Engine torque sensor
US6901815B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 26, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 7, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 22, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical sensing system is used to measure engine torque. A pair of patterns are formed on a driveshaft between a transmission and axle differential. The patterns are spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance and are formed about the circumference of the driveshaft. Lasers and photo receivers are used to scan the patterns as the driveshaft rotates. Data from the photo receives is used to determine the angle of twist on the driveshaft which is proportional to the engine torque. The torque for each cylinder can be measured by generating a torque profile for every two revolutions of the driveshaft. The torque profile is read in 120 degree increments for a six cylinder engine and in 90 degree increments for an eight cylinder engine, for example.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.