Abstract: The present invention is directed to a torque sensing apparatus (10) for sensing torque applied to an elongated shaft (12) having a longitudinal axis (14). An elongated magnetoelastic element (16) is connected about a portion of the shaft (12). The magnetoelastic element (16) provides a magnetic field in response to a torque (T) applied to the shaft (12). A magnetic member (28) is positioned adjacent the magnetoelastic element (16). An alternating power source (34) drives the magnetic member (28) into magnetic saturation. The magnetic member (28) has a saturation condition responsive to the magnetic field of the magnetoelastic element (16). A detector circuit (36) detects the saturation condition of the magnetic member. The detector circuit (36) provides a signal indicative of the applied torque in response to the saturation condition of the magnetic member (28).

Abstract: An electrodynamic motor drive system, for generating enhanced rotational output, is comprised of a pair of flywheel mechanisms that are integrally connected to an output shaft. Each flywheel mechanism is energized by its own motor and is operable to temporarily engage a weighted mass that travels a path defined by the housing of the system. A pair of mass accelerators rapidly advances each flywheel mechanism during the transfer of the masses from one flywheel mechanism to the other. A component of the force generated by the continuously rotating masses is transferred through each flywheel mechanism to an output system which, in turn, causes rotation of an output shaft.