Detecting Magnetostrictive Or Magnetoelastic Property Patents (Class 73/862.333)
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Patent number: 9284998Abstract: A freewheel hub and a bicycle, pedelec, fast pedelec or e-bike comprising this freewheel hub is provided. The freewheel hub includes a rotating hub shell for carrying a free running wheel. Torque is coupled to the rotating hub shell via a torque transmitting member. At least one magneto-elastically active region is directly or indirectly attached to or forms a part of the torque transmitting member in such a manner that the applied torque is transmitted to the active region including at least one magnetically polarized region. The magnetic polarization becomes increasingly helically shaped as the applied torque increases. A magneto-elastic sensor including at least one magnetic field sensor is arranged proximate to the at least one magneto-elastically active region for outputting a signal corresponding to a torque-induced magnetic flux emanating from the magnetically polarized region.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2014Date of Patent: March 15, 2016Assignee: Methode Electronics Malta Ltd.Inventor: Johannes Gieβibl
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Patent number: 9250147Abstract: Sensors for outputting signals indicative of a rate of change of torque experienced by a magnetized member in response to a change in torque experienced by the member are described. Such sensors include at least one sense element capable of detecting a change in a magnetic parameter of a magnetized region of the member positioned proximate to the sense element in response to a change in torque applied to the member. Devices for detecting and/or measuring rates of changes in or of torque that employ one or more of these sensors are also described, as are various applications for such devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 2, 2016Assignee: MagCanica, Inc.Inventors: Ivan J. Garshelis, Ryan J. Kari, Stijn P. L. Tollens
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Patent number: 9234811Abstract: A magnetoelastic torque sensor (1) has an emission coil (7) for generating a magnetic field in an object (3), the torque of which is to be determined. The emission coil is axially oriented (A) and has an axial emission coil end surface (15) which can be guided towards the object (3). At least two reception coils (9, 33, 43) at a distance from the emission coil and having, respectively, a receiving coil end surface (17) which can be guided towards the object (3) to capture a response signal induced in the object (3) by the magnetic field of the emission coil (7, 31, 41). At least the receiver coil end surface (17) of one of the receiver coils protrudes beyond the emission coil end surface (15) to a selected distance from the object (3).Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2012Date of Patent: January 12, 2016Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Hans-Gerd Brummel, Uwe Linnert, Carl Udo Maier, Jochen Ostermaier, Uwe Pfeifer
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Patent number: 9200981Abstract: A method of analyzing an engine for misfire activity includes receiving an electrical signal associated with a plurality of cycles of the engine, identifying energy spikes in the electrical signal associated with cylinder firings in the engine, generating engine speed estimates based on spacing between the energy spikes, and analyzing anomalies in the engine speed estimates to identify misfire activity in the engine. Also described is a method of analyzing an engine for misfire activity including receiving an electrical signal associated with the engine, detecting AC ripple in the electrical signal, generating engine speed estimates in response to the detected AC ripple, and analyzing anomalies in the engine speed estimates to identify misfire activity in the engine.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: December 1, 2015Assignee: Thompson Automotive Labs LLCInventors: Eric G. Horlbeck, John Thompson, Emery Carr, Allen C. Eberhardt
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Patent number: 9086460Abstract: The invention relates to an object's state or properties being monitored, such as a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) or other type of electrical battery containing one or more LFP or other type of electrical battery cell within the battery, and one or more sensors for measuring the state or property of the object, such as the state of charge of the battery cells, by measuring the magnetic susceptibility or other properties, such as the magnetic susceptibility of electrolyte or the electrodes within the battery cells. The state of charge of the battery cells within the battery are monitored by the one or more sensors, which are coupled to electrical circuits.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2010Date of Patent: July 21, 2015Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Maria F. Rice, Christopher Jones
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Patent number: 9075417Abstract: Methods provide for the controlled application of forces to a structure during leveling and securing procedures. According to embodiments described herein, a structure is supported at a number of support locations. An upward force is applied to the structure by the force application devices to counteract an equivalent downward force from the structure at each support location. The forces applied by the force application devices are monitored to detect whenever one or more of the upward forces deviates outside of a threshold range of force values, which includes a quantity of force sufficient to counteract internal forces within a material of the structure. Each force may be adjusted to ensure no deviation outside of the allowed threshold range.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2014Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Bobby Joe Marsh, Kinson D. VanScotter
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Publication number: 20150114139Abstract: An on-vehicle detector includes a torque detecting portion for magnetically detecting a torque transmitted to a rotating shaft rotated by steering operation, and a rotation detecting portion for magnetically detecting a rotation of the rotating shaft. The rotation detecting portion includes a magnet with a pair of magnetic poles and a magnetic detection element, the magnet being disposed on a side of the rotating shaft so as to rotate simultaneously with the rotating shaft and the magnetic detection element being disposed on a side of the rotating shaft to detect a change in magnetic flux density caused by the magnet approaching or moving away in accordance with the rotation of the rotating shaft. The magnet is disposed such that the pair of magnetic poles is aligned along a circumferential direction of the rotating shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2014Publication date: April 30, 2015Inventors: Yuta Kataoka, Kensaku Hotta
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Patent number: 8960021Abstract: A non-contact type torque and angle of rotation sensing device consisting of a magnetic member, sensing members and a computing unit for measuring a torque being applied to rotate a transmission member and the angle of rotation of said transmission member in a first axial direction is disclosed. The magnetic member defines a first center, and is mounted on and rotatable with the transmission member. The magnetic member deflects relative to the transmission member in a nonparallel manner relative to the first axial direction when rotating with the transmission member. Sensing members induce a magnetic field variation to output respective electrical signals that exhibit a phase difference there between. The computing unit receives and calculates the electrical signals of the sensing member to obtain the amplitude and to further translate the amplitude into torque value and angle of rotation.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2012Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignees: Giant Electric Vehicle Kunshan Co., Ltd., National Yunlin University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Shang-Teh Wu, Szu-Hsien Wu, Yi-Chang Wu
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Patent number: 8939038Abstract: Disclosed is a torque index sensor, the sensor including a housing, a stator mounted at a space inside the housing, a magnet arranged inside the stator to rotate with a rotation shaft, a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) fixedly mounted inside the housing and mounted with a first magnetic element outputting a magnetization signal in response to rotation of the magnet, at least one or more fixing bosses protrusively formed at the housing, and a collector having a plurality of through holes penetratively formed at a position corresponding to that of the fixing boss and concentrating a magnetic field for guiding a magnetic flux of the magnet, wherein the fixing boss is thermally fused after passing the through hole to tightly fix the collector at an inner surface of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2012Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: LG Innotek Co., Ltd.Inventor: Myungchul Woo
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Patent number: 8933693Abstract: In various embodiments, apparatus and methods of operating the apparatus are provided to determine existence and location of parasitic stress threes on a rod portion, the rod portion made of a magnetostrictive material and having a hollow tube. The apparatus may include a device comprising an envelope made of a non-magnetic material, a magnetic field source disposed inside the envelope, a motor to set the magnetic field source in rotational motion on the inside of the envelope, and a sensor to measure a value of the magnetic field and to deliver a signal representative of the value of the magnetic field. Operation of the apparatus may include penetration of the envelope into a portion of the hollow tube of the rod portion and translation of the envelope along the portion of the hollow tube. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2012Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Inventors: Jean-Pierre Martin, Phillippe Broun, Jean-Louis Coulomb, Vincent Bongiraud
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Patent number: 8931355Abstract: The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a torque sensing gear structure of an electronic bike, which uses a torque sensing unit mounted on the driving shaft of the bike to detect the torque generated by the user's feet when he/she is riding the bike so as to calculate the resistance generated by the user and to drive the electronic driving device to support the user for riding the bike. By this way, the loading of riding the bike could be reduced instantly.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2013Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Inventor: Yung-Sung Huang
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Publication number: 20140360285Abstract: The invention provides a method for reducing the noise in a signal from a torque sensor caused by near magnetic field sources.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2014Publication date: December 11, 2014Applicant: Methode Electronics Malta Ltd.Inventors: Ignazio Barraco, Assed Mir, Johannes Gießibl
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Patent number: 8893562Abstract: A torque sensing device for measuring the torque applied to a rotatable shaft, and also measuring the magnetic field noise affecting the device. The device incorporates a switching function thereby enabling the device to operate in a common signal detection mode and a differential noise detection mode. The device is capable of determining the torque applied to the rotatable shaft based upon output signals obtained from magnetic field sensors operating in both the common signal detection mode and the differential noise detection mode. The device is capable of accurately measuring a torque induced magnetic field and is capable of canceling measurement error resulting from noise induced magnetic fields.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2011Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Ignazio Barraco, Christopher Liston
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Publication number: 20140326077Abstract: A magnetostrictive torque sensor includes first to fourth detection coils each wound around a steering axle (a sensor shaft) so as to surround a magnetostrictive film formed on the sensor shaft and a multi-turn winding bias coil that is separated from the first to fourth detection coils and that is wound around the sensor shaft so as to surround the magnetostrictive film. By applying a DC component current to the bias coil, a sufficient bias magnetic field is applied to the magnetostrictive film so that the hysteresis is prevented.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2014Publication date: November 6, 2014Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Atsuhiko Yoneda, Yasuo Shimizu, Kouichi Fujita
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Publication number: 20140260685Abstract: A torque sensor arrangement including a contactless torque sensor, in which the torque sensor is arranged on an electrically operating linear carriage is provided. A distance sensor is also arranged on the linear carriage such that it allows the distance to the object of which the torque is to be determined to be measured.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2012Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventors: Hans-Gerd Brummel, Jurgen Gotz, Uwe Linnert, Carl Udo Maier, Jochen Ostermaier
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Patent number: 8836458Abstract: A magnetic torque sensing device having a disk-shaped member with a magnetoelastically active region. The magnetoelastically active region has oppositely polarized magnetically conditioned regions with initial directions of magnetization that are perpendicular to the sensitive directions of magnetic field sensor pairs placed proximate to the magnetically active region. Magnetic field sensors are specially positioned in relation to the disk-shaped member to accurately measure torque while providing improved RSU performance and reducing the detrimental effects of compassing.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2013Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Seong-Jae Lee
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Patent number: 8820180Abstract: A load sensor is provided comprising a magnetostrictive material and a wire. The magnetostrictive material may comprise an aperture, a first face, a second face, a thickness, and a first dado. The wire is disposed at least partially in the first dado, wherein the first dado at least partially transverses at least one of the first face and the second face, wherein the wire at least partially transverses the first face and the second face. The load sensor may also comprise a magnetostrictive material comprising an aperture, a first face, a second face, a thickness, and a first channel, and a wire disposed at least partially in the first channel, wherein the first channel at least partially transverses at least one of the first face and the second face, wherein the wire at least partially transverses the first face and the second face.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2009Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Goodrich CorporationInventor: Harald Klode
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Patent number: 8813578Abstract: A sensor system has a rotational angle sensor for detecting a rotational angle and a torque sensor for detecting a torque. The rotational angle sensor has a rotatable rotational angle transmitter having index elements. The torque sensor has a rotatable torque transmitter having magnets, which generate a magnetic field, and a magnetic flux unit for amplifying the magnetic field. The index elements and the magnetic flux unit are connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2011Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Udo Kaess, Axel Kaschner, Juergen Kurle, Lars Sodan, Holger Behrens
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Patent number: 8798889Abstract: A method for an automatic transmission includes measuring torque of a component of the transmission using a torque sensor in communication with the component. The torque of the component is estimated from information other than the measured torque. The measured torque is rejected from being used in a control operation of the transmission if the difference between the measured torque and the estimated torque is greater than a selected threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2010Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Yuji Fujii, Bradley Dean Riedle, Gregory Michael Pietron, Joseph F. Kucharski, Diana Yanakiev, Richard Reynolds Hathaway
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Patent number: 8776619Abstract: A small angle sensor for measuring steering shaft torque. The sensor includes a multi-pole magnet and one or more stators. Each of the one or more stators encompasses the outer circumference of the multi-pole magnet. Each of the one or more stators has a horizontal ring section having an inner circumference and an outer circumference; and a plurality of teeth. Each tooth extends in a vertical direction from the inner circumference of the horizontal ring section; and a lip extends in a vertical direction from the outer circumference of the horizontal ring section. The sensor also includes one or more collectors. Each of the one or more collectors encompasses only a portion of the lip of the one or more stators. The sensor includes one or more magnetic sensing elements. Each of the one or more magnetic sensing elements located proximate to the one or more collectors.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Bourns, Inc.Inventor: Todd Jammer
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Publication number: 20140174203Abstract: Torque transmitted via a drive shaft of a motor is contactlessly determined using organic magnetoresistive semiconductor element, unlike known torque sensors that can generate greatly fluctuating measurement signals even at a constant torque. The organic magnetoresistive semiconductor element is mounted on a drive shaft or a coupling thereof. For this purpose, a field generator is provided, which is rigidly connected to the drive shaft or the clutch and which in the environment of the drive shaft generates a magnetic field that is dependent upon the torque. In the environment, the OMR semiconductor element is arranged to be stationary. The OMR semiconductor element has two electrodes between which a voltage source generates an electrical voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2011Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Jörg Hassel, Gotthard Rieger, Roland Weiss, Hermann-Josef Wiegand
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Publication number: 20140150569Abstract: The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a torque sensing gear structure of an electronic bike, which uses a torque sensing unit mounted on the driving shaft of the bike to detect the torque generated by the user's feet when he/she is riding the bike so as to calculate the resistance generated by the user and to drive the electronic driving device to support the user for riding the bike. By this way, the loading of riding the bike could be reduced instantly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Inventor: Yung-Sung HUANG
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Patent number: 8701503Abstract: Disclosed are a magnetostrictive torque sensor and an electrical power steering device, wherein a first torque sensor has: one magnetostrictive film provided on a steering shaft; a first coil and a second coil that detect changes in the magnetic characteristics of the magnetostrictive film; and a first housing that contains, at least, the steering shaft, the magnetostrictive film, the first coil, and the second coil. The first housing has a resin part, a cylindrical part made of a metal that is soft magnetic, and a flange part made of a metal that is soft magnetic. The resin part, the cylindrical part, and the flange part are formed as a unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2010Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuo Shimizu, Atsuhiko Yoneda, Yutaka Arimura, Yoshihiro Oniwa
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Publication number: 20140102220Abstract: A magnetoelastic torque sensor (1) has an emission coil (7) for generating a magnetic field in an object (3), the torque of which is to be determined. The emission coil is axially oriented (A) and has an axial emission coil end surface (15) which can be guided towards the object (3). At least two reception coils (9, 33, 43) at a distance from the emission coil and having, respectively, a receiving coil end surface (17) which can be guided towards the object (3) to capture a response signal induced in the object (3) by the magnetic field of the emission coil (7, 31, 41). At least the receiver coil end surface (17) of one of the receiver coils protrudes beyond the emission coil end surface (15) to a selected distance from the object (3).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2012Publication date: April 17, 2014Inventors: Hans-Gerd Brummel, Uwe Linnert, Carl Udo Maier, Jochen Ostermaier, Uwe Pfeifer
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Publication number: 20140102219Abstract: An abnormality diagnosing method is provided for a torque detecting device and an electric power steering device is provided using the torque detecting device. Immediately after the power supply is turned on and before steering auxiliary control is started, initial diagnosis is performed to determine that each monitoring block for monitoring an abnormality of a signal processing circuit constituting a torque detecting device operates normally. The initial diagnosis determines that a monitoring block is operating normally, by inputting a normal signal and an abnormal signal to the monitoring block alternately, and finding that the monitoring block carries out normal diagnosis when it receives the normal signal and that it carries out abnormal diagnosis when it receives the abnormal signal. Once all of the monitoring blocks are determined as normal, the steering auxiliary control based on a steering torque detected by the torque detecting device is started.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2012Publication date: April 17, 2014Applicant: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Masaki Kuwahara, Takayuki Kobayashi, Kazuhiro Yoshida, Toshiyuki Onizuka, Takayoshi Sugawara, Nobuhiko Andou
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Patent number: 8689642Abstract: A torque sensor has an envelope tube, a middle cylinder mounted in the envelope tube, a inner cylinder mounted through the middle cylinder, a resilient element connected to the middle cylinder and the inner cylinder, a first disc and a second disc respectively attached to the inner cylinder and the middle cylinder, and a detection unit detecting a displacement angle of the second disc and the first disc to calculate a torque applied to the inner cylinder. The torque sensor has a simple structure, fast, sensitive and accurate torque sensing ability, and can be used on all kinds of mechanisms that rotate when a force is applied thereon to calculate and quantify amounts of energy and work of the exerciser according to the torque.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventors: Li-Ho Yao, Simon Fan
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Publication number: 20140053661Abstract: A non-contact type torque and angle of rotation sensing device consisting of a magnetic member, sensing members and a computing unit for measuring a torque being applied to rotate a transmission member and the angle of rotation of said transmission member in a first axial direction is disclosed. The magnetic member defines a first center, and is mounted on and rotatable with the transmission member. The magnetic member deflects relative to the transmission member in a nonparallel manner relative to the first axial direction when rotating with the transmission member. Sensing members induce a magnetic field variation to output respective electrical signals that exhibit a phase difference there between. The computing unit receives and calculates the electrical signals of the sensing member to obtain the amplitude and to further translate the amplitude into torque value and angle of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicants: NATIONAL YUNLIN UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, GIANT ELECTRIC VEHICLE KUNSHAN CO., LTD.Inventors: Shang-Teh WU, Szu-Hsien WU, Yi-Chang WU
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Patent number: 8656791Abstract: A first excitation AC signal (V1=A1·sin(?t)) is supplied to a first excitation coil of a first resolver via a first excitation line, and a second excitation AC signal (V2=?A2·sin(?t)) is supplied to a second excitation coil of a second resolver via a second excitation line. Within a resolver unit, a first excitation line and a second excitation line are connected via an electric resistance element. By virtue of this configuration, torque can be detected even when any of a ground line, a first excitation line, and a second excitation line of a wire harness is broken.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kenichiro Aoki
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Patent number: 8650969Abstract: A magnetostrictive torque sensor includes a rotation shaft, a magnetostrictive member, and a plurality of detectors. The rotation shaft is rotationally supported. The magnetostrictive member is disposed on a surface of the rotation shaft and being deformable in accordance with a magnitude of rotation torque applied to the rotation shaft to change magnetic permeability. The plurality of detectors are disposed on a periphery of the rotation shaft. Each of the detectors is configured to detect a change in magnetic permeability of the magnetostrictive member in a form of an electrical change. The detectors are configured to detect different amounts of electrical change from one another if amounts of change in deformation are same throughout the magnetostrictive member.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yutaka Arimura, Yasuo Shimizu, Takeshi Wakabayashi
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Patent number: 8635917Abstract: A magnetic torque sensing device having a disk-shaped member with a magnetoelastically active region. The magnetoelastically active region has a magnetically conditioned region with an initial direction of magnetization that is perpendicular to the sensitive directions of magnetic field sensor pairs placed proximate to the magnetically active region. Magnetic field sensors are specially positioned in relation to the disk-shaped member to accurately measure torque while providing improved RSU performance and reducing the detrimental effects of compassing.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2012Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Seong-Jae Lee
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Publication number: 20140013863Abstract: Disclosed are a stator assembly and a torque assembly device. The stator assembly includes a stator holder, a first stator which includes a first body making contact with an upper end of the stator holder and a plurality of first teeth extending from the first body so as to be disposed inside the stator holder, a second stator which includes a second body making contact with a lower end of the stator holder and a plurality of second teeth extending from the second body so to be alternately aligned with the first teeth inside the stator holder, and a fusion-welded material that is fusion-welded to the stator holder and the first and second bodies.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2013Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: LG INNOTEK CO., LTD.Inventors: Sung Kyu BAE, Chang Hwan LEE
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Patent number: 8607649Abstract: A torque sensor is configured so that a multi-pole permanent magnet is fixed to one of a first shaft and a second shaft linked via a torsion bar, a first rotating yoke and a second rotating yoke each having provided at equal intervals in the peripheral direction a plurality of claw portions facing the permanent magnet are fixed to the other of the first shaft and second shaft, and a magnetism detection element is disposed between a first magnetism-collecting yoke and a second magnetism-collecting yoke individually facing the first and second rotating yokes. The first and second rotating yokes are formed into identical shapes, and the claw portions provided respectively on the rotating yokes are alternatingly disposed in the peripheral direction within the same plane perpendicular to the axes of the first shaft and second shaft. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce a cost by having fewer types of parts.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2010Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Honda LockInventor: Kenjirou Matsumoto
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Patent number: 8607650Abstract: Sensor arrangement including a torque sensor for measuring the torque acting on a first shaft, the sensor arrangement having a rotational angle index unit which is designed in such a manner that it can detect and/or identify the angular position of the first shaft with respect to a defined rotational angle and/or defined rotational angle range.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2009Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHGInventors: Henrik Antoni, Klaus Rink, Wolfgang Fritz
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Patent number: 8607648Abstract: A rotor includes a cylindrical magnet having a plurality of magnetic pole pairs. There are two types of the magnitude of magnetic force in the magnetic pole pairs, that is, a relatively large first magnetic force and a second magnetic force that is smaller than the first magnetic force. Three magnetic sensors are arranged around the rotor. A rotation angle computing device detects the peak values of output signals of the respective magnetic sensors. Then, the rotation angle computing device identifies the magnetic pole pair, sensed by the first magnetic sensor, based on a combination of the local maximum values of the three output signals.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: JTEKT CorporationInventor: Takeshi Ueda
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Patent number: 8578794Abstract: The present invention involves a method and apparatus for canceling the effects of magnetic field noise in a torque sensor by placing three sets of magnetic field sensors around a shaft, the first set of field sensors being placed in the central region of the shaft and the second and third sets of field sensors being placed on the right side and left side of the field sensors placed at the central region, respectively. A torque-induced magnetic field is not cancelled with this arrangement of field sensors but a magnetic near field from a near field source is cancelled.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2011Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Seong-Jae Lee
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Publication number: 20130291657Abstract: A sensor system for analysis of forces and motions on a rotating shaft using non-contact magneto-elastic sensors with the ability to measure any one or more of the following parameters of the shaft: (1) torque, (2) rate of change of torque, (3) shaft speed, (4) shaft position, (5) bending moments in the shaft in 2 directions, (6) axial force, (7) shaft power and/or system efficiency. The sensor system generally includes a magneto-elastic sensor patches fixedly applied to the rotating shaft, and a magnetic field pick up surrounding both said shaft and said magneto-elastic material but not in contact therewith, said magnetic field pick up comprising a clam-shell toroidal collar incorporating a combination of a magnetic field sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2013Publication date: November 7, 2013Inventors: Ashish S. Purekar, Jin-Hyeong Yoo, Alison Behre Flatau
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Patent number: 8534141Abstract: A vehicle power steering device 1 comprises an input shaft 11, a torque sensor 2 that magnetically detects an input torque input into the input shaft 11, and a position sensor 5 that detects a reference rotation position of the input shaft 11. The position sensor 5 comprises a magnet 52, a first magnetic path forming member 67, 68, 69 that forms a first magnetic loop M for the magnet 52 in the reference rotation position of the input shaft 11, and a magnetic sensing element 56 disposed in the first magnetic loop M. By providing the position sensor 5 with a second magnetic path forming member 67 that forms a second magnetic loop N for the magnet 52 in any rotation position of the input shaft 11 other than the reference rotation position, magnetic flux from the magnet 52 is prevented from leaking to the torque sensor 2.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideo Maehara
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Publication number: 20130186209Abstract: A system and method for sensing torque and angular position of a rotating shaft may include a shaft with a magnetostrictive ring affixed to the shaft. The magnetostrictive ring may generate position-dependent magnetic fields relative to the shaft's rotation. A first sensor may measure a magnetic field that varies with angular position. A second sensor may measure a magnetic field that varies with torque.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2012Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Jan F. HERBST
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Publication number: 20130152703Abstract: A magnetostrictive torque sensor includes a housing configured to house a magnetostrictive element provided on a rotary shaft, a single coil bobbin and detection coils wound on the coil bobbin. The housing includes a plastic housing body having a generally cylindrical shape and molded integrally with the coil bobbin having the detection coils wound thereon, a metal flange portion disposed on an axial end portion of the generally cylindrical plastic housing body, and a plastic fastener member firmly connecting the metal flange portion to the axial end portion of the plastic housing body. A method of manufacturing such torque sensor is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
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Publication number: 20130133969Abstract: A magnetostrictive torque sensor includes a magnetostrictive portion formed on a rotational shaft, a bobbin surrounding an outer circumference of the magnetostrictive portion, and a coil wound on the bobbin for detecting a change in magnetic property of the magnetostrictive portion. The bobbin fits over the magnetostrictive portion in contact with the magnetostrictive portion in such a manner as to allow rotation of the magnetostrictive portion relative to the bobbin. The magnetostrictive torque sensor is carried on an electrically assisted bicycle or an electric power steering apparatus of a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2012Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
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Patent number: 8448528Abstract: A target magnet assembly configured to be secured to a rotating shaft of a steering gear assembly. The target magnet assembly includes an index hub with a mount and a magnet secured by the mount. The mount includes a tab with a protrusion extending from the tab, a finger, and a stop. The magnet includes an axial retention groove receiving the finger, a top surface abutting the stop, and a radial retention groove receiving the protrusion.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2010Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Bourns IncorporatedInventors: Kenneth McDonald, James Thomas, Lawrence B. Reimer
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Publication number: 20130125670Abstract: A small angle sensor for measuring steering shaft torque. The sensor includes a multi-pole magnet and one or more stators. Each of the one or more stators encompasses the outer circumference of the multi-pole magnet. Each of the one or more stators has a horizontal ring section having an inner circumference and an outer circumference; and a plurality of teeth. Each tooth extends in a vertical direction from the inner circumference of the horizontal ring section; and a lip extends in a vertical direction from the outer circumference of the horizontal ring section. The sensor also includes one or more collectors. Each of the one or more collectors encompasses only a portion of the lip of the one or more stators. The sensor includes one or more magnetic sensing elements. Each of the one or more magnetic sensing elements located proximate to the one or more collectors.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2012Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: BOURNS INC.Inventor: Bourns Inc.
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Publication number: 20130125669Abstract: A torque sensing device for measuring the torque applied to a rotatable shaft, and also measuring the magnetic field noise affecting the device. The device incorporates a switching function thereby enabling the device to operate in a common signal detection mode and a differential noise detection mode. The device is capable of determining the torque applied to the rotatable shaft based upon output signals obtained from magnetic field sensors operating in both the common signal detection mode and the differential noise detection mode. The device is capable of accurately measuring a torque induced magnetic field and is capable of canceling measurement error resulting from noise induced magnetic fields.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Inventors: Ignazio Barraco, Christopher Liston
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Patent number: 8438937Abstract: Sensors for outputting signals indicative of a rate of change of torque experienced by a magnetized member in response to a change in torque experienced by the member are described. Such sensors include at least one sense element capable of detecting a change in a magnetic parameter of a magnetized region of the member positioned proximate to the sense element in response to a change in torque applied to the member. Devices for detecting and/or measuring rates of changes in or of torque that employ one or more of these sensors are also described, as are various applications for such devices.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventors: Ivan J. Garshelis, Ryan J. Kari, Stijn P. L. Tollens
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Patent number: 8433485Abstract: A torque sensor system for a transmission and other powertrain components in a motor vehicle includes a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver is operable to induce and detect a signal from the transmitter that is indicative of a torque load on the transmitter. The receiver is cylindrical and has an outer surface with a maximum, constant diameter. The outer surface defines one or more fluid transfer grooves and a docking port for an electrical connection. The fluid transfer groove and the docking port do not extend beyond the maximum outer diameter of the outer surface. Therefore, the receiver is capable of being press-fit within a component and is capable of routing fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2011Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Carlos E. Marin, Fredrick R. Poskie, Daryl A. Wilton
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Patent number: 8424393Abstract: A magnetic torque sensing device having a disk-shaped member with a magnetoelastically active region. The magnetoelastically active region has oppositely polarized magnetically conditioned regions with initial directions of magnetization that are perpendicular to the sensitive directions of magnetic field sensor pairs placed proximate to the magnetically active region. Magnetic field sensors are specially positioned in relation to the disk-shaped member to accurately measure torque while providing improved RSU performance and reducing the detrimental effects of compassing.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2011Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Seong-Jae Lee
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Patent number: 8423249Abstract: A torque sensor system for a transmission and other powertrain components in a motor vehicle includes a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver is operable to induce and detect a signal from the transmitter that is indicative of a torque load on the transmitter. The receiver is cylindrical and has an outer surface with a maximum, constant diameter. The outer surface defines one or more fluid transfer grooves and a docking port for an electrical connection. The fluid transfer groove and the docking port do not extend beyond the maximum outer diameter of the outer surface. Therefore, the receiver is capable of being press-fit within a component and is capable of routing fluid flow. An electrical connector is fed through an access hole and connects with the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Fredrick R. Poskie, Carlos E. Marin, Daryl A. Wilton
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Publication number: 20130081480Abstract: A measuring system is disclosed that may include a sensing module that provides a response to a measured quantity, a first mechanical transducer that provides an output signal proportional to the measured quantity, a conversion device that converts the output signal to a second output signal, and a sensor that detects the second output signal and generates an instrument reading within an instrument range of output signals. A bias assembly may forces a second mechanical transducer to provide the second output signal that is detected by the sensor and which generates an instrument reading outside of the specified instrument range when the mechanical transducer is disconnected from the conversion device. A level detector is also disclosed that may include a displacer assembly, a torque rod coupled to the displacer assembly and connected to a magnet, and a non-contact sensor that detects displacement of the magnet assembly within an instrument range.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2011Publication date: April 4, 2013Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: Daniel Patrick Giovanoni, Conor Padraic Beote, Jean-Marc Mahieu, Denis Vital
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Patent number: 8327722Abstract: There is provided a rotary torque detecting device in which a first magnetic body and a second magnetic body are formed in substantially band shapes and third magnetic bodies are formed in substantially rectangular shapes, respectively, by forming the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body in the substantially band shapes and arranging the plurality of substantially rectangular third magnetic bodies at predetermined intervals between the first magnetic body and the second magnetic body, and the magnets. With this structure, in the rotary torque detecting device mainly used for detection of rotary torque of a steering of an automobile, it is possible to reliably detect the rotary torque at low cost.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Kiyotaka Sasanouchi, Shinji Hirose, Kenji Niho
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Patent number: 8316724Abstract: A measuring device including a layer of a magnetoelastic alloy formed on a load-carrying member. The layer is intended for measuring stresses induced by a force applied to the load-carrying member. An average grain size of the layer is in the range of 100 nm to 10000 nm. A method for production of the layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2007Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: ABB, ABInventors: Hans Ling, Håkan F. Wintzell, Mingsheng Wang, Per S. Gustafsson, Andrius Miniotas