Lubrication oil condition detection device

Abstract

To provide a lubricant state detector which can accurately grasp the degree of degradation or alteration of a lubricant and can reduce labor for preparing data.SOLUTION: A lubricant state detector 100 of the present disclosure includes: a housing 10 having an inner space 13 and storing a lubricant 50 in the inner space 13; a state sensor 6 arranged in the inner space 13, the state sensor detecting the degradation state of the lubricant 50: a temperature sensor 7 arranged in the inner space 13, the temperature sensor measuring the temperature of the lubricant 50; and a temperature changing component 8 arranged in the inner space 13, the temperature changing component changing the temperature of the lubricant 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0005] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lubricating oil state detection device.

Background Art

[0002] As a device for detecting the degree of deterioration and alteration of lubricating oil, as shown in the following patent documents, there is a lubricating oil state detection device using a capacitor. Such a lubricating oil state detection device first immerses a capacitor in the lubricating oil and interposes the lubricating oil between the electrodes of the capacitor. Subsequently, an electrode is applied, and the capacitance between the electrodes is measured. Further, the dielectric constant is calculated from the measured capacitance. Then, the calculated dielectric constant is compared with the previously prepared data to detect the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricating oil.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, the temperature of the lubricating oil to be the state detection target is not constant and varies depending on environmental conditions. Since there are values that depend on the temperature as alternative indicators for the state detection of the lubricating oil, when using such values, if there is no data that matches the temperature of the lubricating oil to be the state detection target, the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricating oil cannot be accurately grasped. On the other hand, if data corresponding to all oil temperatures is prepared, a great deal of labor is required.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The present disclosure provides a lubricating oil state detection device that can accurately grasp the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricating oil and can reduce the labor for data preparation. As specific aspects of the present disclosure, they are as follows [1] to [8]. [1] A housing having an internal space in which lubricating oil is stored, A state sensor is placed in the internal space and detects the deterioration state of the lubricating oil, A temperature sensor is placed in the internal space to measure the temperature of the lubricating oil, A temperature changing component is arranged in the internal space and changes the temperature of the lubricating oil, A lubricating oil condition detection device equipped with the following features. [2] The housing is located outside the housing and includes a control device that controls the state sensor, the temperature sensor, and the temperature changing component, respectively. [1] The lubricating oil condition detection device described above. [3] The housing has a first communication hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [2] above. [4] The housing has a second communication hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space, The outer surface of the housing is provided with a first opening of the first communication hole and a second opening of the second communication hole. With the housing immersed in the lubricating oil, the second opening is positioned vertically above the first opening. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [3] above. [5] With the housing immersed in the lubricating oil, the first opening opens downward in the vertical direction, With the housing immersed in the lubricating oil, the second opening is open upward in the vertical direction. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [4] above. [6] The housing has a first through hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space and extends from the internal space in the same direction as the second communication hole, The state sensor is connected to the control device located outside the housing via the first through-hole. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [5] above. [7] The housing has a second through-hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space and extends from the internal space in the same direction as the second communication hole, The temperature sensor is connected to the control device located outside the housing via the second through-hole. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [6] above. [8] The housing has a third through-hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space and extends from the internal space in the same direction as the second communication hole, The temperature-changing component is connected to the control device located outside the housing via the third through-hole. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [7] above. [9] The housing is composed of a first part and a second part divided along a virtual plane that extends in the direction in which the internal space and the first through hole are arranged, The virtual plane passes through the first through hole and the internal space. The lubricating oil condition detection device described in [6] or [8] above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The lubricating oil condition detection device of this disclosure allows for accurate determination of the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricating oil, while also reducing the effort required to prepare the data. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the lubricating oil state detection device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the detection unit of Embodiment 1, and more specifically, a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II in Figure 3. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a view of the housing of Embodiment 1 from a second direction. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the first component of Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the first component of Embodiment 1 with the state sensor assembled. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the second component of Embodiment 1. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a diagram (graph) showing the relationship between the temperature of the lubricating oil and the capacitance, which is the data stored in the control device of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the detection unit of Embodiment 2.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, the lubricating oil state detection device in the present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to the drawings. Note that the technology according to the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below. Also, in the present disclosure, the term "~" regarding the description of numerical values indicates a term indicating a value that is equal to or greater than the lower limit value and equal to or less than the upper limit value.

[0009] [[ID= / / 15]](Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the lubricating oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the lubricating oil state detection device 100 includes a detection unit 1, a control device 2, and a wiring unit 3. The wiring unit 3 connects the detection unit 1 and the control device 2. The wiring unit 3 supplies a signal and power from the control device 2 to the detection unit 1, or transmits a signal (detection result) from the detection unit 1 to the control device 2.

[0010] The wiring unit 3 is deformable. Therefore, when detecting the state of the lubricating oil, while deforming the wiring unit 3, the detection unit 1 can be moved to the portion where the lubricating oil of equipment using the lubricating oil is stored, and measurement can be performed. As a result, there is no need to change the position of the control device 2, which is highly convenient. Note that although the detection unit 1 of the present embodiment is movable, in the present disclosure, the detection unit 1 may be immovable. That is, the detection unit 1 may be in a fixed state (mounted type).

[0011] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the detection unit 1 of Embodiment 1, and more specifically, it is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow of line II-II in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 2, the detection unit 1 includes a housing 10, a state sensor 6 (see FIG. 5), a temperature sensor 7, and a temperature changing component 8.

[0012] The housing 10 is formed in a cylindrical shape with respect to the center line O. The diameter of the housing 10 is 30 mm or less. This allows the detection unit 1 (housing 10) to be inserted into the oil filling port of an oil pan (not shown), and the detection unit 1 to be immersed in the lubricating oil 50 in the oil pan. Hereinafter, the direction parallel to the center line O will be referred to as the length direction. Note that the housing 10 in this disclosure may be cylindrical with a diameter exceeding 30 mm, and there are no particular restrictions on the length of the diameter. Furthermore, the housing 10 in this disclosure may be a rectangular prism or the like, and is not limited to a cylindrical shape.

[0013] The housing 10 has a first end face 11 facing one direction in the longitudinal direction and a second end face 12 facing the other direction in the longitudinal direction. Hereinafter, the direction in which the first end face 11 faces will be referred to as the first direction X1, and the direction in which the second end face 12 faces will be referred to as the second direction X2.

[0014] The housing 10 has an internal space 13 for storing lubricating oil 50. The internal space 13 is enclosed and closed by the walls of the housing 10. The housing 10 has a first wall surface 13a and a second wall surface 13b as walls surrounding the internal space 13. The first wall surface 13a is positioned in a first direction X1 of the internal space 13. The second wall surface 13b is positioned in a second direction X2 of the internal space 13.

[0015] In this embodiment, the housing 10 is made of a resin material. However, in this disclosure, the housing 10 may also be made of a metal material. Furthermore, the housing 10 is made of a resin material with high heat retention properties. This helps to maintain the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 stored in the internal space 13. In addition, to prevent the housing 10 from dissolving in the lubricating oil 50 or from being deformed by the lubricating oil 50, the housing 10 is made of a resin material with chemical resistance (for example, nylon). Furthermore, in this disclosure, a resin material mixed with glass fibers or the like may be used to improve the strength of the housing 10.

[0016] The housing 10 has a first communication hole 14 and a second communication hole 15. The first communication hole 14 is positioned in a first direction X1 with respect to the internal space 13. In detail, the first communication hole 14 penetrates the housing 10 linearly from the first wall surface 13a in the first direction X1. The first end surface 11 has a first opening 14a of the first communication hole 14. Through this first communication hole 14, the outside of the detection unit 1 located in the first direction X1 of the housing 10 communicates with the internal space 13.

[0017] The second communication hole 15 is positioned in a second direction X2 relative to the internal space 13. More specifically, the second communication hole 15 penetrates the housing 10 linearly from the second wall surface 13b in the second direction X2. The second end surface 12 has a second opening 15a of the second communication hole 15. This second communication hole 15 allows the outside of the detection unit 1, located in the second direction X2 of the housing 10, to communicate with the internal space 13.

[0018] Furthermore, the housing 10 has a first through hole 16 (see Figure 5), a second through hole 17, and a third through hole 18. The first through hole 16, the second through hole 17, and the third through hole 18 penetrate linearly in the longitudinal direction between the second wall surface 13b and the second end surface 12. Therefore, the first through hole 16, the second through hole 17, and the third through hole 18 extend in the longitudinal direction from the internal space 13, similar to the second communication hole 15.

[0019] Figure 3 is a view of the housing 10 of Embodiment 1 from a second direction. As shown in Figure 3, the housing 10 is composed of a first part 20 and a second part 30, which are divided into two parts by a virtual plane H extending in the longitudinal direction. The second end face 12 of the housing 10 is provided with the opening 16a of the first through hole 16, the opening 17a of the second through hole 17, and the opening 18a of the third through hole 18. Furthermore, the first through hole 16, the second through hole 17, and the third through hole 18 are offset from the second communication hole 15 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the second communication hole 15, the first through hole 16, the second through hole 17, and the third through hole 18 are independent of each other and are not connected.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, a cylindrical temperature sensor 7 is inserted into the second through-hole 17. The end of the temperature sensor 7 in the first direction X1 is housed in the internal space 13. The end of the temperature sensor 7 in the second direction X2 is connected to the second wiring 37 of the wiring section 3. Therefore, when lubricating oil 50 is stored in the internal space 13, the temperature sensor 7 comes into contact with the lubricating oil 50 and can detect the temperature of the lubricating oil 50. The detection result of the temperature sensor 7 is sent to the control device 2 via the second wiring 37.

[0021] The temperature sensor 7 in this embodiment is a thermocouple. However, the temperature sensor 7 in this disclosure is not limited to a thermocouple. The outer diameter of the temperature sensor 7 is the same as the diameter of the second through hole 17. Therefore, the temperature sensor 7 fits into the second through hole 17 and is difficult to remove from the second through hole 17. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the temperature sensor 7 is the same as the diameter of the second through hole 17, but in this disclosure, the diameter of the second through hole 17 may be larger than the outer diameter of the temperature sensor 7. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 7 may be fitted into the second through hole 17 with another component interposed between the temperature sensor 7 and the second through hole 17, and this disclosure is not limited to the examples shown in the embodiments.

[0022] A cylindrical temperature-changing component 8 is inserted into the third through-hole 18. The end of the temperature-changing component 8 in the first direction X1 is housed in the internal space 13. The end of the temperature-changing component 8 in the second direction X2 is connected to the third wiring 38 of the wiring section 3. Therefore, when lubricating oil 50 is stored in the internal space 13, the temperature-changing component 8 comes into contact with the lubricating oil 50. Furthermore, when the temperature-changing component 8 is activated in response to a signal from the control device 2, the lubricating oil 50 is heated or cooled.

[0023] The temperature-changing component 8 in this embodiment is a heater. Therefore, in this embodiment, the lubricating oil 50 can be heated. However, the present disclosure may also include heating means other than a heater. Furthermore, the temperature-changing component 8 in this disclosure may also be a cooling means capable of cooling the lubricating oil 50. Alternatively, the present disclosure may include a temperature-changing component equipped with both a heating means and a cooling means. The outer diameter of the temperature-changing component 8 is the same as that of the third through-hole 18. Therefore, the temperature-changing component 8 fits into the third through-hole 18 and is difficult to dislodge from the third through-hole 18. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the temperature-changing component 8 is the same as that of the third through-hole 18, but in this disclosure, the diameter of the third through-hole 18 may be larger than the outer diameter of the temperature-changing component 8. Alternatively, the temperature-changing component 8 may be fitted into the third through-hole 18 with another component interposed between the temperature-changing component 8 and the third through-hole 18, and the present disclosure is not limited to the examples shown in the embodiments.

[0024] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the first component 20 of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 4, the first wall surface 13a of the housing 10 is provided with a first recess 24 that is recessed in a first direction X1. The second wall surface 13b is provided with a second recess 25 that is recessed in a second direction X2. The end of the first through hole 16 in the first direction X1 is connected to the internal space 13 via the second recess 25.

[0025] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the state sensor 6 assembled to the first component of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 5, the state sensor 6 has a rectangular, plate-shaped support plate 40 and comb-shaped electrodes 41 printed on the support plate 40. The end 40a of the support plate 40 in the first direction X1 is housed in the first recess 24. The end 40b of the support plate 40 in the second direction X2 is housed in the second recess 25. As a result, the state sensor 6 is supported with the central part of the support plate 40 in the longitudinal direction facing the internal space 13.

[0026] The first wiring 36 of the wiring section 3 is provided at the end of the support plate 40 in the second direction X2. The first wiring 36 passes through the first through hole 16 and connects the control device 2, which is located outside the detection unit 1, to the comb-shaped electrode 41, which is located in the internal space 13. Furthermore, the width of the state sensor 6 in the direction perpendicular to the length direction (arrow Y direction in Figure 5) is greater than that of the first through hole 16.

[0027] The comb-shaped electrode 41 has a plurality of first electrodes 42 and a plurality of second electrodes 43. The first electrodes 42 and second electrodes 43 are arranged alternately in the longitudinal direction with spacing between them. The comb-shaped electrode 41 is provided in the central part of the support plate 40 in the longitudinal direction and faces the internal space 13. Therefore, when lubricating oil 50 is stored in the internal space 13, the lubricating oil 50 is interposed between the first electrodes 42 and the second electrodes 43. Therefore, when a voltage is applied to the comb-shaped electrode 41, the capacitance of the lubricating oil 50 interposed between the first electrodes 42 and the second electrodes 43 is detected. Furthermore, the comb-shaped electrode 41 is positioned closer to the first direction X1 than the central part of the support plate 40 in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, as soon as the lubricating oil 50 begins to flow into the internal space 13, the lubricating oil 50 is interposed between the first electrodes 42 and the second electrodes 43, and the detection of the capacitance of the lubricating oil 50 can be started early.

[0028] Next, the details of the housing 10 will be described. As shown in Figure 3, the virtual plane H that forms the boundary between the first part 20 and the second part 30 coincides with the opening 16a of the first through hole 16 when viewed from the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the virtual plane H passes through the first through hole 16, the second recess 25, the internal space 13, and the first recess 24. The first communication hole 14, the second communication hole 15, the second through hole 17, and the third through hole 18 are formed on the first part 20 side. The first part 20 and the second part 30 are integrated by joining means such as screws. The direction in which the second part 30 is positioned when viewed from the first part 20 is referred to as the opposing side.

[0029] As shown in Figure 4, the first through-hole 16, the first recess 24, the internal space 13, and the second recess 25 are open from the dividing surface 21 of the first component 20. Therefore, the first wiring 36 (see Figure 5) can be placed in the first through-hole 16 from the opposite side. Similarly, the state sensor 6 (see Figure 5) can be assembled into the second recess 25 and the first recess 24 from the opposite side. In other words, the state sensor 6 can be placed in the internal space 13 without passing through the first through-hole 16.

[0030] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the second part of Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 6, the dividing surface 31 of the second part 30 is a plane along the virtual plane H. The dividing surface 31 is provided with grooves 32 that constitute the first through hole 16. In addition, a part of the dividing surface 31 constitutes a lid surface 33, a first support surface 34, and a second support surface 35.

[0031] When the first part 20 and the second part 30 are combined, the lid surface 33 faces the internal space 13. In other words, the lid surface 33 closes the open portion of the internal space 13, thus forming the internal space 13. Also, when the first part 20 and the second part 30 are combined, the first support surface 34 faces the first recess 24 and the second recess 25. The first support surface 34 and the second support surface 35 abut against the support plate 40a and 40b, supporting the state sensor 6. The lid surface 33 also faces the support plate 40. Therefore, the lid surface 33 supports the support plate 40 while closing the internal space 13. In this embodiment, the second part 30 closes the open portion of the internal space 13 with the flat lid surface 33, but in this disclosure, the open portion of the internal space 13 may be closed by a concave surface formed on the second part 30. In other words, in this disclosure, a part of the internal space 13 may be formed on the second part 30.

[0032] The control device 2 is a device that controls the state sensor 6, the temperature sensor 7, and the temperature changing component 8. The control device 2 stores data for comparison with the capacitance of the lubricating oil 50 whose state is to be detected.

[0033] Figure 7 is a graph showing the relationship between the temperature and capacitance of the lubricating oil, which is stored in the control device of Embodiment 1. The data represents the capacitance of the lubricating oil 50 obtained through prior testing. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the capacitances of three lubricating oils 50 with different degrees of deterioration and alteration are stored. Hereinafter, the lubricating oils 50 with the least degree of deterioration and alteration will be referred to as the first lubricating oil, the second lubricating oil, and the third lubricating oil.

[0034] In Figure 7, plots A1 and A2 show the measurement results for the first lubricant. Plots B1 and B2 show the measurement results for the second lubricant. Plots C1 and C2 show the measurement results for the third lubricant. As shown in Figure 7, as the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricant 50 increases, the amount of polar substances in the lubricant 50 increases, and the capacitance increases.

[0035] Furthermore, the capacitance of the three lubricating oils 50 was measured at two points: when the oil temperature was 40°C and when it was 70°C. Hereafter, the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 when the capacitance was measured as a sample (40°C and 70°C) will be referred to as the comparison temperature. As shown in Figure 7, the capacitance value increases when the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 is high. For this reason, if the detected temperature of the lubricating oil 50 does not match the measurement temperature of the data, an accurate degree of deterioration and alteration cannot be determined.

[0036] Next, the method of using the lubricating oil condition detection device 100 will be explained. First, position the detection unit 1 so that the first end face 11 of the housing 10 faces downward in the vertical direction and the second end face 12 faces upward in the vertical direction. In other words, the first opening 14a opens downward in the vertical direction and the second opening 15a opens upward in the vertical direction.

[0037] Next, as shown in Figure 2, the end of the detection unit 1 in the first direction X1 is immersed in the lubricating oil 50. Also, about half of the length of the housing 10 is immersed in the lubricating oil 50, and the second opening 15a is positioned vertically above the oil level 51. As a result, the lubricating oil 50 flows into the first opening 14a. The lubricating oil 50 then passes through the first communication hole 14 and accumulates in the internal space 13. The air in the internal space 13 that is pushed out by the lubricating oil 50 passes through the second communication hole 15 and is discharged from the second opening 15a.

[0038] In this case, if the container storing the lubricating oil 50 is an oil pan or the like, the lubricating oil 50 may contain metal fragments. If these metal fragments flow into the internal space 13, they may come into contact with the first electrode 42 and the second electrode 43 of the comb-shaped electrode 41, potentially causing a short circuit in the comb-shaped electrode 41. However, in this embodiment, the flow path from the first opening 14a to the internal space 13 is upward. Therefore, it is difficult for metal fragments to flow into the internal space 13 against their own weight. In other words, the possibility of a short circuit in the comb-shaped electrode 41 is extremely low.

[0039] When lubricating oil 50 accumulates in the internal space 13, the control device 2 is activated. The control device 2 activates the temperature sensor 7 and measures the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 accumulated in the internal space 13. If the measurement result of the temperature sensor 7 matches the data comparison temperature (40°C or 70°C), the control device 2 activates the state sensor 6 without activating the temperature changing component 8.

[0040] On the other hand, if the measurement result of the temperature sensor 7 is, for example, 20°C, it does not match the reference temperature of the data (40°C or 70°C). In such a case, the control device 2 activates the temperature changing component 8 and heats the lubricating oil 50. While the temperature changing component 8 is heating, the control device 2 monitors the temperature sensor 7 to ensure that the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 matches the reference temperature of the data (40°C).

[0041] When the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 reaches 40°C, the control device 2 applies an AC voltage to the comb-shaped electrode 41 of the state sensor 6 and detects the capacitance between the first electrode 42 and the second electrode 43.

[0042] The control device 2 determines, based on stored data, which lubricant 50's capacitance matches the capacitance of when the comparison temperature is 40°C. For example, if the capacitance matches the capacitance of plot B1 shown in Figure 7, it is determined that the lubricant 50 targeted for state detection has deteriorated or altered to the same degree as the second lubricant. From this, the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricant 50 can be determined.

[0043] In this embodiment, the case where the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 is 20°C was described, but if the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 is 60°C, the temperature changing component 8 heats it to the comparison temperature of 70°C before activating the state sensor 6.

[0044] The above is an example of supplying lubricating oil 50 to the internal space 13 using the first communication hole 14. Next, an example of supplying lubricating oil 50 to the internal space 13 by another method will be described. First, the housing 10 of the detection unit 1 is divided into a first part 20 and a second part 30. That is, the internal space 13 is left open from the dividing surface 22 of the first part 20. Also, plugs (not shown) are inserted into the first opening 14a and the second opening 15a. Next, the lubricating oil 50, which is the object of state detection, is collected with a dropper or the like and supplied to the internal space 13 from the dividing surface 22 of the first part 20. The first part 20 and the second part 30 are combined to close the internal space 13. Lubricating oil 50 may also be supplied to the internal space 13 by this method.

[0045] As described above, the lubricating oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1 comprises a housing 10 having an internal space 13 in which lubricating oil 50 is stored, a state sensor 6 disposed in the internal space 13 for detecting the deterioration state of the lubricating oil 50, a temperature sensor 7 disposed in the internal space 13 for measuring the temperature of the lubricating oil 50, and a temperature changing component 8 disposed in the internal space 13 for changing the temperature of the lubricating oil 50.

[0046] According to the lubricating oil condition detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 can be measured by the temperature sensor 7. If the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 differs from the oil temperature in the pre-prepared data, the temperature change component 8 is activated. As a result, the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 matches the oil temperature in the data, and the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricating oil 50 can be accurately determined. Furthermore, since the temperature of the lubricating oil 50 to be detected can be changed, the number of data (samples) that need to be prepared in advance is reduced. This reduces the effort required to prepare the data.

[0047] Furthermore, the lubricating oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1 may be located outside the housing 10 and may include a control device 2 that controls the operation of the state sensor 6, the temperature sensor 7, and the temperature changing component 8, respectively.

[0048] Furthermore, in the lubrication oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the housing 10 has a first communication hole 14 that connects the outside of the housing 10 with the internal space 13.

[0049] According to Embodiment 1, the lubricating oil 50 flows into the internal space 13 through the first communication hole 14.

[0050] Furthermore, in the lubricating oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the housing 10 has a second communication hole 15 that connects the outside of the housing 10 to the internal space 13. The outer surface of the housing 10 is provided with a first opening 14a of the first communication hole 14 and a second opening 15a of the second communication hole 15. When the housing 10 is immersed in the lubricating oil 50, the second opening 15a is positioned vertically above the first opening 14a.

[0051] According to Embodiment 1, the air in the internal space 13 is discharged through the second communication hole 15. Therefore, the lubricating oil 50 flows smoothly into the internal space 13.

[0052] Furthermore, in the lubrication oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, when the housing 10 is immersed in the lubrication oil 50, the first opening 14a opens downward in the vertical direction. When the housing 10 is immersed in the lubrication oil 50, the second opening 15a opens upward in the vertical direction.

[0053] According to Embodiment 1, metal fragments are less likely to flow into the internal space 13. In addition, lubricating oil 50 is less likely to adhere to the second opening 15a, and air can be discharged smoothly.

[0054] Furthermore, in the lubricating oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the housing 10 has a first through-hole 16 that connects the outside of the housing 10 to the internal space 13 and extends from the internal space 13 in the same direction as the second communication hole 15. The state sensor 6 is connected to the control device 2 located outside the housing 10 via the first through-hole 16.

[0055] According to Embodiment 1, the first wiring 36 connecting the state sensor 6 and the control device 2 is positioned above the oil level 51. Therefore, lubricating oil 50 is less likely to adhere to the first wiring 36. This eliminates the need to remove lubricating oil that has adhered to the first wiring 36.

[0056] Furthermore, in the lubrication oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the housing 10 has a second through-hole 17 that connects the outside of the housing 10 to the internal space 13 and extends from the internal space 13 in the same direction as the second communication hole 15. The temperature sensor 7 is connected to the control device 2, which is located outside the detection unit 1, via the second through-hole 17.

[0057] According to Embodiment 1, the second wiring 37 connecting the temperature sensor 7 and the control device 2 is positioned above the oil level 51. Therefore, lubricating oil 50 is less likely to adhere to the second wiring 37. This eliminates the need to remove lubricating oil that has adhered to the second wiring 37.

[0058] Furthermore, in the lubrication oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the housing 10 has a third through-hole 18 that connects the outside of the housing 10 to the internal space 13 and extends from the internal space 13 in the same direction as the second communication hole 15. The temperature changing component 8 is connected to the control device 2, which is located outside the detection unit 1, via the third through-hole 18.

[0059] According to Embodiment 1, the third wiring 38 connecting the temperature changing component 8 and the control device 2 is positioned above the oil level 51. Therefore, lubricating oil 50 is less likely to adhere to the third wiring 38. This eliminates the need to remove lubricating oil that has adhered to the third wiring 38.

[0060] Furthermore, in the lubrication oil state detection device 100 of Embodiment 1, the housing 10 is composed of a first part 20 and a second part 30 that are divided along a virtual plane H that extends in the direction in which the internal space 13 and the first through hole 16 are located. The virtual plane H passes through the first through hole 16 and the internal space 13.

[0061] According to Embodiment 1, when the housing 10 is divided, the internal space 13 is opened from the dividing surfaces 21 and 31 between the first part 20 and the second part 30. The state sensor 6 and the first wiring 36 can then be assembled from the dividing surface 21 of the first part 20. In other words, the state sensor 6 can be placed in the internal space 13 without passing through the first through hole 16. Therefore, it is not necessary to enlarge the diameter of the first through hole 16 to allow the state sensor 6 to pass through, and the housing 10 can be made smaller. Also, because the housing 10 is separable, the lubricating oil 50 can be supplied directly to the internal space 13. Therefore, it is not necessary to immerse the housing 10 in the lubricating oil 50, which is highly convenient.

[0062] Although Embodiment 1 has been described above, this disclosure is not limited to the example shown in the embodiment. For example, regarding the data stored in the control device 2, the comparison temperatures in this embodiment are 40°C and 70°C, but this disclosure only requires that capacitance be measured at at least one oil temperature. Also, the control device 2 does not need to store the data shown in Figure 7. In other words, the control device 2 shows the capacitance measured by the state sensor 6 to the operator. The operator can then refer to the data and determine which of the lubricating oils shown in the data it corresponds to, thereby understanding the degree of deterioration and alteration.

[0063] Furthermore, while Embodiment 1 exemplifies the detection of the capacitance of the lubricating oil 50 using a comb-shaped electrode 41, other electrodes may be used, and the invention is not particularly limited. Also, while Embodiment 1 uses capacitance as an indicator for determining the degree of deterioration and alteration of the lubricating oil 50, this disclosure may also use other electrical properties (dielectric constant, electrical conductivity, etc.) as indicators. In addition, while Embodiment 1 directly uses the electrical properties detected by the comb-shaped electrode 41, other electrical properties may be calculated from the detected electrical properties and used.

[0064] Furthermore, in order to arrange the state sensor 6, temperature sensor 7, and temperature changing component 8 in the internal space 13, the housing 10 has three through holes (a first through hole 16, a second through hole 17, and a third through hole 18). However, in this disclosure, the number of through holes may be reduced to one, and the state sensor 6, temperature sensor 7, and temperature changing component 8 may be arranged in the internal space 13 through this single through hole. Alternatively, the second communication hole 15 may be made larger, and the components may be arranged in the internal space 13 through this second communication hole 15. Thus, the number of through holes is not particularly limited. Also, the through holes may be branched.

[0065] Furthermore, although the housing 10 has a first communication hole 14 and a second communication hole 15, the present disclosure also allows for a housing 10 that does not have a first communication hole 14 and a second communication hole 15. This is because even with such a housing 10, lubricating oil 50 can be supplied to the internal space 13 by dividing the housing 10 into a first part 20 and a second part 30. On the other hand, the present disclosure also allows for a housing 10 that is indivisible if it has a first communication hole 14.

[0066] Furthermore, although the control device 2 of this embodiment has a function to control the temperature changing component 8 based on the measurement result of the temperature sensor 7, the present disclosure may also include a control device that does not have such a function. Also, although the control device 2 of this embodiment has a function to control the temperature of the temperature changing component based on the measurement result of the temperature sensor, the present disclosure may also include a control device 2 that does not have such a function. In other words, the control device 2 of the present disclosure may independently control the operation of the state sensor 6, the temperature sensor 7, and the temperature changing component 8. To put it another way, the lubricating oil state detection device 100 of the present disclosure may have a control device for the state sensor 6, a control device for the temperature sensor 7, and a control device for the temperature changing component 8, respectively.

[0067] Furthermore, the first communication hole 14 and the second communication hole 15 extend vertically when the housing 10 is immersed in lubricating oil 50, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. A second embodiment will be described below.

[0068] (Embodiment 2) Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the detection unit of Embodiment 2. As shown in Figure 8, Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the detection unit 1A is immersed in lubricating oil 50 and the first communication hole 14A extends horizontally from the internal space 13. Even in this Embodiment 2, lubricating oil 50 can flow into the internal space 13 through the first communication hole 14A. Furthermore, because the first communication hole 14A is horizontal, it is difficult for metal pieces to flow into the internal space 13 against their own weight.

[0069] Although Embodiment 2 has been described above, the present disclosure also states that the first communication hole 14 may extend diagonally with respect to the vertical direction while immersed in the lubricating oil 50. Similarly, the second communication hole 15 may extend horizontally or diagonally. Furthermore, the first communication hole 14 and the second communication hole 15 are not limited to extending in a straight line, but may be bent or arc-shaped. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0070] 1, 1A Detection Unit 2 Control device 3 Wiring section 6. State Sensor 7. Temperature sensor 8. Temperature changing components 10 cabinets 11 First end surface 12 Second end face 13 Interior space 14, 14A 1st communication hole 15 2nd communication hole 16. First through hole 17. Second through hole 18. Third through hole 20 Part 1 24 First recess 25 Second recess 30 Part 2 40 Support plate 41 Comb-shaped electrode 50 Lubricating oil 100 Lubrication oil condition detection device H virtual plane

Claims

1. A housing having an internal space, in which lubricating oil is stored, A state sensor is placed in the internal space and detects the deterioration state of the lubricating oil, A temperature sensor is placed in the internal space to measure the temperature of the lubricating oil, A temperature changing component is arranged in the internal space and changes the temperature of the lubricating oil, A control device is located outside the housing and controls the state sensor, the temperature sensor, and the temperature changing component, respectively. Equipped with, The housing has a second communication hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space, The housing has a first through-hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space and extends from the internal space in the same direction as the second communication hole, The state sensor is connected to the control device located outside the housing via the first through-hole, The housing is composed of a first part and a second part that are divided along a virtual plane extending in the direction in which the internal space and the first through-hole are arranged. The virtual plane passes through the first through hole and the internal space. Lubrication oil condition detection device.

2. The housing has a first communication hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space. The lubricating oil state detection device according to claim 1.

3. The outer surface of the housing is provided with a first opening of the first communication hole and a second opening of the second communication hole, With the housing immersed in the lubricating oil, the second opening is positioned vertically above the first opening. The lubricating oil state detection device according to claim 2.

4. With the housing immersed in the lubricating oil, the first opening opens downward in the vertical direction. With the housing immersed in the lubricating oil, the second opening is open upward in the vertical direction. The lubricating oil state detection device according to claim 3.

5. The housing has a second through-hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space and extends from the internal space in the same direction as the second communication hole, The temperature sensor is connected to the control device located outside the housing via the second through-hole. The lubricating oil state detection device according to claim 4.

6. The housing has a third through-hole that connects the outside of the housing to the internal space and extends from the internal space in the same direction as the second communication hole, The temperature changing component is connected to the control device located outside the housing via the third through-hole. The lubricating oil state detection device according to claim 5.

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