Torque Measuring Power Transmission Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing torque measurement technologies face limitations in applying to high-speed rotating machines due to complex and costly configurations, and require additional space for measuring units, which complicates their use and increases costs.

Innovation Solution

A power transmission apparatus with a disk-shaped outer body and an inner body connected via a load cell, allowing for torque measurement without additional shaft connections, using a load cell between the outer and inner bodies to minimize distortion and enable accurate torque feedback for power generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a non-rotary (fixing) type torque sensor is used, then the configuration is simple and manufacturing cost is low, but it cannot be applied to high-speed rotating machines requiring rotary movement in both shafts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration complexityVSAvoidapplicability to rotating machines
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the torque measurement function with the power transmission function by integrating the load cell directly into the power transmission apparatus structure. The load cell is formed between the outer body and inner body that are already present for power transmission, eliminating the need for separate torque measurement devices and allowing simultaneous rotary movement while measuring torque.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power transmission apparatus is designed to serve dual purposes: transmitting power through the outer and inner bodies while simultaneously measuring torque through the integrated load cell. This multi-functional design allows the same structure to handle both power transmission and torque measurement in rotating machines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a rotary torque sensor (contact or non-contact type) is used, then it can be freely used in various high-speed rotating machines, but the configuration becomes complicated and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplicability to rotating machinesVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the torque measurement function with the existing power transmission structure by integrating the load cell between the outer body and inner body. This eliminates the need for separate contact or non-contact signal transmission means, simplifying the configuration while maintaining applicability to high-speed rotating machines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The load cell is positioned to directly measure torque through the power transmission components themselves (outer body and inner body), allowing the system to measure torque through its own operational components without requiring additional dedicated measurement infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If a rotary torque sensor (non-contact type) is used, then rotational motion is possible on both shafts and torque can be measured at a fixed position, but it is expensive due to magnetic field change or optical displacement detection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational measurement capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive magnetic field or optical detection systems with a mechanical load cell that directly measures torque through physical compression or tension. This mechanical approach achieves the same rotational measurement capability at a lower manufacturing cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The load cell provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive magnetic or optical sensors, using a simpler mechanical component that achieves torque measurement without the high manufacturing costs associated with magnetic field change or optical displacement detection systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

4Measurement precision

If a separate torque sensor is added to measure shaft strain, then torque measurement is achieved, but additional space is required causing the shaft to be elongated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque measurement capabilityVSAvoidshaft length
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the torque measurement function into the existing power transmission structure by positioning the load cell between the outer body and inner body. This integration eliminates the need for additional separate torque sensors and avoids elongating the shaft, as the measurement function is incorporated into the existing compact structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The load cell is nested within the existing power transmission apparatus structure, utilizing the space between the outer body and inner body. This nesting approach allows torque measurement without requiring additional external space that would elongate the shaft.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

This configuration allows for simple, cost-effective torque measurement and feedback, enabling accurate control of desired forces without external force interference, and miniaturization of the measuring apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

at least one load cell formed between the outer body and the inner body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce detection: Force

Data Source

PatentUS11307107B2Power transmission apparatus capable of measuring torque and power generation apparatus using the same
Publication Date: 2022.04.19 MICROAUTOMATION CO LTD
  • US11307107B2 patent drawing
  • US11307107B2 patent drawing
  • US11307107B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a power transmission apparatus capable of measuring torque and a power generation apparatus using the same, and more particularly, to a power transmission apparatus capable of measuring torque and a power generation apparatus using the same which includes a disk-shaped outer body that receives power from the outside, an inner body that is coupled to the inside of the outer body, and at least one load cell formed between the outer body and the inner body.