Strain Sensor Device for Axial Load Measurement in Rolling Bearings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing force-measuring systems based on strain gauges have limited suitability for screw drive bearings due to high installation space requirements and insufficient clearance, while piezoelectric-based solutions are not suitable for static measurements.
Innovation Solution
A compact rolling bearing arrangement with a strain sensor device integrated into or attached to the outer ring, featuring a circular segment force introduction element and web-shaped coupling, allowing for axial load measurement with minimal installation space and maintaining system stiffness, which can be used as a separate component or integral part of the bearing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional strain gauge-based force measurement systems are used in screw drive bearings, then axial load measurement is possible, but the installation space requirement is large and clearance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The strain sensor device is segmented into distinct functional components: a sensor housing, a force introduction element, and a bearing ring with integrated strain gauges. This segmentation allows the measurement function to be distributed across multiple elements, reducing the overall installation footprint while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain sensor device is nested within the bearing structure itself. The sensor housing is integrated into the bearing assembly, and the force introduction element is positioned within the bearing ring structure. This nesting approach eliminates the need for separate external measurement devices, significantly reducing installation space requirements.
2Area of stationary object
If piezoelectric-based rings are used for force measurement, then installation space is reduced and diameter is suitable for screw drive bearings, but they are not suitable for static measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of both traditional strain gauge systems and compact piezoelectric rings. The sensor housing and force introduction element provide compact dimensions suitable for screw drive bearings, while the integrated strain gauges on the bearing ring provide reliable static measurement capability. This combination resolves the contradiction between compact size and static measurement suitability.
3Area of stationary object
If strain sensor device is integrated into the bearing, then installation space is minimized, but system stiffness may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauges are positioned locally on the bearing ring at specific locations where strain measurement is most effective. The force introduction element is designed to concentrate forces locally at the measurement points without compromising the overall structural integrity or stiffness of the bearing assembly. This localized approach allows compact integration while preserving system stiffness.
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 accurate axial force measurement in screw drive bearings with minimal installation space, maintaining system stiffness and allowing for easy replacement or integration of the strain sensor device, suitable for both static and dynamic measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a strain sensor device, which is integrated into the outer ring or fastened to the outer ring, for measuring axial loads acting on the rolling bearing
Data Source
AI summary
Rolling bearing arrangements are disclosed. The bearing may include an outer ring, an inner ring, and a strain sensor device having an annular main body. The strain sensor device may be connected to the outer ring and configured to measure axial loads acting on the rolling bearing. A circle segment-shaped force introduction element may extend in a circumferential direction and connect to the annular main body via a web-shaped coupling element. The strain sensor device may have, on an outer end facing away from the rolling bearing, a recess for accommodating a strain sensor. The recess may extend over the force introduction element at least in the circumferential direction and the coupling element may have a smaller extent in a radial direction than the recess.