Torque Measurement via Helical Gear Axial Force Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining torque in drive systems are inaccurate and unable to dynamically measure the torque of a rotating shaft effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing helical gear wheels to convert torque into axial force, which is then measured using force sensors or position sensors, allowing for accurate determination of torque without modifying the shaft, and enabling both static and dynamic torque measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional torque measurement methods are used, then the measurement can be performed, but the accuracy is insufficient and dynamic torque determination is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism consisting of helical gear wheels that convert the torque acting on the shaft into an axial force. This intermediary conversion allows indirect measurement of torque through axial force measurement, achieving both high accuracy and dynamic measurement capability without directly measuring torque on the rotating shaft
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the shaft is modified to enable torque measurement, then measurement capability is improved, but the shaft structure becomes more complex and accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the torque measurement function from the shaft itself by introducing separate helical gear wheels. The shaft remains structurally simple while the gear mechanism handles the measurement function, converting torque into axial force that can be measured without modifying the shaft structure
Solution Approach 2:
The helical gear wheels act as an intermediary that enables torque measurement without direct contact or modification of the shaft. The gears convert the rotational torque into an axial force that can be measured by sensors, maintaining shaft integrity while enabling measurement
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 approach provides a high-accuracy, non-invasive method for determining torque on a shaft, suitable for both rotary and static conditions, enhancing the precision and reliability of torque measurement in drive systems.
Implementation Method 1
The axial force is produced in the gearbox. To this end, the gearbox has at least two gear wheels with helical teeth, where one of the gear wheels with the helical teeth is attached to the shaft.
Implementation Method 2
If the shaft can move in the axial direction with the aid of a spring element, the axial position of the shaft can also be determined with a position sensor, in order to determine the axial force.
Data Source
AI summary
A drive, method and a device for determining the torque of a shaft, wherein gear wheels engaged with one another in a gearbox serve to apply an axial force to the shaft, where the axial force is induced by helical teeth of the gear wheels, the axial force of the shaft is determined using a force sensor and/or a position sensor, and where the torque is determined arithmetically from the measured axial force such that a static and dynamic measurement of the torque on the shaft can be advantageously performed.