Detection of weak signals based on empirical mode decomposition and singular spectrum analysis

A novel method for the detection of weak signals embedded in non-stationary backgrounds is derived based on empirical mode decomposition and singular spectrum analysis in the present study. Simulated example reveals that the new method performs well in the detection of the characteristic components and especially the weak signals. Finally, the method is applied to the experimental signals of gearbox and the useful weak fault components can be exactly captured, which shows that the method presented in this study provides an effective means to the detection of weak signals.