Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the speed of a target object passing a pair of sensor units (12) displaced apart by a predetermined distant L in the direction of motion of the target object (16). Passage of one or more features of the target object (16) past the first sensor unit (12A) results in the generation of a signal (x1), and passage of the same feature of the target object (16) past the second sensor unit (12B) results in the generate of a second signal, (x2). A signal processor (18) is configured to determine a mathematical correlation between signals (x1) and (x2), and an associated time delay (?0). The speed (v) of the target object (16) is calculated by the signal processor (18) as the ratio of the predetermined distance (L) to the time delay (?0).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the speed of a target object passing a pair of sensor units (12) displaced apart by a predetermined distant L in the direction of motion of the target object (16). Passage of one or more features of the target object (16) past the first sensor unit (12A) results in the generation of a signal (x1), and passage of the same feature of the target object (16) past the second sensor unit (12B) results in the generate of a second signal, (x2). A signal processor (18) is configured to determine a mathematical correlation between signals (x1) and (x2), and an associated time delay (?0). The speed (v) of the target object (16) is calculated by the signal processor (18) as the (ratio of the predetermined distance (L) to the time delay (?0).

Abstract: A method for determining bearing parameters such as the radial load or interference fit of a bearing having a inner or outer race, secured by the interference fit with its mounting component, which experiences angular rotation relative to the mounting component in response to the radial load. Measurements of the angular velocity of the race and the mounting component are compared to determine the creep rate between the race and the mounting component. The observed creep rate and angular velocity measurements are utilized with either measured radial load data or interference fit data for the specific bearing application to extrapolate a curve fit for either the interference fit or the radial load experienced by the bearing, respectively.

Abstract: A method for determining bearing parameters such as the radial load or interference fit of a bearing having a inner or outer race, secured by the interference fit with its mounting component, which experiences angular rotation relative to the mounting component in response to the radial load. Measurements of the angular velocity of the race and the mounting component are compared to determine the creep rate between the race and the mounting component. The observed creep rate and angular velocity measurements are utilized with either measured radial load data or interference fit data for the specific bearing application to extrapolate a curve fit for either the interference fit or the radial load experienced by the bearing, respectively.

Abstract: A tapered roller bearing having its rollers arranged in two rows within an outer race and around an inner race contains a sensing device that radiates signals which reflect conditions within the bearing. In one embodiment, the outer race is unitary and the sensing device is wireless and self-powered and includes a mounting ring that is fitted to the outer race between the raceways along which the rollers roll. The ring has embedded within it several sensors for monitoring bearing conditions such as temperature and vibrations. The ring also contains a radio transmitter, a microprocessor to which the sensors are connected, and a power supply for producing the electrical energy required to operate the processor and the transmitter. The electric power is generated by means of electromechanical energy conversion using permanent magnets, armature winding and a target wheel that is captured between and rotates with the two cones.