RFID Sensor Nut for Contactless Bolt Preload Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screw nut technologies lack an efficient and cost-effective method for determining preload force in screw connections, as current methods are often dependent on friction conditions and require mechanical changes or additional energy sources.
Innovation Solution
A screw nut with an integrated sensor module featuring a deformation detection sensor and RFID transponder unit, allowing contactless measurement of preload force through electromagnetic coupling, eliminating the need for external energy sources and minimizing mechanical alterations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional methods are used to determine preload force, then measurement can be achieved, but the measurement is dependent on friction conditions and requires mechanical changes or additional energy sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement methods with an RFID-based wireless sensor system. The deformation sensor detects preload force through electrical resistance changes rather than mechanical contact, eliminating dependence on friction conditions and reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module utilizes the existing electromagnetic field from the RFID reader to power its operations. The deformation sensor's electrical properties change with mechanical deformation, allowing the system to self-measure without external power sources or additional mechanical components
2Device complexity
If contactless measurement is implemented using RFID technology, then no additional energy sources are needed, but the system requires electromagnetic coupling infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID reader serves multiple functions: it provides both the electromagnetic field for wireless communication and the power source for the sensor module. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate battery or power supply components in the sensor module
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic field acts as an intermediary that transfers both data and energy between the RFID reader and the sensor module. This field-based interaction enables contactless operation while eliminating the need for physical electrical connections or separate power sources
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 quick, reliable, and cost-effective determination of preload force in screw connections, independent of friction conditions, with no requirement for additional energy sources or mechanical changes to existing components.
Implementation Method 1
contactless determination of the preload force... by means of radio transmission... electromagnetic coupling
Implementation Method 2
at least one deformation detection sensor arranged on a base body of the screw nut for detecting a deformation of the base body
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a screw nut (1) with a sensor module (5) for determining a pre-tensioning force of a screw connection, wherein the sensor module (5) comprises at least one deformation detecting sensor (7), which is arranged on a main body (6) of the screw nut (1) and is intended for detecting a deformation of the main body (6) of the screw nut (1), and an RFID transponder unit (8), and wherein a printed circuit board (9) of the sensor module (5), on which an antenna (10) of the RFID transponder unit (8) and an electronic circuit of the sensor module (5) are formed and which is coupled in an electrically conductive manner to the at least one deformation detection sensor (7), is arranged on an end face (11) of the main body (6). The invention also relates to a mounting device (2).