Bearing apparatus having integrated load sensing arrangement
US6338281B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 13, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jan 15, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 13, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C23/086
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A bearing apparatus having one or more integrated load sensors for determining the load imposed on a rotatable shaft. The bearing apparatus includes a bearing housing having a bearing set, such as a bearing insert, located therein. The load sensors are preferably configured as strain gauges having resistance characteristics that vary as the bearing housing is deformed. For example, the strain gauges may be angularly spaced in an arcuate recess defined below the bearing set in the bearing housing. Preferably, circuitry is also provided to condition the deformation signal to provide an indication of loading on the shaft. The conditioning circuitry may be advantageously attached to the exterior of the bearing housing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.