Load Pin Torque Measurement in Universal Joint Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load cells used to measure torque applied to screw piling by rotary drives are prone to interference from downward forces and add additional length to the assembly, limiting the maximum installation length of screw piles.
Innovation Solution
A load pin with integrated sensors, mounted through a universal joint-type coupler, transmits and measures installation torque using a differential bridge network, minimizing interference from downward forces and maintaining assembly length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a flanged member is used to measure torque on the screw piling, then torque measurement is achieved, but the assembly length increases and wireless signals are subject to interference from vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is integrated into the universal joint coupler assembly, merging the torque measurement function with the existing mechanical connection components. This eliminates the need for separate flanged members and reduces overall assembly length while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The load cell serves as an intermediary element within the universal joint coupler, measuring torque through the pivot pin mechanism without requiring additional external components that would increase assembly length or interfere with wireless signals.
2Measurement precision
If a flanged member is used to measure torque on the screw piling, then torque measurement is achieved, but downward forces interfere with the measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is oriented with its sensing axis perpendicular to the vertical direction, creating an asymmetric configuration where downward forces do not align with the measurement axis. This asymmetric positioning allows the load cell to measure torque while being insensitive to downward force interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot pin acts as an intermediary that transmits torque to the load cell while blocking the transmission of downward forces. The universal joint mechanism allows rotational movement while preventing vertical force interference from reaching the load cell sensing element.
3Measurement precision
If additional components are added to measure torque, then measurement capability is improved, but the maximum installation length of screw piles is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The torque measurement function is merged into the universal joint coupler assembly, utilizing existing structural components (pivot pin, coupler arms) as part of the measurement system. This integration eliminates the need for separate measurement devices that would add length and limit screw pile installation depth.
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
The solution provides accurate torque measurement while being resistant to downward forces and maintaining the full installation length of screw piles, improving the reliability of screw pile capacity prediction.
Implementation Method 1
A load pin with integrated sensors, mounted through a universal joint-type coupler, transmits and measures installation torque using a differential bridge network
Data Source
AI summary
A system to measure the installation torque of a screw pile comprises machinery suitable to drive the screw pile into the ground, said machinery further comprising a rotary drive suspended by means of a universal joint-type coupler. A load pin, having at least one sensor, is mounted through the universal joint-type coupler as a pivot pin and is oriented within the universal joint-type coupler so that at least some of the installation torque is transmitted through said load pin and is measurable by said at least one sensor. Preferably, a differential bridge network is used to obtain a measurable signal from the plurality of sensors.