Integrated Angle Measuring Device for Shaft Imbalance Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing angle measuring devices do not efficiently generate information about shaft imbalances, particularly when dealing with heavy loads or high speeds, requiring separate sensors for imbalance detection and evaluation.

Innovation Solution

An angle measuring device integrated with an imbalance sensor, evaluation unit, and signal processing unit that generates imbalance information from angular and imbalance values, allowing for self-contained imbalance determination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If separate sensors and evaluation units are used for imbalance detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimbalance detection precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the angle measuring device with imbalance detection functionality by integrating an imbalance sensor and evaluation unit into the existing angle measuring device housing. The imbalance sensor is mounted on the housing and detects shaft deflections, while the evaluation unit processes both angle and imbalance signals within the same device, eliminating the need for separate imbalance measurement systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The angle measuring device is transformed into a multi-functional system that simultaneously performs angular position measurement and imbalance detection. The signal processing unit evaluates both angle values and imbalance values to generate comprehensive shaft condition information, making the device universal for both measurement tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple sensors are used for imbalance detection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimbalance measurement accuracyVSAvoidsystem operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple sensing functions into a single integrated device. The imbalance sensor is mounted on the housing and works in conjunction with the existing angle measuring components, allowing both angle and imbalance measurements to be taken simultaneously from the same mechanical connection point, simplifying installation and operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The angle measuring device serves itself by incorporating the imbalance detection capability within the same housing and using the same mechanical connection to the shaft. The device automatically performs both angle measurement and imbalance detection without requiring separate external systems, reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables simple and effective generation of imbalance information, enhancing the capability of existing angle measuring devices to detect and quantify shaft imbalances, improving operational efficiency in machines like rotary tables and machine tools.

Implementation Method 1

at least one unbalance sensor (20) which generates an unbalance signal from unbalance-induced deflections of the shaft (12, 30)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentEP3171135B1Angle measuring device and method for operating a power supply device
Publication Date: 2019.08.14 DR JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GMBH
  • EP3171135B1 patent drawingFigure 1a
  • EP3171135B1 patent drawingFigure 1b
  • EP3171135B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The present invention relates to an angle measuring device comprising: • a housing (10), • a position detection unit (50) for generating angle values ​​(ϕ, ϕi) indicating the angular position of a shaft (12, 30) relative to a reference position, • an interface unit (80) for communication with downstream electronics (100) via a data transmission channel (82), wherein the angle measuring device further comprises: • at least one unbalance sensor (20) that generates an unbalance signal (u(t)) from unbalance-induced deflections of the shaft (12, 30), • an unbalance evaluation unit (62) that generates unbalance values ​​(u, ui) from the unbalance signal (u(t)), and • a signal processing unit (70) that generates unbalance information (I) from the angle values ​​(ϕ, ϕi) and the unbalance values ​​(u, ui), which is transmitted to the downstream electronics (100) via the interface unit (80). is transferable.Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for operating such an angle measuring device.