DEVICE FOR TRANSMITTING TORQUE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for transmitting torques according to claims 1 and 15.

[0002] Such devices for transmitting torque from an input to an output via the interposition of rubber-elastic elements are commonly referred to as couplings. Document DE29813731 U1 discloses a device for transmitting torque via the interposition of rubber-elastic elements, which has a co-rotating measuring device.

[0003] The device features rubber-elastic elements, which can, in particular, provide vibration damping. The rubber-elastic elements can also compensate for axial and / or radial misalignments and / or angular misalignments between the input and output, thus compensating for assembly or manufacturing tolerances, for example.

[0004] The applicant has been developing and marketing devices of this type for several decades. The applicant is one of the leading companies in this field of technology worldwide.

[0005] Examples of couplings of this type are the applicant's so-called "ROTEX" couplings.

[0006] The applicant's "ROTEX" coupling is a torsionally flexible claw coupling with two identical or nearly identical coupling halves, between which an elastomer ring with a plurality of rubber-elastic elements is arranged.

[0007] This coupling enables the transmission of even high torques with low weight and low moments of inertia. The well-known coupling is axially pluggable and therefore easy to install. Furthermore, the shaft coupling is designed to be puncture-proof.

[0008] Starting from the known device for transmitting torques of the prior art described at the outset, the object of the invention is to further develop the known device in such a way that the device can be used in a more versatile manner.

[0009] The invention solves this problem with the features of claim 1.

[0010] The principle of the invention essentially consists in arranging a co-rotating communication module on the device. The communication module is inductively supplied with operating voltage by the stationary power supply unit. In particular, the entire device that measures the transmitted torque and / or a co-rotating measuring electronics system formed as a component of the device is also inductively supplied with operating voltage.

[0011] The communication module is designed to transmit information. In particular, information can be transmitted to a stationary counterpart communication module as a radio signal, i.e., wirelessly.

[0012] A stationary counter-communication module is understood to mean a stationary counter-communication module, for example, with a fixed receiver, which can be arranged, for example, on the power supply unit or fixed relative to the power supply unit. However, the term "stationary counter-communication module" within the meaning of the invention also includes, for example, mobile devices such as cell phones, smartphones, laptops, tablets, PDAs, smartwatches, computers, or similar devices that are mobile but do not rotate with the device.

[0013] According to the invention, the communication module is designed to transmit information. The information can include information about the transmitted torque and / or information about the rotational speed of the device. However, the transmitted information can also include, or be related to, other parameters or measured values that relate to or are related to a state of the device. Thus, for example, current measured values, such as the current transmitted torque or the current rotational speed of the device, or mean values, average values, or historical data, etc., can be transmitted.

[0014] The communication between the communication module and the counter-communication module can be unidirectional, but can also be bidirectional if necessary. For example, the device or the measuring electronics, if present, can be configured via the communication connection provided by the communication module and the counter-communication module. This connection can also be used, for example, to configure a display element provided in embodiments of the invention.

[0015] The wireless connection can be implemented according to a proprietary or publicly available standard. Standards such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi, NFC, or other suitable protocols are possible.

[0016] The device according to the invention comprises rubber-elastic elements intended for damping. Rubber-elastic elements within the meaning of the patent application are considered to include, in particular, spring-elastic elements or resilient elastic elements, as well as elastic elements of any kind, regardless of the material used for the element and regardless of the element's design.

[0017] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the communication module is designed to provide a radio signal connection according to the Bluetooth protocol. This allows for the use of conventional terminal devices that include Bluetooth receivers. For example, virtually any smartphone can be used, preferably provided that a proprietary app, possibly including an access control device, is downloaded to the smartphone.

[0018] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the communication module is designed to provide a radio signal connection according to the Bluetooth LE (low energy) protocol. This enables particularly energy-efficient signal transmission.

[0019] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises a co-rotating display element with which information about the transmitted torque and / or information about the rotational speed of the device and / or other parameters or measured values related to a state of the device and detected by the device can be displayed. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly advantageous visual display.

[0020] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the display element is controlled taking into account the rotational speed of the device. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly convenient image display.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the display element is designed in the manner of a stroboscopic display. This allows for the use of conventional components.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device has a controller for controlling the display element. This enables optimized operation.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises measuring electronics with which a rotational speed of the device can be measured. This enables a simple construction of the device according to the invention.

[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises at least one receiver or transmitter, and the stationary power supply unit comprises at least one transmitter or receiver. This enables particularly safe operation.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the transmitter and the receiver form a signal path between them, e.g., an optical signal path, an electrical signal path, a magnetic signal path, or an electromagnetic signal path. This allows for the use of conventional components.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one rotational position of the device can be detected, verified, or triggered by means of the transmitter and receiver. This enables a particularly simple design and safe operation.

[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least two transmitters or at least two receivers are provided. This allows for easy determination of the direction of rotation of the device.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the direction of rotation of the device can be determined by means of the at least two transmitters or the at least two receivers. This enables an optimized display depending on the direction of rotation.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device controls the display element taking into account a determined direction of rotation of the device. This enables an easily readable, optimized display.

[0030] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises at least one twistable section.

[0031] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device has coupling bodies cooperating with the rubber-elastic elements, which are arranged on a hub.

[0032] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the twistable section is provided by the hub.

[0033] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises a drive-side fastening area and a driven-side fastening area, the distance between which defines an axial length of the device, wherein the device is approximated in its structural dimensions to the dimensions of a conventional coupling or a standard coupling or corresponds to them, wherein the device is designed to be interchangeable with the conventional coupling.

[0034] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the twistable section is formed by a radial recess in the hub. This embodiment enables a simple construction of the device according to the invention as well as a secure accommodation of strain gauges and / or, if necessary, other sections or elements of the device.

[0035] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises strain gauges (SGs). This design enables a simple construction and the use of commercially available components and elements.

[0036] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the section functions as a carrier for the strain gauges. This design enables a simple construction and a particularly advantageous and reliable measurement of the transmitted torque.

[0037] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the section is integrally connected to the hub. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly compact design and simple production of the device according to the invention.

[0038] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the section is formed by turning the hub. This embodiment enables a particularly simple construction.

[0039] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device is designed for monitoring and / or controlling a machine. This embodiment of the invention enables the device to be used in new fields of application and areas.

[0040] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device generates a warning signal when a threshold torque is exceeded. This embodiment enables particularly safe operation of a machine or system, since it can also be used, for example, to initiate an emergency shutdown or initiate maintenance work.

[0041] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises an annular body that is designed to rotate with the device. This embodiment enables a particularly simple construction of a device according to the invention.

[0042] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises an annular body carrying the display element, which is designed to rotate with the device.

[0043] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the annular body comprises plastic material regions. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly simple construction of a device according to the invention.

[0044] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the annular body protrudes radially beyond the hub, with the display element being arranged on the projection. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly simple construction and a particularly simple and convenient arrangement of a display device.

[0045] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises a measuring range of torques to be measured and transmitted by the device between 10 Nm and 20,000 Nm, in particular between 100 Nm and 10,000 Nm. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly broad range of applications and use in various fields of application.

[0046] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device is designed to rotate with the device and cooperates with a stationary unit for inductively supplying the device with operating voltage. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly simple construction and the use of conventional commercial components and elements.

[0047] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device comprises a communication module with which information about a measured torque can be transmitted via radio signals to a stationary signal receiving unit. This embodiment of the invention enables a particularly simple construction and processing of measured values outside the device, e.g., on stationary computing units.

[0048] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device has a communication module with which information about a measured torque can be transmitted along a radio link to a signal receiving unit, in particular a stationary one, or to a mobile terminal, in particular a Bluetooth-enabled one.

[0049] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device has a rotating display element for displaying information, for example, information about a measured torque. This embodiment of the invention enables particularly safe operation.

[0050] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device is designed as a claw coupling. This embodiment of the invention allows for the use of known, commercially available components or elements.

[0051] The invention also encompasses embodiments in which the device is not designed as a claw coupling, but forms a different type of coupling. Finally, the invention encompasses devices in which claws overlap one another in the axial direction and / or in the radial direction. The invention also encompasses devices that do not require claws and in which the surfaces that contact the rubber-elastic bodies are provided by other tool areas of a hub, i.e., by claws.

[0052] The invention also relates, for example, to steel disc clutches or bellows clutches. Here, the resilient or spring-elastic elements can be provided, for example, by discs or a bellows.

[0053] The invention further relates to a method according to claim 14.

[0054] The object of the present invention is to provide a method with which information about an operation of the device can be obtained in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0055] The invention solves the problem with the features of claim 14.

[0056] The invention is best understood in view of the above statements on the device-related claims, these remarks also being analogous to the understanding of the features of claim 14 and to the explanation of the technical teaching according to claim 14.

[0057] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, step c) comprises a transmission of information along a radio link according to the Bluetooth protocol, in particular according to the Bluetooth LE (low energy) protocol.

[0058] According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a device according to claim 15.

[0059] The device according to claim 15 corresponds to the device according to claim 1, with the difference that the device is not supplied with operating voltage inductively, but by a battery rotating or rotating with the device, i.e. a rechargeable battery.

[0060] The battery can be dimensioned and designed for a specified typical operating period, for example, several weeks, months, or years. In particular, the battery can be designed to be replaceable and rechargeable.

[0061] The device according to claim 15 can, according to the invention, be combined with individual or multiple features of the previously described device according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, in order to avoid repetition, reference is made to the statements relating to the device according to claims 1 to 13.

[0062] Further advantages of the invention will become apparent from the uncited subclaims and from the following description of the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, in which: Fig. 1 in a partially sectioned schematic view of a device of the prior art in longitudinal section, Fig. 2 in a representation according to Fig. 1 a first embodiment of a device according to the invention, wherein the device according to Fig. 1 by the device according to Fig. 2 can be replaced as a result of an exchange, Fig. 3 in a perspective, schematic, partially sectioned, broken-off view an exploded view of the device according to the invention according to Fig. 2showing both coupling halves and an elastomer ring, Fig. 4 in a schematic, partially sectioned view of a coupling half of an embodiment of a device according to the invention with hub and twistable section, Fig. 4a The coupling half of the Fig. 4 in a perspective schematic view, Fig. 5 the device of Fig. 4 in a representation according to Fig. 4 with additional indication of strain gauges, Fig. 6 the device of Fig. 4 showing an additional attachment, Fig. 7 an embodiment of a device according to the invention in a representation similar to the Fig. 4 , wherein an annular body is additionally shown, which has a device for measuring a transmitted torque, Fig. 7a in a partially sectioned schematic view the annular body and the device for measuring a transmitted torque of the Fig. 7in individual representation approximately according to view arrow VIIa in Fig. 7 with additional indication of the sectioned twistable section and in a Fig. 7 modified arrangement of the display and the electronic components, Fig. 8 shows a further embodiment of a device according to the invention in a representation similar to the Fig. 7 , wherein a secondary coil of the device for measuring a torque is additionally shown, Fig. 9 the ring body of the Fig. 8 with an indication of the secondary coil, Fig. 10 a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a device according to the invention showing the annular body with the device for measuring the transmitted torque, a voltage supply unit designed as a pick-up, and a receiving device for receiving measuring signals, Fig. 11 in a representation comparable to the Fig. 10in isolation the annular body of an embodiment of a device according to the invention with a device for measuring the transmitted torque, showing a display device which is provided by a plurality of LEDs, Fig. 12 another embodiment of a coupling half according to the invention in a representation comparable to the representation of Figure 7 , where a modified adapter piece is used, and Fig. 13 shows a further embodiment of a coupling half according to the invention in a representation comparable to the embodiment of the Figure 6 , wherein a ring body is provided which has a smaller outer diameter than the ring body of the embodiment of the Figure 7 , and the display fields are oriented differently.

[0063] Embodiments of the invention are described by way of example in the following description of the figures, also with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity, identical or comparable parts, elements, or regions are designated by identical reference numerals, sometimes with the addition of lowercase letters, even where different embodiments are concerned.

[0064] Features described only with reference to one embodiment may also be provided in any other embodiment of the invention within the scope of the invention. Such modified embodiments are encompassed by the invention, even if they are not shown in the drawings.

[0065] A device according to the invention is designated in its entirety in the figures by the reference numeral 10, for example as in Fig. 2 shown.

[0066] The device 10 is designed in terms of its dimensions similar or identical to a device 19 of the prior art, which is described in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0067] The device 10 according to the invention, and likewise the device 19 of the prior art, serve to connect a drive 11 with an output 13 and to transmit torque between these two parts. The drive 11 can be provided, for example, by a motor 12 that drives a flywheel 37. The device 10 or 19 has a drive-side fastening area 15 and can be attached directly or, as shown in the Figures 1 and 2 shown, with the aid of an adapter piece 39a, can be connected, in particular screwed, to the flywheel 37.

[0068] On the output side, the device 10 or 19 has an output-side fastening area 16, which can be connected directly or indirectly, if necessary with the aid of an adapter piece 39b, to the output 11, e.g., to an output shaft 14.

[0069] The device 10 according to the invention and the device 19 according to the prior art may have a structure, for example, as shown in Fig. 3 - in accordance with the Figures 1 and 2 - is shown: Accordingly, a coupling 10, 19 comprises a first coupling half 54 and a second coupling half 55 which, in the assembled state, is rotationally connected to the first coupling half 54. These two coupling halves 54, 55 can be designed similarly or identically to one another. They each comprise a hub 23a, 23b, from which, in the embodiment of the Fig. 3 four claws 38a, 39b, 38c, 38d each extend away. Fig. 3shows only two claws 38e, 38f with respect to the left coupling half 54. However, it is clear to the person skilled in the art that the left coupling half 54 also has four claws.

[0070] For the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the number of claws is not important.

[0071] The invention relates preferably to claw couplings, but not exclusively to claw couplings.

[0072] Each of the claws 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d has an axial length of 50. The two coupling halves 54, 55 are arranged offset from each other by approximately 45° in terms of rotational circumference, such that the claws completely overlap in the axial direction.

[0073] In the assembled state, an elastomer body 25a, 25b, 25c, ie a rubber-elastic element, is located between each claw 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d of a coupling half 55 and each other claw 38e, 38f of the other coupling half 54. In the embodiment of the Fig. 3 a coupling is shown in which the rubber-elastic elements 25a, 25b, 25c are provided by an elastomer ring 40.

[0074] Shown are according to Fig. 3 only three elastomer bodies. In fact, the device 10 according to the invention has a number of elastomer bodies 25a, 25b, 25c that corresponds to the number of claws 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, so that in the embodiment according to Fig. 3 eight rubber-elastic elements 25a, 25b, 25c, etc. are provided.

[0075] The coupling 10 can be assembled by performing an axial plug-in movement.

[0076] The device 19 of the prior art according to Fig. 1and, likewise, a device according to the invention is also commonly referred to as a coupling. The coupling 19 of the prior art and also a device 10 according to the invention enable a transmission of torque from the drive 11 rotating about the drive-side rotational axis 34 to the output 13 rotating about the output-side rotational axis 35. The rubber-elastic elements 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, each arranged between two claws 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f of different coupling halves 54, 55, enable vibration damping. At the same time, the rubber-elastic elements 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d enable compensation of angular misalignment and / or axial misalignment and / or radial misalignment, relative to the drive 11 and output 13 or relative to the drive-side rotational axis 34 and the output-side rotational axis 35.

[0077] A clutch, as in Fig. 1has been sold by the applicant in large quantities for decades under the name "ROTEX".

[0078] Relative to the axial direction 42, the device 19 of the prior art has an axial length 17. In other words, the axial length 17 is the distance between the drive-side fastening area 15 and the output-side fastening area 16.

[0079] The device 19 of the prior art has a radial height 41 which describes the extension of the device 19 in the radial direction 43.

[0080] The following will be based on the Figure 2 and 4 to 7 an embodiment of a device 10 according to the invention will be explained. For the sake of simplicity, as far as the same or similar parts or elements or areas as in the device 19 of the prior art according to Fig. 1 , the same reference symbols are also used.

[0081] The device 10 according to the invention has the same axial length 18 as the axial length 17 of the device 19 of the prior art.

[0082] The axial length 18 may deviate at most slightly, in particular by a maximum of approximately 10%, from the axial length 17 of the device 19 of the prior art.

[0083] The device 10 according to the invention according to Fig. 2 differs from the device 19 of the prior art by a device 21 for torque measurement.

[0084] For this purpose, the hub 23, on which the claws 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d are arranged, is turned or otherwise machined to form a recess 26. In the area of the recess 26, the hub 23 has a twistable section 22. This section is kept short in the axial direction and has an axial length 56, which, for example, carries approximately one-third of the axial length of the hub 23.

[0085] The twistable section 22 comprises an outer diameter 45 that is smaller, in particular significantly smaller, than the outer diameter 44 of the hub 23. Thus, a material weakening of the hub 23 occurs in the area of this twistable section 22. As a result of the material weakening of the hub 23, which is made of metal, e.g., steel, easier torsion is achieved. This torsion is used for torque measurement.

[0086] For this purpose, the torque measuring device 21 comprises strain gauges 20a, 20b. These are mounted directly on the outer circumferential surface 57 of the twistable section 22.

[0087] An annular body 29 is arranged in radial overlap with the strain gauges 20a, 20b, in particular also partially or completely within the recess 26, and / or in particular in radial and / or axial overlap with the recess 26. This has Fig. 2electrical and electronic components not shown.

[0088] This includes, for example, a coupler unit 58 (see Fig. 7a ), with which the energy inductively coupled to the coupler unit 58 by a so-called pick-up 31, i.e. a stationary voltage supply unit 31, can be used in such a way that all electronic and electrical components of the device 21 can be supplied with voltage.

[0089] In particular, inductive energy transmission allows the device according to the invention to be designed in such a way that it does not require batteries or accumulators. Sliding contacts for direct current conduction or voltage transmission can also be dispensed with.

[0090] The coupler unit 58 may in particular include a secondary coil 53 which is connected to the coupler unit 58 and can inductively absorb the energy transmitted by a stationary voltage supply unit 31, which, for example, also has a coil.

[0091] Advantageously, the device 21 comprises a controller 59 which is connected to the coupler unit 58.

[0092] In addition, the controller 59 can be connected to the strain gauges 20a, 20b, in particular with the interposition of a measuring electronics 61.

[0093] Whenever this patent application refers to electronics, electronic components, and electronic modules, general functional terms are used. The electronic components can include circuits and can also be combined into processors or groups of components.

[0094] The device 21 further comprises a rotating display device 30. This can, for example, comprise a display 48 of the currently transmitted torque and a display 49 of the current rotational speed. The display element 30 can be designed in the manner of a strobe display and produce a fixed image.

[0095] While the entire coupling 10, including the drive-side fastening area 15 and the output-side fastening area 16, rotates at a high speed of, for example, several hundred revolutions per minute, the display 48, 49 can, as will be explained later, be controlled to display a stationary, non-rotating image, e.g., by a suitable strobe control.

[0096] The device 21 may further comprise a communication module 32 that can establish a radio connection with an external signal receiving unit 33 and transmit measured values, e.g., values related to measured transmitted torques, to the signal receiving unit 33.

[0097] The entire device 21 is designed to rotate with the device 10.

[0098] The signal receiving unit 33 and the voltage supply unit 31, which is also referred to as pick-up, are stationary.

[0099] The precise details of the inductive transmission of supply voltage from the stationary pickup 31 to the device 21 or to the coupler unit 58 are left to the discretion of the person skilled in the art. Such energy transmission principles for supplying voltage to rotating elements are well known in the art.

[0100] Furthermore, it will not be described in detail here how the strain gauges 20a, 20b generate measured values to measure torsion between the drive-side and the output-side ends of the twistable section 23 and how the further signal processing by the measuring electronics 61 and, if applicable, by other provided computing units, e.g., also with the participation of the controller 59 or another computing unit not shown, proceeds. This is also state of the art and known to those skilled in the art.

[0101] According to a first aspect of the invention, a special feature is to design the device 21 to rotate and to arrange it directly on the hub 23 or to provide a corresponding recess 26 on the hub 23 for this purpose, so that the hub 23 forms a twistable section 22.

[0102] According to the invention, the device 10 can be used, for example, to transmit torque to or within a machine 27, as merely indicated in Fig. 1 , or a system, to monitor, if necessary also to control or if necessary also to document. If, for example, irregularities in the torque transmission or unexpected events are detected, e.g. exceeding a threshold value of the torque to be transmitted, a warning signal can be generated, for example with the aid of a warning signal generator 28a, 28b. The warning signal generator 28a, 28b can be arranged on the device 21 and arranged to rotate with it, or alternatively can be arranged in a stationary manner and receive a signal from the device 21.

[0103] Due to the selection of dimensions 17, 18, and 41 of the device 10 according to the invention in relation to the device 19 of the prior art, according to the invention, a device 19 of the prior art installed in a mounting environment 36 can be replaced with a device 10 according to the invention. It is possible to maintain the mounting environment 36 and make no changes or at most minor changes to the mounting environment 36.

[0104] It should be noted that, for example, Fig. 2shows, the radial height 41 of the device 10 is provided by the dimensions of the outer diameter 47 of the annular body 29, which projects radially beyond the hub 23 with respect to its outer diameter 44. As a result of the projection 60, space can be created for a display device 30. The dimensions are selected such that, despite a greater radial height 41 of the device 10 according to the invention compared to the device 19 of the prior art, a replacement of a device 19 of the prior art installed in an assembly environment 36 with a device according to the invention is readily possible.

[0105] How the device 10 according to the invention is specifically mechanically connected to a drive 11 or to an output 13 is left to the expert. The expert can resort to various suitable approaches for this purpose, for example, plug-in connections, screw connections, flange connections, press fits, radial or axial screw connections, or connections using clamping sets or the like.

[0106] The Figure 4, 4a and 5 illustrate a coupling half 55 to explain a driven-side fastening area 16 or to explain a drive-side fastening area 15 only a flange equipped with various bores. Preferably, as Figure 6 represents, an adapter piece 39 b is used, which, in the manner of an adapter, provides different possibilities for attachment to a shaft 14 or to a flywheel 37.

[0107] It is advantageous if the dimensions of the device 10 according to the invention correspond to the dimensions of the device 19 of the prior art or substantially correspond to the dimensions of the device 19 of the prior art.

[0108] The device 10 according to the invention is otherwise unchanged in terms of its structure and has the same, as for example with reference to the embodiment of the Fig. 1 the device 19 of the prior art, has rubber-elastic elements 25a, 25b, 25c, which can be arranged, for example, on an elastomer ring 40.

[0109] This makes it possible for the device 10 according to the invention to have the same torque transmission properties and other physical properties as a prior art device 19. Thus, for example, the same torque transmission characteristics can be achieved with the device 10 according to the invention, unchanged or essentially unchanged, as with a prior art device 19.

[0110] It should also be noted that the axial length 51 of the elastomer bodies 25a (cf. Fig. 3 ) corresponds approximately to the axial length 50 of a claw.

[0111] A circuit board 52 can be arranged on the device 21, which carries the previously explained electronic components 58, 59, 32, 30 and / or supplies them with operating voltage. Furthermore, the measuring electronics 61 and, if necessary, further electronic components and circuits are preferably arranged on the circuit board. The circuit board 52 can, for example, be ring-shaped, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10 The device 21 can also comprise several circuit boards.

[0112] A secondary coil 53 can be arranged on the ring body 29, which is an essential component of the coupler unit 58 or which is connected thereto.

[0113] Fig. 5 shows the twistable section 22 with strain gauges 20a, 20b mounted thereon. The number, arrangement, and positioning of the strain gauges are at the discretion of the person skilled in the art.

[0114] The strain gauges 20a, 20b are, as Fig. 7only schematically illustrated, connected to a measuring electronics 61 via signal or connecting lines 62a, 62b. The measuring electronics 61 is connected to the controller 59 via a connecting line 62c. The remaining electronic components are in Fig. 5 not shown for the sake of clarity.

[0115] The lengths of the line sections 62a, 62b are not to scale.

[0116] The assembly of the annular body 29 on the device 10 proceeds, for example, as follows: First, the strain gauges, in particular with conductors 62a, 62b already attached thereto or with conductors that can be plugged or clamped thereto, are attached, e.g., glued, to the outer circumferential surface 57 of the twistable section 22. In particular, the strain gauges are first glued and then soldered to the connecting wires. The connecting wires then still protrude from the recess and can subsequently be soldered to the circuit board. The entire unit 21, together with the annular body 29, is then axially aligned with respect to Fig. 5 Coming from the left, it is pushed over the claws 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d until the ring body 29 rests against the fastening flange 46. It can be fastened there, e.g., screwed radially, as shown Fig. 7 suggests.

[0117] The lines 62a, 62b can, in the assembled state of the annular body 29, for example, at least partially, be arranged radially within the Fig. 5 not shown, e.g. ring-shaped electronic circuit board 52, at least within the recess 26 on the hub 23, and connect the strain gauges 20a, 20b with the corresponding electronic components on the circuit board 52.

[0118] If, as a result of a torque being transmitted from the input 11 to the output 13, a twisting, i.e., a torsion, of the twistable section 22 occurs, this leads to a changed measurable behavior in the strain gauges 20a, 20b, in particular to a changed resistance behavior and / or to a changed voltage behavior or to a changed current behavior. The measuring electronics 61 can measure this change in the voltage or resistance or other physical properties of the strain gauges 20a, 20b. An evaluation of this measurement can be carried out by the measuring electronics 61 alone or, if necessary, in cooperation with the controller 59 or solely by the controller 59, or, if necessary, also with other electronic components not shown in the figures.

[0119] In the following, especially with reference to the Fig. 10, the display device 30, which is also referred to as display element 30, will be explained in more detail.

[0120] Fig. 10 illustrates in a block diagram-like, schematic principle representation the interaction between the device 21, the voltage supply unit 31, the so-called pick-up, and a mobile receiving device 70.

[0121] As already described, the voltage supply unit 31 has, for example, a primary coil (not shown). The voltage supply unit 31 is arranged in a stationary manner, in particular, it does not rotate with the device 10.

[0122] The distance between the outer circumference 71 of the ring body 29 and the pick-up 31 is in Fig. 10 designated by reference numeral 72. The distance can be, for example, 2 mm to 50 mm, preferably approximately 5-20 mm. The invention also encompasses larger and smaller distances, depending on the technical conditions of the installation environment.

[0123] The voltage supply unit 31 is connected to the voltage supply network (also not shown) via components and elements not shown and can inductively supply voltage to the previously explained secondary coil 53 on the device 21. The previously described coupler unit 58 can obtain the supply voltage required to operate the device 21 from this. The coupler unit 58 or a circuit or component connected to the coupler unit can convert the voltage received from the secondary coil 53 into a voltage required to supply the device 21 with operating voltage, if necessary.

[0124] The inductively obtained supply voltage supplies all electronic components of device 21 with operating voltage.

[0125] In addition to the previously described control 59 of the device 21, this also includes a Fig. 10indicated controller 64, for controlling the display element 30. It should be noted at this point that the controller 64 can, for example, be an integral part of the previously described controller 59 or can form an electrical component together with it or can be formed separately from the controller 59.

[0126] The control 64 for controlling the display 30 is according to the embodiment according to Fig. 10 connected to further measuring electronics 65. This is capable of determining the rotational speed of the device 10. For this purpose, the measuring electronics 65 is advantageously connected to a first receiver 66a and a second receiver 66b.

[0127] The measuring electronics 65 can also be directly connected to the controller 59 or be a component of the controller 59.

[0128] A transmitter 67 is arranged on the pickup 31. The transmitter can, for example, emit a light signal, e.g., a laser beam. The transmitter 67 can, in particular, comprise at least one LED emitting infrared light. Two or more such transmitters can also be arranged on the power supply unit 31.

[0129] The light emitted by the transmitter 67, or the emitted signal, can be detected by the receiver 66a when the receiver 66a passes the position relative to the transmitter 67 in which it occupies, for example, the shortest distance to the transmitter 67.

[0130] The receiver 66a can be designed, for example, as a photodiode or as a photodetector.

[0131] Thus, the rotational position of device 21 at this moment is known. Receivers 66a, 66b are also designed to rotate with device 21.

[0132] Whenever the measuring electronics 65 detects a specific rotational position, for example, by reaching the shortest distance to the transmitter 67 from the receiver 66a, i.e., whenever a signal can be measured at the receiver 66a, 66b, the controller 64 can, for example, trigger the display 30, possibly with a constant—or speed-dependent—control delay. However, this time can also be used as the trigger for generating a trigger signal.

[0133] This allows the display 30 to generate a stationary image 63 that, in particular, does not rotate. The display 30 is designed, in particular, in the manner of a strobe display. Only rapid control pulses are generated. Due to the temporally indeterminate image differences, the viewer perceives the image as stationary.

[0134] A more detailed description of the control principle can be found below.

[0135] Several transmitters 67 can be arranged in series along the axial direction—not shown in the figures. This allows axial compensation for installation or assembly tolerances, ensuring that the receiver 66a, 66b receives a signal even in the event of a slight axial displacement of the coupling relative to the transmitter 67.

[0136] If, as in the embodiment according to Fig. 10 If a second receiver 66b is provided, the direction of rotation 69 of the device can also be determined based on the temporal sequence of the detection of the signal emitted by the transmitter 67 at the receivers 66a and 66b. Determining the direction of rotation 69 of the device also allows a display adapted to the detected direction of rotation.

[0137] Likewise, the signal measurement by the measuring electronics 65 of the different signals arriving at the two receivers 66a, 66b also allows a speed measurement or a determination of the rotational speed of the device.

[0138] In the embodiment according to Fig. 10 The signal path 68 between transmitter 67 and receiver 66a is provided by an infrared light path. Signal paths that are magnetically configured are also possible. For example, the transmitter 67 can generate a magnetic field, e.g., by providing a permanent magnet, whose magnetic field can be detected by a receiver 66a. The receiver 66a is then, for example, a magnetic field sensor.

[0139] Likewise, capacitances, acoustic signals, electromagnetic signals, electric field strengths, or other physical signals, as well as, for example, heat measurements or the like, can be measured. Crucially, the arrangement of transmitter 67 and receiver 66 allows for position determination, so that the measuring electronics 65 can receive a type of trigger signal, which can be processed by the controller 65 to control the display 30 in a stroboscopic manner.

[0140] From the device 21, e.g., initiated by the controller 59, a communication connection to a mobile receiver 70, e.g., a smartphone, can be established via a communication module 32. The controller 59 can transmit information to the mobile receiving device 70, e.g., a smartphone, via the communication module 32—or alternatively, to a stationary receiving device (not shown). For example, information about the currently measured, transmitted torque or about a rotational speed can be transmitted. Such a signal transmission can take place along a radio path 73.

[0141] For this purpose, the communication module 32 can, for example, comprise a radio path 73 according to the Bluetooth protocol, in particular according to the Bluetooth LE protocol.

[0142] The display element 30 can display a variety of information, for example as shown in Fig. 10shown, an indication of the current torque transmitted by the device 10 and / or an indication of a threshold value for a maximum torque to be transmitted.

[0143] The current speed can also be displayed, as well as, for example, a maximum permissible or a minimum permissible speed.

[0144] Other information can also be displayed.

[0145] Based on the example of the Fig. 11 A special display device 30 or a special display element 30 will be explained: In this embodiment, the display element is equipped with an LED unit 75. This comprises a plurality of, for example, eight LEDs 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d, 77e, 77f, 77g, 77h. The majority of the LEDs are aligned along a straight line running in the radial direction and are fixedly arranged on the annular body 29 or fixedly on the circuit board 52.

[0146] The LED unit 75 is in Fig. 11in a first position and in a modified, second position 76. In the modified, second position, the annular body 29 has been rotated by the angle α in the direction of rotation 69.

[0147] The Fig. 11 The controller 64 (not shown) controls the individual LEDs 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d, 77e, 77f, 77g, 77h of the LED unit 75 in such a way that they are switched on and off differently in different rotational positions of the device in such a way that a still image with a recognizable information content is produced depending on the rotational speed of the device 10.

[0148] For example, some of the LEDs may be switched on in position 75 and the same LEDs may be switched off in position 76 or still switched on in position 76.

[0149] In one embodiment of the invention, the LEDs are switched on and off several times during a rotation of the device and / or along a movement through the angular range β.

[0150] Due to the high rotation speed of the device 10 and the dependence on the switch-on and switch-off times, a still image is produced for a viewer.

[0151] According to the embodiment of the Fig. 11 For example, it can be provided that the LEDs 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d, 77e, 77f, 77g, 77h can be switched on and off repeatedly within an angle range β, but are always switched off outside of the angle β. Thus, the angle range β defines the maximum available display field.

[0152] According to the invention, the beginning of the display, e.g. the beginning of the text, can always be arranged at the same rotational circumferential position of the device 10.

[0153] The switch-on times and the switch-on and switch-off durations for generating a still image naturally depend on the rotational speed of the device 10. The controller 64 is configured to control the LEDs 77a, 77b, 77c, 77d, 77e, 77f, 77g, 77h, taking into account the rotational speed of the device 10, in such a way that a still image is generated.

[0154] The following is an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention or of a coupling half 55 according to the invention according to Figure 12 explained. It is clear to the person skilled in the art that this can be a coupling half 55 with an output-side fastening area 16 or a coupling half 54 with a drive-side fastening area 15.

[0155] At this point, it should be noted that the device 21 for measuring the torque or for measuring the current speed can be arranged either on the first clutch half 54 or on the second clutch half 55.

[0156] According to Figure 12 the adapter piece 39b is designed as a flange disc, which allows the coupling half 55 to be fixed, for example, to a flywheel 37 of a Figure 12 not shown. For this purpose, the disc-shaped adapter piece 39b is equipped with a larger outer diameter 80 than the outer diameter 81 of the mounting flange 46.

[0157] The mounting flange 46 is attached to the adapter piece 39b by means of a plurality of screws 78a, 78b. The adapter piece 39b is attached to the flywheel 37 by means of the screws 79a, 79b, which are only shown schematically, whereby the number and type of fastening elements are arbitrary. In this embodiment, the diameter of the mounting flange 46 is thus enlarged in a simple and axially space-saving manner.

[0158] The embodiment of the Figure 13 corresponds to the embodiment of the Figure 6 , wherein an annular body 29 is additionally shown here. This has an outer diameter 47, which corresponds to the outer diameter 44 of the hub 23. Here, the annular body 29 protrudes - unlike in the embodiment of the Figure 7- in the radial direction, does not project outward beyond the hub 23. In this embodiment, the display device 30a, 30b is arranged on the outer surface 82 of the annular body 29.

[0159] In the embodiment of the Figure 13 The display is therefore not operated in the axial direction, but in the radial direction.

[0160] Again illustrated Figure 13 - based on the previously described embodiments - a first display element 30a and a second display element 30b are provided merely as examples. Again, a display 48 of the torque to be transmitted can be provided in the form of a stationary, non-rotating image 63. Alternatively or additionally, a display 49 of the instantaneous rotational speed of the device 10 can be provided.

[0161] In this embodiment, the annular body 29 can be formed and assembled from several shell parts; for example, from two half-shells. In this way, the annular body 29 can be slipped over the twistable section 22 and easily secured to the hub 23.

Claims

1. Apparatus (10) for transferring torques with the interposition of rubber-elastic elements (25a, 25b, 25c) from a drive (11), e.g. a motor (12), to an output (13), e.g. to an output shaft (14), comprising a drive-side fastening region (15) and an output-side fastening region (16), wherein, between the drive-side fastening region (15) and the output-side fastening region (16), a device (21), inductively supplied with operating voltage by a stationary voltage supply unit (31), co-rotating with the fastening regions (15, 16), for measuring the transferred torque and / or for determining the rotational speed of the apparatus (10), is arranged or measurement electronics (65) as a component of the device (21), inductively supplied with operating voltage by a stationary voltage supply unit (31), co-rotating with the fastening regions for determining the rotational speed of the apparatus (10) is arranged, wherein the device (21) comprises a communication module (32) which is designed to transmit information about the transferred torque and / or information about the rotational speed of the apparatus and / or another parameter or measured values, related to a state of the apparatus (10) and recorded by the device (21), to a counter communication module (74).

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterised in that the communication module (32) is designed to provide a radio signal connection according to the Bluetooth protocol.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the communication module (32) is designed to provide a radio signal connection according to the Bluetooth LE (low-energy) protocol.

4. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device (21) comprises a co-rotating display element (30), with which information about the transferred torque and / or information about the rotational speed of the apparatus and / or another parameter or measured values, related to a state of the apparatus (10) and recorded by the device (21), can be displayed.

5. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that control of the display element (30) takes place taking into account the rotational speed of the apparatus (10), in such a way that the display element (30) displays a static, non-co-rotating, image (63).

6. Apparatus (10) according to claim 2 and claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the display element (30) is designed in the form of a stroboscope display and / or the display element (30) can be configured via a radio signal connection.

7. Apparatus (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the device (21) has a control (64) for controlling the display element (30).

8. Apparatus according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterised in that the device (21) comprises measurement electronics (65), with which a rotational speed of the apparatus (10) can be measured.

9. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the device (21) comprises at least one co-rotating receiver (66a, 66b) or a co-rotating transmitter and the stationary arranged voltage supply unit (31) comprises at least one transmitter (67) or receiver, in particular for determining or for generating a rotational position signal and / or for generating a trigger signal.

10. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterised in that the transmitter (67) and the receiver (66a, 66b) form a signal path (68) between them, e.g. a visual signal path or an electrical signal path or a magnetic signal path or an electro-magnetic signal path.

11. Apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, characterised in that at least one rotational position of the apparatus (10) can be detected or checked or triggered by means of the transmitter (67) and the receiver (66a).

12. Apparatus according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterised in that at least two transmitters or at least two receivers (66a, 66b) are provided.

13. Apparatus according to claim 12, characterised in that a direction of rotation (69) of the apparatus can be detected by means of the at least two transmitters or by means of the at least two receivers.

14. Method for operating an apparatus (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, for transferring torques with the interposition of rubber-elastic elements (25a, 25b, 25c) from a drive (11), e.g. a motor (12), to an output (13), e.g. to an output shaft (14), comprising the following steps: a. providing an apparatus (10) comprising a drive-side fastening region (15) and an output-side fastening region (16), wherein, between the drive-side fastening region (15) and the output-side fastening region (16), a device (21), co-rotating with the fastening regions (15, 16), for measuring the transferred torque and / or for determining the rotational speed of the apparatus (10) is arranged or measurement electronics (65) of a device (21), inductively supplied with operating voltage by a stationary voltage supply unit (31), co-rotating with the fastening regions (15, 16) for determining the rotational speed of the apparatus (10) is arranged, wherein the device (21) comprises a communication module (32), b. supplying the device (21) and / or the measurement electronics (65) with operating voltage by a stationary voltage supply unit (31), c. transmitting information about the torque transferred from the apparatus (10) and / or information about the rotational speed of the apparatus and / or another parameter or measured values, related to a state of the apparatus (10) and recorded by the device (21) from the communication module (32) to a counter communication module (74), e.g. to a mobile end device, such as a smartphone.

15. Apparatus (10) for transferring torques with the interposition of rubber-elastic elements (25a, 25b, 25c) from a drive (11), e.g. a motor (12), to an output (13), e.g. to an output shaft (14), comprising a drive-side fastening region (15) and an output-side fastening region (16), wherein, between the drive-side fastening region (15) and the output-side fastening region (16), a device (21), supplied with operating voltage by a co-rotating battery, co-rotating with the fastening regions (15, 16), for measuring the transferred torque and / or for determining the rotational speed of the apparatus (10), is arranged or measurement electronics (65) as a component of the device (21), supplied with operating voltage by a co-rotating battery, co-rotating with the fastening regions (15, 16) is arranged, wherein the device (21) comprises a communication module (32) which is designed to transmit information about the transferred torque and / or information about the rotational speed of the apparatus and / or another parameter or measured value, related to a state of the apparatus (10) and recorded by the device (21), to a counter communication module (74).