Belt Lifetime Estimation via Starting Torque Detection

The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the starting torque before the belt reaches its actual failure point. The discrimination unit estimates belt lifetime based on torque values acquired during operation, allowing maintenance to be performed proactively before noise generation and abrasion become severe, thus preventing the harmful effect while maintaining the necessary pressing function.

The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from using only driving torque to using starting torque as the key parameter for lifetime estimation. The acquisition unit specifically measures starting torque values, and the discrimination unit uses these torque values to estimate belt lifetime with higher accuracy, enabling precise prediction of noise generation and belt wear without significantly increasing system complexity.

The patent applies feedback by continuously acquiring starting torque values during belt operation and using these feedback signals to estimate remaining lifetime. The discrimination unit processes the torque feedback data to determine when belt replacement is needed, enabling timely and accurate maintenance scheduling based on actual belt condition rather than fixed intervals, thus improving reliability while keeping the monitoring system relatively simple.