Torsion module of a torque detection device

US6799481B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Leopold KOSTAL GmbH & Co. KG · DE

Inventors

• Klaus Nieding · Halver, DE
• Ralf Bobel · Dortmund, DE
• Frank Blasing · Werl, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 8, 2003
• Grant date: Oct 5, 2004
• Expiry date: Sep 8, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01L3/1457
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A torsion module includes first and second rings (9, 9′) and a spoked wheel (8). The first ring is attachable to a steering wheel (13). The spoked wheel is attached on top and bottom sides to the rings and has bending spokes which join a rim to a hub. The bending spokes bend in response to rotation angle offset between the hub and rim caused by torque on the steering wheel. A sensor, placed on a bending spoke, generates a signal indicative of bending experienced by the bending spoke in response to rotation angle offset between the hub and rim. The spoked wheel includes bending-resistant limit stop spokes each having a free end. The free ends engage the rim to limit rotation angle offset between the hub and rim. The rings have axially separated limit stops which enclose the free ends to prevent axial movement between the hub and rim.