Bearing-Integrated Transmission Sensor for Real-Time Torque Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to accurately estimate transmission operating conditions due to errors from sensors not directly related to transmission load and torque characteristics, leading to inefficient determination of transmission operating characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A transmission sensing and measurement system that integrates sensors and an integrated circuit into bearing components to measure strain and temperature, providing real-time feedback on forces, torques, and moments, which are then processed to optimize transmission efficiency and vehicle performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If sensors are placed in outlying positions not directly related to transmission function, then the system structure is simpler and easier to implement, but the measurement precision of transmission operating characteristics deteriorates due to errors in estimating load and torque characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces bearing components as intermediary elements that directly experience transmission loads. Sensors mounted on these bearings measure forces and torques at the point of application, eliminating the need for outlying sensors that estimate characteristics indirectly. The bearing serves as a mediator between the transmission components and the measurement system, providing accurate direct measurement data.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are integrated directly into bearing components, then the measurement precision of transmission operating characteristics is improved, but the device complexity increases due to integration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sensors with bearing components by mounting them directly on bearing inner rings, outer rings, or rolling elements. This merging integrates the measurement function into the existing bearing structure, allowing accurate measurement of transmission loads while utilizing the bearing's inherent mechanical properties. The integration is achieved through direct mounting rather than complex custom assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing components serve multiple functions: they support transmission loads mechanically while simultaneously serving as measurement platforms for sensors. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate measurement devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision for forces and torques.
3Productivity
If real-time feedback of transmission operating characteristics is implemented, then transmission efficiency and vehicle performance are optimized, but the loss of energy increases due to additional sensing and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing-mounted sensors utilize the mechanical energy already present in the transmission system to generate measurement signals. The sensors detect forces and torques directly from the bearing loads without requiring external power sources or additional energy input. This self-service approach minimizes energy consumption while providing continuous real-time feedback for optimizing transmission efficiency and vehicle performance.
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 immediate synchronized shift calibration, optimizing transmission efficiency, improving fuel economy, and enhancing vehicle performance by providing precise data on transmission operating characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor for measuring strain and temperature and an integrated circuit with signal conditioning are integrated directly into the bearing inner ring or outer ring
Implementation Method 2
a sensor for measuring strain and temperature and an integrated circuit with signal conditioning are integrated directly into the bearing inner ring or outer ring
Implementation Method 3
The measurement data and energy can be transmitted using telemetry (e.g., radio transmitting, inductive coupling, or capacity coupling)
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission sensing and measurement system. The system provides real-time feedback of various transmission operating characteristics which enables immediate synchronized shift calibration in response to vehicle operating conditions. The system can be applied to various transmission components and positions, such as bearing, shafts, and differentials. The system is arranged in a transmission assembly. By way of a method for measuring operating characteristics of the transmission where data is collected by a sensor and transmitted, optimal operating characteristics of the transmission can be calculated.