Split Annular Load Cell for Non-Destructive Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior-art toroidal load cells require partial disassembly of structural elements for replacement or maintenance, leading to inefficiencies in monitoring structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A load cell with a separable annular structure composed of two distinct bodies connected via a releasable system, allowing for non-destructive installation and removal without disassembling the monitored structural element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-piece annular body is used for the load cell, then the structural integrity and measurement reliability are improved, but the ease of installation and maintenance deteriorates due to required disassembly of structural elements
Solution Approach 1:
The annular body is divided into two separate halves that can be positioned on opposite sides of the structural element. This segmentation allows the load cell to be installed without disassembling the structural element, as the two halves can be placed around it and then connected together. The same principle applies to maintenance, where the halves can be separated to remove the load cell while leaving the structural element intact.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single-piece annular body is used for the load cell, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the ease of repair and replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The load cell is constructed from two separate annular halves rather than a single monolithic piece. This segmentation enables easy replacement by removing the existing halves and installing new ones, while the structural element remains undisturbed. Each half can be independently manufactured and replaced if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows for the load cell halves to be easily removed and replaced without damaging or modifying the structural element. The structural element is recovered in its original state, while the load cell components can be discarded or refurbished as needed.
3Measurement precision
If the load cell requires disassembly of structural elements for removal, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the loss of time for maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the load cell into two separable halves that can be placed around the structural element, the design eliminates the time-consuming disassembly process. The halves can be quickly positioned and connected, and later separated for maintenance without affecting the structural element or requiring precise alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The two halves are designed to be pre-positioned on opposite sides of the structural element during installation. This preliminary positioning ensures proper alignment and measurement precision from the start, eliminating the need for time-consuming alignment adjustments during maintenance or replacement operations.
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 precise and reliable monitoring of structural elements without disrupting their integrity, facilitating maintenance and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of sensors arranged on said annular structure for detecting deformation of the latter when it is subjected to a load along said reference axis
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a load cell (10) of the type comprising: - an annular structure (2) that extends along an annular profile (P) about a reference axis (I) and has an internal opening (4) configured to receive a structural element to be monitored; and - a plurality of sensors (50) arranged on said annular structure (2) for detecting deformation of the latter when it is subjected to a load along said reference axis (I). The load cell (10) is characterized in that said annular structure (2) comprises at least one first body (20I) and one second body (20II) that are set in mutual contact to form said annular structure (2) and are fixed to one another via a releasable-connection system (30, 32).