can provide detailed glimpses at gear and bearing points of contact. WAM4 can yield a three-dimensional view of machinery as an operator adds what-if" thermal and lubrication conditions contact stress and surface motion. Along with NASA a number of firms including Pratt & Whitney Caterpillar Tractor Exxon and Chevron have approached Wedeven for help on resolving lubrication problems. "