Nested Sensing Device for Load Pin Strain Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load measurement technologies for subsea connectors face challenges in accurately measuring strain and deformation without causing plastic deformation, leading to increased component size and weight, and potential mixing of bending and shear strains.
Innovation Solution
A sensing device with an elongate member featuring ball and taper engaging mechanisms that securely lock against the inner wall of a receptacle, allowing for precise measurement of strain and deformation over defined zones, reducing the risk of plastic deformation and enabling thinner load pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional load measurement technologies are used, then strain and deformation can be measured, but plastic deformation occurs and component size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing apparatus is nested within the load pin structure, with the elongate member fitting inside the receptacle of the load pin. This allows the sensing elements to be housed within the existing load pin geometry, eliminating the need for external sensing devices and reducing overall component weight while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement function is extracted from the load pin itself and implemented through a separate sensing apparatus with strain gauges mounted on the elongate member. This separation allows the load pin to be optimized for structural performance (thinner, lighter) while the sensing apparatus handles the measurement function, preventing plastic deformation of the load pin.
2Measurement precision
If conventional load measurement technologies are used, then strain and deformation can be measured, but component size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate member with sensing elements is inserted into and nested within the receptacle of the load pin. This nested configuration allows the sensing apparatus to occupy the internal volume of the load pin rather than adding external bulk, enabling thinner load pin design while maintaining deformation measurement capability through strain gauges positioned on the elongate member.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing apparatus utilizes the internal dimensional space of the load pin receptacle, transitioning from an external attachment configuration to an internal integration configuration. This dimensional reorganization allows the sensing elements to be positioned within the load pin structure, reducing overall component volume while maintaining measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If conventional load measurement technologies are used, then loads can be measured, but bending and shear strains mix
Solution Approach 1:
Strain gauges are positioned at specific locations on the elongate member where only axial strain occurs, away from regions subject to bending or shear. This localized placement ensures that the sensing elements measure purely axial deformation, separating the measurement of different strain types and improving measurement reliability by avoiding mixed strain signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The load pin system is segmented into distinct functional zones: the load pin itself for structural load transmission, the elongate member for sensing, and the receptacle for housing. This segmentation allows the sensing apparatus to be positioned and oriented to measure only axial strain, while bending and shear strains are isolated to specific regions that do not affect the measurement zone.
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 strain and deformation measurements while maintaining the load pin's structural integrity, reducing component size and weight, and minimizing the impact of localized plastic deformations, thus enhancing operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
an engaging portion configured for locking against an inner wall of the receptacle, so as to prevent relative motion of the engaging portion with respect to the inner wall of the receptacle
Implementation Method 2
one or more sensing elements for sensing load, strain, deformation or force in or on the elongate member
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A sensing device or apparatus (110) for inserting into a hole, cavity or receptacle (120), such as a hole, cavity or receptacle in a shaft, locking device or load pin (20) for a connector (5), the sensing device or apparatus (110) having an elongate member (125) such as a beam or rod; one or more sensing elements (180a, 180b, 180c, 180d, 180b', 180c', 180d') for sensing load, strain, deformation or force in or on the elongate member (125); wherein the elongate member (125) is provided with at least one engaging portion (130) for engaging an inner wall of the hole, cavity or the receptacle (120). A corresponding shaft, load pin or locking device, connector and methods of using, measuring and assembling are also provided herein.