Multi-Tester Wear and Torque Sensing System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wear testing and torque sensing technologies are limited by low throughput and require single sample testing, making it difficult to increase testing speed or resolution effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring multiple testers with load arms, load cells, and optical spectroscopy assemblies for high-throughput wear testing and non-contact torque sensing, allowing for simultaneous testing of multiple samples and precise torque measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If single sample testing is used, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the testing function into multiple independent testers (e.g., 4 testers) that operate simultaneously on different samples. Each tester is a self-contained unit with its own load arm, load cell, and optical spectroscopy assembly, allowing parallel testing while maintaining individual measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple testers are integrated onto a single shared platform with common components including the stage for positioning sample holders, the housing structure, and synchronized control systems. This merging allows simultaneous testing of multiple samples while reducing overall system complexity through component sharing
2Productivity
If testing speed is increased, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces contact-based mechanical torque measurement with non-contact optical spectroscopy measurement. Optical assemblies positioned near the sample surface use light interaction to measure torque without physical contact, eliminating mechanical friction and wear that would interfere with precision at high speeds
Solution Approach 2:
Optical fields serve as intermediaries between the torque application mechanism and the measurement system. The optical spectroscopy assemblies detect torque-induced changes in the sample or load arm through light interaction, providing precise measurement without direct mechanical contact
3Measurement precision
If non-contact torque sensing is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical spectroscopy assemblies serve multiple functions: they measure torque non-contactly, monitor wear characteristics, and provide friction analysis. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate measurement systems for each parameter, thereby managing overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision
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 high-throughput wear testing and non-contact torque sensing, significantly increasing testing efficiency and resolution, enabling statistical analysis and rapid assessment of material coatings and torque measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a load cell attached to the joint
Implementation Method 2
a fiber optic cable configured to provide the optical signal
Implementation Method 3
an objective assembly configured to focus the optical signal provided by the fiber optic cable, thereby providing a focused optical signal
Implementation Method 4
a half-ball lens disposed within the ball or pin holder
Implementation Method 5
a flexure disposed around an internal shaft, where the flexure includes a first end and a second end
Implementation Method 6
a reference encoder coupled to the drive input shaft, where the reference encoder is configured to provide a first output signal; and a measurement encoder coupled to the drive output shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates, in part, to systems for characterizing force (e.g., friction, wear, and/or torque). In one embodiment, the system allows for wear testing of samples in a high throughput manner. In another embodiment, the system allows for torque sensing in a non-contact manner.