Data processing: measuring – calibrating – or testing – Measurement system in a specific environment – Mechanical measurement system
Reexamination Certificate
2001-05-17
2004-02-03
Barlow, John (Department: 2863)
Data processing: measuring, calibrating, or testing
Measurement system in a specific environment
Mechanical measurement system
C073S862541
Reexamination Certificate
active
06687623
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to a rolling element bearing assembly and particularly to one that includes sensors which provide an output indicating loads applied to the bearing.
BACKGROUND
Often in the development of mechanical systems there is a need to evaluate loads applied to a bearing assembly. These load values will enable an appropriate selection of bearing components for a particular application. While systems exist for measuring loads on bearings, they are often complex systems which do not reliably provide a load output. A particular deficiency in many existing approaches is a lack of real time load outputs. Instead an integrated load value can be surmised from an inspection of the components following a cyclical load application.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art to provide a rolling element bearing assembly which provides the capability for providing a load output measurement in real time for use in bearing evaluation, development and component selection.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a rolling element bearing assembly includes an inner race, an outer race and a plurality of rolling elements disposed between and interconnecting the outer race and the inner race. The assembly further includes a plurality of strain gages mounted to the bearing assembly, and a device to receive output from the strain measuring devices and to transform the output into real time load data.
This invention further provides a method for determining real time load values experienced by a rolling element bearing. A plurality of strain gages are mounted to the bearing in a particular orientation, enabling the collection of strain data measured under a plurality of known load conditions. By correlating the strains measured at each strain gage position to the load at that position for each of a plurality of load conditions, equations can be derived for each strain gage position defining the load as a function of the strain measured. Summing the loads experienced by the bearing as measured by the strain gages enables a determination of the total load being experienced by the bearing.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4203319 (1980-05-01), Lechler
patent: 5952587 (1999-09-01), Rhodes et al.
patent: WO 01/23862 (2001-04-01), None
Y. Hayashi et al., “Analysis of Fluctuations in Bearing Preload and Optimal Design of Tapered Roller Bearings for Pinion Shaft Support in Differential Gearboxes”, SAE Technical Paper Series 2001-01-0884, SAE 2001 World Congress, Mar. 5-8, 2001, pp. 1-8.
Bailey Ted E.
Eich Peter M.
Miller John
Barlow John
Cherry Stephen J.
NTN Corporation
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