Load variation detector
US5675094A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 1996 |
| Grant date | Oct 7, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F2230/08
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus to detect variations in load by comparing signals related to, but not necessarily accurately correlated with, stress/strain states of a load transmitting member. In one embodiment, a first signal is obtained relating to the time rate of change of stress in the member produced by a first loading event or series of events. A second signal is obtained which relates to the time rate of change of stress in the member produced by a second loading event or series of events. The first and second signals are compared to detect significant variations in loading. Each of the two signals may be a composite of other signals. A magnetostrictive sensor may preferably be used to obtain the signals relating to the stress in the load transmitting member. The load may be applied force, torque, stress, strain, or deflection. In another embodiment, the time rate of change of a single segment of an analog signal related to, but not directly correlated with, stress is used to determine rapid changes in load. In yet another embodiment, a statistical value derived from a plurality of signals is used to determine variation in load. Applications comprise internal combustion engine and …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.