Electronic caliper, configured to generate current for measurement processes

Abstract

Electrically operated caliper (100, 400) configured to generate current for measuring operations, wherein the caliper (400) has: a scale element (102); a slide (130); a signal processing section (150) configured to measure a displacement between the scale element (102) and the slider (130); and a power generating device (405) that is fixed with respect to the slide (130) and which has: a power-generating gear train (432) configured to rotate in response to a force, the force being applied to the gear train (432) via a power-generating handle (410) by a user moving the power-generating handle (410) relative to the gear train (432); and a generator (431) which is coupled to the gear train (432) and configured to rotate in response to a force exerted by the rotating gear train (432) and to supply current to the signal processing part (150), wherein: the power generating device (405) generates electricity while the user moves the power generating handle (410); the power-generating device (405) is configured to contribute a motion resistance force component while the user moves the power-generating handle (410); and the gear train (432) has a force-limiting clutch (432C) which is configured to limit the resistance force component of the movement and the force-limiting clutch (432C) is configured such that the resistance force component of the movement is at most 20 N while the user moves the power-generating handle (410) with a maximum hand acceleration and / or with a maximum hand speed.

Description

Area

[0001] The present application relates generally to measuring systems and in particular to an electronic caliper capable of generating electricity. background

[0002] Various electronic calipers that utilize electronic position sensors are known. These sensors are typically based on inductive, capacitive, or magnetic small-signal position sensing technology. Generally, a sensor can include a read head and a scale. The read head usually comprises a sensor and electronics. The read head outputs signals that change as a function of the sensor's position relative to the scale along a measuring axis. In an electronic caliper, the scale is usually attached to a long, thin scale element that has a first measuring arm, and the read head is attached to a slide that is movable along the scale element and has a second measuring arm. Thus, measurements of the distance between the two measuring arms can be determined based on the signals from the read head.

[0003] Exemplary electronic calipers are disclosed in jointly transferred U.S. patents No. US 37,490 E, US 5,574,381 A, and US 5,973,494 A. Caliper technology strongly encourages lower power consumption; for example, U.S. patent No. US 5,973,494 A discloses configurations that reduce power consumption in a caliper. Nevertheless, even in low-power configurations, batteries must be replaced periodically. Some users view this as an undesirable inconvenience and / or expense. A caliper that eliminates or significantly postpones battery replacement is desirable.

[0004] JP S63-205 508 A discloses a motor-driven measuring device, e.g. a caliper, with an electronic display and power supply with charging device.

[0005] DE 10 2010 013 803 A1 describes an endoscopic instrument with an elastic toothed belt that serves as a safety clutch. US 2007 / 0 068 027 A1 relates to a generic measuring tool. US 2002 / 0 047 333 A1 discloses a manually operated generator. DE 697 04 577 T2 discloses a generic portable precision measuring tool or caliper for measuring a linear dimension. SHORT DESCRIPTION

[0006] This summary serves to introduce, in a simplified form, a selection of concepts that are further described in detail below. This summary is not intended to identify the main features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of protection of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] When generating electricity to eliminate or postpone the need for battery changes in a caliper, it would be desirable and most convenient if electricity generation in the caliper could be achieved through ergonomic and convenient movements within a relatively short range of motion.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, an electrically operated caliper according to claim 1 is disclosed. Further aspects of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims, the drawings, and the description of exemplary embodiments.

[0009] In various embodiments, the power-generating device is configured to contribute a motion resistance component of at most 20 N, or in other embodiments 10 N or less, while the user moves the power-generating handle at a maximum hand speed or less. The motion resistance component may include an inertial component and a generator work component. The motion resistance component contributed by the power-generating device can be measured by determining the difference between the motion resistance of the power-generating handle when the power-generating device is engaged and driven by movement of the power-generating handle, and the motion resistance of the power-generating handle when the power-generating device is disengaged and the movement of the power-generating handle does not drive any elements of the power-generating device.Maximum hand acceleration and maximum hand speed refer to the maximum accelerations and speeds that typical caliper users can expect to achieve when moving the current-generating handle.

[0010] The gear train features a force-limiting clutch configured to limit the resistance force component. In some embodiments, the gear train may include a drive element driven by the force exerted via the power-generating handle, and the force-limiting clutch is located between the drive element and a gear coupled to the drive element by the force-limiting clutch. In some embodiments, the force-limiting clutch may be configured to limit the resistance force component to a maximum of 10 N.

[0011] In some embodiments, the gear train may include a drive element which is driven by the force exerted via the current-generating handle, which has either a gear or a friction roller. In some embodiments, the drive element may have a gear which is driven by a rack attached to the current-generating handle. In some embodiments, the drive element may have a friction roller which is driven by a flat surface of the current-generating handle. In some embodiments, the caliper may have a spring element which presses the friction roller against the current-generating handle.

[0012] In some embodiments, the gear train can include a drive element of a smaller diameter, which is coupled to an outer gear of a larger diameter, which drives an inner gear of a smaller diameter, which is coupled to another outer gear of a larger diameter, which drives the generator via at least one additional gear.

[0013] In some embodiments, the gear train contains at most six gears.

[0014] In some embodiments, the power generation handle can be enclosed on the slider.

[0015] In some embodiments, the gear train may include gears with a number of teeth per inch of pitch circle diameter of at least 80.

[0016] In some embodiments, the range of motion of the power-generating handle is limited to a maximum of 2.5 inches, or in other embodiments, 1.25 inches or less.

[0017] In some embodiments, the gear train may include gears with a tooth width of no more than 0.15 inches.

[0018] In some embodiments, the power-generating handle can be connected to a reciprocating element configured to drive the drive element in the same direction of rotation when the user moves the power-generating handle in either of the opposite directions. In some embodiments, the reciprocating element has an upper and a lower rack which drive the same gear at different times, depending on the direction of movement of the power-generating handle.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least some gears of the power generation device can be arranged in a space between the top of the scale element and the inside of a cover surrounding the signal processing part.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least some gears of the power generating device can be arranged in a space between the underside of the scale element and an inside of a part of the slide that surrounds the underside of the scale element.

[0021] In some embodiments, the caliper may further include a return spring which stores energy to return the current-generating handle to its initial position when the user releases it after generating current in a direction which stores energy in the return spring. Brief description of the drawings

[0022] The aforementioned aspects and many of the accompanying advantages of this invention will be more easily recognized when they are better understood through the following detailed description in conjunction with the following accompanying drawings: Fig. Figure 1 is an expanded representation of a hand-operated caliper which can be adapted to the principles disclosed herein; Fig. 2 is a drawing of a first embodiment of a power generation device integrated into a caliper; Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the power generation device made of Fig. 2, which shows additional details; The Fig. 4A, Fig. 4B and Fig. Figure 4C are detailed drawings of a second embodiment of a power generation device integrated into a caliper; The Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B are drawings of a third embodiment of a power generating device integrated into a caliper; Fig. 6 is a drawing of a fourth embodiment of a power generating device integrated into a caliper; Fig. Figure 7 is a drawing of part of a reciprocating element configured to drive a drive pinion in the same direction of rotation when the user moves the current-generating handle in either of the opposite directions, and which may be incorporated into a current-generating device integrated into a caliper; and Fig. Figure 8 is a drawing of a fifth embodiment of a power generating device integrated into a caliper. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Fig. Figure 1 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a hand-operated caliper 100, which can be adapted to the principles disclosed herein. In this example, the caliper 100 includes a magnetic or inductive sensor unit 158 ​​and a scale carrier 125 (a cut-out segment of each is shown) containing a scale rail 126, which is arranged in a groove 127 along a long, thin scale element 102. A slide unit 170 includes an electronic unit 160 attached to a slide 130. The magnetic or inductive sensor unit 158 ​​is contained in the electronic unit 160.

[0024] The general mechanical construction and physical operation of the caliper 100 are similar to those of certain earlier electronic calipers, such as those of jointly transferred U.S. Patent No. US 5,901,458 A. The scale element 102 is a rigid or semi-rigid rod which may include various grooves and / or other features incorporated into a generally rectangular cross-section. The scale carrier 125 may be rigidly glued into the groove 127, and the scale rail 126 may include scale elements which interact with corresponding elements (not shown) of the sensor unit 158 ​​contained in the electronic unit 160 in a manner similar to that used in known electronic calipers and as described in U.S. Patents No. US 37,490 E and US 5,901,458 A and in jointly transferred U.S. Patent No. US 6,400,138 B1.

[0025] A pair of measuring jaws 108 and 110 are formed integrally with the scale element 102 near its first end. A corresponding pair of measuring jaws 116 and 118 are formed on the slide 130. The external dimensions of a workpiece are measured by placing the workpiece between a pair of contact surfaces 114 of the measuring jaws 108 and 116. Similarly, the internal dimensions of a workpiece are measured by placing a pair of contact surfaces 122 of the measuring jaws 110 and 118 against opposite internal surfaces of the workpiece. In a position sometimes referred to as the zero position, the contact surfaces 114 abut each other, the contact surfaces 122 are aligned, and both the external and internal dimensions measured by the caliper 100 can be displayed as zero.

[0026] The measured dimension can be displayed on a digital display 144, which is mounted within a cover 140 of the electronic unit 160 of the caliper 100. The electronic unit 160 can also include a group of pushbuttons 143, 141 and 142 (e.g. an on / off switch, an operating mode switch and a zero-setting switch) and a signal processing and display circuit board 150, which contains a read-head signal processing and control circuit 159. In a Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the underside of the signal processing and display circuit board 150 is attached such that it rests against the top sides of the slider 130 on both sides of the scale element 102.

[0027] Some of the in Fig. The calipers of the type shown in Figure 1 are powered by one or more batteries connected to the electronic unit 160. It is also known to power similar calipers with solar cells, as described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 4,963,811 A (hereinafter the '811 patent). The '811 patent describes an energy management system comprising a solar collector, a storage device (e.g., a storage capacitor), and a current control circuit. When the solar collector provides more current than is required to operate the caliper, the current control circuit can connect the solar collector to the storage device to store the excess energy. The caliper can then occasionally be operated solely on the stored energy.

[0028] For the purposes of this disclosure, the electronic unit 160 may include a power management part 156 analogous to that of the '811 patent. The power management part 156 includes an energy storage device 156es and a power conditioning and control circuit 156pc. The energy storage device 156es may, for example, be a battery or a capacitor which stores energy for operating the caliper 100. The power conditioning and control circuit 156pc may provide voltage and power management functions analogous to those outlined above and / or in the '811 patent in broad terms, for storing and consuming energy generated as disclosed herein, which may be provided in the form of an alternating current or an alternating voltage.Therefore, the power conditioning and control circuit 156pc can also include a boosting and rectifying circuit which boosts and rectifies the alternating voltage from the generator shown in later figures so that it can be stored by the energy storage device 156es and used to operate the caliper 100. For example, a suitable boosting and rectifying circuit is described in the article “Highly efficient integrated rectifier and voltage boosting circuits for energy harvesting applications”, Adv. Radio Sci., 6:219-225, 2008. In some embodiments, the power conditioning and control circuit 156pc can be wholly or partially integrated with and / or indistinguishable from the signal processing and control circuit 159.

[0029] It should be noted that, although a magnetic or inductive caliper is described above, an electronic caliper using any type of sensor can be adjusted according to the following: Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 to Fig. The 7 described principles can be adapted. For example, a caliper using capacitive sensing technology can be integrated into the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6 to Fig. Use the 7 described features.

[0030] Fig. Figure 2 is a drawing of a first embodiment of a power generation device 205 integrated into a caliper 200. The caliper 200 can be identical to the caliper 100, and therefore the following are shown based on the Fig. 2 only the significant differences were described. Certain parts of scale element 202 are in Fig. 2 omitted to more clearly illustrate various components of the power generating device 205. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the power generating device 205 is in the slide valve 230 (which is in the Fig. The power-generating device 205 is integrated into the slide unit 170 shown in Figure 1 and moves with it. The power-generating device 205 includes a gear train 232, a generator 231, and a power-generating handle 210. In this embodiment, the power-generating handle 210 is connected to a rack 210R, which has teeth. The power-generating handle 210 is moved by a user (e.g., by the user's right thumb while the slide is held in the other fingers of the user's right hand), thereby driving the rack 210R. The power-generating handle 210 is guided by and / or enclosed in a groove in a retaining guide 210G, either directly or by being attached to the rack 210R, which may be guided by and / or enclosed in the groove, as illustrated. The retaining guide 210G may be attached to the slide unit 230 or formed as a single piece with it.In some embodiments, the current-generating handle 210 can be guided and / or enclosed by an alternative or matching handle holder feature incorporated into the caliper cover (e.g., into a suitable, adapted cover 140).

[0031] The gear train 232 includes a drive element, which in this embodiment is the inner gear 232Ai, driven by the rack 210R and joined to or made from a single piece with a gear 232A of a larger diameter. It also includes a gear 232B, driven by the gear 232A. Furthermore, it includes an inner gear 232Ci (not visible in this view, but in Fig. 3), which is driven by gear 232B, which is joined to or made from a single piece with a gear 232C of a larger diameter. It also includes an inner gear 232Di (not visible in this view, but shown in Figure 3). Fig. 3 shown), which is driven by gear 232C (not visible in this view, but in Fig. (3 shown) is driven by a gear 232D, which is joined or manufactured as a single piece with a gear 232D of a larger diameter. It also includes an inner gear 232Ei, which is driven by the gear 232D, which is joined or manufactured as a single piece with a gear 232E of a larger diameter. It will be evident that the tooth speed of the gear 232E is much higher with this configuration than the speed of the rack 210R, making it suitable for driving the generator 231 at a high speed when a user moves the power-generating handle 210 and the rack 210R.

[0032] The gear train 232 also contains a gear 231gg (not visible in this view, but in Fig. 3A), which is joined to an axle of the generator 231 and which is driven by the gear 232E (either directly or via an intermediate gear or the like). The various gears of the gear train 232 can rotate on axles (and / or bearings) which are arranged in holes (not shown) in the slide 230. In some embodiments, an axle of the generator 231 can alternatively be held on one side by a suitable part of the electronic unit 160. The slide 230 can, as required, have further features to accommodate the power generating device 205, as will be obvious to a person skilled in the art based on this disclosure.

[0033] In short, when a user moves the power-generating handle 210 during operation, thereby driving the gear train 232, the components of the gear train 232 drive the rotating part of the generator 231 (e.g., a magnetic rotor) to generate electricity. In some embodiments, the power-generating handle 210 and / or the rack 210R may be connected to a return spring 210RS, one end of which is attached directly or indirectly to the slide. When the user operates the power-generating handle 210, the return spring 210RS, which stores energy to return the power-generating handle 210 to its initial position (when the user releases it) in order to generate additional electricity during this return, can be extended or compressed. Alternatively, the return spring 210RS can be omitted, and the user can simply apply the force to operate the handle in either direction.

[0034] The generator 231 can be similar to the generators used in commercially available wristwatches. For example, microgenerators available from Kinetron and / or microgenerators disclosed in US patents 5,923,619 A and / or 6,124,649 A can be adapted to the principles disclosed herein. The generator 231 can have electrical lines 231w, shown schematically as dashed lines, which can be connected to the energy management section 156, outlined above.

[0035] In the embodiment outlined above, the gear train 232 is configured such that it has an overall gear ratio such that the generator 231 is rotated at a speed that provides relatively powerful power generation (e.g., 1000 to 10000 rpm) at the expected speed at which a user might move the power-generating handle 210 during use. However, in various embodiments, it is also desirable that the power-generating device 205, when generating power while the user moves the power-generating handle 210, contributes a resistance force component of at most about 20 N.

[0036] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, a user can move the power-generating handle 210 conveniently and ergonomically with one thumb. Since the power-generating handle 210 can be moved with one thumb relative to the slide, it may be desirable to use a short range of motion for the power-generating handle 210 while still driving the gear train 232 over a large number of revolutions in order to keep the generator 231 rotating at a high speed for as long as possible. In some embodiments, the range of motion of the power-generating handle is limited to a maximum of 2.5 inches, or in other embodiments, 1.25 inches or less.

[0037] As mentioned previously, in embodiments that limit the range of motion of the power-generating handle for ergonomic reasons, it is desirable to use a high gear ratio to drive the generator 231 at a sufficient speed for a sufficiently long time. To provide a high gear ratio within a limited spatial tolerance for the tooth width of the gears, some embodiments require the gear train to contain at least four gear elements. However, for economic and ergonomic reasons, it is also desirable to limit the number of gears. Therefore, in some embodiments, the gear train 232 contains at most six gears. Gears with a relatively high number of teeth per inch of pitch circle diameter can enable a sufficient speed in the generator 231 to be achieved with fewer gears.Therefore, in some embodiments it is desirable that the gear train contains gears with a number of teeth per inch of pitch circle diameter of at least 80 or more.

[0038] A high gear ratio can be limited by design considerations regarding resistance forces transmitted to the gear teeth, which can lead to premature failure or wear. The inventor has found that in some embodiments disclosed herein, it is desirable for the gear train to have gears with a tooth width of at least 0.075 inches (e.g., at least as wide as gears of a relatively smaller diameter). The inventor has also found, with regard to a compact caliper size and other design considerations, that in some embodiments disclosed herein, it is desirable for the gear train to have gears with a tooth width of no more than 0.15 inches.

[0039] It will be recognized that this resistance force component is exerted between the current-generating handle 210 and the drive element of the gear train, which in this case means between the rack 210R and the drive pinion 232Ai. The resistance force component can primarily originate from the inertia of the gear train 232 and the generator 231, the magnetic forces (generator work) generated in the generator 231, and the friction in the current-generating device 205, and is also influenced by the relationships between the radii of the various gears. Thus, in various embodiments, a suitable combination of gear inertia, gear radii, etc., can be determined based on this disclosure (e.g.,(through analysis and / or testing) that when a user moves the power-generating handle 210 with a maximum expected acceleration and / or speed, the motion resistance force component contributed by the power-generating device 205 is at most about 20 N or, in other embodiments, 10 N or less.

[0040] You will realize that the in Fig. The special gear configuration illustrated and described in broad strokes above is merely exemplary and not limiting. For example, it shows Fig. 8. An embodiment having a significantly different configuration of the gear train installation, in which gears of the power-generating device are arranged in a space between the top of a scale element and the inside of a cover surrounding a signal processing part. Alternatively, in some embodiments, at least some gears of the power-generating device may be arranged in a space between the bottom of the scale element and an inside part of the slide that encloses the bottom of the scale element. In still further embodiments, a planetary gear assembly may be used. Based on the explanations in this disclosure, these and further alternatives will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0041] Fig. Figure 3 is an expanded representation of the power generation device 205 of the caliper 200. Fig. 2, which shows additional details of elements that are in the Fig. The details shown in view 2 were not visible. In particular, it shows Fig. 3 the inner gear 232Ci, which is attached to gear 232C, the inner gear 232Di, which is attached to gear 232D, and the gear 232gg, which is attached to the shaft of generator 231.

[0042] The Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B are detailed drawings of a part of a gear train 432 which may be incorporated into a second embodiment of a power generating device 405 which is integrated into a caliper according to the principles disclosed herein. Fig. Figure 4C shows additional details of an embodiment of a generator 431 as integrated into a caliper. The gear train 432 may be identical to the gear train 232, and elements numbered 4XX may be identical to or analogous to elements 2XX of the caliper 200. Therefore, based on the Fig. 4A and Fig. Section 4B merely describes the significant differences in detail. The gear train 432 differs from the gear train 232 in that it has a force-limiting clutch 432C, which is located in Fig. 4A and further enlarged in Fig. 4B, which are described further below, is shown.

[0043] As previously mentioned, it is desirable that the power-generating device 405, when generating power while the user moves the power-generating handle 410, contributes a resistance force component of at most about 20 N. In various embodiments, the force-limiting clutch 432C is configured based on this disclosure (e.g., by analysis and / or experimentation) such that when a user moves the power-generating handle 410 by hand at a maximum acceleration and / or velocity or less, the resistance force component contributed by the power-generating device 405 is at most about 20 N, or in other embodiments, 10 N or less.In other words, if the power-generating handle 410 is moved such that the power-generating device 405 would contribute a resistance force component along the rack 410R exceeding about 20 N (or in some embodiments 10 N or less), the force-limiting clutch 432C is adjusted to slip and / or effectively separate or decouple at least a portion of the gear train 432 (and generator 431) from the rack 410R in order to limit the resistance force component to the desired value in order to avoid damage or excessive wear of the elements of the gear train 432 and generator 431.

[0044] It will be seen that this can effectively decouple the drive from the generator 431, thereby interrupting power generation in order to absolutely limit the resistance force component. However, it will be seen that every time the resistance force component falls below the limit set by the coupling 432C, this effectively re-engages or couples the gear train 432 (and the generator 431) with the rack 410R and generates power again.

[0045] Furthermore, the presence of the coupling allows for desirable compromises in the design. For example, unlike the power generating device 405, which did not have a coupling, in some such embodiments it is not necessary to configure the overall gear ratio of the power generating device 405 to limit its resistance force component, since the coupling provides this limitation. Rather, it can have a larger desirable gear ratio, so that lower power generating handle speeds result in higher generator speeds, advantageously generating, for example, more power at lower speeds of movement of the power generating handle. Since the gear ratio does not need to be conservatively limited, this can actually achieve a net increase in the energy generated compared to the power generating device 405.

[0046] A simplified embodiment of a force-limiting coupling 432C is shown in Fig. Figure 4B is shown enlarged. The coupling mechanism 432C has an upper coupling element 432Ct, which is joined to the inner gear 432Ai, and a lower coupling element 432Cb, which is joined to the outer gear 432B. Mating ribbed surfaces of these elements meet at the coupling transition point 432Cint. The elements are shown with a separation at the transition point, but this is for illustrative purposes only. In operation, the elements are preloaded so that they engage under the force of the coupling preload spring 432Cps, which is pressed against the inner gear 432Ai by the fastening screw 432Cf. The fastening screw 432Cf is screwed into a shaft (shown by dashed lines) which is joined to the lower coupling element 432Cb and / or the outer gear 432A.

[0047] In normal operation, the clutch preload spring 432Cps forces the upper clutch element 432Ct to slide downwards along the axis, so that the mating ribs of the clutch elements engage at the clutch transition point 432Cint, allowing torque to be transmitted at the transition point and the inner gear 432Ai to drive the outer gear 432A. The clutch preload spring is designed and / or adjusted (e.g.,by adjusting the fastening screw 432Cf), so that when the force of the rack on the inner gear 432Ai exceeds the desired resistance force component, the force / torque on the matching ribs at the coupling transition point 432Cint causes the upper coupling element 432Ct to slide up and over the ribs of the lower coupling element 432Cb, effectively separating the inner gear 432Ai from the outer gear 432A, allowing the inner gear 432Ai to rotate more freely and reducing its reaction force component on the rack 410R to the desired value.

[0048] You will realize that the ones in the Fig. 4A and Fig. The simplified coupling configuration illustrated in Figure 4B and described above in broad outline is merely exemplary and not limiting. For example, flat friction plates may be used instead of ribbed elements, and / or conical or cylindrical elements may form the coupling transition point, and / or bearings or other additional elements may be added to reduce wear at various bearing locations, and / or the diameter of coupling elements and various other elements may be changed, or the coupling may be oriented in a different plane using suitably adapted gears, and so on. Based on the explanations in this disclosure, these and other alternatives will be readily apparent to the average person skilled in the art.

[0049] As mentioned previously, shows Fig. 4C Additional details of an embodiment of a generator 431. The generator 431 may comprise a coil 431c, a stator 431s, and a magnetic rotor 431mr driven by a gear 431gg. The magnetic rotor 433 is attached to a shaft (not shown) which is attached to the gear 431gg. In some embodiments, the magnetic rotor 433 may be a multipole magnet made of an SmCo alloy such as that described in US Patent No. US 5,229,738 A. The outer gear 432E rotates the gear(s) 431gg, causing the magnetic rotor 433 to rotate relative to the coil 431c, which thereby generates energy which can be transferred as alternating current to the power management part 156 via a wire connection 431w, which may be connected to the adjacent signal processing and display circuit board (e.g., the circuit board 150).

[0050] It should be recognized that, although the elements of the power generating device 405 are shown in a configuration similar to that of the caliper 200, embodiments of such elements can be adapted to any suitable caliper configuration, which will be obvious to a person skilled in the art from the explanations of this disclosure.

[0051] The Fig. 5A and Fig. Figure 5B are drawings illustrating part of a third embodiment of a power generating device 505 integrated into a caliper 500. The caliper 500 may be identical to the caliper 200, the power generating device 505 may be identical to the power generating device 205 or 405, and elements numbered 4XX may be identical to or analogous to elements 2XX of the caliper 200 or elements 4XX of the caliper power generating device 405. Therefore, based on the Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B merely describes the significant differences in detail.

[0052] In particular, the gear train 532 differs from the gear trains 232 and 432 in that the drive element, which provides the function of the previously described drive pinion (e.g., gear 232Ai or 432Ai), is a friction roller 532Ai, which may be joined to an outer gear 532A. The friction roller 432Ai engages by friction with at least one edge of a surface block 510SB connected to the current-generating handle 510 and is thereby rotated to drive the outer gear 532A. Thus, compared to the caliper 200, the rack (e.g., the rack 210R) can be omitted.

[0053] It is self-evident that the gear train 532 may otherwise be identical or analogous to the gear train 232 or 432, and that the slide 530 may be identical to the slide 230, except that the positions of various gears, axles, holes, and recesses may be adapted to accommodate the configuration of the friction roller. In one embodiment, the friction roller 532Ai and the outer gear 532 may be mounted such that they are located on an axle 532Aa held in the slide 430 (in Fig. (5B shown) turn.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the axle 532Aa can be installed in an axle holder 532Aas, which can rotate a short distance on the slide 530 around a pivot pin 532Aap, thus providing one degree of freedom for the position of the friction roller 532Ai, so that its frictional pressure against the surface block 510SB is achieved by engaging a Fig. 5B schematically depicted compression spring 532Aips is applied. In one embodiment, the compression spring 532Aips can be a torsion spring mounted on the pivot pin 532Aap.

[0055] You will realize that the ones in the Fig. 5A and Fig. The simplified compression spring configuration illustrated in Figure 5B and described above in broad outline is merely exemplary and not limiting. Furthermore, if desired, a force-limiting coupling can be used in the gear train 532 (in one embodiment, for example, between gear 532Ai and the outer gear 532A). Based on the explanations in this disclosure, these and other alternatives will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0056] Fig. Figure 6 is a drawing of a fourth embodiment of a power generating device 605 integrated into a caliper 600. The caliper 600 can be identical to the caliper 200 or 500, and the power generating device 605 can be identical to the power generating device 205, 405, or 505, and elements numbered 6XX can be identical to or analogous to elements 2XX of the caliper 200, 4XX of the power generating device 405, or 5XX of the caliper 500. Therefore, based on the Fig. 6 only the significant differences are described in detail.

[0057] In particular, the gear train 605 differs from the gear trains 232, 432, and 532 in that the drive element, which provides the function of the previously described drive pinion (e.g., gear 232Ai, 432Ai, or 532Ai), is a friction roller 632Ai, which can be joined to an outer gear 632A and engages by friction with a surface of the surface block 610SB, which is connected to the current-generating handle 610, in order to drive the outer gear 632A. In the illustrated embodiment, the axle 632Aa can be biased by a compression spring in the direction of the surface block 610SB (e.g., using a spring-loaded axle holder as previously described with respect to the axle holder 532Aas in [reference missing]). Fig. 5 (described in broad outline), to provide a desired frictional pressure. The friction roller 632Ai can have a polymer sleeve or coating which has a high coefficient of friction and presses against the handle 610. A force-limiting coupling can, if desired, be used in the gear train 632 (in one embodiment, for example, between the friction roller 632Ai and the outer gear 632A, in a manner analogous to the caliper 400). Based on the explanations in this disclosure, these and other alternatives will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0058] Fig. Figure 7 is a drawing of part of a power generating device 705, which has a reciprocating element 710re configured to drive a drive pinion 732Ai in the same direction of rotation when the user moves a power generating handle 710 in one of the opposite directions, and which may be incorporated into a power generating device 705 integrated into a caliper (e.g., similar to the power generating device 205 in the caliper 200). Elements numbered 7XX may be identical to or analogous to elements 2XX of the caliper 200. Therefore, based on the Fig. 7 only the significant differences are described in detail.

[0059] In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the power-generating handle 710 is connected to the reciprocating element 710re, an upper rack 710Ru, and a lower rack 710R1. The reciprocating element 710re is configured to drive the drive element in the same direction of rotation when the user moves the power-generating handle 710 in either of the opposite directions along the X-axis. During operation, while a user moves the power-generating handle 710 in the negative X-direction, the inclined surfaces ISu of the reciprocating element push the upper rack 710Ru downwards so that it engages with the upper part of an inner gear 732Ai, which drives the inner gear 732Ai to rotate counterclockwise (with respect to the XY plane).Conversely, as the user moves the power-generating handle 710 in the positive X direction, the inclined surfaces ISI of the reciprocating element push the lower rack 710R1 upwards, engaging the lower part of the inner gear 732Ai. This, in turn, drives the inner gear 732Ai, causing it to rotate counterclockwise (with respect to the XY plane). In this way, the user can alternately push the handle 720 in both directions of movement along the X direction to continuously drive the inner gear 732Ai in the same direction. This configuration eliminates the need to reverse the direction of rotation of the gear train, maintaining angular momentum and improving the efficiency and ergonomics of the power-generating process.

[0060] Fig. Figure 8 is a drawing of a fifth embodiment of a power generating device 805 integrated into a caliper 800. The caliper 800 can be identical to the caliper 200, and the power generating device 805 can be analogous to the power generating device 205, and elements numbered 8XX can be identical to or analogous to elements 2XX of the caliper 200. Therefore, based on the Fig. 8 only the significant differences are described in detail.

[0061] In particular, the gear train 805 differs from the gear train 232 in that at least some gears of the gear train 805 are located in a space between the top of the scale element 802 and the inside of a cover surrounding the signal processing section (e.g., the one in Fig.The drive element, which provides the function of the previously described drive pinion (i.e., gear 232Ai), is an inner gear 832Ai, which may be joined with an outer gear 832A. The gear train 832 includes a drive element, which in this embodiment is the inner gear 832Ai, driven by the rack 810R and joined with or made from a single piece with a gear 832A of a larger diameter. It also includes an inner gear 832Bi, driven by the gear 832A, which is joined with or made from a single piece with a gear 832B of a larger diameter. The gear train 832 also includes a gear 831gg, which is joined to an axle of the generator 231 and which is driven by the gear 832B (either directly or via an intermediate gear or the like).Thus, the gear train 832 has fewer gears overall than previously described embodiments, but otherwise fulfills the principles previously described in broad outline.

[0062] As mentioned above, at least some gears of the gear train 805 are arranged in a space between the top of the scale element 802 and the inside of a cover surrounding the signal processing section. In the illustrated embodiment, gears 832A, 832Bi, and 832B, as well as the generator 831, are arranged in this space, which can offer advantages such as cost-effective assembly. In this particular embodiment, the gears and the generator are located between the circuit board 850 (shown by dashed lines) and the cover.

[0063] The axles for the gear 832B and the generator 831 can be mounted in or on the circuit board 850 (e.g., in insertion sockets or on a mounting frame attached to the circuit board 850). The axles and / or the mounting frame can be configured to provide clearance for the various electronic components with respect to the gears and the generator. The rack 810 can be guided in a groove 830G in the slide and can be held in the groove by a retaining plate 830RP, a portion of which is shown in a cutaway view.

[0064] It is self-evident that minor configuration differences in the gear train 832, despite different gear orientations, can otherwise fulfill functions and principles that are the same as or analogous to those of the gear train 232, and that the caliper 800 can be the same as the caliper 200, except that the positions of various circuit elements, gears, axles, holes, and recesses may be adapted as described in broad outline above. A force-limiting clutch can, if desired, be used in the gear train 832 (in one embodiment, for example, between the friction roller 832Ai and the outer gear 832A). Based on the explanations in this disclosure, these and other alternatives will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0065] While various embodiments of the invention have been presented and described, the person skilled in the art will, based on this disclosure, conceive of numerous modifications to the presented and described arrangements of features and sequences of operations. Thus, it will be recognized that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

[1] Electrically operated caliper (100, 400) configured to generate current for measuring operations, wherein the caliper (400) comprises: a scale element (102); a slide (130); a signal processing section (150) configured to measure a displacement between the scale element (102) and the slider (130); and a power generating device (405) that is fixed with respect to the slide (130) and which has: a power-generating gear train (432) configured to rotate in response to a force, the force being applied to the gear train (432) via a power-generating handle (410) by a user moving the power-generating handle (410) relative to the gear train (432); and a generator (431) which is coupled to the gear train (432) and configured to rotate in response to a force exerted by the rotating gear train (432) and to supply current to the signal processing part (150), wherein: the power generating device (405) generates electricity while the user moves the power generating handle (410); the power-generating device (405) is configured to contribute a motion resistance force component while the user moves the power-generating handle (410); and the gear train (432) has a force-limiting clutch (432C) which is configured to limit the resistance force component of the movement and the force-limiting clutch (432C) is configured such that the resistance force component of the movement is at most 20 N while the user moves the power-generating handle (410) with a maximum hand acceleration and / or with a maximum hand speed. [2] Caliper (100, 400) according to claim 1, wherein the current generating device (405) is configured to contribute a resistance force component of at most 10 N. [3] Caliper (100, 400) according to claim 1, wherein the gear train (432) has a drive element (432Ai) which is driven by the force exerted via the current-generating handle (410), and the force-limiting coupling (432C) is arranged between the drive element (432Ai) and a gear (432A) coupled to the drive element (432Ai) by the force-limiting coupling (432C). [4] Caliper (100, 400) according to claim 1, wherein the force-limiting coupling (432C) is configured to limit the resistance force component to a maximum of 10 N. [5] Caliper (100, 400) according to claim 1, wherein the signal processing part (150) has an energy storage element (156es) which contains a battery or a capacitor or both configured to store energy generated by the power generation device (405). [6] Caliper (100, 400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein the gear train (432, 532) has a drive element which is driven by the force exerted via the current-generating handle (410, 510) and which has either a gear (432Ai) or a friction roller (532Ai). [7] Caliper (100, 400) according to claim 6, wherein the drive element has a gear (432Ai) which is driven by a rack (410R) connected to the current generating handle (410). [8] Caliper (100, 500) according to claim 6, wherein the drive element has a friction roller (532Ai) which is driven by a surface (510SB) connected to the current generating handle (510). [9] Caliper (100, 500) according to claim 8, wherein the caliper (100, 500) has a spring element (532Aips) which presses the friction roller (532Ai) against the surface (510SB) connected to the current generating handle (510). [10] Caliper (800) according to claim 1, wherein the gear train (832) includes a drive element (832Ai) of a smaller diameter, which is coupled to an outer gear (832A) of a larger diameter, which drives an inner gear (832Bi) of a smaller diameter, which is coupled to a further outer gear (832B) of a larger diameter, which drives the generator (431, 831) via at least one additional gear (831gg). [11] Caliper (500, 800) according to claim 1, wherein the gear train (532, 832) contains at most six gears. [12] Caliper (400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein either the current-generating handle (410, 510) or a drive element (410R, 510SB) connected to the current-generating handle (410, 510) or both are enclosed such that they are guided along a path in a holding guide (410G, 510G) and the path is approximately parallel to the scale element (102). [13] Caliper (400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein the gear train (432, 532) includes gears with a number of teeth per inch of pitch circle diameter of at least 80. [14] Caliper (400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein the range of motion of the current-generating handle (410, 510) is limited to a maximum of 1.25 inches. [15] Caliper (400, 500) according to claim 1, wherein the gear train (432, 532) includes gears with a tooth width of at most 0.15 inch. [16] Caliper (100, 800) according to claim 1, wherein at least some gears of the current generating device (405, 805) are arranged in a space between the top of the scale element (102, 802) and the inside of a cover (140) which surrounds the signal processing part (150, 850). [17] Caliper (100, 500) according to claim 1, further comprising a return spring (510RS) which stores energy to return the current-generating handle (510) to its initial position when the user releases it after moving it in a first direction to generate current.

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