Machine element or mechanism – Rotary driven device adjustable during operation relative to... – Screw and nut adjusting means
Patent
1980-03-18
1982-05-11
Braun, Leslie
Machine element or mechanism
Rotary driven device adjustable during operation relative to...
Screw and nut adjusting means
74844, 74857, 172 3, 172 12, 172430, B60K 4100, A01B 63112
Patent
active
043287190
DESCRIPTION:
BRIEF SUMMARY
DESCRIPTION
Technical Field
This invention relates to power transmissions and in particular to means for sensing forces developed in such power transmissions.
Background Art
In power transmissions such as used in earth-working vehicles, substantial forces are developed in the low gear operation thereof. In such operation, it is possible to apply sufficient torque through the transmission so as to possibly damage the transmission under certain operating conditions.
Disclosure of Invention
The present invention comprehends an improved means for sensing such a high torque condition in the transmission, such as for use in limiting the drive force.
More specifically, the invention comprehends means responsive to a strain developed in a portion of the power transmission, including means for amplifying the sensed signal for improved control functioning.
In the illustrated embodiment, the invention is utilized with a power transmission apparatus having a power transfer element and a slightly deflectible support for the power transfer element. The invention includes a flexible beam having a first portion and a second portion, means for fixing the first portion, means for moving the second portion to deflect the beam as a function of deflection of the support as a result of power transfer by the element, an arm, connecting means connecting the arm to the flexible beam to define a motion multiplier wherein a portion of the arm spaced from the connecting means is moved as a multiple of the deflection of the deflectible support, and a motion responsive control means operated by the arm portion.
The flexible beam portions may comprise movably associated, substantially rigid portions. In the illustrated embodiment, the rigid portions are connected by a resilient element.
The apparatus further includes a yieldable stabilizing means connected between a fixed support and the flexible beam for yieldably resisting movement of the connecting means.
In the illustrated embodiment, the support may comprise a portion of the housing of the transmission with the portion of the transmission deflecting the support comprising a bearing thereof.
In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible beam comprises a pair of elongated rigid elements and means for maintaining the elements in side-by-side relationship while permitting relative longitudinal movement therebetween. The connecting means may be disposed at one end of the pair of elements and the fixing means may be disposed at the opposite end of the elements.
The stabilizing means may comprise a flexible plate extending flatwise transversely to the longitudinal extent of the flexible beam. The plate includes a fixed portion and a portion connected to the extension element.
In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion of the flexible beam is connected to the wall member defining the bearing support intermediate fixed portions thereof to which the first portion of the flexible beam is connected.
Thus, in broad aspect, the invention comprehends an improved force sensing means having a flexible beam connected to a rigid beam for movement of the rigid beam in response to movement of the flexible beam in magnifying relationship. The flexible beam is moved in response to forces developed by the power transmission and the magnified output of the apparatus may be utilized for controlling the power input to the transmission. The apparatus of the present invention is extremely simple and economical of construction while yet providing the highly desirable features discussed above.
Brief Description of the Drawing
FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a vehicle having a power transmission sensing and control means embodying the invention;
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary enlarged vertical section illustrating the force sensing and control means in greater detail; and
FIG. 3 is a vertical section taken substantially along the line 3--3 of FIG. 2.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
In the illustrated embodiment of the invention as disclosed in the drawing, a power transmission apparatus 10 is
REFERENCES:
patent: 1168179 (1916-01-01), Douglas
patent: 1168370 (1916-01-01), Anderson
patent: 1206953 (1916-12-01), Wales
patent: 1227504 (1917-05-01), Troll
patent: 2163108 (1939-06-01), Smith
patent: 2704132 (1955-03-01), Marco
patent: 3024859 (1962-03-01), Marindin
patent: 3251422 (1966-05-01), Allgaier et al.
Braun Leslie
Caterpillar Tractor Co.
LandOfFree
Micromotion multiplier does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Micromotion multiplier, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Micromotion multiplier will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-750915