Axle Differential Torque Sensing via Bearing Support Strain

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current axle assembly systems lack effective means to accurately measure axle torque, which is crucial for the efficiency and longevity of powertrain components and vehicle operation, as existing methods are influenced by structural loads and do not provide direct, reliable torque measurements.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a torque sensing assembly with strain gages and position sensors on the bearing support and drivetrain housing, which measure strain and position changes caused by separation forces between drive elements, allowing for accurate calculation of torque through a substantial linear relationship.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If strain gages and position sensors are installed on the bearing support and drivetrain housing, then torque measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque measurement precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses strain gages and position sensors as intermediary elements that indirectly measure torque by detecting strain and position changes in the bearing support and drivetrain housing. These sensors act as mediators between the torque force and the measurement system, allowing accurate torque measurement without direct force application sensors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct mechanical torque measurement methods with sensor-based detection systems. Instead of using complex mechanical torque meters or direct force sensors, the system uses electrical strain gages and position sensors to detect mechanical changes, converting mechanical measurement into electrical signal measurement for more precise and reliable torque data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If sensors measure strain and position changes caused by separation forces, then reliability of torque data is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability of torque dataVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the measurement function from the main drivetrain components by installing sensors on the bearing support and housing structures. This separation allows the sensors to measure torque-related strain and position changes without interfering with the primary power transmission function, improving measurement reliability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular sensor installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

This solution enables precise torque measurement, reducing interference from structural loads and providing direct, reliable data for powertrain efficiency and longevity, enabling adaptive control and predictive maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

Incorporating a torque sensing assembly with strain gages and position sensors on the bearing support and drivetrain housing, which measure strain and position changes caused by separation forces between drive elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain measurement: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

Incorporating a torque sensing assembly with strain gages and position sensors on the bearing support and drivetrain housing, which measure strain and position changes caused by separation forces between drive elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPosition detection: Displacement

Data Source

PatentUS11787286B2Axle assembly with torque sensor
Publication Date: 2023.10.17 DEERE & CO
  • US11787286B2 patent drawing
  • US11787286B2 patent drawing
  • US11787286B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A torque sensing assembly of a differential of an axle assembly is described in the present disclosure. The differential may include a differential housing portion, a drive pinion positioned within the differential housing portion, a ring gear, a carrier, a differential pinion, a first side gear, a second side gear, a first bearing, a first bearing support, and the torque sensing assembly. The first bearing is coupled to the differential housing portion and rotatable with the carrier. The first bearing support is coupled to the differential housing portion and used to support the first bearing. The torque sensing assembly is coupled to the first bearing support and operable to measure a characteristic resulted from a separation force created between the drive pinion and ring gear.