Self-Powered Torque Measurement via Rotational Energy Harvesting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for measuring torque in vehicles are inaccurate and unreliable, failing to provide effective long-term, direct torque measurement, which is crucial for optimal engine control and torque distribution, especially with the rise of electric cars and intelligent vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A self-powered torque measurement system comprising a strain measuring module, a control module, and an energy generating module that uses electromagnetic or piezoelectric methods to convert mechanical energy from a rotatable member into electrical energy, powering the system and enabling accurate torque measurement without external power sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current torque measurement methods are used, then torque measurement is possible, but the measurement is inaccurate and unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The energy generating module harvests mechanical energy from the rotation of the rotatable member to generate electricity, powering the strain measuring module and control module autonomously. This self-powered design eliminates dependency on external power sources, ensuring continuous and reliable torque measurement without requiring additional wiring or power supply infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical torque measurement methods with a strain measurement system that uses strain gauges or similar sensors to directly measure strain on the rotatable member. This substitution provides more accurate and reliable torque data by directly measuring the physical deformation caused by torque rather than relying on indirect mechanical indicators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If a self-powered system is implemented, then external power sources are eliminated, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidsystem structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The energy generating module is integrated directly onto the rotatable member, merging the power generation function with the existing rotating component. The strain measuring module is also mounted on the same component, combining multiple functions (torque measurement and power generation) into a single integrated assembly that leverages the existing mechanical structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotatable member serves multiple functions: it transmits torque from the engine to the transmission and simultaneously acts as the mounting platform for both the strain measuring module and the energy generating module. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If strain measurement is used, then torque measurement accuracy is improved, but the system requires power supply infrastructure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque measurement accuracyVSAvoidpower supply requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system converts the mechanical energy that would otherwise be wasted during the rotation of the flexplate or flywheel into useful electrical energy. By harvesting the kinetic energy from the rotating mass, the system powers the electronic measurement components, turning a potentially useless byproduct into a valuable resource that enables accurate torque measurement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 system provides accurate, reliable, and long-lasting torque measurement, enhancing engine control and fuel efficiency, with a small, lightweight design that integrates seamlessly into existing powertrain structures without altering their static or dynamic responses.

Implementation Method 1

the energy generating module includes a pair of magnetic elements, one of which being mounted on the rotatable member and the other of which being mounted on one of the engine and the transmission

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the energy generating module includes piezoelectric patches, attached on the rotational parts

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11307106B2Torque measurement system

Publication Date: 2022.04.19 CITY UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG

AI summary

A system and a method for a torque measurement system for a vehicle having a rotatable member connecting an engine to a torque converter and rotatable about a rotating axis, the torque measurement system including a strain measuring module arranged to measure the strain on the rotatable member; a control module arranged to process the data associated with the strain measurement; and an energy generating module arranged to generate electricity through the movement of the rotatable member, thereby powering the torque measurement system.