By Measuring Elastic Deformation Of A Torque Transmitting Member Patents (Class 73/862.321)
  • Publication number: 20110088487
    Abstract: The object to configure a system for measuring loads during the wheel/rail contact of rail vehicles in such a manner that the occurring forces and/or torques can be measured in a reliable and realistic manner is solved by the present invention. Between the rail foot and the measuring device, at least one elastic element is arranged which has an elasticity which simulates the elasticity of a ballast bed. By means of the measuring system according to the invention, on the one hand, realistic conditions of a track system can be simulated and, on the other, a high metrological reproducibility of a load situation can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: SCHENCK PROCESS GMBH
    Inventors: Fritz Ehmke, Peter Groll, Ralph Mueller
  • Publication number: 20110015878
    Abstract: A device for measuring torque applied through a rotating member. A first torsion reference member is fixedly coupled to the rotating member at a first axial position and a second torsion reference member is fixedly coupled to the rotating member at a second axial position. A first detector detects the passage of the first torsion reference member past the first detector upon each full rotation of the rotating member and to generate a first signal upon each passage of the first torsion reference member. A second detector detects the passage of the second torsion reference member past the second detector upon each full rotation of the rotating member and to generate a second signal upon each passage of the second torsion reference member. A controller calculates a phase difference between the first signal and the second signal relative during rotation of the rotating member under a torsional load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Publication date: January 20, 2011
    Inventors: Paul A. LaVigne, Daniel R. Kemppainen, Glen L. Barna
  • Patent number: 7856893
    Abstract: To provide a sensor incorporated wheel support bearing assembly, in which a load sensor can be compactly installed in an automotive vehicle, the load acting on the vehicle wheel can be detected with high sensitivity and the manufacturing cost can be reduced, the bearing assembly having a plurality of rows of rolling elements interposed between an outer member and an inner member includes a sensor unit fitted to one of the outer member and the inner member, which serves as a stationary member. The sensor unit includes a sensor mounting member and a strain sensor fitted thereto. The sensor mounting member has two contact fixing portions fixed to the outer member and a first contact fixing portion is fixed to a flange surface of the outer member and a second contact fixing portion is fixed to a peripheral surface of the outer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Takayoshi Ozaki, Tomomi Ishikawa, Kentarou Nishikawa, Toru Takahashi, Yujiro Ono, Takayuki Norimatsu
  • Patent number: 7832287
    Abstract: An assembly for positioning a torque sensor having a receiver and a transmitter is provided. The assembly includes a first annular member, wherein the receiver is coupled to the first annular member. A second annular member is disposed proximate the first annular member. A bearing assembly is disposed between the first annular member and the second annular member. The bearing assembly includes a first race formed to the first annular member, a second race formed to the second annular member, and a bearing disposed between the first race and the second race for allowing the first race and the second race to rotate relative to one another. A radially extending member is coupled to the second race. The receiver is radially displaced from the bearing assembly and the transmitter is mounted to a mounting surface of the radially extending member opposite the receiver at a predefined axial distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos E Marin, Micheal P Portell, Paul D. Stevenson, John R. Maten
  • Publication number: 20100162830
    Abstract: A torque-sensing flange, or generally a torque measurement recorder, is proposed, which has differently embodied measurement recesses or differently embodied measuring diaphragms on an essentially cylindrical measuring range. Different measuring ranges can be easily achieved in this manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventors: Herbert Meuter, Michael Koslowski, Ralf Lanfermann
  • Patent number: 7681463
    Abstract: In an electric power assisting system for a vehicle, a control unit receives an input shaft rotation angle detected by an input shaft rotation angle sensor and an output shaft rotation angle detected by an output shaft rotation angle sensor. The control unit controls rotation of a motor based on the detected two rotation angles. The control unit differently controls the rotation of the motor whether torque is applied from a steering wheel side or from a road surface side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Daiji Watanabe, Motoaki Kataoka, Kunihiko Chiba, Tomoyuki Hori
  • Publication number: 20100021281
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a method for power management in a machine. The method for power management may include sensing a parameter indicative of a torque applied to a torque consuming device rotatably driven by a power source. The method may further include modifying a quantity of fuel supplied to the power source as a function of the sensed parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Bryan E. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20090314103
    Abstract: A torque transferring and monitoring device includes a coupling having a hub portion, a first rim portion, a first set of spokes radially extending between the hub portion and the first rim portion, a second rim portion spaced apart from the first rim portion and a second set of spokes radially extending between the hub portion and the second rim portion. The second set of spokes are axially spaced apart from the first set of spokes. A plurality of pins are fixed to the first rim portion. Each pin has a portion positioned in an aperture formed in the second rim portion. The pin is clear of the second rim portion when the coupling is in an unloaded state. The pin engages the second rim portion to transfer load between the first and second rim portions when a torque exceeding a predetermined magnitude is transferred through the coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: EMERSON POWER TRANSMISSION MANUFACTURING
    Inventors: Charles A. Sakers, William R. Meier
  • Publication number: 20090235763
    Abstract: A chuck-integrated force-measuring system for determining cutting forces at the cutting tool tip of a rotating tool, for example a drill or milling cutter having at least one measuring sensor, as well as a measured-value processing station. The at least one measuring sensor is designed as a strain sensor which is placeable on a tool holder of a machine tool. A measuring hub assembly is also provided which is insertable as an adapter piece into the chuck of the machine tool and is designed with its own chuck for receiving the tool, the at least one measuring sensor being integrated in the adapter piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: MTU Aero Engines GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Eckstein, Guenter Breitkopf, Richard Huber, Thomas Jaeger
  • Publication number: 20090230953
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Magna-lastic Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Seong-Jae Lee
  • Patent number: 7559259
    Abstract: A method is provided for the determination of a torque which is transmitted along a torque transmission path which extends at least along a shaft of a motor vehicle. A rotary position signal is produced by a first speed of rotation sensor at a first section of the transmission path and a rotary position signal is produced by a second speed of rotation sensor at a second section of the transmission path. At a point in time at which a known torque is transmitted along the transmission path, a first rotary position signal relationship is determined with reference to the instantaneously generated rotary position signals, the rotary position signal relationship serving as an offset value. At a later point in time, a second rotary position signal relationship is determined with reference to the instantaneously generated rotary position signals. The transmitted torque is calculated on the basis of the offset value and of the second determined rotary position signal relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Engineering Center Steyr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gerhard Josef Fruhwirth, Thomas Karer
  • Patent number: 7520182
    Abstract: A torque meter enables highly accurate measurement of a torque by detecting only the torque, without being affected by various loads. The torque meter includes an elastic member placed in a power transmission channel and being deformed upon application with a torque being measured, and a torque detecting arrangement for detecting the torque based on the deformation of the elastic member. The torque member receives a torque being applied to the elastic member, and the load member is provided separately from the torque member, for supporting the load of the elastic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Ono Sokki Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Akio Takamura, Kenichi Otsuka, Tooru Miyata
  • Patent number: 7516677
    Abstract: A torque-detecting sleeve member is a cylindrical member that has first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts, a torsion signal generator and a torsion converter. Torque acts on the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts in at least two points. The torsion signal generator is disposed axially between the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts to at least partially form an external peripheral surface between the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts. The torsion converter is operatively disposed between the torsion signal generator and at least one of the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts for converting torsion transmitted from the at least one of the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts to the torsion signal generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Etsuyoshi Watarai, Noriyuki Horiuchi
  • Patent number: 7509883
    Abstract: A detecting unit for detecting a torque applied to a rotor according to rotation of the rotor having an input shaft and an output shaft connected with each other by a torsion bar and a detection circuit board connected with the detecting unit are molded with synthetic resin material to form a mold member. The installation of the mold member into a housing, which has a cylinder portion to surround the rotor and a retainer having an opening formed at the peripheral wall of the cylinder portion, is achieved by inserting the mold member into the retainer from the radial direction through the opening of the retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignees: JTEKT Corporation, Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuya Murakami, Takeshi Izumi, Yoshitomo Tokumoto, Takashi Kaoku, Norio Nakatani, Toshiharu Ishihara, Naoki Nakane
  • Publication number: 20090064799
    Abstract: A shear sensor includes a stator structure, a transformer, and a ferromagnetic core. The stator structure distorts in two perpendicular axes upon application thereto of a shear force. The transformer is coupled to the stator structure, and includes a primary winding and a pair of differentially wound secondary windings. The ferromagnetic core is non-rotationally coupled to the stator structure and is at least partially surrounded by the primary and secondary windings. The core is spaced apart from the transformer stator poles to define an air gap between the core and the stator poles. The air gap varies in the two perpendicular axes upon application of the shear force to the stator structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Danial L. Kosht, Larry J. Terpstra, Joseph M. Walling
  • Patent number: 7500408
    Abstract: An inventive torque detection device includes: a magnetic circuit forming member having a tubular magnet provided at a first rotating body, and a magnetic ring that is located circumferentially of the tubular magnet and rotated together with a second rotating body connected to the first rotating body; a magnetic flux collecting ring part for collecting a generated magnetic flux; a detection part for detecting, based on a density of the collected magnetic flux, a torque applied to the first or second rotating body; and a molded body that is molded at an outer circumferential portion of the first rotating body, and is joined to longitudinal both sides of the tubular magnet so as to fix the tubular magnet to the first rotating body. A molding pressure, generated when the tubular magnet is molded, is applied in the longitudinal direction of the tubular magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignees: JTEKT Corporation, Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitomo Tokumoto, Shingo Takayama, Mikio Nozaki, Naoki Nakane
  • Patent number: 7484427
    Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention comprises a tool having a threaded member which is characterized by a cylindrical shaft or spindle with a surrounding body or handle. The shaft and body are operably engaged by means of a series of magnets in the spindle and the body, and the operable engagement releases once the torque force on the threaded member exceeds the magnetic force between the body and the spindle. In the method of the present invention, the user can calibrate and adjust the torque limit of the assembly by attaching a calibration bar of predetermined length to the threaded member and then rotating the tool over a scale such that the calibration bar contacts the surface of the scale. The user can then adjust a set screw which alters the length of the shaft and alters the magnetic force between the body and the spindle and correspondingly alters the torque limit of the tool to a desired level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Bolt Bethel, LLC
    Inventor: Andrew Kolkind
  • Publication number: 20080276728
    Abstract: A device (1) for measuring reaction moments and forces on a lever (2) with at least one receptacle (9) for the lever (2) and with at least one carrier (42), wherein the receptacle (9) is fixed on the carrier (42) in opposite measurement directions deflectable relative to the carrier (42), and the device (1) is further provided with at least one fixed, supported sensor (50) for measuring deflections of the lever (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: Schaeffler KG
    Inventors: Nikolaj Bechtold, Christian Schaufler, Horst Strobel
  • Patent number: 7448285
    Abstract: The invention provides an electric power steering system which is adapted to enhance the versatility of a detector coil including lead pins and which may be manufactured at low costs. The electric power steering system PS of the invention has an arrangement wherein lead pins 11 of a detector coil 6 and a control board 30 constituting a control unit 10 are interconnected via a wire harness 13. The lead pin 11 and the wire harness 13 are interconnected via a conductive sleeve terminal 14. The sleeve terminal 14 includes: a cylindrical sleeve portion 40 fitted about the lead pin 11; and a connection portion 41 connected with the wire harness 13 and upstanding from an outside periphery of the sleeve portion 40.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventor: Norio Nakatani
  • Publication number: 20080245160
    Abstract: A torque-detecting sleeve member is a cylindrical member that has first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts, a torsion signal generator and a torsion converter. Torque acts on the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts in at least two points. The torsion signal generator is disposed axially between the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts to at least partially form an external peripheral surface between the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts. The torsion converter is operatively disposed between the torsion signal generator and at least one of the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts for converting torsion transmitted from the at least one of the first and second cylindrical torque-acting parts to the torsion signal generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Etsuyoshi WATARAI, Noriyuki HORIUCHI
  • Patent number: 7428847
    Abstract: An inventive torque detection device includes: a magnetic circuit forming member provided at a rotating body to which a torque is applied; a magnetic flux collecting ring for collecting a generated magnetic flux; a detection part for detecting, based on the density of the collected magnetic flux, the torque applied to the rotating body; a holding ring, having a flange, for holding the magnetic flux collecting ring and the detection part; and a sealing ring for sealing between the flange and a housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignees: JTEKT Corporation, DENSO Corporation
    Inventors: Akio Osuka, Toshiharu Ishihara, Naoki Nakane
  • Patent number: 7406882
    Abstract: A meter cable mounting structure having a shaft portion of an inner cable and a fitting hole of a revolving shaft that can be easily aligned for facilitating the mounting operation. The meter cable mounting structure includes a meter cable having an inner cable with a shaft portion of a square shape in cross section at least at one end thereof. A pinion includes a fitting hole of a square shape in cross section that corresponds to the shaft portion of the inner cable at the end thereof with a tapered inner wall portion being provided in a periphery of an open end of the fitting hole. The tapered inner wall portion is reduced in diameter gradually toward the open end and includes a guide projection for guiding the shaft portion when mounting the meter cable to the pinion by fitting the shaft portion into the fitting hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasunori Okazaki, Tetsuaki Maeda
  • Patent number: 7398701
    Abstract: A device is described for determining the torque which is applied to a turbine shaft (10), the determination device having at least one system for contactless measurement of the integral torsion of the turbine shaft (10) and a unit for contactless measurement of the restoring constant of the turbine shaft (10). Furthermore, a method is described for determining the torque which is applied to the low-pressure turbine shaft (10) of a turbine engine, which is distinguished in that, to determine the torque, the integral torsion of the turbine shaft is measured by a contactless method and the restoring constant of the turbine shaft is measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: MTU Aero Engines GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Zielinski
  • Patent number: 7387034
    Abstract: A torque detecting apparatus having a permanent magnet fixed to an input shaft, magnetic yokes fixed to an output shaft coaxially connected to the input shaft via a torsion bar and disposed within a magnetic field of the permanent magnet to form a magnetic circuit, and a Hall IC for detecting a magnetic flux induced by the magnetic yokes. The permanent magnet is of a truncated conical shape, and the bevel circumference surface thereof is magnetized by magnetic poles alternately in a reverse polarities along circumference direction, so as to oppose the magnetic yokes. A torque applied to the input shaft or the output shaft can be detected through detection by the Hall IC of the magnetic flux generated between the magnetic yokes. The configuration allows reducing the length in an axial direction of the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignees: Koyo Seiko Co., Ltd., Favess Co., Ltd., Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiharu Ishihara, Taisuke Tsujimoto, Naoki Nakane
  • Publication number: 20080011103
    Abstract: A method for the determination of a torque which is transmitted along a torque transmission path which extends at least along a shaft of a motor vehicle. A rotary position signal is produced by means of a first speed of rotation sensor at a first section of the transmission path and a rotary position signal is produced by means of a second speed of rotation sensor at a second section of the transmission path. At a point in time at which a known torque is transmitted along the transmission path, a first rotary position signal relationship is determined with reference to the instantaneously generated rotary position signals, said rotary position signal relationship serving as an offset value. At a later point in time, a second rotary position signal relationship is determined with reference to the instantaneously generated rotary position signals. The transmitted torque is calculated on the basis of the offset value and of the second determined rotary position signal relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventors: Gerhard Fruhwirth, Thomas Karer
  • Patent number: 7293472
    Abstract: In a torque detecting apparatus, in each of two flux concentrating rings, a portion along a circumferential direction is raised outward in a radial direction so that a flux concentrating section is provided that has a plate shape extending on one side in an axial direction. These flux concentrating rings are fixedly arranged such that the flux concentrating sections should oppose to each other in the circumferential direction with a predetermined gap in between. Leakage flux between opposing surfaces of the flux concentrating sections is detected by magnetic sensors aligned in an axial direction between these opposing surfaces. This improves the utilization of materials for the flux concentrating rings including the flux concentrating sections, and hence reduces the product cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitomo Tokumoto, Toshiharu Ishihara, Naoki Nakane
  • Patent number: 7270017
    Abstract: A torque measuring device for a rotating body is provided, which includes: a stationary section; a rotary section; a rotary transformer composed of a primary coil disposed at the stationary section, and a secondary coil disposed at the rotary section, wherein an electric power is transmitted from the stationary section to the rotary section by electromagnetic induction, a torque generated at a rotating body is detected at the rotary section by means of the electric power transmitted, and wherein a detection result is transmitted from the rotary section to the stationary section. In the torque measuring device, a capacitor is connected at the side of the secondary coil of the rotary transformer, and a series resonant circuit is formed by the capacitor in combination with a leakage inductance of the rotary transformer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Minebea Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinya Suzuki, Shigeyuki Adachi
  • Patent number: 7263905
    Abstract: A Hall-Effect sensor assembly for a rotating electric machine comprises a thin, removable tubular substrate with Hall-Effect sensors and associated connection wiring mounted on it that slips underneath the wound stator end turns of the stator for the rotating electric machine to make the assembly easily removable for installation and repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: George H. Seffernick, Mahesh J. Shah, James K. Kersting
  • Patent number: 7255014
    Abstract: A wheel bearing apparatus has a wheel speed detecting apparatus which can prevent ingress of foreign matter into the wheel speed detecting portion of the wheel bearing apparatus. The wheel bearing apparatus has an encoder (19) mounted on the outer circumferential surface of an inner ring (6). A sensor holder (15) is arranged on the end of the outer member (4) opposite to the encoder (19). The sensor holder (15) includes an annular fitting member (16) and a holding portion (17). The holding portion (17) is formed by synthetic resin molded integrally with the annular fitting member (16). A wheel speed detecting sensor (20) is embedded in the resin and is positioned opposite to the encoder (19), via a predetermined gap between the two. A seal (11) is arranged at the inboard side of the encoder (19). The seal (11) includes a first sealing plate (21) and a second sealing plate (22) fit, respectively, on the sensor holder (15) and the inner ring (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventor: Syougo Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7249527
    Abstract: A system for determining the absolute torque applied to a rotating shaft includes a sensitive element that is deformable under torsion and a measuring device having first and second coders that are intended to be rotationally fixed, respectively, in the vicinity of each end of the sensing element. The coders have a singularity or several equally distributed singularities; first and second fixed sensors disposed opposite to and at an air gap which is a predetermined distance from, respectively, the first and second coders, wherein each sensor is able to deliver a signal having a pulse corresponding to the detection of a singularity of the coder. The system also includes a device for processing the signals transmitted by the sensors that is able to calculate the angular difference between the singularities in order to determine, by comparison with a calibration difference, the absolute torque applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: S.N.R. Roulements
    Inventor: Pascal Desbiolles
  • Publication number: 20060272430
    Abstract: Ae connecting structure of a first rotor member (rotor housing) of a rotary connector and a second rotor member (rotary member) of a steering angle sensor is provided. A plurality of elastic pieces are formed on the inner peripheral portion of the first rotor member and extend downward. An engaging protrusion is provided in the inner peripheral portion of the second rotor member so as to be inserted in an engaging hole of the elastic piece, and the elastic piece is combined with the engaging protrusion in a snap-in relationship.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2006
    Publication date: December 7, 2006
    Inventors: Junji Araki, Tadashi Sano
  • Publication number: 20060213288
    Abstract: A wheel bearing apparatus has a wheel speed detecting apparatus which can prevent ingress of foreign matter into the wheel speed detecting portion of the wheel bearing apparatus. The wheel bearing apparatus has an encoder (19) mounted on the outer circumferential surface of an inner ring (6). A sensor holder (15) is arranged on the end of the outer member (4) opposite to the encoder (19). The sensor holder (15) includes an annular fitting member (16) and a holding portion (17). The holding portion (17) is formed by synthetic resin molded integrally with the annular fitting member (16). A wheel speed detecting sensor (20) is embedded in the resin and is positioned opposite to the encoder (19), via a predetermined gap between the two. A seal (11) is arranged at the inboard side of the encoder (19). The seal (11) includes a first sealing plate (21) and a second sealing plate (22) fit, respectively, on the sensor holder (15) and the inner ring (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Publication date: September 28, 2006
    Inventor: Syougo Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7107862
    Abstract: A method of assembling a torque sensor includes the steps of fixing a first inner coil portion at one end side of a torsion bar, fixing a second inner coil portion at an other end side of the torsion bar, measuring an angle difference between an angle of the first inner coil portion and an angle of the second inner coil portion, fixing a first outer coil portion and a second outer coil portion, of which angle difference is substantially equivalent to the measured angle difference between the first inner coil portion and the second inner coil portion, at a housing, and rotatably disposing the torsion bar fixed with the first inner coil portion and the second inner coil portion in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Toyoda Koki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Jun Onoda, Takuo Shibata
  • Patent number: 7089808
    Abstract: A torque sensor for a vehicle steering system includes a voltage boosting circuit, an oscillator, an offset voltage circuit part and a current amplifier. The torque sensor further includes a phase inversion part that outputs an offset voltage and a phase-inverted alternating current voltage which is in-phase with the voltage outputted from said oscillator, a waveform selecting part that rectifies the voltages outputted from said current amplifier and said phase inversion part, and first and second coils that are in series each other and connected at each end thereof to an output terminal of said waveform selecting part and an output terminal of said offset voltage circuit part, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seung-Ho Paek
  • Patent number: 7069158
    Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for analyzing a structure subjected to a catastrophic event. Based on linear elastic input data, the system automatically determines non-linear hysteretic behaviors. The nonlinear models are then analyzed through any one of a number of nonlinear analysis techniques. Processing load of a computer is substantially reduced through various mathematical functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Karma2go. com, LLC
    Inventor: Jawahar M. Gidwani
  • Patent number: 6975196
    Abstract: An apparatus for magnetizing selected portions of a shaft in a substantially circumferential direction includes a fixture mounted onto the apparatus adapted to receive a shaft to be magnetized, at least one magnetization head, the magnetization head being mounted moveably on the apparatus such that the magnetization head can be moved radially relative to the fixture, a plurality of brushes mounted onto the magnetization head, each brush having a distal end defining an internal diameter sized to circumferentially contact the shaft, the brushes being spring-loaded such that when the magnetization head is moved toward the fixture, each brush engages the shaft with proper pre-load force, and a buss bar, wherein the brushes are electrically connected to the buss bar for even distribution of electrical current to the brushes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: John Francis Laidlaw
  • Publication number: 20050103125
    Abstract: A system (1) for determining the absolute torque applied to a rotating shaft, the said system (1) comprising a sensitive element (2) deformable under torsion and a measuring device comprising: first (5) and second (6) coders intended to be rotationally fixed respectively in the vicinity of each of the ends (3, 4) of the sensing element (2), the said coders (5, 6) having a singularity or several singularities equally distributed; first (10) and second (11) fixed sensors disposed opposite to and at an air gap distance from respectively the first (5) and second (6) coders, each of the said sensors (10, 11) being able to deliver a signal having a pulse (I1, I2) corresponding to the detection of a singularity (8a, 8b) of the coder (5, 6); the said system also comprises a device (12) for processing the signals issuing from the sensors (10, 11) able to calculate the angular difference between the said singularities (8a, 8b) so as to determine, by comparison with a calibration difference, the absolute torque app
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Publication date: May 19, 2005
    Inventor: Pascal Desbiolles
  • Patent number: 6886416
    Abstract: A pedal force sensing apparatus includes a pedal force input shaft, a force action sleeve, a torque output shaft, at least one elastomer, a micro optical pickup head module, a diversion sleeve, a linear sliding bush and a displacement sensor. The pedal force input shaft to which an input torque is applied drives the force action sleeve combined with it to simultaneously rotate. Sequentially, the force action sleeve applies forces to the elastomer to have reaction force acting on the torque output shaft. When a reverse torque from the loading of the electric bicycle is applied to the opposite end of the torque output shaft, the rotations of the torque output shaft and the force action sleeve occur, and relative angular displacement between them simultaneously exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignees: Transceiving System Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Kwei-Chi Tsay, Cheng-Chung Houng
  • Patent number: 6871553
    Abstract: A torque sensing apparatus for picking up a magnetic field of a magnetostrictive material disposed on a shaft, the torque sensing apparatus having: a first integrating ring; a second integrating ring; a first fluxgate return strip and a second fluxgate return strip each being connected to the first integrating ring at one end and the second integrating ring at the other end; an excitation coil; and a feedback coil; wherein the first integrating ring and the second integrating ring are configured to be positioned to pick up flux signals along the entire periphery of the ends of the magnetostrictive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Malakondaiah Naidu, Joseph Pierre Heremans, Thomas Wolfgang Nehl, John R. Smith, Brian K Fuller
  • Patent number: 6829951
    Abstract: A process for testing the properties of a rubber sample is provided. This process is suitable for use with current rheometers, curemeters, viscometers, and the like, wherein it is common to change test conditions during the duration of the test, when the rubber sample scorches or reaches full cure. This process provides a method for determining an optimal time for changing the test conditions to which the rubber sample is subjected. With this process specifying times for changing test conditions is no longer required prior to starting the test. Rather, the variable test condition is changed at sample-specific times that closely coincide with the actual scorch time or full cure time of the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Tech Pro, Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Putman, Matthew C. Putman
  • Publication number: 20040221663
    Abstract: A deformation member is located between a supporting member and a bearing. A deformation detection device detects the amount of deformation of the deformation member at at least two positions that are spaced from each other in a circumferential direction. Based on the deformation amount, a computer computes unbalanced load that is applied to the supporting member by the tension of a belt. The computer computes tension of an advancing section and tension of a trailing section of the belt in the moving direction of the belt with respect to a section of the belt engaged with a rotor. Therefore, the strength of the supporting member is maintained while improving the detection accuracy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Publication date: November 11, 2004
    Inventors: Satoshi Umemura, Ryo Matsubara, Tatsuya Hirose, Yuji Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 6796191
    Abstract: A torque swivel apparatus. The apparatus includes an upper body assembly secured to the lower end of a locking swivel of the type used in wireline operations. The upper body would engage into a lower body, the lower body secured to the drill string at the rotary table. The upper body would provide a pair of milled out wedge portions for accommodating a pair of wedge members in the lower body to engage therein during coupling. The apparatus further includes a plurality of cylinders positioned into the upper body with a piston member secured within each cylinder, so that each of the four faces of the wedge portions of the upper body accommodates a pair of pistons in its wall. The outer face of each of the pistons would make contact with each of the four faces of the wedge members of the lower body when coupling has occurred. The inner face of each of the pistons would mate with a line having fluid, which when acted upon would register force against the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: Anthony R. Boyd
  • Patent number: 6672169
    Abstract: A performance measuring system for a rotating shaft comprises a first annular support assembly to be coupled adjacent to a first end of a rotating shaft inwardly of associated shaft bearings. A second annular support assembly is to be coupled adjacent to a second end of a rotating shaft inwardly of associated shaft bearings. A third annular support assembly is to be coupled to the rotating shaft between the first and second support assemblies. A laser source is mounted on the first annular support assembly. A laser detector is mounted on the second annular support assembly. First and second magnetic sensors for detecting the Earth's magnetic field are mounted respectively on the first and second annular support assemblies. An accelerometer is mounted on the third annular support assembly for generating a fourth detection signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Clymer Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Clymer, Edward April
  • Patent number: 6589019
    Abstract: A compressor includes a front housing, a cylinder block, a cylinder head, a torque transmission mechanism, a reciprocating mechanism, and torque determination means. The torque transmission mechanism includes a pulley, a plate-shaped elastic member, a hub, a drive shaft, and a rotor. The torque determination means includes a first marker affixed to the pulley, a second marker affixed to the hub a first sensor affixed to the front housing which generates a first timing signal when the first marker is positioned within substantially the same vertical plane as the first sensor, and a second sensor affixed to the front housing which generates a second timing signal when the second marker is positioned within substantially the same vertical plane as the second sensor. Moreover, there is a time differential between the generation of the first and second timing signals corresponding to the angular offsets, and the torque of the compressor is determinable from the time differential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Sanden Corporation
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Terauchi
  • Publication number: 20030089181
    Abstract: A device for measuring torque and the direction of rotation in a drive assembly, has a torsion element (9) which can be torque-loaded and rotatingly driven for the purpose of transmitting torque around an axis of rotation (8). A first transmitter element (16) attached in a rotationally fast way to the torsion element (9). The first transmitter element (16) is moved on a first rotational circle. A second transmitter element (34) is positioned at a reference distance from the first transmitter element 16. The second transmitter element (34) is connected in a rotationally fast way to the torsion element (9) and is moved on a second rotational circle. A sensor unit 35 is fixed and arranged at a distance from the axis of rotation (8). The sensor unit (35) senses the passage of the transmitter elements 16, 34 or of a reference edge or a reference surface and generates a corresponding sequence of signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Eberhard Wilks, Holger Jung
  • Patent number: 6517113
    Abstract: The invention concerns a vehicle steering column (2) comprising a manual control member (3) for applying a torque on the column (2) drive shaft (8), the column being equipped with a device for measuring the torque applied to the drive shaft (8), characterised in that the torque measuring device includes a sensing element without requiring a torsion bar to be located along the drive shaft (8) axis and thus producing a break therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: S.N.R. Roulements
    Inventor: Christophe Nicot
  • Patent number: 6472656
    Abstract: A sensor with a strain gage 106 is disposed on an inner circumferential surface of a distortion generating body 100 which is a half-blindly hollowed cylinder having a prescribed thickness and diameter between a driving flange 101 to be fixed to a rotating body and a driven flange 102. The sensor converts a physical quantity corresponding to torque acting on the cylinder into an electrical signal. And the electrical signal is further converted into an optical signal by a light emitting element 113 and transmitted to a stationary section. The optical signal transmitted from the rotary section is made incident on a circumference of an optical fiber 115. The light made incident on the circumference of the optical fiber 115 is transmitted to an end of the optical fiber. The light which has reached the end is received at a light-into-electricity conversion element 131 to be converted into an electrical signal. Thus, a measured value of torque is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Minebea Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tooru Arai
  • Patent number: 6442812
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a piezoelectric torque transducer is provided, comprising the steps of (a) forming a prepared area on a surface of a torsion member adapted to be strained by an applied torque; (b) providing a piezoelectric element having an axis of maximum strain sensitivity and disposing first and second electrodes on opposite faces of the element, respectively, and attaching an electrical lead to each electrode; (c) connecting electrical leads to the electrodes; and (d) disposing the element on the prepared area and orienting the axis of maximum strain sensitivity on the member and securing the element to the prepared area with a material selected from a group consisting of (i) adhesive material and (ii) potting material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Kovacich, Wayne S. Kaboord, Fred J. Begale, Robert R. Brzycki, Birger Pahl, James E. Hansen
  • Patent number: 6356847
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for determining the torque exerted on a body of revolution 2 capable of being driven rotatably about an axis of rotation 1. The device possesses a first and a second measurement generator 3 and 4 which are arranged on the body of revolution 2 at an axial distance from one another and which consist of rings 7 and 8 radially surrounding the body of revolution 2 and composed of fields having an alternately different signal behavior. At the same time, the number of fields of the two rings 7 and 8 is identical. The first measurement generator 3 is assigned a first measurement transducer 9 and the second measurement generator 4 is assigned a second measurement transducer 10, the measurement transducers both supplying output signals, from which first and second square-wave signals 11 and 12 are formed, the torque being determined from the distances between edges of the first and second square-wave signals over one complete revolution of the body of revolution 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Siegfried Gerlitzki
  • Patent number: 6356848
    Abstract: The invention broadly provides a method and apparatus for measuring the power output of one powering a vehicle or other system driven by the elongate flexible member such as chain. In a preferred embodiment described, the vehicle is a bicycle. The method of the invention comprises measuring the speed and tension of the drive chain and calculating the power output therefrom. The apparatus of the invention includes a chain speed sensor, a chain tension sensor, and electronic processing apparatus to calculate and display the power output based upon the chain measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Polar Electro OY
    Inventors: Alan Cote, Jean-Joseph Cote, John C. Croy, Seppo Nissilä