Sensor-containing connection element and manufacturing method
US9249820B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 19, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 2, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 19, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49925
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A connection element consists of a longitudinally oriented support structure that is at least partially hollow and a sensor unit that is arranged in the inside of the support structure, is connected to a signal transmission device, and is non-positively connected to the support structure. The required force for the non-positive connection is produced by internal stresses after a plastic deformation of the support structure during a joining process of the support structure and the sensor unit. A method for manufacturing a connection element consisting of a support structure that is at least partially hollow and a sensor unit includes positioning the sensor unit in a region of the support structure and, using radially movable tool segments, exerting a force on the support structure in the radial direction and at the same time reducing the periphery of the support structure in the region in which the sensor unit is positioned.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.