Detection of wear of a track link pin based on sensor data of a sensor device provided in a cavity of the track link pin

Abstract

One or more devices may determine the electrical characteristics of the wear measurement component (216) of the sensor device (186). The sensor device (186) is provided within a first cavity (210) of the track link pins (178, 200) of the track assembly (170) of the machine (100). The wear measurement component (216) extends from the first cavity (210) through a second cavity (212) of the track link pins (178, 200) to the outer surface (216) of the track link pins (178, 200). One or more devices may determine the length of the wear measurement component (216) based on the electrical characteristics. One or more devices may generate sensor data indicative of the amount of wear of the outer surface (216) based on the length of the wear measurement component (216). One or more devices may provide the sensor data to a controller (140) of the machine (100) to cause the controller (140) to provide a notification regarding the amount of wear of the outer surface (216).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to determining wear of a track link pin, for example, determining wear of a track link pin based on sensor data of a sensor device provided in a cavity of the track link pin.

Background Art

[0002] Components of a machine's track assembly can wear over time. For example, the track link pins of a track assembly can wear over time. Typically, a track link pin is provided within a cavity of another component of the track assembly, such as a cavity of a track link bushing of a track link. As a result of the track link pin being provided within the cavity, the outer surface of the track link pin can wear due to friction between the track link pin and the cavity during various operations of the machine over time. Wear of the outer surface can be referred to as internal wear since the wear occurs internally with respect to the cavity.

[0003] Since the track link pin is provided within the cavity, it is a difficult task to measure the amount of wear of the outer surface of the track link pin. When measurements of the amount of wear of the outer surface are obtained, such measurements are manual and typically inaccurate.

[0004] Due to the inability to measure the amount of wear of the outer surface and / or the inaccuracy of the measurement of the amount of wear of the outer surface, the machine may be operated when the track link pin has worn to the amount that requires replacement of the track link pin. Operating the machine in this way can cause damage to the track link pin (or cause a catastrophic failure of the track link pin), can cause damage to other components of the track assembly, and ultimately can cause damage to the machine.

[0005] International Patent Application Publication No. WO2021240288 ('288 publication) discloses a track pin assembly comprising a pin having a first axial end and a second axial end configured to engage respective outer links of a joint. The '288 publication further discloses that the pin includes a first cavity defining a tank for containing lubricating oil or grease. The '288 publication further discloses that the pin includes a second cavity disposed at the second axial end of the pin and opening at the second axial end of the pin.

[0006] The '288 publication further discloses that the pin includes a sensor disposed within the second cavity and including a sensor element configured to measure temperature and generate a signal indicative of the measured temperature. The '288 publication discloses that the pin includes a sensor disposed within the second cavity, but the '288 publication does not address detection of wear of the pin.

[0007] The system of the present disclosure solves one or more of the above-described problems and / or other problems in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In some implementations, the system is a track link pin of a track assembly of a machine, the track link pin including a first cavity and a second cavity extending from the first cavity to an outer surface of the track link pin, a sensor device configured to be disposed within the first cavity of the track link pin, the sensor device including a wear measurement component, the wear measurement component determining an electrical characteristic of the wear measurement component extending from the first cavity through the second cavity to the outer surface, determining a length of the wear measurement component based on the electrical characteristic, and generating sensor data indicative of an amount of wear of the outer surface based on the length of the wear measurement component, and a controller configured to cause the machine to perform an operation based on the sensor data.

[0009] In some implementation forms, a method implemented by one or more devices of a machine is to determine, by a sensor device of the machine, the electrical characteristics of a wear measurement component of the sensor device, where the sensor device is provided in a first cavity of a track link pin of a track assembly of the machine, and the wear measurement component extends from the first cavity through a second cavity of the track link pin to the outer surface of the track link pin to determine the electrical characteristics, and to determine, by the sensor device, the length of the wear measurement component based on the electrical characteristics, and to generate, by the sensor device, sensor data indicating the amount of wear on the outer surface based on the length of the wear measurement component, and to provide, by the sensor device, the sensor data to a controller of the machine to cause the controller to provide a notification regarding the amount of wear on the outer surface.

[0010] In some implementation forms, a machine includes a track assembly including a component having a first cavity and a second cavity extending from the first cavity to the outer surface of the component, and a sensor device configured to be provided in the first cavity of the component, where the sensor device is a wear measurement component of the sensor device, and the wear measurement component extends from the first cavity through the second cavity to the outer surface, and is configured to determine the electrical characteristics of the wear measurement component, determine the length of the wear measurement component based on the electrical characteristics, and generate sensor data indicating the amount of wear on the outer surface based on the length of the wear measurement component, and a controller configured to provide a notification based on the amount of wear on the outer surface indicated by the sensor data.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The implementations described herein are directed to determining the amount of wear on an outer surface of a track link pin and providing a notification indicative of the amount of wear on the outer surface. For example, the systems described herein may include a sensor device disposed within a first cavity of the track link pin. The sensor device may include a wear measurement component disposed within a second cavity of the track link pin. The wear measurement component may extend through the second cavity to the outer surface of the track link pin. The sensor device may determine an electrical characteristic of the wear measurement component. Based on the electrical characteristic, the sensor device may determine a length of the wear measurement component. The wear measurement component may be disposed within the second cavity in a manner that reduces the length of the wear measurement component as the outer surface of the track link pin wears.

[0013] Based on the length of the wear measurement component, the sensor device may generate sensor data indicative of the amount of wear on the outer surface of the track link pin. In some examples, the amount of wear on the outer surface may be proportional to the length of the wear measurement component. Alternatively, the amount of wear on the outer surface may be determined based on one or more mathematical operations including the length of the wear measurement component.

[0014] The controller may receive the sensor data (e.g., via a wireless communication component of the machine) and may cause the machine to perform an operation based on the sensor data. For example, the controller may provide a notification indicative of the amount of wear on the outer surface, may provide a recommendation to replace the track link pin, and, among other examples, may provide an instruction to reduce the engine output of the machine.

[0015] The term "machine" can refer to a device that performs operations related to industries such as, for example, mining, construction, agriculture, transportation, or another industry. Further, one or more implements can be connected to the machine. As an example, the machine can include a construction vehicle, a work vehicle, or a similar vehicle related to the industries described above.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an exemplary machine 100 described herein. As shown in FIG. 1, machine 100 is embodied as an earthmoving machine such as a dozer. Alternatively, machine 100 can be another type of track-type machine such as a shovel.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, machine 100 includes an engine 110, a sensor system 120, an operator cab 130, an operator control 132, a controller 140, a rear attachment 150, a front attachment 160, a ground engaging member 170, a sprocket 180, one or more sensor devices 186, one or more idlers 190, one or more rollers 192, and a wireless communication component 194.

[0018] Engine 110 can include an internal combustion engine such as a compression ignition engine, a spark ignition engine, a laser ignition engine, a plasma ignition engine, and / or the like. Engine 110 provides power to machine 100 and / or a set of loads associated with machine 100 (e.g., components that absorb and / or use power to operate). For example, engine 110 can provide power to one or more control systems (e.g., controller 140), sensor system 120, operator cab 130, and / or ground engaging member 170.

[0019] The engine 110 can supply power to the implements of the machine 100, such as implements used in mining, construction, agriculture, transportation, or any other industry. For example, the engine 110 can supply power to components (such as one or more hydraulic pumps, one or more actuators, and / or one or more electric motors) to facilitate the control of the rear attachment 150 and / or the front attachment 160 of the machine 100.

[0020] The sensor system 120 can include sensor devices that can generate signals regarding the operation of the machine 100. The sensor devices of the sensor system 120 can include, among other things, load sensor devices, speed sensor devices, torque sensor devices, vibration sensor devices, and movement sensor devices. As an example, the sensor device can include one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs).

[0021] The operator cabin 130 includes an integrated display (not shown) and operator controls 132. The operator controls 132 can include one or more input components (such as an integrated joystick, push buttons, control levers, and / or a steering wheel) for controlling the operation of the machine 100. For example, the operator controls 132 can be used to control the operation of one or more implements of the machine 100 (such as the rear attachment 150 and / or the front attachment 160) and / or the operation of the ground engaging member 170.

[0022] In the case of an autonomous machine, the operator controls 132 may not be designed for use by an operator and, rather, may be designed to operate independently of the operator. In this case, for example, the operator controls 132 can include one or more input components that provide input signals for use by another component without any operator input.

[0023] The controller 140 (e.g., an electronic control module (ECM)) can control and / or monitor the operation of the machine 100. For example, the controller 140 can control and / or monitor the operation of the machine 100 based on signals from the operator control 132 and / or from the sensor system 120. In some examples, the controller 140 can determine the wear amount of one or more components of the machine 100 based on signals from one or more sensor devices 186, as described in more detail below.

[0024] The rear attachment 150 can include a ripper assembly, a winch assembly, and / or a drawbar assembly. The front attachment 160 can include a blade assembly. The ground engaging member 170 can be configured to propel the machine 100. The ground engaging member 170 can include wheels, tracks, rollers, and / or similar components for advancing the machine 100. The ground engaging member 170 can include a track assembly that includes tracks (shown in FIG. 1). The track can include track links. In some situations, the track links can include track link bushings and track link pins. As an example, the track can include a first track link 172 and a second track link 174. The first track link 172 includes a first track link bushing 176 and a first track link pin 178.

[0025] The sprocket 180 can include one or more sprocket segments 182 (referred to herein individually as "sprocket segment 182" and collectively as "sprocket segments 182"). The sprocket 180 can be configured to engage the ground engaging member 170 to drive the ground engaging member 170. For example, the sprocket segment 182 can engage a track link bushing (e.g., of the track of the ground engaging member 170) and rotate to be configured to propel the machine 100 to the track. As shown in FIG. 1, the sprocket segment 182 can include a tip 184. The sprocket 180 can be included in the drive train of the machine 100.

[0026] In some situations, the first track link pin 178 can experience wear. For example, the outer surface of the first track link pin 178 can experience wear. When the outer surface experiences wear, the diameter of the first track link pin 178 can decrease. The sensor device 186 can be configured to determine the amount of wear on the outer surface of the first track link pin 178. For example, the sensor device 186 can include one or more devices configured to determine the length of a wear measurement component of the sensor device 186, and based on the length of the wear measurement component, can generate sensor data indicating the amount of wear on the outer surface. The sensor data can further include information identifying the sensor device 186.

[0027] As will be described in more detail below, the sensor device 186 can be provided within the cavity of the first track link pin 178, and another sensor device 186 can be provided within the cavity of another track link pin of the track assembly, and so on. In some situations, the sensor data can be provided to the controller 140 (e.g., via the wireless communication component 194). The controller 140 can control the operation of the machine 100 based on the amount of wear on the outer surface of the first track link pin 178, as will be described in more detail below.

[0028] In some examples, one or more idlers 190 and / or one or more rollers 192 can guide the track when the track rotates to propel the machine 100. In some examples, the ground engaging member 170, the sprocket 180, one or more idlers 190, and one or more rollers 192 can be components of the track assembly. The track assembly can further include one or more track pads and / or one or more track shoes.

[0029] As described herein, the wireless communication component 194 can include one or more components of the machine 100, one or more other machines, and / or one or more devices that can communicate with one or more components of the machine 100, one or more other machines, and / or one or more devices. For example, the wireless communication component 194 may receive sensor data from the sensor device 186 and provide the sensor data to the controller 140, one or more other machines, and / or one or more devices.

[0030] Among other examples, the wireless communication component 194 can include a transceiver, separate transmitter and receiver, and / or an antenna. Among other examples, the wireless communication component 194 may communicate with one or more machines using a short-range wireless communication protocol such as, for example, BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) Low Energy, BLUETOOTH (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, ZigBee, or Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.154. Additionally, or alternatively, the wireless communication component 194 may communicate with one or more other machines and / or one or more devices via a network that includes one or more wired and / or wireless networks.

[0031] As described above, FIG. 1 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from those described in connection with FIG. 1.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary track link pin 200 described herein. The track link pin 200 may correspond to the first track link pin 178. As shown in FIG. 2, the track link pin 200 may include a first cavity 210 and a second cavity 212. The first cavity 210 may be parallel to the longitudinal axis 214 of the track link pin 200. As shown in FIG. 2, the second cavity 212 may extend from the first cavity 210 to the outer surface 216 of the track link pin 200.

[0033] In some examples, the second cavity 212 may be provided at an angle to the first cavity 210. For example, the second cavity 212 may be perpendicular to the first cavity 210. The second cavity 212 may be provided parallel to the radial axis of the track link pin 200.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the track link pin 200 may include a sensor device 186. Unlike the track link pin 200, a typical track link pin may be provided without the first cavity 210 and the second cavity 212. The track link pin 200 may be provided with the first cavity 210 and the second cavity 212 to enable the track link pin 200 to receive the sensor device 186. As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor device 186 may be provided within the first cavity 210. In some implementations, the sensor device 186 may be a battery-powered signal transmitter (or battery-powered transmitter). For example, the sensor device 186 may include a power source (e.g., a battery) for powering the sensor device 186 and a communication component (similar to the wireless communication component 194) for transmitting sensor data generated by the sensor device 186.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the sensor device 186 may include a wear measurement component 220. The wear measurement component 220 may extend from the first cavity 210 through the second cavity 212 to the outer surface 216 of the track link pin 200. The sensor device 186 may be configured to determine the length of the wear measurement component 220 and generate sensor data indicative of the amount of wear of the outer surface 216 based on the length of the wear measurement component 220. The length of the wear measurement component 220 may indicate the amount of wear of the outer surface 216. For example, as the outer surface 216 experiences wear and a portion of the outer surface 216 wears away, the length of the wear measurement component 220 may decrease accordingly.

[0036] The length of the wear measurement component 220 can decrease because the wear measurement component 220 can be provided in the second cavity 212 in a manner that wears out the wear measurement component 220 as the outer surface 216 wears. As an example, the first length of the wear measurement component 220 may correspond to the first wear amount of the outer surface 216, the second length of the wear measurement component 220 may correspond to the second wear amount of the outer surface 216, and so on. The first length may exceed the second length. Accordingly, the second wear amount may exceed the first wear amount.

[0037] In some situations, the sensor device 186 can determine the length of the wear measurement component 220 based on determining the electrical characteristics of the wear measurement component 220. For example, the sensor device 186 can determine the electrical resistance of the wear measurement component 220 and determine the length of the wear measurement component 220 based on the electrical resistance of the wear measurement component 220. In this regard, as the length of the wear measurement component 220 decreases, the electrical resistance of the wear measurement component 220 decreases accordingly. For example, the first length of the wear measurement component 220 may have a first electrical resistance, the second length of the wear measurement component 220 may have a second electrical resistance, and so on. The first length may exceed the second length. The first electrical resistance may exceed the second electrical resistance.

[0038] In some situations, the length of the wear measurement component 220 (before the wear measurement component 220 experiences any wear) can depend on the type of machine 100. Additionally, or alternatively, the length of the wear measurement component 220 (before the wear measurement component 220 experiences any wear) can depend on the size of the track link pin 200. As an example, the length of the wear measurement component 220 for a first type of machine can indicate that the track link pin 200 is to be replaced, while the same length of the wear measurement component 220 for a second type of machine can indicate that the track link pin 200 is not to be replaced.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 2, the wear measurement component 220 may include a plurality of closed-loop electrical circuits 222 (individually "closed-loop electrical circuit 222" and collectively "closed-loop electrical circuits 222"). For example, the wear measurement component 220 may include a closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1, a closed-loop electrical circuit 222-2, a closed-loop electrical circuit 222-3, and so on. In some examples, the sensor device 186 may determine the length of the wear measurement component 220 based on the closed-loop electrical circuits 222. Each closed-loop electrical circuit 222 may be associated with a respective length of the wear measurement component 220. For example, the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 may be associated with a first length of the wear measurement component 220, the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-2 may be associated with a second length of the wear measurement component 220, the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-3 may be associated with a third length of the wear measurement component 220, and so on. The first length may exceed the second and third lengths. The second length may exceed the third length.

[0040] The sensor device 186 may determine the length of the wear measurement component 220 based on the electrical characteristics of the closed-loop electrical circuits 222. For example, the sensor device 186 may determine a first length of the sensor device 186 based on determining a first electrical resistance of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1, and may determine a second length of the sensor device 186 based on determining a second electrical resistance of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-2, and so on.

[0041] As described above, the wear measurement component 220 can be provided in the second cavity 212 such that the wear measurement component 220 wears as the outer surface 216 wears. In this regard, as the outer surface 216 wears, the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 can be opened (or damaged), and then the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-2 is opened, and so on. As a result of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 being opened (or damaged), the first electrical resistance of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 may not satisfy the resistance threshold. Based on determining that the first electrical resistance of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 does not satisfy the resistance threshold, the sensor device 186 may determine that the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 is open. Therefore, the sensor device 186 may determine that the wear measurement component 220 has worn to a length shorter than the first length.

[0042] After determining that the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-1 is open, the sensor device 186 may determine whether the second electrical resistance of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-2 satisfies the resistance threshold. Based on determining that the second electrical resistance satisfies the resistance threshold, the sensor device 186 may determine that the length of the sensor device 186 is the second length. Alternatively, based on determining that the second electrical resistance does not satisfy the resistance threshold, the sensor device 186 may determine whether the third electrical resistance of the closed-loop electrical circuit 222-3 satisfies the resistance threshold, and so on.

[0043] As described above, the sensor device 186 can generate sensor data indicating the amount of wear of the outer surface 216 based on the length of the wear measurement component 220. For example, the sensor device 186 may generate sensor data indicating a first amount of wear of the outer surface 216 based on determining that the length of the wear measurement component 220 is the first length of the wear measurement component 220, or may generate sensor data indicating a second amount of wear of the outer surface 216 based on determining that the length of the wear measurement component 220 is the second length of the wear measurement component 220, and so on.

[0044] The sensor device 186 may provide sensor data to the controller 140 (e.g., via the wireless communication component 194). For example, the sensor device 186 may provide sensor data to the wireless communication component 194 and cause the wireless communication component 194 to provide the sensor data to the controller 140.

[0045] As described above, FIG. 2 is provided as an example. Other examples may be different from those described in relation to FIG. 2.

[0046] FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary system 300 described herein. As shown in FIG. 3, the system 300 includes a controller 140, a plurality of sensor devices 186 (collectively, "sensor devices 186" and individually, "sensor device 186"), a wireless communication component 194, and a device 310 associated with the machine 100. Some of the elements in FIG. 3 have been described above in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0047] The controller 140 may include one or more processors and one or more memories. The processor may be implemented in hardware, firmware, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The processor may be programmed to execute functions. The memory may store information and / or instructions for use by the processor to execute functions. For example, when executing functions, the controller 140 may control the operation of the machine 100 based on the sensor data provided by the sensor device 186.

[0048] In some examples, each sensor device 186 may be included in respective track link pins of a machine's track assembly. In this regard, sensor information identifying the sensor device 186 may be stored in a data structure in relation to pin information identifying a track link pin configured to include the sensor device 186. The data structure may be a database, a table, and / or a linked list. The sensor information of the sensor device 186 may include, among other examples, the serial number of the sensor device 186 and / or the media access control (MAC) address associated with the sensor device 186. The pin information of the track link pin may include, among other examples, the part number of the track link pin and / or the serial number of the track link pin.

[0049] Device 310 may include a display included in the operator cab 130. Additionally or alternatively, device 310 may include a user device of an operator of the machine 100, a user device of a site manager associated with the machine 100, and / or a user device of an owner of the machine 100. Additionally or alternatively, device 310 may include a back office system (e.g., monitoring the operation of the machine 100).

[0050] In some examples, the controller 140 may receive sensor data provided by a sensor device 186 (e.g., included in the track link pin 200). The controller 140 may receive sensor data from the sensor device 186. As another approach, the sensor device 186 may provide the sensor data to the wireless communication component 194, and the wireless communication component 194 may provide the sensor data to the controller 140. In some examples, the wireless communication component 194 may provide the sensor data to the device 310.

[0051] The sensor device 186 may generate sensor data in a manner similar to the method described above in connection with FIG. 2. The sensor data may include sensor information that identifies the sensor device 186. In some implementations, the sensor data may further include information that identifies the length of the wear measurement component 220. In this regard, the controller 140 may determine the amount of wear of the outer surface 216 based on the length of the wear measurement component 220.

[0052] For example, the controller 140 may perform a lookup operation on a data structure that stores information identifying sensor devices 186 of different lengths in relation to information identifying different amounts of wear of the outer surface 216. In some implementations, the sensor data may include information indicating the amount of wear of the outer surface 216. The controller 140 may determine the amount of wear based on the information indicating the amount of wear of the outer surface 216 (included in the sensor data).

[0053] The controller 140 may determine whether the amount of wear meets a wear threshold. In some situations, the controller 140 may be preconfigured with information identifying the wear threshold. Additionally, or alternatively, the machine 100 may receive information identifying the wear threshold from the operator's user device, the site manager's user device, and / or the owner's user device of the machine 100. Additionally, or alternatively, the machine 100 may receive information identifying the wear threshold from a back-office system.

[0054] In some examples, the controller 140 may cause the machine 100 to perform an operation based on determining that the amount of wear does not meet the wear threshold. For example, when causing the machine 100 to perform an operation, the controller 140 may provide a notification based on determining that the amount of wear does not meet the wear threshold. The notification may be provided to the device 310. The notification may include information indicating that the amount of wear does not meet the wear threshold. Additionally, or alternatively, the notification may include a first recommendation to service the track link pin. Additionally, or alternatively, the notification may include a second recommendation to replace the track link pin.

[0055] In some situations, when causing the machine 100 to perform an operation, the controller 140 may provide an instruction to reduce the output of the engine 110. For example, the controller 140 may provide an instruction to the engine controller associated with the engine 110 to reduce the output of the engine 110.

[0056] In some examples, the controller 140 may cause the machine 100 to perform the above-described operation based on different wear thresholds. For example, the controller 140 may provide a first recommendation based on determining that the wear amount does not meet a first wear threshold. Alternatively, the controller 140 may provide a second recommendation and / or an instruction to reduce the output of the engine 110 based on determining that the wear amount does not meet a second wear threshold. The first wear threshold may exceed the second wear threshold.

[0057] The number and arrangement of the devices shown in FIG. 3 are provided as an example. In practice, there may be additional devices, fewer devices, different devices, or devices with different arrangements than those shown in FIG. 3. Further, two or more of the devices shown in FIG. 3 may be implemented within a single device, or the single device shown in FIG. 3 may be implemented as a plurality of distributed devices. Additionally, or alternatively, a set of devices of exemplary components (e.g., one or more devices) may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of devices of exemplary components.

[0058] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary process 400 associated with track link pin wear detection based on sensor data. In some implementations, one or more process blocks of FIG. 4 may be performed by one or more devices (e.g., controller 140 and / or sensor device 186). In some implementations, one or more process blocks of FIG. 4 may be performed by another device or group of devices separate from, or including, one or more devices such as a wireless communication component (e.g., wireless communication component 194), and / or a device (e.g., device 310).

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, process 400 may include determining an electrical characteristic of a wear measurement component of a sensor device, the sensor device being disposed within a first cavity of a track link pin of a track assembly of a machine, and the wear measurement component extending from the first cavity through a second cavity of the track link pin to an outer surface of the track link pin (block 410). For example, one or more devices may determine an electrical characteristic of a wear measurement component of a sensor device, the sensor device being disposed within a first cavity of a track link pin of a track assembly of a machine, and the wear measurement component extending from the first cavity through a second cavity of the track link pin to an outer surface of the track link pin as described above.

[0060] As further shown in FIG. 4, process 400 may include determining a length of the wear measurement component based on the electrical characteristic (block 420). For example, one or more devices may determine a length of the wear measurement component based on the electrical characteristic as described above.

[0061] In some embodiments, the wear measurement component includes a first closed-loop electrical circuit associated with a first length of the wear measurement component and a second closed-loop electrical circuit associated with a second length of the wear measurement component. Determining the length of the wear measurement component includes determining a first electrical resistance of the first closed-loop electrical circuit, determining that the first electrical resistance does not meet a resistance threshold, and based on determining that the first electrical resistance does not meet the resistance threshold, determining that the length of the wear measurement component is the second length.

[0062] In some embodiments, determining the length of the wear measurement component includes determining a second electrical resistance of the second closed-loop electrical circuit, determining that the second electrical resistance does not meet the resistance threshold, and after determining that the length of the wear measurement component is the first length, determining that the length of the wear measurement component is a third length based on determining that the second electrical resistance does not meet the resistance threshold. The first length exceeds the second length and the third length. The second length exceeds the third length.

[0063] As further shown in FIG. 4, process 400 may include generating sensor data indicative of the amount of wear of the outer surface based on the length of the wear measurement component (block 430). For example, one or more devices may generate sensor data indicative of the amount of wear of the outer surface based on the length of the wear measurement component as described above.

[0064] As further shown in FIG. 4, process 400 may include providing the sensor data to a controller of the machine to cause the controller to provide a notification regarding the amount of wear of the outer surface (block 440). For example, one or more devices may provide the sensor data to a controller of the machine to cause the controller to provide a notification regarding the amount of wear of the outer surface as described above.

[0065] In some implementations, process 400 includes determining, by a controller, whether the wear amount of the outer surface meets a wear threshold, and providing a notification, by the controller, based on determining that the wear amount of the outer surface does not meet the wear threshold.

[0066] In some implementations, determining the electrical characteristics of the wear measurement component includes determining the electrical resistance of the wear measurement component, and determining the length of the wear measurement component includes determining the length of the wear measurement component based on the electrical resistance.

Industrial Applicability

[0067] The implementations described herein are directed to determining the wear amount of the outer surface of a track link pin of a track assembly of a machine. Further, the implementations described herein are directed to providing a notification indicative of the wear amount of the outer surface.

[0068] Currently, since the track link pin is provided within a cavity, measuring the wear amount of the outer surface of the track link pin is a difficult task. Further, when measurements of the wear amount of the outer surface are obtained, such measurements are manual and typically inaccurate. As a result of the inability to measure the wear amount of the outer surface and / or the inaccuracy of the measurements of the wear amount of the outer surface, the machine may be operated in a manner that can cause damage to the track link pin (or cause a catastrophic failure of the track link pin), which can cause damage to other components of the track assembly and ultimately damage to the machine.

[0069] The implementations described herein are directed to systems that may include a sensor device disposed within a first cavity of a track link pin. The sensor device may include a wear measurement component disposed within a second cavity of the track link pin and extending through the second cavity to an outer surface of the track link pin. The sensor device may be able to determine an electrical characteristic of the wear measurement component and, based on the electrical characteristic, may determine a length of the wear measurement component. The length of the wear measurement component may correlate with the amount of wear of the outer surface. As a result, the amount of wear of the outer surface may be determined more accurately.

[0070] Determining the amount of wear of the outer surface more accurately provides several advantages. For example, by determining the amount of wear of the outer surface more accurately, the systems described herein may enable proper operation of the machine. Thus, by determining the amount of wear of the outer surface more accurately, the systems described herein may be able to prevent damage to the track link pin, prevent damage to other components of the track assembly, and prevent damage to the machine.

[0071] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the exact forms disclosed. Modifications and variations may be made in light of the above disclosure or obtained from practice of the implementations. Further, unless the foregoing disclosure clearly dictates why one or more of the implementations cannot be combined, any of the implementations described herein may be combined. Specific combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed herein, but these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of the various implementations. Each of the dependent claims listed below may depend directly on only one claim, but the disclosure of the various implementations may include each dependent claim in combination with all other claims within the series of claims.

[0072] As used herein, the terms "a", "an", and "set" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more". Further, as used herein, the article "the" is intended to include one or more items referred to in connection with the article "the" and may be used interchangeably with "the one or more". Further, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based, at least in part, on" unless otherwise expressly stated. Also, as used herein, the term "or" is intended to be inclusive when used in a series and, unless otherwise expressly stated (e.g., when used in combination with "either" or "only one of"), may be used interchangeably with "and / or". Further, as shown in the figures, for purposes of describing the relationship of features to one element or another element or feature and to facilitate the description, spatially relative terms such as "below", "lower", "above", "upper", and the like may be used herein. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device, device, and / or element during use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly as well.

Claims

1. It is a system, Track link pins (178, 200) of a track assembly (170) of a machine (100), comprising a first cavity (210) and a second cavity (212) extending from the first cavity (210) to the outer surface (216) of the track link pins (178, 200), A sensor device (186) is configured to be provided in the first cavity (210) of the track link pin (178, 200), wherein the sensor device (186) is The wear measurement component (220) of the sensor device (186) is, The wear measurement component (220) extends from the first cavity (210) through the second cavity (212) to the outer surface (216), and the electrical characteristics of the wear measurement component (220) are determined. Based on the aforementioned electrical characteristics, the length of the wear measurement component (220) is determined. A sensor device (186) is configured to generate sensor data indicating the amount of wear on the outer surface (216) based on the length of the wear measuring component (220), A system comprising the machine (100) and a controller (140) configured to perform operations based on the sensor data.

2. In order to cause the machine (100) to perform the above operation, the controller (140) The wear amount indicated by the sensor data is determined to satisfy the wear threshold. The system according to claim 1, configured to cause the machine (100) to perform the operation based on the determination that the amount of wear does not meet the wear threshold.

3. In order to cause the machine (100) to perform the above operation, the controller (140) The amount of wear indicated by the sensor data is determined not to satisfy the wear threshold, The system according to claim 2, configured to provide a notification based on the determination that the amount of wear does not meet the wear threshold.

4. In order to determine the aforementioned electrical characteristics, the sensor device (186) The wear measurement component (220) is configured to determine its electrical resistance, In order to determine the length of the wear measuring component (220), the sensor device (186) The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, configured to determine the length of the wear measuring component (220) based on the electrical resistance.

5. The wear measurement component (220) includes a plurality of closed-loop electrical circuits (222), Each of the plurality of closed-loop electrical circuits (222) is associated with the respective lengths of the wear measurement components (220), In order to determine the length of the wear measuring component (220), the controller (140) The electrical characteristics of one or more of the multiple closed-loop electrical circuits (222) are determined. The system according to claim 1, configured to determine the length of the wear measuring component (220) based on the electrical characteristics of one or more closed-loop electrical circuits (222).

6. In order to determine the length of the wear measuring component (220), the sensor device (186) Based on determining the first electrical characteristics of the first closed-loop electrical circuit (222) of the one or more closed-loop electrical circuits (222), the first length of the wear measuring component (220) is determined. The system according to claim 5, configured to determine the second length of the wear measuring component (220) based on determining the second electrical characteristics of the second closed-loop electrical circuit (222) of the one or more closed-loop electrical circuits (222).

7. The aforementioned track link pins (178, 200) are provided within the cavity of the track link bushing (176). The first cavity (210) is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the track link pin (178, 200), The system according to claim 1, wherein the second cavity (212) is perpendicular to the first cavity (210).

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor device (186) is a battery-powered signal transmitter.

9. A method carried out by one or more devices (140, 186) of a machine (100), The electrical characteristics of the wear measuring component (220) of the sensor device (186) of the machine (100) are determined by the sensor device (186), The sensor device (186) is provided in the first cavity (210) of the track link pin (178, 200) of the track assembly (170) of the machine (100). The wear measuring component (220) extends from the first cavity (210) through the second cavity (212) of the track link pin (178, 200) to the outer surface (216) of the track link pin (178, 200) to determine its electrical characteristics, The sensor device (186) determines the length of the wear measurement component (220) based on the electrical characteristics, The sensor device (186) generates sensor data indicating the amount of wear on the outer surface (216) based on the length of the wear measuring component (220), A method comprising providing the sensor data to the controller (140) of the machine (100) using the sensor device (186), causing the controller (140) to provide notification regarding the amount of wear on the outer surface (216).

10. The controller (140) determines whether the amount of wear on the outer surface (216) satisfies the wear threshold, The method according to claim 9, further comprising providing the notification based on the controller (140) determining that the amount of wear of the outer surface (216) does not meet the wear threshold.

11. Determining the electrical characteristics of the wear measurement component (220) This includes determining the electrical resistance of the wear measurement component (220), Determining the length of the wear measuring component (220) is The method according to claim 9 or 10, comprising determining the length of the wear measuring component (220) based on the electrical resistance.

12. The wear measuring component (220) includes a first closed-loop electrical circuit (222) associated with a first length of the wear measuring component (220) and a second closed-loop electrical circuit (222) associated with a second length of the wear measuring component (220), Determining the length of the wear measuring component (220) is Determine the first electrical resistance of the first closed-loop electrical circuit (222), Determining that the aforementioned first electrical resistance does not satisfy the resistance threshold, The method according to claim 9, comprising determining that the length of the wear measuring component (220) is the second length based on the determination that the first electrical resistance does not satisfy the resistance threshold.

13. Determining the length of the wear measuring component (220) is Determine the second electrical resistance of the second closed-loop electrical circuit (222), Determining that the second electrical resistance does not satisfy the resistance threshold, The method further includes determining that the length of the wear measuring component (220) is a third length, based on the determination that the second electrical resistance does not satisfy the resistance threshold, after determining that the length of the wear measuring component (220) is a second length, The first length exceeds the second length and the third length, The method according to claim 12, wherein the second length exceeds the third length.

14. The sensor device (186) is a battery-powered transmitter configured to transmit signals wirelessly. To provide the aforementioned sensor data, The method according to claim 9, comprising wirelessly transmitting the sensor data to the controller (140).

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