Pinion Preloading via Axial Force Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pinion assembly preloading methods in vehicle drivelines rely on measuring drag torque, which is unreliable due to variations from rust inhibitors, lubrication, and temperature, making it difficult to achieve consistent preloading, especially with low-drag bearings like angular contact ball bearings.
Innovation Solution
A pinion assembly preloading system that uses a press actuator, force sensor, and controller to apply and measure axial forces and displacement, allowing for precise preloading without relying on drag torque measurements, enabling the use of low-drag bearings for improved fuel efficiency and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If drag torque measurement is used to set bearing preloading, then preloading can be established, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variations from rust inhibitors, lubrication, and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a force sensor as an intermediary device to directly measure the axial force applied to the pinion assembly during preloading. This mediator provides accurate force measurement independent of drag torque variations caused by lubrication, rust inhibitors, and temperature, thereby resolving the measurement precision problem while maintaining reliable preloading consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical drag torque measurement system with an electronic force sensing system. Instead of relying on rotational drag torque that is affected by lubrication and temperature, the system uses a force sensor to directly measure axial loading forces, substituting a more precise measurement method that is not susceptible to the same environmental variations
2Use of energy by moving object
If angular contact ball bearings with reduced drag are used for fuel efficiency, then energy consumption decreases, but preloading measurement becomes significantly more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensor acts as an intermediary that directly measures the axial force applied to the pinion assembly, providing a clear measurement signal that is not dependent on the bearing's rotational drag characteristics. This allows accurate preloading measurement even with low-drag angular contact ball bearings where traditional drag torque measurement would be too small to detect reliably
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the force sensor continuously monitors the axial force during preloading, and the controller adjusts the preloading process based on real-time force measurements. This feedback mechanism enables precise control and verification of preloading levels regardless of the bearing's low drag characteristics, making the measurement process reliable even with energy-efficient low-drag bearings
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 method ensures consistent preloading of pinion assemblies, reducing parasitic losses and enhancing fuel efficiency by directly measuring reaction forces and displacements, eliminating the need for drag torque measurements and allowing the use of low-drag bearings.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor configured to measure a reaction force at the pinion assembly
Implementation Method 2
a press actuator configured to apply an axial force against a pinion assembly
Implementation Method 3
a position sensor configured to measure a displacement in a pinion assembly during loading
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to pinion assembly preloading systems and methods of operation. Disclosed are systems including a press actuator that applies an axial force against a pinion assembly; a force sensor that measures a reaction force at the pinion assembly; and a method of controlling the press actuator according to a change in the reaction force.