Torque monitoring system for flexible drives
US12405179B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 2023 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 10, 2044 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01L3/1457
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A self-monitoring flexible drive system including a drive motor having an output member coupled to a flexible drive means configured to move one or more work pieces by loading the flexible drive means in tension. The drive motor is supported by a mount that fixes a position of the drive motor while allowing free rotation. A torque sensor measures torque applied to the flexible drive means by the drive motor. The torque sensor is provided by a torque arm fixedly secured with respect to a housing of the drive motor, and a load measuring support arm supporting a distal portion of the torque arm against a stationary support. A controller receives a variable non-binary output signal from the torque sensor that indicates a value of the measured torque. The controller is programmed to output a signal configured to modify an input drive signal controlling the output of the drive motor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.