초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for measuring an operating front end accessory belt tension using a hubload transducer and a torque transducer. The hubload transducer comprises concentric rings with a strainable member disposed in a coplanar fashion between an inner and outer ring. The hubload transducer i

A method and apparatus for measuring an operating front end accessory belt tension using a hubload transducer and a torque transducer. The hubload transducer comprises concentric rings with a strainable member disposed in a coplanar fashion between an inner and outer ring. The hubload transducer is used with a non-torque transmitting idler pulley. The torque transducer comprises a strainable cylindrical member connected to a belt bearing surface and a rotating shaft. The torque transducer will transmit a torque to a driven accessory. It is used on accessories such as an air conditioner compressor or power steering pump. Signals from the hubload transducer and torque transducer as used to calculate a drive efficiency as well as belt span tensions between the driver and driven accessories.

대표청구항 ▼

We claim: 1. A torque transducer comprising: a cylindrical strainable member having a surface and a first portion and a second portion; the first portion connectable to a shaft; the second portion connected to a belt bearing portion; a low-friction bearing disposed between the belt bearing portion

We claim: 1. A torque transducer comprising: a cylindrical strainable member having a surface and a first portion and a second portion; the first portion connectable to a shaft; the second portion connected to a belt bearing portion; a low-friction bearing disposed between the belt bearing portion and the cylindrical strainable member for substantially isolating a torque induced strain on the surface; at least one strain gage mounted on the surface, the strain gage generating a signal proportional to the torque induced strain; a slip ring engaged with the cylindrical strainable member for receiving the signal; and a signal conditioner electrically disposed between the strain gage and the slip ring. 2. The torque transducer as in claim 1 further comprising a damping member disposed between the belt bearing portion and cylindrical strainable member. 3. The torque transducer as in claim 1, wherein the low-friction bearing comprises a ball bearing. 4. The torque transducer as in claim 1, wherein the belt bearing portion comprises a multiple-ribbed profile. 5. The torque transducer as in claim 1 further comprising a plurality of strain gages mounted to the surface and disposed in a full bridge electrical configuration. 6. The torque transducer as in claim 1, further comprising a second strain gage mounted to the surface and cooperatively connected to the strain gage. 7. The torque transducer as in claim 1, wherein a strain gage axis is disposed at an angle in the range of approximately 40-50 degrees to a cylindrical strainable member rotational axis (R--R). 8. The torque transducer as in claim 2 wherein the damping member comprises an elastomeric material.