Torque Patents (Class 73/1.09)
  • Patent number: 11768124
    Abstract: An apparatus for calibrating a rotational tool includes a communications interface configured to establish a wireless communications link between a rotational tool and a calibrator to communicate one of a tool torque measurement or a calibrator torque measurement via the communications link. The apparatus may further include calibration processing circuitry configured to receive the tool torque measurement measured by a tool torque sensor, and receive the calibrator torque measurement measured by a calibrator torque sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: APEX BRANDS, INC.
    Inventor: Michael Robert Sandy
  • Patent number: 10929337
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatuses may provide for technology that detects, by a first monitor in a first domain of a system, a presence of a first anomaly in the first domain and encodes, by the first monitor, the presence of the first anomaly and a weight of the first anomaly into a multi-level data structure. In one example, the technology also sends, by the first monitor, the multi-level data structure to a second monitor in a second domain of the system, wherein the second domain is located at a different hierarchical level in the system than the first domain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Rahul Kundu, Fei Su, Prashant Goteti
  • Patent number: 10345183
    Abstract: A test bench for screwdrivers comprises a hydraulic brake unit (11) provided with a coupling (12) for a screwdriver to be tested and angle and torque measurement transducers (15). The brake unit (11) comprises a disk (40) axially connected to the coupling (12) so as to be rotated by a screwdriver to be tested, and braking plates (42, 43) pushed in a controllable manner with their braking surfaces (44, 45) against the disk (40) by means of a plurality of pistons (46, 47) supplied with fluid by an electrovalve (16). The pistons (46, 47) of the plurality can be selectively activated under the control of the control unit (26) so as to select a maximum braking torque of the brake. The control may be performed by means a PID controller (19) which receives an electrovalve control signal (22) from a control unit (26) so as to follow braking curves depending on the angle of rotation and/or torque measured and has parameters which can be set using different sets of parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: SCS CONCEPT S.R.L.
    Inventors: Sergio Sartori, Marco Angelo Cabrel
  • Patent number: 10234348
    Abstract: A torque sensor terminal block structure includes an electric motor (1) which outputs driving force for driving a load (8), a strain body (3) interposed on a way of a power transmission system from the electric motor (1) to the load (8), a power detector (4) which outputs a detection signal according to a strain of the strain body (3) as a signal indicating a driving force transmitted from the electric motor (1) to the load (8), and a terminal block (6) which acquires the detection signal of the power detector (4) and transmits the output result to a signal processing circuit section. The terminal block (6) is set parallel to a magnetic flux output from the electric motor (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kei Usui, Yoshiki Kanemoto, Masahiko Osada
  • Patent number: 9897498
    Abstract: A method for detecting a phase angle difference between a first periodic measurement signal and a second periodic measurement signal, wherein, for the purpose of determining a torque applied to a shaft, the two periodic measurement signals describe a rotation of the shaft at an axial distance from one another including superimposing a periodic auxiliary signal which simulates a previously known rotational speed for the shaft on the first periodic measurement signal in order to form a superimposition signal, and determining the phase angle difference on the basis of the superimposition signal and the second measurement signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Bernhard Schmid, Wolfgang Jöckel, Klaus Rink
  • Patent number: 9766143
    Abstract: System for checking the correct operation of braking devices on a test stand for industrial screwdrivers comprising a plurality of hydraulic brakes (F), to which the screwdriver is associated with, suitably controlled by a hydraulic circuit comprising a pump (P), a pressure regulating valve (VP). Each brake is provided with external measurement transducers (TR) connected to an electronic control board (SP). An electronic processor (U) that communicates with such board and controls such hydraulic circuit, such pump and such valve, comprises a suitable control program stored therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: ATLAS COPCO BLM S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marcello Traballoni, Massimo Usuelli, Fabio Garavaglia, Sergio Giannone
  • Patent number: 9032776
    Abstract: A method for calibrating a torsion torquemeter including: placing a torsion torquemeter in a first state; performing first measurements determining first and second angular offsets, and measuring torque output by the power shaft using a reference torquemeter; placing the torsion torquemeter in a second state; performing second measurements determining the first and second angular offsets, and measuring torque output by the power shaft; placing the torquemeter in a third state; performing third measurements determining the first and second angular offsets, and measuring the torque output by the power shaft; placing the torquemeter in a fourth state; performing fourth measurements determining the first and second angular offsets, and measuring the torque output by the power shaft; calibrating the calculation unit based on the first, second, third, and fourth measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: TURBOMECA
    Inventor: Edgar Haehner
  • Patent number: 8984928
    Abstract: A moment calibrating apparatus (1) is provided with an elongated force transmitting member (6) for transmitting a force applied to the end portion thereof to a multi-component force gauge (5), a load applying mechanism (7) for applying a load without changing the direction of the force along a direction perpendicular to said end portion, and a calculation unit (8) for calculating a true moment free from the effect of a perpendicular load on the basis of the moment value around the axis in the direction orthogonal to the perpendicular direction, measured by the multi-component force gauge (5) under the condition that said perpendicular load along the direction perpendicular to said end portion is applied by the load applying mechanism (7), wherein a moment calibration of the multi-component force gauge (5) is performed using said true moment calculated by the calculation unit (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Kobe Steel, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu Sumimoto, Takayuki Fukuda
  • Publication number: 20150059175
    Abstract: A system and method for automating an assembly process of threading a tube-nut onto a threaded connector. The system includes a robot having a force sensor and a tube-nut runner tool coupled to the robot and having a tool head with a rotatable socket therein. The method includes engaging the socket to the tube-nut under force control using the force signal from the force sensor. The tool controller causes the socket to rotate the tube-nut where the tool controller controls the torque and/or angle displacement of the tool head to tighten the tube-nut on the threaded connector. The method also includes disengaging the tool head from the tube-nut after the tube-nut is properly tightened onto the threaded connector under force control to ensure that the end member is properly disengaged from the tube-nut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Muhammad E. Abdallah, Gary L. Villeneuve, Sreten Zakula, Srinivas Chilpuri, Michael S. Cochran
  • Patent number: 8966953
    Abstract: Embodiments of the subject invention are directed to a method and apparatus for measuring torque applied during installation of a helical pile. Specific embodiments relate to a helical pile installation torque measuring and monitoring system for use during helical pile installation. In a specific embodiment, a load cell pin, or torque pin, is incorporated into the drive head and equipment attachment to measure the direct forces, or torque, that is being applied by the drive head as the helical pile is rotated into the ground. The direct forces, or torque, are relayed to a data capturing device, which records the data and, optionally, displays one or more of the following: the forces, the torque created by the forces, the inclination angle of installation, and the downward, or longitudinal, force applied to advance the helical pile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Helical Pier Systems Ltd.
    Inventor: Ben Kasprick
  • Publication number: 20150046039
    Abstract: A sensor device, such as a torque sensor, of a motor control device or an electric power steering apparatus includes a sensor section that detects a quantity of state of a detection subject and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected quantity of state. When receiving a specific trigger transmitted from an external device, the sensor section outputs an abnormality diagnosis signal, which is configured by a predetermined waveform and used for determining whether there is an output abnormality of the sensor section, and then outputs the detection signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventors: Naoki YAMANO, Yuko ONODA, Satoru MIKAMO, Akira YAMAMOTO, Hideki KABUNE
  • Patent number: 8931324
    Abstract: The present invention provides an easy-of-use torque calibration device capable of improving workability and safety and attaining reduction in time of a torque calibration in calibrating a torque of a dynamometer. That is, the present invention includes a connecting shaft coaxially connected to a torque measurement rotor, a calibration arm integrally rotated with the connecting shaft, a plurality of calibration weights for applying loads to both ends of the calibration arm, a moving mechanism to move the connecting shaft between a connection position and a spaced position, and a rotating direction fixing mechanism for fixing the torque measurement rotor and the connecting shaft in the rotating direction at the connection position, and a control unit controlling the moving mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Horiba, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akimasa Yamamoto, Katsuhiko Keno
  • Publication number: 20140345357
    Abstract: Generally, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to torque calibrating systems. A torque calibrating system includes a torque arm having a first end and a second end, a stem positioned proximate the first end of the torque arm, the stem adapted to be removably and operatively coupled to a power tong, and a load cell adapted to be positioned proximate the second end of the torque arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: Nathan D. Gray, Joe Yates
  • Patent number: 8726715
    Abstract: To achieve high precision in a test stand environment, a method and a device for calibrating a torque measurement unit includes connecting the torque measurement unit with a dynamometer, a set point speed nsoll larger than 0 rpm is specified for a speed regulator, whereby the speed regulator generates a set point torque Tsoll, which is upwardly limited by a reference torque limit Tmax that can be specified, and the reference torque that is limited in this way is specified to the dynamometer as reference torque Tstell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: AVL List GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Cottogni
  • Publication number: 20140123725
    Abstract: Embodiments of the subject invention are directed to a method and apparatus for measuring torque applied during installation of a helical pile. Specific embodiments relate to a helical pile installation torque measuring and monitoring system for use during helical pile installation. In a specific embodiment, a load cell pin, or torque pin, is incorporated into the drive head and equipment attachment to measure the direct forces, or torque, that is being applied by the drive head as the helical pile is rotated into the ground. The direct forces, or torque, are relayed to a data capturing device, which records the data and, optionally, displays one or more of the following: the forces, the torque created by the forces, the inclination angle of installation, and the downward, or longitudinal, force applied to advance the helical pile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: HELICAL PIER SYSTEMS LTD.
    Inventor: BEN KASPRICK
  • Publication number: 20140109643
    Abstract: An assembly for use in tuning a wireless torque measurement system includes a support platform, a non-metallic rotor mount structure, a stator mount structure, and an actuator. The non-metallic rotor mount structure is rotationally mounted on the support platform and is configured to rotate about a rotational axis. The actuator is coupled to the support platform and to the stator mount structure, and is configured to selectively move the stator mount structure along a first translational axis that is parallel to the rotational axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Natarajan Natarajan, Vishal Malhan, Vijay Tippanna Talikoti
  • Publication number: 20130327119
    Abstract: A method for calibrating a torsion torquemeter including: placing a torsion torquemeter in a first state; performing first measurements determining first and second angular offsets, and measuring torque output by the power shaft using a reference torquemeter; placing the torsion torquemeter in a second state; performing second measurements determining the first and second angular offsets, and measuring torque output by the power shaft; placing the torquemeter in a third state; performing third measurements determining the first and second angular offsets, and measuring the torque output by the power shaft; placing the torquemeter in a fourth state; performing fourth measurements determining the first and second angular offsets, and measuring the torque output by the power shaft; calibrating the calculation unit based on the first, second, third, and fourth measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: TURBOMECA
    Inventor: Edgar Haehner
  • Patent number: 8544313
    Abstract: A rotary-angle and rotary-torque sensing device includes a first rotator rotating together with a steering shaft, a second rotator rigidly mounted to the first rotator, a rotary torque sensor for sensing rotary torque generated between the first rotator and the second rotator, a first sensor rotating together with the first rotator, a second sensor rotating together with the second rotator, a rotary angle sensor for sensing rotary angles of the first sensor and the second sensor, and a controller for detecting rotary torque by using the rotary torque sensor and the rotary angle sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Shinji Hirose, Kiyotaka Sasanouchi
  • Patent number: 8539810
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a method for calibrating a torque measurement for a rotatable object is disclosed, wherein the method includes coupling the rotatable object to a structure, the structure including a member extending along a length of a surface of the rotatable object, coupling the rotatable object to an adapter and applying a known torque to the rotatable object via the adapter. The method also includes measuring a first rotational displacement via a first sensor coupled to the member at a first axial location of the rotatable object, measuring a second rotational displacement via a second sensor coupled to the member at a second axial location of the rotatable object and determining first and second angular displacements of the rotatable object based on the first and second rotational displacements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Peter Ping-Liang Sue, Lawrence Brown Farr, II, Derek Ray Wilson
  • Patent number: 8459091
    Abstract: A test device for screwers, comprises a transducer (11) having a head (28) with a seat (19) for receiving the coupling end (13) of an adapter or joint simulator (12, 12?). The coupling end (13) is made with a side wall (21, 21?) polygonally-fashioned in order to be received in the seat (19), achieved in a complementary polygonal manner. The head (28) can be tightened as a clamp in order to releasably lock, in the seat (19), the coupling end (13) of the adapter or joint simulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Atlas Copco BLM S.R.L
    Inventor: Angelo Chiapuzzi
  • Patent number: 8410954
    Abstract: A moving or rotating body and a stationary body having a wireless communication link with each other. The communication link may involve RF telemetry. The stationary body may provide power in a wireless manner to the rotating body. The moving body may be a rotation sensor for determining torque, speed of rotation, angular position, power and the like. The stationary body may also interact with a processing module via a communication medium. The communication medium may be an Ethernet or an equivalent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Brian P. Duffy, Christopher A. Novak
  • Patent number: 8371178
    Abstract: A turbopump for a rocket engine includes a rotor shaft with a turbine connected to drive the rotor and a centrifugal impeller connected to be driven by the rotor. An electromagnetic powered motor is formed as part of the turbopump and is powered to drive the rotor at a low speed in order to test for an amount of torque required to drive the rotor at the low speed. A load cell is connected to the motor that rotates the rotor shaft. From the use of a load cell the amount of torque required to rotate the rotor can be determined and compared to a known value in order to determine if the turbopump is damaged and requires repairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Florida Turbine Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew P Wall
  • Patent number: 8355879
    Abstract: In vibration based mechanical diagnostics, algorithms may extract some feature of a component which may be used as a statistic of the components' health. A measured condition indicator corresponding to the analysis of the components' health may be a function of transmission error (TE). Because there exists a relationship between TE and the CI for a component that is faulted, the CI is correlated with power transmitted. In drive train components, power may be proportional to measured torque. In terms of diagnostics or trending of a component, it is desirable to reduce the scatter in the measured CI and account for this torque. The relationship between measured CI and torque may be captured over time. An increase in the correlation of torque with the CI would indicate an increase of TE which indicates the propagation of a fault.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Simmonds Precision Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Robert Bechhoefer
  • Publication number: 20120210767
    Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a method for calibrating a torque measurement for a rotatable object is disclosed, wherein the method includes coupling the rotatable object to a structure, the structure including a member extending along a length of a surface of the rotatable object, coupling the rotatable object to an adapter and applying a known torque to the rotatable object via the adapter. The method also includes measuring a first rotational displacement via a first sensor coupled to the member at a first axial location of the rotatable object, measuring a second rotational displacement via a second sensor coupled to the member at a second axial location of the rotatable object and determining first and second angular displacements of the rotatable object based on the first and second rotational displacements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Peter Ping-Liang Sue, Lawrence Brown Farr, II, Derek Ray Wilson
  • Publication number: 20120143552
    Abstract: A calibration method/system and verification method for digital torque tools are disclosed, in which the calibration method comprises the steps of: transmitting a data containing usage records of a digital torque tool at a client end to a remote calibration platform; comparing the data of usage records with statistic data stored in the calibration platform so as to obtain a data relating to average degree of fatigue; performing a calculation based upon the data of usage record and the data of average degree of fatigue so as to obtain a calibration data; transmitting the calibration data to the client end while allowing the calibration data to overwrite the corresponding original torque data of the digital torque tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: CHIH-HUA CHO, Hsin-Chuan Su
  • Patent number: 8117887
    Abstract: An operating device for testing torque wrenches is formed with a carrier for fixing a torque wrench to be tested. A transducer is coupled to the head portion of the torque wrench. A grip holder is provided for fixing the grip of the torque wrench and a deflecting mechanism is adapted for generating a torque to the head portion of the torque wrench to be tested. Further on a sliding mechanism is provided for sliding the grip in the grip holder without friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Eduard Wille GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Rainer Schwafertz, Lothar Schmitt
  • Publication number: 20110308295
    Abstract: The present invention provides an easy-of-use torque calibration device capable of improving workability and safety and attaining reduction in time of a torque calibration in calibrating a torque of a dynamometer. That is, the present invention includes a connecting shaft coaxially connected to a torque measurement rotor, a calibration arm integrally rotated with the connecting shaft, a plurality of calibration weights for applying loads to both ends of the calibration arm, a moving mechanism to move the connecting shaft between a connection position and a spaced position, and a rotating direction fixing mechanism for fixing the torque measurement rotor and the connecting shaft in the rotating direction at the connection position, and a control unit controlling the moving mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: HORIBA, LTD.
    Inventors: Akimasa Yamamoto, Katsuhiko Keno
  • Publication number: 20110239729
    Abstract: A test device for screwers, comprises a transducer (11) having a head (28) with a seat (19) for receiving the coupling end (13) of an adapter or joint simulator (12, 12?). The coupling end (13) is made with a side wall (21, 21?) polygonally-fashioned in order to be received in the seat (19), achieved in a complementary polygonal manner. The head (28) can be tightened as a clamp in order to releasably lock, in the seat (19), the coupling end (13) of the adapter or joint simulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Applicant: ATLAS COPCO BLM S.R.L.
    Inventor: Angelo Chiapuzzi
  • Publication number: 20110219851
    Abstract: A rotary-angle and rotary-torque sensing device includes a first rotator rotating together with a steering shaft, a second rotator rigidly mounted to the first rotator, a rotary torque sensor for sensing rotary torque generated between the first rotator and the second rotator, a first sensor rotating together with the first rotator, a second sensor rotating together with the second rotator, a rotary angle sensor for sensing rotary angles of the first sensor and the second sensor, and a controller for detecting rotary torque by using the rotary torque sensor and the rotary angle sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: SHINJI HIROSE, KIYOTAKA SASANOUCHI
  • Publication number: 20110214477
    Abstract: Generally, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to torque calibrating systems. A torque calibrating system includes a torque arm having a first end and a second end, a stem positioned proximate the first end of the torque arm, the stem adapted to be removably and operatively coupled to a power tong, and a load cell adapted to be positioned proximate the second end of the torque arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventors: Nathan D. Gray, Joe Yates
  • Publication number: 20110167890
    Abstract: To fulfill the high requirement of precision in a test stand environment, a method and a device for calibrating a torque measurement unit is proposed, with which a calibration process can be performed very easily, flexibly and precisely, and simultaneously, the safety requirements can be met as well. To do so, a torque measurement unit 3 is connected with an dynamometer 2, a set point speed nsoll larger than 0 Umin?1 is specified for a speed regulator 10, whereby the speed regulator 10 generates a set point torque Tsoll, which is upwardly limited by a reference torque limit Tmax that can be specified and the reference torque that is limited in this way, is specified to the dynamometer 2 as reference torque Tstell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Cottogni
  • Publication number: 20100307218
    Abstract: In order to minimize the risk of artifacts in a torque measuring device, a torque measuring flange and a torque measuring method, the invention proposes that the evaluation device has means for storing a variable which is proportional to a freewheel torque and means for compensating a measured value with the stored variable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: GIF Gesellschaft fuer Industrieforschung mbH
    Inventors: Herbert Meuter, Michael Koslowski
  • Publication number: 20100261578
    Abstract: A load sensor assembly for measuring an amount of torque transmitted through a torque establishing element includes a core mounted on a transmission housing and a load sensor mounted on the core. The load sensor is positioned against a portion of the torque establishing element whereby a portion of the amount of torque transmitted through the torque establishing element travels through the load sensor and is measured. A cable is connected to the load sensor for transmitting a signal representative of the amount of torque to a transmission controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Yuji Fujii, Ted D. Snyder, Gregory Michael Pietron, James William Loch McCallum, Mohamed Redissi, David Popejoy, Jau-Wen Tseng, Seung-Hoon Lee
  • Patent number: 7801657
    Abstract: A control system for a vehicle having first and second wheels is provided that includes a differential apparatus adapted to distribute torque between the first and second wheels and a traction controller for controlling operation of the differential apparatus from vehicle launch up to a predetermined vehicle speed. The traction controller is configured to engage the differential apparatus in a first operating state according to at least one vehicle operating parameter indicative of a low traction operating condition and to further control engagement of the differential apparatus in a second vehicle operating state during the low traction operating condition according to a difference between an actual vehicle yaw rate and a predetermined target vehicle yaw rate. The control system also includes a stability controller for controlling engagement of the differential apparatus at or above the predetermined vehicle speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Damrongrit Piyabongkarn, Jae Y. Lew, John A. Grogg, Robert J. Kyle
  • Patent number: 7774177
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for controlling an exoskeleton actuator at a joint of a human-exoskeleton system by receiving system parameters for the human-exoskeleton system, receiving generalized coordinates for the human-exoskeleton system, and determining an equivalent joint torque for the exoskeleton actuator to compensate for a selected force. While providing partial or complete compensation of selected gravitational and external forces, one embodiment of the present invention mitigates the amount of interference between voluntary control and assist control, thereby allowing humans to quickly humans adapt to an exoskeleton system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Behzad Dariush
  • Patent number: 7742882
    Abstract: A method for producing a value T being representative of the mean engine torque generated on a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine includes the steps of producing a speed vector including values being representative of instantaneous speeds of the engine during a sampling period, determining a mean engine speed n during said sampling period from the speed vector, determining a value Px, being representative of the frequency contribution of the speed vector at the frequency x*n, where x is a pre-selected order, and producing a value T being representative of the mean engine torque on the crankshaft during said sampling period, wherein T is derived from a mathematical expression including a polynomial having at least a term k*n*Px, where k is a polynomial constant. A device for producing a value T is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Krister Fredriksson, Fredrik Wattwil, Sven-Ake Hurtig Ahlinder
  • Patent number: 7647808
    Abstract: An apparatus for calibration of a fluid-operated power torque tool having a housing and a drive has a non-turnable torque measuring unit for measuring a torque generated by the tool, a non-turnable abutment unit, a first connecting element configured for connecting the drive of the tool with the torque measuring unit, for measuring a torque generated by the tool when a fluid pressure is applied to the tool, an adjustable braking unit configured for providing an adjustable braking force, a second connecting element configured for connecting the housing of the tool with the adjustable braking unit to apply the adjustable braking force to the housing so as to increase a turning resistance to turning of the housing of the tool, so that when the tool is operated the housing of the tool starts turning at a force determined by the braking unit while the drive of the tool apply an opposite and equal force to the measuring unit, so that when the braking force is increased a fluid pressure required for the tool increas
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: John K. Junkers
  • Publication number: 20090255320
    Abstract: An apparatus for calibration of a fluid-operated power torque tool having a housing and a drive has a non-turnable torque measuring unit for measuring a torque generated by the tool, a non-turnable abutment unit, a first connecting element configured for connecting the drive of the tool with the torque measuring unit, for measuring a torque generated by the tool when a fluid pressure is applied to the tool, an adjustable braking unit configured for providing an adjustable braking force, a second connecting element configured for connecting the housing of the tool with the adjustable braking unit to apply the adjustable braking force to the housing so as to increase a turning resistance to turning of the housing of the tool, so that when the tool is operated the housing of the tool starts turning at a force determined by the braking unit while the drive of the tool apply an opposite and equal force to the measuring unit, so that when the braking force is increased a fluid pressure required for the tool increas
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: John K. Junkers
  • Publication number: 20090013752
    Abstract: A diagnostic method and apparatus for diagnosing a motor-operated valve capable of continuously measuring a preload of a spring cartridge at low costs, with high accuracy, and with ease, so that the elastic characteristics of the spring cartridge may be easily calibrated in a simple manner. The method and apparatus is for diagnosing a motor-operated valve including a valve disc 25, a worm 12 rotatably driven by motor power, a link mechanism which opens and closes the valve disc 25 with the rotational driving force transmitted from the worm 12, and a spring cartridge 13 containing disc springs 15 which expand or compress in response to reaction force acting on the worm 12 in its axial direction from the link mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: SHIKOKU RESEARCH INSTITUTE INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Takeki Nogami, Shigeya Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20090007623
    Abstract: A device for determining the rotation angle of a shaft in an aircraft, the device having a shaft and a motor operable to rotate the shaft to operate a component and to detect first rotation data of the shaft. The device also includes a position pickup unit designed to detect second rotation data of the shaft, and a synchronization unit for synchronizing the first rotation data with the second rotation data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Joern Rennhack
  • Publication number: 20080313886
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for magnetizing an object, a method and an apparatus for calibrating a force and torque sensor device, a use of an apparatus for magnetizing an object in particular fields, and a use of an apparatus for calibrating a force and torque sensor device in particular fields. A method for magnetizing a first object and/or a second object comprises the steps of arranging a first object in such a manner that the first object encloses a second object, and applying a first electrical signal to the second object, wherein the first electrical signal is adapted such that at least a portion of the first object and/or of the second object is magnetized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Lutz May
  • Patent number: 7421880
    Abstract: A method may be employed to assure that a switch measurement system accurately measures a torque/angular displacement profile for a rotary switch. A procedure may be employed that aligns the rotational axis of the switch with the rotational axis of the measurement unit of the switch measurement system. Also a procedure may be employed that monitors secondary forces to assure that proper alignment and calibration has been achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Pietro Buttolo, James Rankin, II, Yifan Chen
  • Patent number: 6782594
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a method and an apparatus for accurately estimating the tension or clamp force in a bolted joint. An installed fastener is rotated and the torque necessary to rotate the fastener and the angle through which the fastener is rotated are measured. The angle and torque values are plotted against one another such that the angle values are plotted on an angle axis and the torque values are plotted on a torque axis. A tangent is extended from the plot towards the angle axis. The point at which the tangent crosses the angle axis is defined as zero degrees and is called the “elastic origin”. The known angle through which the fastener rotates is used to scale the angle axis. The angle from the elastic origin to the point at which the tangent was drawn is defined as the M-alpha angle and is directly proportional to the clamp force created by the bolted joint or tension in the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Ralph S. Shoberg
  • Patent number: 6718831
    Abstract: A screwer test bench includes a coupling designed for coupling with the head of a screwer. The coupling is connected to a braking unit through a sensor unit for detection of mechanical magnitudes transmitted between the coupling and the braking unit. The braking unit includes a cap connected to the coupling and a movable member thrust on command in the brake operation direction. The movable member is constrained against rotation around the brake axis by an inextensible wall with a configuration deformable in the braking direction. Advantageously the wall is in the form of a bellows into which is fed pressurized fluid to bring about its elongation and operate the brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: BLM S.a.s. di L. Bareggi & C.
    Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi
  • Patent number: 6715362
    Abstract: A screwer test bench including a coupling designed for coupling with the head of a screwer and a controlled braking unit. A sensor unit detects mechanical magnitudes transmitted between the coupling and the braking unit. The braking unit includes a brake with carbon friction surfaces in an oil bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: BLM S.a.s. di L. Bareggi & C.
    Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi
  • Patent number: 6704665
    Abstract: In an abnormality detecting device of a torque sensor including a pair of coils in which inductance is changed in opposite directions corresponding to torque and a torque detecting means for outputting a torque detection voltage from both voltages based on a change in inductance of each of the pair of the coils, the abnormality detecting having: a pair of filter circuits for extracting the DC component of each voltage based on the pair of the coils and change in each inductance, a differential means for outputting a difference in voltage of the DC voltage outputted from each of the filter circuits as the abnormality detection voltage a memory means for memorizing a normal tolerance range preliminarily set up about the abnormality detection voltage of the differential means and a determining means for determining whether or not the abnormality detecting voltage outputted by the differential means is in the normal tolerance range memorized by the memory means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Showa Corporation
    Inventor: Takayuki Ueno
  • Publication number: 20030217607
    Abstract: One or plural rotors are coaxially provided on a first shaft and a second shaft connected with each other by a connection shaft. Plural targets are provided at each rotor. Two detecting means disposed opposite to the targets output detection signals having phases different from each other as the rotor rotates. The steering apparatus assists steering according to a steering torque applied to the first shaft detected based on the detection signals and a steering angle of the first shaft. The steering apparatus has comparing means for comparing the detection signals with each other; malfunction judging means for judging whether any one of the detecting means is malfunctioning or not on the basis of a comparison result; and notifying means for notifying a malfunction when the malfunction judging means judges that there is a malfunction and can notify the driver of a malfunction in a torque sensor when it occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: KOYO SEIKO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshitomo Tokumoto, Mahito Shiba, Naoki Maeda, Kenichi Kotaka
  • Patent number: 6609407
    Abstract: A test apparatus includes a torque sensor that outputs an indication of torque when rotated by a tool to be tested, and an angle potentiometer that outputs an indication of the rotation angle. A rotatable arm is connected to the torque sensor. A stop prevents the arm from rotating past a rest position. At least one of the group consisting of the arm and the stop includes a magnet. The magnet causes a magnetic force that attracts the arm toward the rest position when the arm is at or near the rest position, simulating static friction. At least one elastic member, which may be a spring, urges the arm toward the rest position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventor: Angelo Tambini
  • Patent number: 6588106
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for the installation of pretensioned roller bearings (2), in particular angular ball bearings, for example, in wheel carriers of automobiles, airplanes, and the like. The invention is characterized in that the installation apparatus, with a measurement probe (5), lies against a stop, a shoulder, or the like, in the axial area of the bearing race of one roller bearing, on the shaft side, and that upon tightening the shaft nut (3) against the bearing race of the other roller bearing, on the shaft side, its axial shift with respect to the stop is determined, wherein when the shaft nut is tightened, a torque wrench is used to determine the applied torque, which permits it to differentiate between the actual tensioning process of the roller bearing (2) and the previous process to bring the shaft nut (3) to the stop. The invention also concerns an installation apparatus to implement the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Pankl R&D GmbH
    Inventors: Gerold Pankl, Jochen Domschitz
  • Publication number: 20030056564
    Abstract: A screwer test bench comprises a coupling (12) designed for connection with the head of a screwer and connected to a controlled braking unit (14) and a sensor unit (15) for detection of mechanical magnitudes transmitted between the coupling and the braking unit. The braking unit (14) comprises a thin cap (17,117) constrained to said coupling (12) at least in the direction of rotation and arranged between a first pressure surface (22) thrust axially against the cap by an actuator (19) and a second fixed opposition surface (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Angelo Chiapuzzi, Luigi Bareggi