Rescue Hoist Drive Train Torque Sensing via Strain-Gauge Load Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rescue hoist systems lack effective torque sensing and load monitoring capabilities, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of the geartrain and calculating the load on the cable, leading to potential operational inefficiencies and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A torque sensing system integrated into the drive train of the rescue hoist, utilizing load pins with strain gauges to measure torque and load, communicating this information to a computer for storage and analysis, thereby providing real-time data for maintenance and operational safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If torque sensing is not implemented, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to monitor drive train integrity and calculate cable load is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque sensing mechanisms with strain gauge sensors that convert mechanical strain into electrical signals. This substitution maintains reliable torque monitoring while reducing mechanical complexity through the use of electrical measurement systems instead of purely mechanical indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque sensing system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it monitors drive train integrity, calculates cable load, and provides data for predictive maintenance. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive monitoring capabilities from a single integrated system.
2Measurement precision
If strain gauges are installed on load pins, then torque and load measurements become possible, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the overall manufacturing process by using pre-fabricated strain gauge sensors that can be attached to load pins. This separation allows the strain gauges to be installed as distinct components rather than requiring complex integration into the manufacturing process, thereby improving measurement precision while managing manufacturing complexity.
3Productivity
If real-time torque data is collected and stored, then maintenance can be optimized, but the system requires more sophisticated data processing capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where torque data is continuously collected, stored, and analyzed to provide information about drive train health and cable load. This feedback loop enables optimized maintenance scheduling based on actual operational conditions rather than fixed intervals, improving productivity while using straightforward data processing methods.
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
Enhances mission safety by providing accurate load and torque readings, reduces maintenance needs, and extends the useful life of the drive train by informing maintenance only when necessary, thus improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
Each load pin includes a strain gauge that senses a strain experienced by the drive train due to the drive train transmitting torque to the cable drum
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A drive train (22) for a rescue hoist includes a mounting portion (30) for mounting the drive train within the rescue hoist. A load pin (34) extends through the mounting portion and into a static structure of the rescue hoist to secure the drive train to the rescue hoist. The load pin is configured to sense the strain generated when the drive train imparts torque to the cable drum (24) to rotate the cable drum. The sensed strain is communicated to a computer (36) configured to calculate a torque generated by the drive train based on the sensed strain and further configured to calculate the load on the cable based on the sensed strain.