Torque Sensor Residual Magnetism Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Residual magnetism in ferromagnetic components can interfere with the accuracy of torque measurements by sensors that rely on electromagnetism, leading to inaccurate readings.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilize a torque sensor and a computer to detect and account for the effects of residual magnetism by comparing voltage signals from multiple branches of the sensor, allowing for accurate torque measurement by modifying the signals to cancel out the influence of residual magnetism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a torque sensor relying on electromagnetism is used to measure torque on a ferromagnetic component, then torque measurement capability is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to residual magnetism interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque measurement accuracyVSAvoidresidual magnetism interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the principle of converting harm into benefit by utilizing the residual magnetism signal itself to correct the measurement error. The system detects the residual magnetism interference and uses this information to generate a compensation signal that cancels out the harmful effect, thereby converting the previously harmful residual magnetism into a useful correction mechanism that improves torque measurement accuracy

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the sensor output signals for characteristics indicative of residual magnetism interference and using this feedback to dynamically adjust the torque measurement. The system processes the sensor signals, identifies residual magnetism effects, and applies real-time compensation to maintain accurate torque measurements despite the presence of residual magnetism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of manufacture

If fabrication techniques using magnetism are applied to ferromagnetic components, then manufacturing capabilities are improved, but residual magnetized regions are created that adversely affect sensor functionality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefabrication capabilityVSAvoidsensor functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by preparing for and compensating for residual magnetism effects before they interfere with measurement. The system is designed to anticipate the presence of residual magnetism from fabrication processes and incorporates compensation mechanisms that are activated in advance, allowing the sensor to maintain reliability despite the unavoidable residual magnetized regions created during manufacturing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 and continuous monitoring of torque on components despite residual magnetism, ensuring precise measurements and extending the lifespan of rotating machines by identifying when torque exceeds predefined values.

Implementation Method 1

a torque sensor for sensing an electromagnetic characteristic of the component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetism: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

this region of residual magnetism can adversely influence the functionality of devices such as sensors that rely on electromagnetism

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResidual magnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11193839B2System and method for sensing an electromagnetic charateristic of a component having a residually magnetized region
Publication Date: 2021.12.07 BAKER HUGHES CO
  • US11193839B2 patent drawing
  • US11193839B2 patent drawing
  • US11193839B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for measuring torque on a component having a residually magnetized region is provided. The system includes a torque sensor for sensing an electromagnetic characteristic of the component and transmitting a plurality of signals that are indicative of the electromagnetic characteristic. The system also includes a computer communicatively coupled to the torque sensor for receiving the signals. The computer includes a processor and a memory. The processor is programmed to determine, using the signals, that the torque sensor is affected by the residually magnetized region of the component.