Responsive To Torque Patents (Class 73/862.08)
  • Patent number: 6820504
    Abstract: A rotation sensor functioning as both a rotation-angle sensor and a torque sensor is provided which, when applied to a steering sensor for an automobile, for example, permits reduction in the number of components and thus in the weight of the automobile and contributes to conservation of global environment. The rotation sensor has slip rings covered with conductive synthetic resin having small coefficient of friction, allowing the contact pressure of brushes disposed in sliding contact with the slip rings to be kept low and the life duration of the slip rings to be prolonged. Further, no metal powder is produced when the brushes slide on the respective slip rings, and it is therefore possible to prevent the formation of unwanted insulating film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoaki Toratani, Toshiro Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morimoto, Kyutaro Abe, Masahiro Hasegawa, Akira Noguchi, Kosuke Yamawaki
  • Publication number: 20040182174
    Abstract: A rotation sensor functioning as both a rotation-angle sensor and a torque sensor is provided which, when applied to a steering sensor for an automobile, for example, permits reduction in the number of components and thus in the weight of the automobile and contributes to conservation of global environment. The rotation sensor has slip rings covered with conductive synthetic resin having small coefficient of friction, allowing the contact pressure of brushes disposed in sliding contact with the slip rings to be kept low and the life duration of the slip rings to be prolonged. Further, no metal powder is produced when the brushes slide on the respective slip rings, and it is therefore possible to prevent the formation of unwanted insulating film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoaki Toratani, Toshiro Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morimoto, Kyutaro Abe, Masahiro Hasegawa, Akira Noguchi, Kosuke Yamawaki
  • Patent number: 6772644
    Abstract: A drive coupling arrangement for transmitting torque from a drive arrangement to a gear assembly under test has a first coupler portion attached to the gear assembly under test. The coupler has a polygonal cross-sectional configuration and a plurality of substantially planar surfaces that extend parallel to the predetermined length of axis, in the form of an assembly nut of the gear assembly under test at a rotatory terminal thereof. A second coupler portion is coupled to the drive arrangement and has an internal cross-sectional configuration that accommodates the polygonal cross-sectional configuration of the first coupler portion. The second coupler portion has a plurality of engagement portions that communicate exclusively with a predetermined number of the substantially planar surfaces of the first coupler portion, and is axially translatable along the first coupler portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Veri-Tek International Corp.
    Inventors: James C. Juranitch, Robert D. Olschefski
  • Patent number: 6763573
    Abstract: A more reliable and fool-proof method and apparatus for assembling an article of assembly (e.g. with predetermined screw torque requirements) in which the article of assembly has multiple fastening locations. The method comprises holding the article of assembly fixed while providing at least two different types of targets fixed relative to the article of assembly that correspond to the individual fastening locations. Fasteners are fastened into the article of assembly at the fastening locations. When fastening is occurring at one of the fastening locations, one of the targets is being sensed. Based on the target sensed, a target output is generated that differentiates between different types of targets thereby indicating fastening location of the fastening tool. The electronic target output is used for electronic control such as for stopping a conveyor to keep the article of assembly at an assembly station until the fastening operations have been completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: LMS-Walt, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Walt, II, Samuel A. Walt
  • Patent number: 6758105
    Abstract: A magnetoelastic torque sensor assembly is provided for sensing torsion load of a shaft, such as an automotive steering column. The assembly includes a molded plastic body that defines an axial channel and includes an axial opening. The assembly also includes a U-shaped lead frame that is embedded within the molded plastic body and includes side portions that extend within side sections of the molded plastic body about the channel. Magnetic flux sensors are embedded in the side sections of the molded plastic body and connected to the lead frame. For use, the shaft is radially received through the axial opening in the molded plastic body and coaxially positioned within the channel. The magnetic flux sensors are positioned about the shaft in a predetermined and fixed arrangement. The sensor array preferably includes sensors that are disposed in a plane through the axis, either diametrically opposed or axially spaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Louis Viola, John Francis Laidlaw
  • Publication number: 20040107780
    Abstract: A method and processor for obtaining torques to be applied to joints of a leg of a biped walking system are provided. The method comprises the steps of obtaining moments acting around the joints of the leg, using the vertical component of the ground reaction force acting on the leg at the point of application of the ground reaction force, the vertical components of forces acting on the joints of the leg and a term of the acceleration of gravity and without using the horizontal components of the forces acting on the joints of the leg and a term of acceleration except the term of the acceleration of gravity and obtaining the torques to be applied to the joints of the leg, based on the moments acting around the joints of the leg. The vertical component of the ground reaction force acting on the leg, is obtained based on which leg or legs are in contact with the ground. The processor is configured to perform the above steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventors: Masakazu Kawai, Yasushi Ikeuchi, Behzad Dariush
  • Patent number: 6742401
    Abstract: A device for measuring torque and the direction of rotation in a drive assembly, has a torsion element (9) which can be torque-loaded and rotatingly driven for the purpose of transmitting torque around an axis of rotation (8). A first transmitter element (16) attached in a rotationally fast way to the torsion element (9). The first transmitter element (16) is moved on a first rotational circle. A second transmitter element (34) is positioned at a reference distance from the first transmitter element 16. The second transmitter element (34) is connected in a rotationally fast way to the torsion element (9) and is moved on a second rotational circle. A sensor unit 35 is fixed and arranged at a distance from the axis of rotation (8). The sensor unit (35) senses the passage of the transmitter elements 16, 34 or of a reference edge or a reference surface and generates a corresponding sequence of signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: GKN Walterscheid GmbH
    Inventors: Eberhard Wilks, Holger Jung
  • Patent number: 6725734
    Abstract: A rotation sensor functioning as both a rotation-angle sensor and a torque sensor is provided which, when applied to a steering sensor for an automobile, for example, permits reduction in the number of components and thus in the weight of the automobile and contributes to conservation of global environment. The rotation sensor has slip rings covered with conductive synthetic resin having small coefficient of friction, allowing the contact pressure of brushes disposed in sliding contact with the slip rings to be kept low and the life duration of the slip rings to be prolonged. Further, no metal powder is produced when the brushes slide on the respective slip rings, and it is therefore possible to prevent the formation of unwanted insulating film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomoaki Toratani, Toshiro Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morimoto, Kyutaro Abe, Masahiro Hasegawa, Akira Noguchi, Kosuke Yamawaki
  • Publication number: 20040069073
    Abstract: A control system is operable to selectably activate shock damping devices associated with a bicycle so as to eliminate bobbing encountered under extreme pedaling conditions. The system includes a crank axle torque detector which operates to detect a level of torque applied to a crank axle and provide a control signal corresponding to the level of torque. A shock damping device is coupled to the frame of the cycle, and functions to absorb and dampen mechanical shocks communicated to the frame. The shock damping device includes an activator for controlling its damping function. The activator is operable to receive the control signal from the crank axle torque detector and control the shock damping device in response thereto. The control signal may be an electrical or a mechanical signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Larry D. Miller
  • Patent number: 6718831
    Abstract: A screwer test bench includes a coupling designed for coupling with the head of a screwer. The coupling is connected to a braking unit through a sensor unit for detection of mechanical magnitudes transmitted between the coupling and the braking unit. The braking unit includes a cap connected to the coupling and a movable member thrust on command in the brake operation direction. The movable member is constrained against rotation around the brake axis by an inextensible wall with a configuration deformable in the braking direction. Advantageously the wall is in the form of a bellows into which is fed pressurized fluid to bring about its elongation and operate the brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: BLM S.a.s. di L. Bareggi & C.
    Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi
  • Patent number: 6715362
    Abstract: A screwer test bench including a coupling designed for coupling with the head of a screwer and a controlled braking unit. A sensor unit detects mechanical magnitudes transmitted between the coupling and the braking unit. The braking unit includes a brake with carbon friction surfaces in an oil bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: BLM S.a.s. di L. Bareggi & C.
    Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi
  • Patent number: 6694828
    Abstract: A device includes at least one magnetic field generator placed on a first plane of a right section of a shaft and at least one magnetic field detector placed in a second plane of a right section of the shaft. The detector produces a signal proportional to the torque following the relative angular shift of the field generator in relation to the detector, the magnetic field generator having a magnetic structure supported by support mechanisms connected to the turning shaft. The magnetic field detector is located roughly opposite the magnetic field generator and is supported by support mechanisms connected to the turning shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: The Torrington Company
    Inventor: Christophe Nicot
  • Publication number: 20040017118
    Abstract: A technique for establishing a value of a rotor parameter indirectly is provided. The rotor parameter may be electrical resistance of the rotor, rotor temperature, rotor current, rotor torque, etc. The technique may comprise obtaining other motor data and data obtained during operation of the motor directly and then using an algorithm to establish an estimated value of the rotor parameter. A system for establishing an estimated value of a rotor parameter also is provided. In addition, an electric motor having a system that is operable to establish an estimated value of a rotor parameter is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Yehia El-Ibiary
  • Patent number: 6681646
    Abstract: A multicomponent measuring capable of measuring strains wheel having a hub, a rim, and a measuring element arranged between the hub and the rim and having strain gauges. The measuring element is a one-piece element and has an axis of rotation substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the multicomponent measuring wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Gerarld Bacher, Dieter Dörrie
  • Patent number: 6662637
    Abstract: The present invention provides a map preparing method for an engine testing apparatus or a vehicle testing apparatus capable of preventing a peculiar driving state from being generated. The method includes varying a throttle valve from its fully closed position to its fully opened position while maintaining a constant engine rotation number, carrying out operation for storing an output torque Nm at that time using at least three kinds of different engine rotation numbers, determining each obtained torque curves A˜E as actual machine data, and preparing a map based on the actual machine date.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Horiba, Ltd
    Inventors: Hideki Nakanishi, Shinji Noguchi, Yasuhiro Ogawa
  • Patent number: 6662671
    Abstract: A method of collecting test data for a gear set includes loading the gear set to a testing device having a first motor which is an input drive motor and a second motor which is an output drag motor, establishing a set-point torque value, running the drive motor at a fixed speed, measuring the output torque at the drag motor, comparing the output torque to the set-point torque, adjusting the input torque, repeating the steps of measuring the output torque at the second motor, comparing the output torque to the set-point torque, and adjusting the input torque until the output torque matches the set-point torque value, and collecting test data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Kopp, Gregory Paul Kopp, Peter Jacobsen
  • Patent number: 6651493
    Abstract: A dynamometer provides an apparatus and method for testing a torque converter without requiring that an automotive transmission be attached. The dynamometer includes a prime mover mounted on a frame for driving the torque converter. A dynamic loading device with an eddy current brake is movably mounted on the frame. An adapter extends between the loading device and the torque converter and has passages for routing hydraulic fluid to and from the torque converter. Sensors connected to a computer monitor pressures, temperatures and fluid flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Hicklin Engineering, L.C.
    Inventors: John E. Myers, Randy A. Nation, Lawrence G. Kruse
  • Patent number: 6651519
    Abstract: A device for measuring torque in a drive assembly includes a torque-loaded torsion element (9), such as a shaft, and a reference element (21) surrounding the torsion element (9). The reference element is correspondingly tubular in shape. A first tube end (22) of the reference element (21) is firmly connected to a first shaft end (10) of the torsion element (9). A second tube end (24) of the reference element (21) is supported on the second shaft end (11) of the torsion element (9). The two tube ends (22, 24) are each associated with a transmitter element (16, 34). The relative position of the transmitter elements (16, 34) in the direction of rotation around the rotational axis (8) is recorded by a sensor element (35). The sensor (35) is associated with a housing (1). The sensor (35) generates a signal each time the two transmitter elements (16, 34) pass and transmits signals to an evaluation unit (36). The evaluation unit (36) determines the torque applied from the offset of the signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: GKN Walterscheid GmbH
    Inventors: Eberhard Wilks, Andreas Lohmuller
  • Patent number: 6651489
    Abstract: A detecting device for a cycle includes a sprocket rotatably secured on a shaft, the shaft has an actuator for actuating the sprocket to rotate relative to the shaft. A device may be used for detecting the angular displacement between the shaft and the sprocket, in order to obtain or to calculate the power and the energy and the torque required to rotate the shaft and to drive the cycle. The motor device for driving the cycle may be actuated with less energy while moving down hill. A greater energy may be applied to the motor device while climbing up the hill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Morgan Yang
  • Patent number: 6640651
    Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to detect efficiently and accurately small torque. A torque detector includes a first shaft portion (first torque detecting portion), a first strain gage, a second shaft portion (second torque detecting portion), and a second strain gage. The first strain gage is provided on the first shaft portion. The second shaft portion has lower rigidity than the first shaft portion. The second torque sensor is provided on the second shaft portion to measure smaller torque than the first strain gage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Exedy Corporation
    Inventor: Hisashi Honjo
  • Patent number: 6636792
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided that classifies a seat occupant into one of several different weight classes based on an estimated value of the seat occupant weight. An occupant's measured weight varies when the occupant's seating position changes or when the vehicle travels over adverse road conditions. A plurality of weight sensors are used to measure the weight exerted by a seat occupant against a seat bottom and are used to determine center of gravity for the seat occupant. A seat belt force sensor is also used to assist in classifying the seat occupant. Compensation factors using the seat belt force and center of gravity information are used to generate an estimated weight value. The estimated value of the occupant weight is compared to a series of upper and lower weight thresholds assigned to each of the weight classes to generate an occupant weight sample class. Over a period of time, several estimated weight values are compared to the weight class thresholds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Harald Lichtinger, Brian M. Curtis, Robert Graf, Daniel Reich, Scott Morrell, Maria Kremer
  • Patent number: 6629055
    Abstract: A device used for measuring the angle of torque beyond a specific reference point. The device is comprised of a tool that applies torque to a fastener, an adapter that is attached to the fastener to transfer the torque from the tool, and an apparatus that connects a first end to the tool and a second end to the adapter. The apparatus comprises an angle selector that is adjustable to the desired torque angle, an angle rate sensor that measures the speed and direction of the torque applied, a processor which calculates the current angle from the rate sensor measurements, a zero point indicator that serves as the basis point for the processor to calculate the selected angle, and an angle indicator that alerts as to the torque angle calculated by the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Phillip McGee, Durval Ribeiro
  • Patent number: 6622576
    Abstract: A torque sensor is provided with a coil whose inductance changes in accordance with variation in torque acting on an object. The torque is detected on the basis of the inductance of the coil. Specifically, the torque sensor includes a first oscillation circuit for detecting the inductance of the coil and for oscillating a signal having a period corresponding to the detected inductance. The period of the signal generated by the first oscillation circuit is detected by a period detection section. A torque detection section detects the torque on the basis of the period detected by the period detection section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Toyoda Koki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Jiro Nakano, Ichiro Nagashima, Hisashi Oue, Takatsugu Asano, Takeshi Tsukamoto
  • Patent number: 6601441
    Abstract: A test device and method for verifying the proper operation of a dynamometer is described. The inventive test device is portable and simple to operate, allowing dynamometer accuracy to be readily tested in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventors: Garrett D. Torgerson, Michael J. St. Denis
  • Patent number: 6581478
    Abstract: Torque in a torsion member, such as a rotating shaft, is sensed by a piezoelectric element that is attached to the torsion member. The piezoelectric element has a resonant frequency that varies with changes in the torque and is part of a transducer oscillator that produces a first signal. A reference oscillator has a similar piezoelectric element and produces a second signal having a frequency that varies in response to environmental parameters. The first and second signals are heterodyned, thereby cancelling the effects due to environmental parameters acting on both piezoelectric elements and producing a resultant signal that has a frequency which corresponds to the torque applied to the torsion member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Birger Pahl, James E. Hansen, Matthew F. Planning, Robert H. Mathews
  • Patent number: 6560549
    Abstract: The present invention is adapted to provide a method for determining the torque of a driveshaft. In the preferred embodiment a drivetrain includes a front and a rear drivetrain. The drivetrain is also connected to an engine, torque converter, front and rear axle and a transmission. In one embodiment, the ability to determine the transmission output torque for an earth moving machine includes determining an output torque of the converter and a gear reduction of the engine, and then responsively determining the front and rear driveshaft torque in response to the converter output torque and the engine gear reduction. The driveshaft torque calculations may be performed while the earth moving machine is operating. The resulting front and rear driveshaft torque calculations may be used to determine an axle damage index, or axle life calculations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Andrew O. Fonkalsrud, Bradford A. Kough, Eric A. Reiners
  • Patent number: 6557425
    Abstract: A torque sensor is comprised of a torque detection coil for detecting a torque generated between an input shaft and an output shaft by detecting a change of a relative rotational position between a cover member fixed to the input shaft and a covered member fixed to the output shaft as a change of impedance of a torque detection coil. The cover member is located between the covered member and the torque detection coil and has an outer cylinder portion which extends from an outer periphery of the cover member along a circumferential surface of the covered member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Unisia Jecs Corporation
    Inventors: Haruo Kamiya, Satoshi Kubosawa, Shigetoshi Kumazaki
  • Patent number: 6557397
    Abstract: A process for evaluating the quality of a printing ink is provided, wherein a defined quantity of the printing ink is stirred; a force or torque to be applied during the stirring is measured, and a defined quantity of moistening agent is added to the ink at a defined point in time. A device for evaluating the quality of the printing ink is also provided with a container for the printing ink; a stirring device, with which an ink filled into the container can be stirred; a measuring device for measuring the force to be applied by the stirring device or the torque to be applied; a moistening agent supply and a control, which actuates the feed of moistening agent such that a predetermined quantity of moistening agent is introduced into the container at a defined point in time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Wifag
    Inventor: Robert Langsch
  • Publication number: 20030083793
    Abstract: An engine testing system has a speed control system which controls at least one of an engine speed and a dynamo speed. The control system comprises a mechanical transfer function which receives an engine torque and a dynamo torque and outputs an engine speed, the axial torque and a dynamo speed, an electric transfer function which receives a command dynamo torque and outputs the dynamo torque, and a speed controller which receives one of a command engine speed and a command dynamo speed and at least one of the engine speed and the dynamo speed, and outputs the command dynamo torque. A transfer function representative of the speed controller is designed using the structured singular value synthesis method so as to be adapted to the mechanical transfer function and the electric transfer function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA MEIDENSHA
    Inventors: Takao Akiyama, Masayasu Kanke
  • Patent number: 6546814
    Abstract: Torque information of a rotating machine may be determined by counting a number of discrete samples representing a rotation of a rotating component. If the number of discrete samples representing the rotation of the rotating component changes, it may be assumed that the torque has changed due to a change in loading placed on the rotating machine. The amount of change in torque may be determined by determining the amount of change in the number of discrete samples representing the rotation of the rotating component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Textron Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Howard C. Choe, Jonathan M. Glesmann
  • Publication number: 20030051560
    Abstract: A physical amount estimating apparatus including first outputting means for outputting a first physical amount that does not include a hysteresis characteristic, second outputting means for outputting a second physical amount that has a predetermined physical relationship to the first physical amount and includes a hysteresis characteristic, hysteresis removing means for calculating a corrected value with the hysteresis characteristic removed therefrom based on the second physical amount, and estimating means for estimating a third physical amount based on a physical relationship between the first physical amount and the corrected value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHO
    Inventors: Eiichi Ono, Yoshitoshi Watanabe, Masanori Miyashita, Yuji Muragishi, Katsuhiro Asano
  • Publication number: 20020148304
    Abstract: An outer cylinder having patterns of open windows of first to fourth channels is formed of a magnetic-shielding or antimagnetic substance. An inner cylinder is inserted in the outer cylinder, is formed of a magnetic substance and has patterns of nonmagnetic windows of the first to fourth channels. First to fourth coils excitable by A.C. are provided for the first to fourth channels. For each of the channels, the pattern of the open window in the outer cylinder and the pattern of the nonmagnetic window in the inner cylinder are arranged to overlap with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Applicant: Atsutoshi GOTO
    Inventors: Atsutoshi Goto, Kazuya Sakamoto, Hiroshi Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 6463399
    Abstract: A rotation angular speed detection apparatus that accurately detects a low rotation angular speed of a rotating body includes: a receiving part for receiving rotation angles at predetermined time intervals from a rotation angle sensor that detects rotation angles of a rotating body; a storage part for storing received rotation angles; and a control part. When the difference between a first arbitrary angle stored and a second angle stored before the first angle is less than a predetermined value, the control part determines, from the stored rotation angles, a third angle in which a difference between the first angle and the third angle is more than the predetermined value, and the control part divides the difference between the first angle and the third angle by the time required from storing of the third angle to storing of the first angle to detect a rotation angular speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Sanpei, Hironori Kato, Toshiyuki Hoshi
  • Publication number: 20020139200
    Abstract: A method is provided for testing and setting the position of a position sensor for a transmission. A shift control shaft is provided, and the position sensor is positioned to align with the shift control shaft, and provide a shift position output. A position sensor testing device is installed to test position rotation of the position sensor as the shift control shaft is moved through shift positions. The tested position rotation of the position sensor is compared with a predetermined window of accurate positioning for the position sensor. Finally, the position of the position sensor is set based on the comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Applicant: Honda of America, Mfg., Inc.
    Inventor: Brent C. Rankin
  • Patent number: 6450045
    Abstract: A torque sensing calibration unit comprises a hollow torsion bar (2) to which torque is to be applied, associated with two or more pairs or positions sensors (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15) each pair being arranged to measure movement of the bar on diametrically opposite sides of a central axis through the bar (2). The pairs of sensors are arranged to measure movement in mutually perpendicular directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Crane Electronics Ltd.
    Inventors: David Ogilvie Crane, Hedley Lloyd Quinton
  • Patent number: 6443019
    Abstract: A torque sensor has a generator whose output signal is a function of a torque, a second signal generator, whose output signal changes in an opposite direction as a function of the torque, and an evaluation device which has a summing means which is connected to the two signal generators. For this purpose, connected to an integrator whose output is connected to a first input of a comparator whose second input is connected to the output of the comparator reset input of the integrator output of the torque sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens Corporation
    Inventors: Wolfgang Porth, Lother Gier
  • Patent number: 6431012
    Abstract: A torque sensor between a rotary input element driven by an engine and a coaxial output element connected to a continuously variable transmission in the power train of a motor vehicle has a plenum chamber for a supply of hydraulic fluid. The chamber is defined by two coaxial valve members of a pressure reducing valve. One valve member is connected to the output element and is movable axially relative to the other valve member, which rotates with the input element, to change the fluid pressure in the chamber. An inlet opening of the valve serves to connect the chamber with the outlet of a pump which supplies pressurized fluid, and such opening is at least partially exposed in at least one first and sealed in at least one second position of the one valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbH
    Inventor: Ivo Agner
  • Patent number: 6427542
    Abstract: Two external rings and an internal ring form an assembly that is connected to a column so it rotates with it, to which column the torque to be measured is applied. Elastically deformable members connect the internal ring to one external ring, and the other external ring remaining essentially unstressed. A measurement device, such as, for example, a probe having at least one with Hall effect device, measures relative displacement of the two external rings to determine the torque applied. The invention also concerns the steering devices equipped with such torque sensors, for example, for power or assisted steering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: The Torrington Company
    Inventor: Christophe Nicot
  • Publication number: 20020078761
    Abstract: An angle measuring system that includes a stator and a rotor for measuring an angular position between a stationary first object and a second object, which is rotatable about an axis of rotation. A coupling couples the stator to the stationary first object so that the stator is fixed against relative twisting, but is also radially and/or axially resilient. A mounting element that clamps a face of the stationary first object by expanding in a radial direction with respect to the axis of rotation. An expansion element that interacts with the mounting element so as to cause the expanding in a radial direction and a screw that actuates the expansion element, wherein the screw is screwed into the stationary first object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Hermann Meyer
  • Patent number: 6386052
    Abstract: A torque sensor which does not require complicated neutral adjustment using a position adjustment mechanism or the like, which is capable of reducing cost and heat generation, improving reliability and realizing a one-system detection circuit. A torque sensor has a control calculating portion for varying operation timing of a coil for detecting torque and sample holding timing and a storage portion for storing an initial value of each element of the torque sensor. The torque is detected on the basis of sampling of transition voltage of the coil and a comparison with the initial value in the storage portion is made during detection of the torque is not being performed so that a failure of each element of the torque sensor is detected. Another torque sensor structured to detect torque in accordance with transient voltages which are generated in the portion in which coils and electric resistors are connected to each other is enabled to detect an abnormality of short circuit between a pair of the coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: NSK Ltd.
    Inventors: Kouichi Satoh, Toshiyuki Onizuka, Kazuo Chikaraishi
  • Patent number: 6382034
    Abstract: A torque sensing unit, sensor unit, and method for manufacturing the torque sensing unit. The torque sensing unit includes a first shaft and a second shaft rotatably arranged in a coaxial fashion, and a torsion bar for allowing a rotational displacement in response to a torque between the first shaft and the second shaft. Magnetic elements are used in conjunction with the shafts for sensing a reluctance which is changed in compliance with rotational phase differences between the magnetic elements. A sensor module is prepared in which the magnetic elements are temporarily fixed to have a predetermined neutral rotational phase difference. This temporary fixture is released after the first shaft 1, the second shaft 2, the torsion bar 3, and the sensor module have been assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuaki Yasui, Yutaka Ohashi
  • Publication number: 20020050177
    Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to detect efficiently and accurately small torque. A torque detector includes a first shaft portion (first torque detecting portion), a first strain gage, a second shaft portion (second torque detecting portion), and a second strain gage. The first strain gage is provided on the first shaft portion. The second shaft portion has lower rigidity than the first shaft portion. The second torque sensor is provided on the second shaft portion to measure smaller torque than the first strain gage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventor: Hisashi Honjo
  • Patent number: 6370967
    Abstract: A torque sensor having an improved detection accuracy is disclosed. The torque sensor includes a cylindrical stator. The stator is arranged to face a magnetostrictive member fixed to a shaft. The stator includes a stator body and two retainer rings. When assembling the stator body and the two retainer rings, a pair of exciting coils and a pair of detecting coils are accommodated in the inner wall of the stator. Joints between the stator body and the two retainer rings are not exposed to the inner surface of the stator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Kouketsu, Daisuke Satoh, Hiroshi Fukasaku, Takeshi Harasawa, Katsufumi Tanaka, Yoichiro Kashiwagi, Yasuharu Odachi
  • Patent number: 6370966
    Abstract: There is provided an input torque detecting device, in power steering, which converts a relative rotation of an input shaft and an output shaft into a movement in a direction of a shaft so as to detect torque. The input shaft 1 and the output shaft 3 are connected via a torsion bar 2 and also a sleeve 7 is installed at a common outer circumference of the input shaft 1 and the output shaft 3. The sleeve is connected to the input shaft 1 through helical splines 8a and 8b which extend in a direction diagonal to a shaft line and connected to the output shaft 3 through straight splines 9a and 9b which extend in a direction of a shaft line, respectively. Torsion of the torsion bar 2 based on input torque is detected as an amount of slide of the sleeve in a direction of a shaft line to be determined by the helical splines 8a and 8b.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Kayaba Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Nobuharu Naruse, Naomichi Tanigawa, Fusayoshi Kugiyama
  • Patent number: 6370968
    Abstract: A torque sensor having a simple structure and free from a torque detection error. The torque sensor comprises an elastic member for connecting a first shaft to a second shaft and generating torsion displacement between the first shaft and the second shaft according to torque between the first shaft and the second shaft, a ring-shaped movable electrode attached to the shafts so that it displaces in an axial direction according to a relative torsion angle between the first shaft and the second shaft, first and second fixed electrodes installed at locations where they do not turn together with the shafts, and detecting means for detecting capacitance between each of the first and second fixed electrodes and the movable electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuaki Yasui
  • Patent number: 6364352
    Abstract: A system for determining the weight of the occupant of a vehicle seat includes a hinge near the forward edge of the seat and a force sensor responsive to downward force at a point well to the rear of the hinge thereby indicating torque about the hinge. The system includes a microprocessor connected for receiving the output of the force sensor. The microprocessor may also receive outputs from an accelerometer responsive to vertical accelerations, a seat back recline angle sensor, a seat track position sensor, a seat belt tension sensor and an atmospheric pressure sensor. In a first embodiment the microprocessor determines the weight of the seat occupant from the outputs of the force sensor and the seat back recline sensor. In a second embodiment the microprocessor determines the weight of the seat occupant from the outputs of the force sensor, the seat back recline sensor and the seat track position sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Peter Norton
  • Publication number: 20020029642
    Abstract: There are provided a torque detection shaft loaded with a torque from outside, and a pair of magnetic field sensors and provided in the vicinity of a surface of the torque detection shaft. The torque detection shaft has magnetostrictive characteristics and also has six magnetization bands to magnetized in the circumferential direction of the torque detection shaft and polarized so that magnetization directions of the adjacent magnetization bands are opposite to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2000
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Kenjiro Soejima, Hitoshi Manta, Masaharu Baba, Toshiaki Yatani
  • Publication number: 20020029643
    Abstract: A drive coupling arrangement for transmitting torque from a drive arrangement to a gear assembly under test has a first coupler portion attached to the gear assembly under test. The coupler has a polygonal cross-sectional configuration and a plurality of substantially planar surfaces that extend parallel to the predetermined length of axis, in the form of an assembly nut of the gear assembly under test at a rotatory terminal thereof. A second coupler portion is coupled to the drive arrangement and has an internal cross-sectional configuration that accommodates the polygonal cross-sectional configuration of the first coupler portion. The second coupler portion has a plurality of engagement portions that communicate exclusively with a predetermined number of the substantially planar surfaces of the first coupler portion, and is axially translatable along the first coupler portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: James C. Juranitch, Robert D. Olschefski
  • Patent number: 6354156
    Abstract: A torque sensor has a first signal generator whose output signal changes as a function of a torque, a second signal generator whose output signal changes in the opposite direction as a function of the torque, and a circuit which has a difference-forming unit and a summing device. The output signal of each signal generator passes through an amplifier whose gain is controlled and identical for both output signals and the amplified output signals are present on the difference-forming unit and on the summing device the output of the summing device being connected to a controller which controls the gain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Porth, Lother Gier
  • Patent number: 6347554
    Abstract: This assembly is a torque measuring device that measures the torque output a tool is producing. A hollow torsion tube connects the tool to a reaction arm through the assembly. A torque transducer is attached to the side of the torsion tube. The ends of the torque transducer are attached in a way that transfers the torque output of the tool to the torsion tube. The transducer produces an electrical signal directly proportional to the amount of twisting that occurs in the torsion tube and transducer. A handle also is attached to the torsion tube in a way that allows the handle to rotate 360° around the torsion tube. Since the operator holds the handle instead of the tool, the operators influence on the tool's torque output is removed, increasing the accuracy of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: C.E. Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip L. Klingler