Abstract: A sensor unit is disclosed for determining properties of a lubricant; for example, a lubricating grease in a rolling bearing. A machine element may include the sensor unit and a machine assembly may include the machine element. The sensor unit includes a sensor housing having a window which can be aligned to the lubricant. A transmitter for emitting electromagnetic radiation through the window and a receiver for receiving electromagnetic radiation which passes through the window are located in the sensor housing. Evaluating electronics arranged in the sensor housing are electrically connected at least to the receiver. The evaluating unit is designed to generate at least one digital sensor signal. The sensor unit further includes an electrical connection, which is led through the sensor housing and electrically connected to the evaluating electronics in the sensor housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor unit for determining properties of a lubricant; for example, a lubricating grease in a rolling bearing. The invention further relates to a machine element having the sensor unit according to the invention and to a machine assembly having the machine element according to the invention. The sensor unit according to the invention first of all includes a sensor housing having a window which can be aligned to the lubricant. A transmitter for emitting electromagnetic radiation through the window and a receiver for receiving electromagnetic radiation which passes through the window are located in the sensor housing. Evaluating electronics arranged in the sensor housing are electrically connected at least to the receiver. The evaluating unit is designed to generate at least one digital sensor signal. The sensor unit further includes an electrical connection, which is led through the sensor housing and electrically connected to the evaluating electronics in the sensor housing.