In-line rotating capacitive torque sensor
Disclosed are a method and apparatus for measuring torques developed along a rotating mechanical assembly comprising a rotating inner portion and a stationary outer portion. The rotating portion has an electrically-conductive flexing section fitted between two coaxial shafts in a configuration which varies radially in accordance with applied torque. The stationary portion comprises a plurality of conductive plates forming a surface concentric with and having a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the rotating portion. The capacitance between the outer, nonrotating and inner, rotating portion varies with changes in the radial configuration of the rotating portion. Signal output varies approximately linearly with torque for small torques, nonlinearly for larger torques. The sensor is preferably surrounded by a conductive shell to minimize electrical interference from external sources. 18 figures.
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC09-76SR00001
- Assignee:
- PTO; EDB-94-111668
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5046371; A
- Application Number:
- PPN: US 7-461962
- OSTI ID:
- 7274769
- Resource Relation:
- Patent File Date: 8 Jan 1990
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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