Responsive To Torque Patents (Class 73/862.08)
- For making or breaking threaded connections (e.g., torque measuring wrenches) (Class 73/862.21)
- With recording or totalizing means (Class 73/862.27)
- With electrical computation of horsepower (Class 73/862.28)
- By measuring reaction forces of a prime mover (Class 73/862.29)
- By measuring reaction forces of transmission gearing (Class 73/862.31)
- By measuring elastic deformation of a torque transmitting member (Class 73/862.321)
- By measuring the fluid pressure of a hydraulic coupling (Class 73/862.37)
- By measuring angular acceleration (Class 73/862.192)
- By measuring an electrical or magnetic characteristic of a torque delivering electric motor (Class 73/862.193)
- By measuring tension in a drive belt or chain (Class 73/862.194)
- By converting transmitted torque into axial force (Class 73/862.195)
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Patent number: 6820504Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomoaki Toratani, Toshiro Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morimoto, Kyutaro Abe, Masahiro Hasegawa, Akira Noguchi, Kosuke Yamawaki
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Publication number: 20040182174Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Applicant: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomoaki Toratani, Toshiro Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morimoto, Kyutaro Abe, Masahiro Hasegawa, Akira Noguchi, Kosuke Yamawaki
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Patent number: 6772644Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 2, 2001Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Veri-Tek International Corp.Inventors: James C. Juranitch, Robert D. Olschefski
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Patent number: 6763573Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 19, 2001Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: LMS-Walt, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Walt, II, Samuel A. Walt
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Patent number: 6758105Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey Louis Viola, John Francis Laidlaw
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Publication number: 20040107780Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2003Publication date: June 10, 2004Inventors: Masakazu Kawai, Yasushi Ikeuchi, Behzad Dariush
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Patent number: 6742401Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: GKN Walterscheid GmbHInventors: Eberhard Wilks, Holger Jung
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Patent number: 6725734Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 11, 2002Date of Patent: April 27, 2004Assignee: The Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomoaki Toratani, Toshiro Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morimoto, Kyutaro Abe, Masahiro Hasegawa, Akira Noguchi, Kosuke Yamawaki
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Publication number: 20040069073Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventor: Larry D. Miller
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Patent number: 6718831Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 20, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: BLM S.a.s. di L. Bareggi & C.Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi
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Patent number: 6715362Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: BLM S.a.s. di L. Bareggi & C.Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi
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Patent number: 6694828Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 3, 1999Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: The Torrington CompanyInventor: Christophe Nicot
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Publication number: 20040017118Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2002Publication date: January 29, 2004Inventor: Yehia El-Ibiary
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Patent number: 6681646Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 5, 1999Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Gerarld Bacher, Dieter Dörrie
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Patent number: 6662637Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 26, 2000Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Horiba, LtdInventors: Hideki Nakanishi, Shinji Noguchi, Yasuhiro Ogawa
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Patent number: 6662671Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gary E. Kopp, Gregory Paul Kopp, Peter Jacobsen
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Patent number: 6651493Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 3, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Hicklin Engineering, L.C.Inventors: John E. Myers, Randy A. Nation, Lawrence G. Kruse
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Patent number: 6651519Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: GKN Walterscheid GmbHInventors: Eberhard Wilks, Andreas Lohmuller
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Patent number: 6651489Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Morgan Yang
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Patent number: 6640651Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Exedy CorporationInventor: Hisashi Honjo
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Patent number: 6636792Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 27, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive CorporationInventors: Harald Lichtinger, Brian M. Curtis, Robert Graf, Daniel Reich, Scott Morrell, Maria Kremer
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Patent number: 6629055Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: SPX CorporationInventors: Phillip McGee, Durval Ribeiro
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Patent number: 6622576Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 31, 1999Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: Toyoda Koki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Jiro Nakano, Ichiro Nagashima, Hisashi Oue, Takatsugu Asano, Takeshi Tsukamoto
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Patent number: 6601441Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 31, 2000Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Inventors: Garrett D. Torgerson, Michael J. St. Denis
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Patent number: 6581478Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 5, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Birger Pahl, James E. Hansen, Matthew F. Planning, Robert H. Mathews
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Patent number: 6560549Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 22, 1997Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Caterpillar IncInventors: Andrew O. Fonkalsrud, Bradford A. Kough, Eric A. Reiners
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Patent number: 6557425Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 20, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Unisia Jecs CorporationInventors: Haruo Kamiya, Satoshi Kubosawa, Shigetoshi Kumazaki
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Patent number: 6557397Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Maschinenfabrik WifagInventor: Robert Langsch
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Publication number: 20030083793Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2002Publication date: May 1, 2003Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA MEIDENSHAInventors: Takao Akiyama, Masayasu Kanke
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Patent number: 6546814Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 13, 1999Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Textron Systems CorporationInventors: Howard C. Choe, Jonathan M. Glesmann
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Publication number: 20030051560Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2002Publication date: March 20, 2003Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA CHUO KENKYUSHOInventors: Eiichi Ono, Yoshitoshi Watanabe, Masanori Miyashita, Yuji Muragishi, Katsuhiro Asano
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Publication number: 20020148304Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2002Publication date: October 17, 2002Applicant: Atsutoshi GOTOInventors: Atsutoshi Goto, Kazuya Sakamoto, Hiroshi Sakamoto
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Patent number: 6463399Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 5, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshio Sanpei, Hironori Kato, Toshiyuki Hoshi
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Publication number: 20020139200Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2002Publication date: October 3, 2002Applicant: Honda of America, Mfg., Inc.Inventor: Brent C. Rankin
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Patent number: 6450045Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 12, 1999Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Crane Electronics Ltd.Inventors: David Ogilvie Crane, Hedley Lloyd Quinton
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Patent number: 6443019Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 26, 1999Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Siemens CorporationInventors: Wolfgang Porth, Lother Gier
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Patent number: 6431012Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 16, 1999Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventor: Ivo Agner
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Patent number: 6427542Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 3, 1999Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Assignee: The Torrington CompanyInventor: Christophe Nicot
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Publication number: 20020078761Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2001Publication date: June 27, 2002Inventor: Hermann Meyer
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Patent number: 6386052Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 14, 1999Date of Patent: May 14, 2002Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Kouichi Satoh, Toshiyuki Onizuka, Kazuo Chikaraishi
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Patent number: 6382034Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 27, 2000Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Katsuaki Yasui, Yutaka Ohashi
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Publication number: 20020050177Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2001Publication date: May 2, 2002Inventor: Hisashi Honjo
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Patent number: 6370967Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 24, 1999Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki SeisakushoInventors: Yoshitaka Kouketsu, Daisuke Satoh, Hiroshi Fukasaku, Takeshi Harasawa, Katsufumi Tanaka, Yoichiro Kashiwagi, Yasuharu Odachi
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Patent number: 6370966Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 15, 1999Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Kayaba Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Nobuharu Naruse, Naomichi Tanigawa, Fusayoshi Kugiyama
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Patent number: 6370968Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 23, 1999Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Katsuaki Yasui
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Patent number: 6364352Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 9, 1999Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Peter Norton
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Publication number: 20020029642Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2000Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: Kenjiro Soejima, Hitoshi Manta, Masaharu Baba, Toshiaki Yatani
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Publication number: 20020029643Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: James C. Juranitch, Robert D. Olschefski
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Patent number: 6354156Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 26, 1999Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AGInventors: Wolfgang Porth, Lother Gier
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Patent number: 6347554Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 29, 2000Date of Patent: February 19, 2002Assignee: C.E. Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Phillip L. Klingler