Torque Detection Device Asymmetric Holding Ring

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing torque detection devices face difficulties in accurate positioning within the housing due to similar-shaped ends, leading to potential incorrect attachment directions, which can result in reversed electrical signal phases and increased complexity in assembly.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a holding ring with an attachment-preventing convex part on one end face and a symmetric design in the axis line direction, allowing for correct orientation and preventing attachment in the wrong direction, along with a flange and screw mechanism for secure fixation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the holding ring has similar-shaped ends in the axis line direction, then the device can be easily manufactured, but the device cannot prevent incorrect attachment direction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidattachment direction control
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The holding ring incorporates an attachment-preventing convex part on one end face to create asymmetry. This convex part protrudes toward the interior of the housing and prevents the holding ring from being attached in the wrong direction, thereby solving the reliability issue while maintaining manufacturing simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Ease of operation

If the holding ring is inserted from the radially outward side, then the assembly process is simplified, but incorrect insertion direction cannot be prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly processVSAvoidinsertion direction control
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment-preventing convex part creates an asymmetric configuration that allows insertion from the radially outward side while preventing insertion from the opposite direction. The convex part acts as a mechanical stop that ensures correct orientation during assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Device complexity

If no attachment-preventing structure is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but phase reversal of electrical signals occurs due to incorrect attachment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidelectrical signal phase
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment-preventing convex part is a simple asymmetric structure that prevents incorrect attachment direction, thereby preventing phase reversal of electrical signals without significantly increasing device complexity. The structure adds minimal complexity while ensuring reliable signal output

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

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

Ensures reliable attachment in the correct direction, preventing incorrect insertion and phase reversals in electrical signals, thereby simplifying the assembly process and ensuring proper operation of the torque detection device.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetic flux collecting ring arranged outside an outer periphery of a magnetic circuit forming member which is provided in a rotating body applied with a torque, the magnetic flux collecting ring for collecting a magnetic flux generated by the magnetic circuit forming member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic flux collection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS8020454B2Torque detection device and electric power steering apparatus using the same
Publication Date: 2011.09.20 JTEKT CORP
  • US8020454B2 patent drawing
  • US8020454B2 patent drawing
  • US8020454B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A torque detection device has a magnetic flux collecting ring, arranged outside an outer periphery of a magnetic circuit forming member which is provided in a rotating body applied with a torque, for collecting a magnetic flux generated by the magnetic circuit forming member; a detector for detecting the torque applied to the rotating body based on a density of the magnetic flux collected by the magnetic flux collecting ring; and a holding ring for holding the magnetic flux collecting ring and the detector and including an attachment part to be attached to a stationary object on an outer periphery on one side in a radial direction. An attachment-preventing convex part for preventing attachment to the stationary object by contacting the stationary object is formed on one end face in an axis line direction of the holding ring.