Vibration analysis using mobile devices (smartphones or tablets)

This paper investigates and describes the potential of mobile devices for vibration analysis, system identification and structural monitoring using a self-developed app, called “iDynamics”. It shows the differences between professional accelerometers and smartphone sensors, demonstrates the vibration measurement and evaluation capabilities using “iDynamics" and presents the application of the app using various practical examples. The application has been verified by results from vibration measurements with professional equipment and software. At the end, the application limits of the app and the requirements of the corresponding mobile devices are summarized.