DE112017000605T5 - Measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle and method for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle comprising a first yoke (4), a second yoke (6), a universal joint (8) and an axle (10) having a first end portion (12) and a second end portion (14). , A rotation sensor (18) is attached to the first end portion (12). Further, a method for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle is disclosed herein.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle and a method for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle. The present invention further relates to a computer program and a computer program product.

BACKGROUND

A torque of a drive unit, such as an internal combustion engine and / or a transmission, transmitted to at least one drive wheel of a vehicle can be evaluated in various ways and for different purposes. The torque may be evaluated via the amount of fuel injected into an engine of the power unit, evaluated via a calculation based on vehicle weight and vehicle acceleration, or measured with various sensors. The torque may be evaluated, for example, to control shifting in the transmission, to control vehicle speed, or to test the torque output of the power unit or other parts of a powertrain of the vehicle.

GB 1309892 discloses torque sensors. The torque transmitted by a shaft is measured by resistance strain gauges arranged on a portion of the reduced diameter shaft covered by a rigid sleeve member. The signal from the strain gauges is removed by slip rings attached to the sleeve.

GB 918338 discloses a torque transmitter in an embodiment in which strain gauges for measuring the rotation of a shaft for transmitting the torque are mounted. A slip ring assembly is removably mounted over the portion of the shaft to which the strain gauges are attached. A shaft has a reduced diameter portion to which the resistance strain gauges are attached. The connections to the strain gauges are routed through a channel in the shaft to a connector in a flange attached to the shaft. The slip ring assembly includes a sleeve having a flange that mounts a socket to a connector. The flange is fastened with screws to a flange of the shaft. The sleeve carries a plurality of ring electrodes immersed in mercury baths contained in chambers formed in the block rotatably mounted with bearings on the sleeve. The connector is connected to metal parts of the mercury chambers to make an electrical contact with the electrodes via the mercury, which are in turn connected via connectors and socket with the strain gauges.

WO 0208048 discloses a rotatable assembly for a vehicle wheel, comprising a vehicle spring joint, a drive shaft, a first bearing carried by the joint for rotatably supporting the drive shaft, a wheel hub connected for travel with the drive shaft and a rotatably supported by the first bearing and rotatable with the drive shaft comprising with this associated brake disc carrier. The connection between the brake disc carrier and the drive shaft is separate and has a distance along the axis for connection between the drive shaft and the hub. A second bearing between the wheel hub and the brake disk supports the wheel hub and allows relative rotation between the brake disk support and the wheel hub and a torque sensor. The torque sensor is disposed between the connections for measuring the torque or the change in the torque transmitted from the drive shaft to the wheel. The torque measurement signals may be used as the main source of information for ABS and / or traction control, but may also be used to control automatic transmissions for smooth shifting.

US 2010200325 discloses a drive shaft assembly with a torque sensor. The drive shaft assembly includes a first shaft member, a second shaft member, a bearing assembly, and a sensor. The first shaft member has a magnetically coded region with a magnetic field that varies according to the torque transmitted through the first shaft member. The second shaft member is coupled for rotation with the first shaft member. The bearing assembly includes a bearing bracket configured to be coupled to a vehicle structure and a bearing located in the bearing bracket. The bearing supports the first shaft member for rotation about a first axis. The sensor is coupled to the bearing assembly. The sensor is configured to measure the magnetic field of the magnetically encoded region and generate an electrical signal accordingly.

Indirectly evaluating the torque of a drive unit may be sufficient in many situations, for example, by estimating or calculating a torque with appropriate parameters such as the amount of injected fuel or vehicle weight and vehicle acceleration. Under certain circumstances, however, such indirect methods are not precise enough and at least one torque parameter of a powertrain of a vehicle must be measured, for example, to diagnose vehicle behavior or to calibrate one or more vehicle functions.

SUMMARY

An object of the present invention is to provide a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle that can be used for accurate torque evaluation in a vehicle, respectively.

According to one aspect of the invention, the object is fulfilled by a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter for a vehicle comprising a first yoke, a second yoke, a universal joint cross and an axle having a first end portion and a second end portion. First and second yoke are connected to each other via the gimbal cross. The first yoke is connected to the first end portion of the axle. The second end section of the axle is equipped with splines. The second yoke is configured for connection to a drive train of a vehicle. The second end portion of the axle forms part of a sliding joint. The measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter for a vehicle includes a rotation sensor attached to the first end portion.

Since the measuring device is configured to evaluate a torque parameter for a vehicle in the form of a universal joint and includes splines arranged at the second end portion of the axle, the measuring device is configured to replace a normal universal joint arrangement in a drive train of a vehicle for the purpose of evaluating a torque parameter in the vehicle. Further, because the measuring device includes a rotation sensor, accurate torque measurements in the vehicle driveline are possible. Thus, the above-described object is achieved.

In particular, since the splined second end portion forms part of a slip joint, the measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle may be connected to a propshaft of the powertrain, wherein an end portion of the propshaft forms a mating part of the slip joint. Thus, the normal gimbal assembly can be disassembled simply by removing a second yoke of the gimbal assembly from the driveline and simply sliding a slip joint with the gimbal shaft, then sliding the wedge profiles of the gage onto the gimbal shaft and securing the second yoke of the gage to the drive train.

An advantage of the embodiment of the measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle as a universal joint arrangement is that universal joint assemblies are to a large extent harmonized structural elements of vehicles. Thus, a vehicle manufacturer may use the same type of universal joint arrangement in a variety of different vehicle models, while other parts of the powertrain must be manufactured vehicle model specific. Thus, if a measuring device for evaluating a torque of a vehicle were instead formed as a propeller shaft, a much greater variety of such measuring devices would have to be provided in order to enable corresponding torque measurements for the various vehicle models of the respective manufacturer.

The measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle may be used in various types of motorized manned or unmanned vehicles for on-land travel. Especially for heavy duty vehicles such as trucks, pickups, light trucks, wheel bearings, buses and other heavy duty vehicles, the evaluation of a vehicle torque parameter may be of particular relevance. Thus, the use of the measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle is intended in particular for heavy-duty vehicles.

According to some embodiments, the measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle comprises a sleeve connected to the first yoke and extending parallel to at least a portion of the axis at a radial distance from the axis, the sleeve extending over the rotation sensor. Thus, the rotation sensor of the sleeve can be protected from falling rocks and other damage from the outside.

According to some embodiments, the rotation sensor includes a strain gauge. Thus, a torque transmitted via the measuring device can be easily measured. The strain gauge provides a reading that is directly proportional to the transmitted torque. Thus, after calibration of the measuring device, measured values from the strain gauge can provide measurements of the torque transmitted via the measuring device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method of evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle that can be used for accurate torque evaluation in a vehicle.

• - Demontieren der Kardangelenkanordnung vom Antriebsstrang,
• - Ersetzen der Kardangelenkanordnung gegen eine Messvorrichtung zum Bewerten eines Drehmomentparameters eines Fahrzeugs umfassend einen Drehsensor gemäß einem Aspekt und/oder einer Ausführungsform wie hier beschrieben,
• - Drehen der Kardanwelle mit der Antriebseinheit,
• - Lesen eines Messwerts vom Drehsensor,
• - Ermitteln des Drehmomentparameters auf der Basis von wenigstens dem Messwert vom Drehsensor.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the above-described object is fulfilled by a method for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle. The vehicle includes at least one drive wheel and a drive train for driving the at least one drive wheel. The powertrain includes a drive unit, a universal joint arrangement and a cardan shaft. The universal joint assembly is connected via a sliding joint with the cardan shaft. The method comprises steps for:

• Dismantling the universal joint arrangement from the drive train,
• Replacing the universal joint arrangement with a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle comprising a rotation sensor according to an aspect and / or an embodiment as described here,
• Turning the cardan shaft with the drive unit,
• Reading a measured value from the rotary sensor,
• Determining the torque parameter on the basis of at least the measured value from the rotary sensor.

Since the method comprises replacing a gimbal assembly with a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to aspects and / or embodiments as described herein and determining the torque parameter of the vehicle based at least in part on the measured value from the rotation sensor of the measuring device, the above-described Task completed.

Furthermore, the evaluation of a torque parameter in the operation of the respective vehicle under realistic operating conditions, that is in traffic and on roads with cargo, is made possible by the present method. Thus, the less than realistic operating conditions on a vehicle test bench may not be necessary to evaluate a torque parameter.

The torque parameter may be a torque number; but also calculated on the basis of a number of torque numbers, such as a force, from the term "torque parameters" covered. The torque parameter may be, for example, an instantaneous torque value, a mean torque value, an instantaneous force value, or a mean force value.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program for carrying out a method of evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, the computer program comprising causing a central processing unit to carry out a method according to one aspect and / or embodiment, such as computer readable code as described herein.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program product for carrying out a method of evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, the computer program comprising initiating a method of executing a method according to one aspect and / or embodiment of computer readable code as described herein.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the appended claims and the following detailed description.

list of figures

• 1A und 1B zeigen eine Messvorrichtung zum Bewerten eines Drehmomentparameters eines Fahrzeugs gemäß den Ausführungsformen.
• 2A zeigt schematisch ein Fahrzeug umfassend einen Antriebsstrang.
• 2B zeigt eine Messvorrichtung zum Bewerten eines Drehmomentparameters eines Fahrzeugs und eine Kardanwelle.
• 3 zeigt ein Verfahren zum Bewerten eines Drehmomentparameters eines Fahrzeugs.
• 4 zeigt ein Computerprogrammprodukt gemäß den Ausführungsformen.

Various aspects of the invention, including the appropriate features and advantages, will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

• 1A and 1B show a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to the embodiments.
• 2A schematically shows a vehicle comprising a drive train.
• 2 B shows a measuring device for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle and a propeller shaft.
• 3 shows a method for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle.
• 4 shows a computer program product according to the embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, aspects of the present invention will be described in more detail. Like reference numerals designate like elements throughout. Prior art functions or constructions are not necessarily described in detail for the sake of simplicity and / or clarity.

1A and 1B show a measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to the embodiments. 1A shows a partial cross section through the measuring device 2 to rate one Torque parameters of a vehicle. The measuring device 2 is designed for use in a drive train of a vehicle. In particular, the measuring device 2 designed as a universal joint arrangement. Thus, the measuring device 2 designed to replace a normal universal joint arrangement of a drive train of a vehicle. Thus, the measuring device 2 be used for each accurate torque evaluation in the drive train of a vehicle.

The measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle includes a first yoke 4 a second yoke 6 and a gimbal cross 8th , The first yoke 2 is with the gimbal cross 8th connected and the second yoke 6 is also with the gimbal cross 8th connected. Thus, first and second yoke 4 . 6 over the gimbal cross 8th connected with each other. First and second yoke 4 . 6 include bearing seats for the universal joint 8th corresponding to the first and second yoke 4 . 6 are stored to form a universal joint. The measuring device 2 further comprises an axis 10 with a first end portion 12 and a second end portion 14 , The first yoke 4 is with the first end section 12 the axis 10 connected. That with the first end section 12 the axis 10 connected first yoke 4 includes embodiments in which the first yoke 4 and the axis 10 are formed as a part, as well as embodiments in which the first yoke 4 on the axis 10 is attached. The axis 10 may be hollow as in the illustrated embodiments. Alternatively, the axis 10 be massive. The second end section 14 the axis 10 is with splines 15 equipped, which thus forms part of a sliding joint. The slip joint is formed together with a corresponding mating part of a drive train of a vehicle, for example a propeller shaft.

The second yoke 6 is also designed to be connected to a drive train. For example, the second yoke may be connected to the driveline by screws, threaded bolts and nuts, pins and clips, or any other mechanical attachment arrangement that allows disassembly of the second yoke from the drive of a vehicle. In these embodiments, the second yoke is 6 with four through holes 16 equipped for connection to the drive train. For example, screws or pins may pass through the four through holes 16 extend so that the second yoke 6 can be clamped for example at an output end of a transmission of a drive unit of the vehicle. Alternatively, the second yoke 6 be tightened on a connected to at least one drive wheel of the drive train final drive and / or differential.

The measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle includes one at the first end portion 12 arranged rotation sensor 18 , In these embodiments, the rotation sensor comprises 18 a strain gauge. The strain gauge is at the first end portion 12 the axis at position 10 glued. According to some embodiments, the strain gauge may be at an angle of 45 ° to a longitudinal axis 20 the axis 10 arranged arranged electrical conductors. Thus, the electrical conductors of the strain gauge are on the axis 10 arranged so that rotational forces, such as torque, on the axle 10 act, stretch or contract the electrical conductors accordingly. For example, a standard strain gauge with a shear / torque pattern from Micro-Measurements ™, Vishay Precision Group ™, can be used. The electrical wires of the strain gauge can form a Wheatstone bridge or half of a Wheatstone bridge.

A rotation sensor measures a rotation of the axis 10 , A rotation of an axis is proportional to a torque acting on the axis. According to alternative embodiments, the rotation sensor 18 have any suitable design. For example, the rotation sensor 18 comprise a magnetic coded region having a magnetic field that varies according to the torque that is across the axis 10 as previously described under the heading "Background". Other options may include using optical rotation sensors or piezoelectric sensors known in the art.

The measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle includes one with the first yoke 4 connected sleeve 22 , The sleeve 22 extends parallel to at least a portion of the axis 10 at a radial distance to the axis 10 , The sleeve 22 extends over the rotation sensor 18 , Thus, the rotation sensor of the sleeve can be protected from falling rocks and other damage from the outside.

According to some embodiments, the measuring device comprises 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, a wireless transmitter 24 , The rotation sensor 18 is with the wireless transmitter 24 connected. In this way, readings from the rotation sensor 18 or from a database of readings or the readings along with additional data are sent to a receiver. Thus, the measured values can be used in further calculations and / or provided for evaluation.

In alternative embodiments, measurements may be from the rotation sensor 18 over on, for example, the sleeve 22 arranged slip rings are passed to a receiver.

According to some embodiments, the wireless transmitter is 24 on the sleeve 22 attached. Wires (not shown) may be the rotation sensor 18 with the wireless transmitter 24 connect. The wireless transmitter 24 may include a processor for summing readings from the rotation sensor 18 and / or other data. The transmitter 24 For example, it may include a LORD MicroStrain® Sensing Systems 2-channel wireless analog sensor node.

According to some embodiments, the measuring device comprises 2 for evaluating a torque parameter for collecting measurements from the rotation sensor 18 trained control unit 26 , Thus, the measuring device 2 for collecting measured values for continuous torque measurement with the measuring device 2 be designed to evaluate a torque parameter of a vehicle. The control unit 26 can be a physical entity along with the wireless transmitter 24 form. Alternatively, the controller 26 a receiver 25 include and can be separated from the wireless transmitter 24 be arranged in a general purpose computer, a special processing device of the measuring device such as a gateway of a LORD MicroStrain® LXRS® wireless sensor network or other suitable device. The control unit 26 may be designed for processing and / or evaluating and / or presenting measured values and / or data on the basis of measured values. Alternatively, the controller 26 only a partial processing of the measured values and / or collecting the measured values and sending them to a device for evaluation and / or presentation of the measured values and / or torque parameters on the basis of the measured values, for example on a universal computer with a universal software for data presentation or a special Provide software for evaluation, calculation and / or presentation of torque parameters, such as the Node Commander® program from LORD MicroStrain® Sensing Systems.

The wireless transmitter 24 can send a time stamp to the control unit for each measured value 26 send. Alternatively, the controller 26 provide a timestamp for each metric. The timestamp may be used to present the measurements or torque values based on the measurements in a proper order, such as a chart or a table. The time stamp may be used to correlate the measured values or torque values on the basis of the measured values with further data, for example the rotational speed data of a drive unit of a corresponding vehicle. The time stamp may be used to calculate further data, such as the generated force in a drive unit of the vehicle.

According to some embodiments, the splines comprise 15 Burrs and notches and the second end section 14 has a bottom diameter d2 at a bottom of the notches. The first end section 12 on the rotation sensor 18 has a smaller diameter d1 than the bottom diameter d2. Thus, the rotation sensor 18 be formed, at the first end portion 12 not to extend beyond the bottom diameter d2. Thus, a mating part of the slip joint of a corresponding propeller shaft along the first end portion 12 extend without the rotation sensor 18 to damage.

Purely by way of example, it should be mentioned that in a heavy duty vehicle with a diesel engine, which generates a torque of 1500 to 3500 Nm, the measuring device may have a bottom diameter d2 of about 65 mm, the diameter d1 on the rotary sensor may be about 60 mm and extending from the first yoke 4 extending axis 10 may have a length of about 270 mm. The gimbal cross 8th may have a span of about 175 mm and a bearing diameter of about 55 mm. The sleeve may have a length of about 160 mm and a diameter of about 120 mm.

The measuring device 2 For evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, it may be calibrated prior to installation in a corresponding vehicle. The measuring device 2 can by attaching the second yoke 6 and subjecting the axle 10 a number of predetermined torque values are calibrated. For each of the number of predetermined torque values, a measured value of the rotation sensor 18 determined. Accordingly, the measured values of the rotation sensor 18 be correlated with the predetermined torque values. Because the rotation or the rotation of the axis 10 proportional to the measuring device 2 acting torque, torque values between the predetermined torque values can be interpolated. Thus, during use of the measuring device 2 Measured values from the rotary sensor 18 with the over the measuring device 2 transmitted torque values are correlated.

A measuring device comprising a rotation sensor comprising a strain gauge may alternatively in a known manner by shunt calibration with a shunt resistor and a knife factor of the corresponding Strain gauge to be calibrated by a manufacturer of the strain gauge.

In embodiments in which the rotation sensor 18 includes a strain gauge, a voltage applied to the strain gauge changes proportionally to that on the gauge 2 acting torque.

2A schematically shows a vehicle 30 comprising a drive train 32 , The powertrain 32 includes a measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to aspects and / or embodiments disclosed herein.

The vehicle comprises at least one drive wheel 34 , In particular, in these embodiments, two drive wheels 34 , The powertrain 32 is to drive the at least one drive wheel 34 educated. The drive train comprises a drive unit 36 , the measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle and a propeller shaft 38 , The measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle is provided in the form of a universal joint arrangement. During normal operation of the vehicle 30 is a normal cardan joint arrangement in the drive train 32 contain. For measuring purposes, for example for measuring one of the drive unit 36 supplied torque, was the normal universal joint assembly against the measuring device 2 to evaluate a torque parameter of a vehicle replaced.

2 B shows the measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle and the propeller shaft 38 from 2A in detail. The measuring device 2 and the cardan shaft 38 are shown in a partial cross-section. The measuring device 2 is about a slip joint 40 with the cardan shaft 38 connected. The slip joint 40 includes splined shaft profiles 15 at the measuring device 2 as before regarding 1A and 1B described and matching spline profiles 39 at the propshaft 38 ,

As in 2A illustrated includes the drive unit 36 an internal combustion engine 42 , a clutch 44 and a gearbox 46 , The measuring device 2 is with an output shaft of the transmission 46 connected as before regarding 1A and 1B described. The powertrain 32 can also have a final drive 48 and two drive shafts 50 include. The final drive 48 may include a differential. The cardan shaft 38 can be via a universal joint 52 with the final drive 48 be connected. The final drive 48 is with the two drive shafts 50 connected, each with a drive wheel 34 connected is.

By way of example, it should be mentioned that in one application of the embodiments of 2A and 2 B in which the measuring device 2 with four extending through four holes of a second yoke of the measuring device 2 extending bolts with the gearbox 46 connected, the replacement of the normal universal joint assembly by the measuring device 2 in less than 10 minutes on a long-haul lorry without lifting the lorry. Replacement includes disassembling the standard universal joint assembly from the transmission, lowering the propeller shaft along with the standard universal joint assembly, sliding the universal gimbal assembly from the cardan shaft, sliding the gaging device onto the cardan shaft, and mounting the gaging device to the transmission.

The embodiments of 2A and 2 B show a possible position of the measuring device 2 in the drive train 32 , Alternative positions for the measuring device 2 For example, at the axle drive end of the cardan shaft 38 or at a support bearing between the gearbox 46 and the cardan shaft 38 or at a transfer case. In alternative embodiments, the drive unit 36 include an electric machine.

The internal combustion engine 42 can the speed sensor 54 for measuring a rotational speed of the internal combustion engine 42 in the prior art. The speed sensor 54 may be part of an engine control of the vehicle, for example. Data from the speed sensor 54 can be provided via a diagnostic program. The speed data may be included in the calculation of vehicle data along with the measurements or torque values based on the measurements from the rotation sensor of the measuring device 2 be used to evaluate a torque parameter of a vehicle. The speed data may be timestamped to correlate with the corresponding measurement values from the rotation sensor or to calculate torque parameters based on the measurements and the speed data.

• - Demontieren 102 der Kardangelenkanordnung vom Antriebsstrang,
• - Ersetzen 104 der Kardangelenkanordnung gegen eine Messvorrichtung umfassend einen Drehsensor gemäß einem Aspekt und/oder einer Ausführungsform wie hier beschrieben,
• - Drehen 106 der Kardanwelle mit der Antriebseinheit,
• - Lesen 108 eines Messwerts vom Drehsensor,
• - Ermitteln 110 des Drehmomentparameters auf der Basis von wenigstens teilweise dem Messwert vom Drehsensor.

3 shows a method 100 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle. The vehicle can be a vehicle 30 be like in connection with 2A and 2 B described and includes at least one drive wheel and a drive train for driving the at least one drive wheel. The powertrain includes a drive unit, a universal joint arrangement and a cardan shaft. The universal joint assembly is connected via a sliding joint with the cardan shaft. The procedure 100 includes steps to:

• - dismantle 102 the universal joint arrangement of the drive train,
• - replace 104 the universal joint arrangement against a measuring device comprising a rotation sensor according to an aspect and / or an embodiment as described here,
• - Rotate 106 the cardan shaft with the drive unit,
• - Read 108 a reading from the rotation sensor,
• - Determine 110 the torque parameter based at least in part on the measured value from the rotation sensor.

The original gimbal arrangement of the vehicle was replaced by the measuring device. A torque parameter associated with the vehicle, thus affecting the rotation sensor, can be easily measured.

The step to determine 110 The torque parameter may be performed in a central processing unit, a processor, a controller or similar device. The measurement from the measuring device is transmitted to the central processing unit, to the processor, to the controller and to a similar device. On the basis of the measured value, the central processing unit, the processor, the controller or similar device may determine the torque parameter by, for example, comparing the measured value with a look-up table to determine the torque parameter or calculating the torque parameter using at least corresponding formulas and optionally another input value or determine further input values such as a rotational speed of the measuring device or the drive unit or correlate the measured value with a corresponding value of the torque parameter.

• - Messen 112 eines Drehzahlwerts der Antriebseinheit oder der Kardanwelle gleichzeitig mit dem Schritt zum Lesen 108 des Messwerts vom Drehsensor, wobei der Schritt zum Ermitteln 110 des Drehmomentparameters einen Schritt umfasst zum:
• - Korrelieren 114 des Drehmomentparameters mit dem Drehzahlwert.

According to some embodiments, the method comprises 100 to evaluate a torque parameter of a vehicle Steps to:

• - Measure up 112 a speed value of the drive unit or the propeller shaft simultaneously with the step for reading 108 the measured value from the rotation sensor, wherein the step of determining 110 of the torque parameter comprises a step for:
• - Correlate 114 of the torque parameter with the speed value.

Thus, for a specific speed, a specific value of the torque parameter can be correlated. This may be used, for example, in presenting the torque parameter and the speed value to a user or calculating the torque parameter when the torque parameter includes the speed, such as in a force value.

• - Wiederholen 116 der Schritte zum: - Lesen 108 eines Messwerts vom Drehsensor, Messen 112 eines Drehzahlwerts der Antriebseinheit oder der Kardanwelle gleichzeitig mit dem Messwert vom Drehsensor und Ermitteln 110 des Drehmomentparameters,
• - Korrelieren 118 wenigstens einiger der somit ermittelten Drehmomentparameter mit wenigstens einigen der Drehzahlwerten, und
• - Zuordnen 120 der Drehmomentparameter zu ihren korrelierten Drehzahlwerten.

According to some embodiments, the method comprises 100 to evaluate a torque parameter of a vehicle Steps to:

• - To repeat 116 the steps to: - Read 108 a reading from the rotary sensor, measuring 112 a speed value of the drive unit or the propeller shaft simultaneously with the measured value from the rotation sensor and determining 110 the torque parameter,
• - Correlate 118 at least some of the thus determined torque parameters with at least some of the speed values, and
• - Assign 120 the torque parameter to their correlated speed values.

Thus, the torque parameters, such as torque values, can be assigned to corresponding speed values. The assignment 120 For example, it may be presented graphically in a torque / speed diagram, a torque / speed table, a force / speed diagram or a force / speed diagram, on a display or on an expression.

• - drahtlosen Senden 122 des Messwerts oder eines ermittelten Drehmomentparameters vom Drehsensor an einen Empfänger, und
• - Protokollieren 124 des Messwerts vom Drehsensor oder eines ermittelten Drehmomentparameters in einem Speicher.

According to some embodiments, the method comprises 100 to evaluate a torque parameter of a vehicle Steps to:

• - wireless sending 122 the measured value or a determined torque parameter from the rotary sensor to a receiver, and
• - To log 124 the measured value from the rotary sensor or a determined torque parameter in a memory.

Thus, the measured value from the rotary sensor or the determined torque parameters can be transferred to a computer memory. The measured value or the determined torque parameter is then for further processing, for example in the previously described steps for determining 110 , Correlate 114 , Correlate 118 and / or associate 120 to disposal.

According to some embodiments, the measured value corresponds to a torque value sent by the drive unit via the measuring device to the at least one drive wheel.

The measured value from the rotation sensor can directly correlate with a torque as described above. By using appropriate gear ratios, gear losses, etc., a torque value of the drive unit, in particular of an internal combustion engine, be rated. Further, a force value of the internal combustion engine may be calculated on the basis of the torque value T and a rotational speed value of the internal combustion engine, wherein force P = T *. In this context, for example, the time stamp of the measured value and the speed value can be used. Alternatively, readings from the rotary sensor and speed sensor of the internal combustion engine can be collected simultaneously to ensure their correlation.

• - Berechnen 126 eines Antriebseinheit-Drehmomentwerts auf der Basis des Drehmomentparameters.

According to some embodiments, the method comprises 100 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, a step to:

• - To calculate 126 a drive unit torque value based on the torque parameter.

Such a drive unit torque value may be, for example, an output torque of an internal combustion engine of the drive unit.

By way of example, it should be mentioned that while carrying out the method 100 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, the corresponding vehicle may travel close to the maximum charge capacity loaded along a steep slope road section. Accordingly, the vehicle speed may be high at the beginning of the road section; but as the vehicle travels along the road section, the vehicle speed gradually decreases. During such operating conditions, a full torque range and force range of the drive unit of the vehicle can be evaluated.

4 shows a computer program product 200 according to the embodiments. The computer program product 200 is configured to carry out a method of evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle, the computer program comprising a central processing unit for carrying out a method according to an aspect and / or an embodiment comprising computer-readable code formed as described herein.

In these embodiments, the computer program product includes 200 a CD-ROM. In alternative embodiments, the computer program product may include another computer-readable storage medium such as a ROM, an EPROM, a CD-ROM, a USB flash memory, and so forth.

The foregoing description is illustrative of various exemplary embodiments, and the invention is defined solely by the appended claims. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary embodiments may be modified and that various features of the exemplary embodiments may be combined to produce other embodiments than those described herein without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, a plurality of torque sensors may be arranged in the measuring device. Such a redundancy of sensors can provide a higher measurement accuracy than if only one torque sensor is used. According to some embodiments, the measuring device 2 be permanently mounted in a vehicle for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle. Thus, readings from the measuring device 2 for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle in the vehicle control during normal operation of the vehicle, for example, in an engine control, during shifting in an automatic transmission, in a brake system, etc.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• GB 1309892 [0003]
• GB 918338 [0004]
• WO0208048 [0005]
• US 2010200325 [0006]

Claims (15)

A measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle comprising a first yoke (4), a second yoke (6), a universal joint (8) and an axle (10) having a first end portion (12) and a second end portion (14). in which the first and second yokes (4, 6) are connected to each other via the universal joint cross (8), the first yoke (4) being connected to the first end section (12) of the axle (10), the second end section (14) the axle (10) is provided with splines (15), the second yoke (6) being adapted for connection to a drive train (32) of a vehicle (30), and the second end portion of the axle (10) forming part of a slip joint (40), characterized in that the measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle comprises a rotary sensor (18) attached to the first end section (12). Measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle after Claim 1 comprising sleeve (22) connected to said first yoke (4) and extending parallel to at least a portion of said axis (10) at a radial distance from said axis (10), said sleeve (22) being movable over said rotation sensor (18 ). Measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle after Claim 1 or 2 comprising a wireless transmitter (24), wherein the rotary sensor (18) is connected to the wireless transmitter (24). Measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle after Claim 2 and 3 wherein the wireless transmitter (24) is attached to the sleeve (22). A measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to any preceding claim, wherein the splines (15) include ridges and notches, and the second end portion (14) has a bottom diameter (d2) at a bottom of the notches, and wherein the first end portion (16) 12) on the rotary sensor (18) has a small diameter (d1) than the bottom diameter (d2). Measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a control unit (26) designed to collect measured values from the rotary sensor (18). A measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotation sensor (18) comprises a strain gauge. Method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30), wherein the vehicle (30) at least one drive wheel (34) and a drive train (32) for driving the at least one drive wheel (34), the drive train (32) comprising a drive unit (36), a universal joint arrangement and a cardan shaft (38) the cardan joint assembly is connected to the cardan shaft (38) via a slip joint (40), and wherein the method (100) comprises steps for: Dismounting (102) the universal joint arrangement from the drive train (32), Replacing (104) the universal joint arrangement with a measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle comprising a rotation sensor (18) according to one of the preceding claims, Turning (106) the cardan shaft (38) with the drive unit (36), - reading (108) a measured value from the rotation sensor (18), and Determining (110) the torque parameter based at least in part on the measured value from the rotation sensor (18). A method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30) Claim 8 method comprising steps of: measuring (112) a speed value of the drive unit (36) or prop shaft (38) concurrently with the step of reading (108) the measurement value from the rotation sensor (18), the step of determining (110) the torque parameter comprising a step of: correlating (114) the torque parameter with the speed value. A method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30) Claim 9 comprising steps of: repeating (116) the steps of reading (108) a measurement from the rotation sensor (18), measuring (112) a speed value of the drive unit (36) or the propeller shaft (38) simultaneously with the measurement from the rotation sensor (18 and determining (110) the torque parameter, correlating (118) at least some of the thus determined torque parameters with at least some of the speed values, and assigning (120) the torque parameters to their correlated speed values. Method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30) according to one of Claims 8 to 10 comprising steps of: wirelessly transmitting (122) the measurement value or a determined torque parameter from the rotation sensor (18) to a receiver, and logging (124) the measurement value from the rotation sensor (18) or a determined torque parameter in a memory. Method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30) according to one of Claims 8 to 11 wherein the measured value corresponds to a torque value transmitted by the drive unit via the measuring device (2) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle to the at least one drive wheel (38). Method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30) according to one of Claims 8 to 12 comprising a step of: calculating (126) a drive unit torque value based on the torque parameter. A computer program for carrying out a method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30), the computer program for causing a central processing unit to execute a method (100) according to any one of Claims 8 to 13 includes trained computer readable code. A computer program product for carrying out a method (100) for evaluating a torque parameter of a vehicle (30), the computer program for causing a central processing unit to execute a method (100) according to any one of Claims 8 to 13 includes trained computer readable code.

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