Torque Calibration Device Using Self-Aligning Bearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current torque measuring device calibration methods are inaccurate and cumbersome, requiring manual weight placement and prone to frictional losses, which complicates the calibration process and reduces precision.
Innovation Solution
A device with a force-acting mechanism and self-aligning bearing flange that generates a precise torque measurement by compensating for misalignments, using a lever arm and reference torque transducer, allowing for automated and friction-reduced calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual weight placement is used for calibration, then the calibration process can be performed, but the accuracy is reduced due to frictional losses and the process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical weight placement system with an automated force application mechanism. A motor-driven loading device applies calibrated forces to the lever arm, eliminating the need for manual weight handling and reducing frictional losses associated with manual placement. This substitution improves both measurement precision through more consistent force application and ease of operation through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a force sensor as an intermediary element between the loading mechanism and the torque measuring device. This force sensor precisely measures the applied force and compensates for any frictional losses in the system, ensuring high calibration accuracy. The intermediary force sensor acts as a mediator that provides accurate force data to the control system, enabling precise torque calibration without the drawbacks of manual weight placement.
2Measurement precision
If a double-lever principle is used for calibration, then reference torque can be predetermined with high precision, but the device complexity increases and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-aligning bearing mechanism that automatically compensates for misalignments between the lever arm and the torque measuring device. This self-service feature eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures and manual adjustments, reducing device complexity while maintaining the high precision reference torque capability of the double-lever principle. The system self-corrects alignment issues without requiring additional complex components or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a motor-driven loading device that can dynamically adjust the applied force parameter, replacing the static double-lever system with weights. By changing from a static mechanical advantage system to a dynamically controllable force application system, the patent reduces structural complexity while maintaining or improving reference torque precision through electronic control and feedback.
3Productivity
If automated force application is used, then calibration efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the motor-driven loading device to serve multiple functions: applying calibration forces, measuring applied forces through integrated force sensors, and providing feedback for control systems. This multi-functionality increases calibration efficiency by consolidating multiple operations into a single automated system while managing complexity through functional integration rather than adding separate components for each function.
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 solution enhances calibration accuracy and simplifies the process by eliminating manual weight placement and frictional influences, enabling precise and automated torque measurement, thus improving the overall calibration efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The bearing flange of the lever arm is mounted on a self-aligning bearing. Within certain limits, the self-aligning bearing enables angle compensation in order to be able to compensate for misalignments of the individual shaft elements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device for calibrating a torque measuring device (15) comprises a force effect device (12), for generating a force effect and a lever arm (9), coupled to the force effect device (12), for transmitting the force effect. A torque can be transferred by the lever arm (9) to a reference measuring flange (13), by means of which a reference torque can be measured. The same torque is also transmitted to a test torque sensor (24), being the torque measuring device for calibration, the measured value from which is compared with the reference torque value for purposes of calibration.