GB2557198A

GB2557198A - Sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2557198A
Application number: GB1620259.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Fairbrother Michael; Thangaraj Karthik; Tot Roxana; Tan Calvin
Original assignee: Applied Composites Group Ltd
Current assignee: Applied Composites Group Ltd
Priority date: 2016-11-30
Filing date: 2016-11-30
Publication date: 2018-06-20
Also published as: GB201620259D0

Abstract

A sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly 1 having an elastomeric member 6 arranged to damp vibrations is provided. The sensor apparatus 9 includes an electric power generator 10 that is configured to generate electric power from at least one of pressure applied to the elastomeric member 6 and heat generated in the elastomeric member 6. The sensor apparatus also has a sensor 9 that is powered by the electric power generator 10 and is configured to detect an operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly 1 to monitor a condition of the elastomeric member 6. A monitoring system, a biasing component, a conical spring and a method of monitoring a condition of the elastomeric member 6 are also dislcosed.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly

Abstract Title: A sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly with an elastomeric member (57) A sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly 1 having an elastomeric member 6 arranged to damp vibrations is provided. The sensor apparatus 9 includes an electric power generator 10 that is configured to generate electric power from at least one of pressure applied to the elastomeric member 6 and heat generated in the elastomeric member 6. The sensor apparatus also has a sensor 9 that is powered by the electric power generator 10 and is configured to detect an operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly 1 to monitor a condition of the elastomeric member 6. A monitoring system, a biasing component, a conical spring and a method of monitoring a condition of the elastomeric member 6 are also dislcosed.

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Sensor Apparatus for an Anti-Vibration Assembly

Field

The invention relates to a sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly that includes 5 an elastomeric member. The invention also relates to a monitoring system that includes the sensor apparatus, and to a biasing component having an elastomeric member and the sensor apparatus.

Background

Anti-vibration assemblies that include rubber springs are used in many applications, such as in suspension of automotive and rail vehicles. The rubber spring is commonly used to damp the movement of one part relative to another and thereby reduce transfer of vibrations between the two parts.

Such rubber components degrade during use due to stress (material creep and strain), which is exacerbated by higher temperatures frequently generated in such applications. Rubber components therefore have a restricted life and are frequently inspected for maintenance and safety reasons.

Summary

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly, the anti-vibration assembly comprising an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations;

wherein the sensor apparatus comprises:

an electric power generator configured to generate electric power from at least one of pressure applied to said elastomeric member and heat generated in said elastomeric member; and, a sensor that is powered by the electric power generator and is configured to detect an operating characteristic of said anti-vibration assembly to monitor a condition of said elastomeric member.

The sensor apparatus may further comprise a memory configured to store information detected by the sensor.

The sensor apparatus may further comprise a communication unit configured to communicate information detected by the sensor with an external device.

The communication unit maybe powered by the electric power generator.

The sensor apparatus may further comprise an electric energy storage configured to 5 store electric energy generated by the electric energy generator.

The electric power generator may be a thermoelectric generator.

A first part of the thermoelectric generator may be arranged to contact said elastomeric 10 member, and a second part of the thermoelectric generator may be arranged to contact a further component of said anti-vibration assembly.

The electric power generator may be a piezoelectric generator.

The operating characteristic of said anti-vibration assembly detected by the sensor may be a performance characteristic of said elastomeric member.

In one example the sensor may comprise a load cell arranged to detect the load applied to said elastomeric member during use.

In an alternative example, the sensor may comprise a strain gauge arranged to detect the strain endured by said elastomeric member during use.

In another example, the sensor may comprise a temperature sensor arranged to detect 25 the operating temperature of said elastomeric member during use.

In yet another example, the sensor maybe a location device arranged to detect the location of said anti-vibration assembly during use.

In yet another example, the sensor may comprise an accelerometer arranged to detect acceleration of at least a part of said anti-vibration assembly during use.

In yet another embodiment, the sensor may comprise a tilt gauge arranged to detect a deformation of said elastomeric member during use.

-3In yet another example, the sensor may comprise a height gauge arranged to detect a deformation of said elastomeric member during use.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a 5 monitoring system for an anti-vibration assembly, the anti-vibration assembly comprising an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations; the monitoring system comprising: the sensor apparatus described above; and, a processor configured to receive information detected by the sensor and to 10 monitor a condition of said elastomeric member.

The monitoring system may comprise a communication unit and an external device, the communication unit being configured to communicate information detected by the sensor with the external device.

The external device may comprise the processor.

The processor may be configured to determine a condition of said elastomeric member from the detected performance characteristic.

The processor may be configured to monitor degradation of said elastomeric member.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a biasing component for an anti-vibration assembly, the biasing component comprising: an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations during use; and, the sensor apparatus described above.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a biasing component for an anti-vibration assembly, the biasing component comprising: an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations during use; and, the monitoring system described above.

In examples, at least a part of the electric power generator may be embedded within the elastomeric member of the biasing component.

-4In some examples, at least a part of the electric power generator maybe attached to a surface of the elastomeric member.

In examples, at least a part of the sensor maybe embedded within the elastomeric 5 member.

In some examples, at least a part of the sensor may be attached to a surface of the elastomeric member.

The biasing component may comprise a first mounting part and a second mounting part, and wherein the elastomeric member may be attachable to the first and second mounting parts.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a conical spring for a railway bogie, the conical spring comprising the biasing component described above.

The conical spring may further comprise a housing that is attachable to a first part of said railway bogie, and a spigot that is attachable to a second part of said railway bogie.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is also provided an antivibration assembly comprising the biasing component described above.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of monitoring a condition of an elastomeric member of an anti-vibration assembly, the method including:

generating electric power from at least one of pressure applied to the elastomeric member during use and heat generated in the elastomeric member;

powering a sensor using the generated electric power;

detecting an operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly; and, determining a condition of the elastomeric member from the detected operating characteristic.

The method may further comprise the step of storing detected information on a memory.

-5The method may further comprise the step of communicating detected information with an external device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. l shows an anti-vibration assembly that includes a biasing component and a monitoring system;

FIG. 2 shows a thermoelectric generator mounted to the biasing component of FIG. l; FIG. 3 shows a thermoelectric generator mounted to a further component of the antivibration assembly, and also thermally coupled to the biasing component of FIG. l;

FIG. 4 shows a piezoelectric generator mounted to the biasing component of FIG. l;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a first example sensor apparatus for an elastomeric member, the sensor apparatus having an electric power generator and a sensor;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a second example sensor apparatus, including a memory;

FIG. 7 shows a further example sensor apparatus for an elastomeric member, including a communication unit;

FIG. 8 shows an example monitoring system for an anti-vibration assembly, the monitoring system including the sensor apparatus and a processor; and,

FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of a method of monitoring the condition of an elastomeric member in an anti-vibration assembly.

Detailed Description

FIG. l illustrates an anti-vibration assembly l that includes a biasing component 2 mounted between a first plate 3 and a second plate 4. In use, the first and second plates

3, 4 move relative to each other. For example, the first plate 3 may be part of a vehicle chassis and the second plate 4 maybe part of a vehicle wheel assembly, and the antivibration assembly 1 permits movement of the wheel assembly relative to the chassis, while providing damping to absorb some of the energy of the movement. It will be appreciated that the first and second plates 3,4 are merely illustrative, and they may represent any two parts that move relative to each other.

-6In one particular example, the biasing component 2 is a conical spring used on a railway bogie. In particular, the conical spring is mounted between a chassis of the railway carriage and a wheel assembly that includes the wheels. The conical spring provides suspension between the wheels and the chassis.

The biasing component 2 of FIG. 1 is able to deform to permit movement of the first and second plates 3,4 relative to each other. For example, depending on the particular application the biasing component 2 may allow the first and second plates 3, 4 to move such that the biasing component 2 is compressed, elongated, twisted, skewed, etc....

The biasing component 2 comprises a resiliently deformable elastomeric member 6 that resists deformation.

It will be appreciated that the anti-vibration assembly 1 may include a damper, such as a hydraulic piston damper, to provide further damping between the first and second plates 3, 4. Such a damper may be provided in addition to the biasing component 2.

As mentioned above, the biasing component 2 comprises an elastomeric member 6 that allows the biasing component 2 to be deformed during use. As the elastomeric member is deformed it absorbs at least some of the kinetic energy of the first and second plates

3, 4, thereby reducing the amplitude of the movement and reducing transfer of vibrations from the first plate 3 to the second plate 4.

In this example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the biasing component 2 includes a first mount and a second mount 8, and the elastomeric member 6 is disposed between, and attached to, the first and second mounts 7, 8. The first mount 7 provides for attachment to the first plate 3, and the second mount 8 provides for attachment to the second plate

4·

The first and second mounts 7, 8 may be integrally moulded with the elastomeric 30 member 6, or they may be attached to the elastomeric member 6. The first and second mounts 7,8 may be attached to the first and second plates 3,4, respectively, in any appropriate manner, for example by fasteners, adhesives, welding, or other means for attaching.

However, in other examples the elastomeric member 6 may be attachable directly to the first and second plates 3,4, without the need for the first and second mounts 7, 8.

-ΊΙη this example, the elastomeric member 6 is conically shaped, although it will be appreciated that the elastomeric member 6 maybe any shape, and different shapes are suitable for different applications. A conical spring, as illustrated, is typically used in a damping assembly on railway bogies, between the chassis and the wheel carrier as described above. In other examples, a cylindrical elastomeric member may be employed, or a disc-shaped elastomeric member.

The elastomeric member 6 may comprise a rubber material, for example Urethane, io Fluoro-elastomer, Fluoro-silicone, other silicone-based rubbers, or Hydrogenated

Nitrile.

In alternative embodiments, the elastomeric member 6 includes metal interleaves (not shown) with elastomeric material arranged on either side of the metal interleaves in a sandwich arrangement. The metal interleaves act to strengthen the elastomeric member 6 and increase its stiffness by reducing the dimensions of the individual parts of elastomeric material.

As illustrated in FIG. l, the biasing component 2 further comprises sensor apparatus that includes a sensor 9 arranged to detect an operating characteristic of the antivibration assembly 1. The sensor apparatus also includes an electric power generator 10 that powers the sensor 9 from electric power generated from the elastomeric member 6 during use, as explained further below.

In one example, the electric power generator 10 is a thermoelectric generator 11 adapted to generate electric power from the increased temperature of the elastomeric member 6 during use of the biasing component 2. As the elastomeric member 6 adsorbs movement of the first and/or second plates 3,4 the temperature of the elastomeric member 6 increases, and the thermoelectric generator 11 is adapted to generate electric power from this increased temperature.

As shown in FIG. 2, in one example the thermoelectric generator 11 has a first side 12 that is in contact with the elastomeric member 6, and a second side 13 that is open to atmosphere. Semiconductors 14 are arranged between the first and second sides 12,13 and generate a current when a temperature differential is created between the first and second sides 13,14. During use the temperature of the elastomeric member 6 increases

-8due to absorption of vibrations, and the first side 12 is also heated. The second side 13, which is open to atmosphere, remains at a lower temperature than the first side 12, creating a temperature differential between the first and second sides 12,13 of the thermoelectric generator 11 and generating electric power that is carried from the thermoelectric generator by wires 15.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, the semiconductors 14 arranged between the first and second sides 12,13 comprise two different semiconductor materials, and this arrangement generates electric power when there is a temperature differential between the first side 12 and the second side 13.

In another example, illustrated in FIG. 3, the thermoelectric generator 11 comprises a first side 12 that is thermally coupled to the elastomeric member 6, and a second side 13 that is thermally coupled to a housing 16 of the anti-vibration assembly 1. In particular, in this example a thermal coupler 17 extends from the elastomeric member 6 to the first side 12 of the thermoelectric generator 11, and the second side 13 of the thermoelectric generator 11 is attached to the housing 16.

During use, the elastomeric member 6 will heat up to a higher temperature than the housing 16, heat energy is carried to the first side 12 via the thermal coupler 17, and so a temperature differential is created between the first side 12 and the second side 13 of the thermoelectric generator 11, thereby generating electric energy.

In other embodiments, the second side 13 of the thermoelectric generator 11 may be attached to another part of the anti-vibration assembly 1, or to a part of a nearby assembly.

The thermal coupler 17 is made of a highly thermally conductive material, for example a metal such as copper, tungsten or aluminium.

Optionally, a heat sink 18 is provided between the thermoelectric generator 11 and the elastomeric member 6, or between the thermal coupler 17 and the elastomeric member 6 as illustrated in FIG. 3. Such a heat sink 18 can hold thermal energy and ensure that the temperature of the first side 12 of the thermoelectric generator 11 is more even during use of the biasing component 2, even if the vibrations are not regular, for

-9example if there is varying frequency and/or magnitude that causes heating and cooling of the elastomeric member 6.

In other embodiments, at least a part of the thermoelectric generator 11 is embedded 5 within the elastomeric member 6. The embedded part of the thermoelectric generator it may be moulded within the elastomeric member 6, or may be adhered to a recess formed in the elastomeric member 6. The embedded part of the thermoelectric generator n may include the first side 12. Alternatively, the embedded part of the thermoelectric generator 11 may be thermally coupled to the first side 12 by a thermal coupling 17 similar to that shown in FIG. 3.

Embedding a part of the thermoelectric generator 11 within the elastomeric member 6 provides for better heat transfer to the thermoelectric generator 11. The internal temperature of the elastomeric member 6 is typically higher than the external temperature during use of the biasing component 2, so embedding a part of the thermoelectric generator 11 within the elastomeric member 6 may provide for a greater temperature differential between the first and second sides 12,13, thereby generating more electric power.

In examples that include metal interleaves within the elastomeric member 6, the first side 12 of the thermoelectric generator 11 can be attached to at least one of the metal interleaves, or the first side 12 can be thermally coupled to at least one of the metal interleaves. The metal interleaves will be heated by the increased temperature of the elastomeric member 6 during use, and may also act as a heat sink 18 and/or as a thermal coupler 17 as previously described.

In further examples, the electric power generator 10 is a piezoelectric generator 19 that generates electric power when pressure is applied to the piezoelectric generator 19.

In this example, as shown in FIG. 4, the piezoelectric generator 19 is attached to the elastomeric member 6 such that it is compressed during use of the biasing component 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the piezoelectric generator 19 may be disposed between the elastomeric member 6 and the second mount 8. Alternatively, the piezoelectric generator 19 may be disposed between the elastomeric member 6 and the first mount 7, or between the piezoelectric generator 19 and another part of the biasing member 2,

- 10 such that the piezoelectric generator 19 is subject to pressure during use of the biasing component 2.

In alternative examples, the piezoelectric generator 19 may be embedded within the 5 elastomeric member 6. For example it may be moulded within the elastomeric member or adhered in a recess formed in the elastomeric member 6.

In these examples, as load is applied to the elastomeric member 6 pressure is applied to the piezoelectric generator 19 and electric power is generated. The electric power is carried away from the piezoelectric generator by wires 20.

As described above, the biasing component 6 is provided with an electric power generator 10,11,19 that generates electric power during use of the biasing component 2, through either the increased temperature of the elastomeric member 6 or through pressure applied to the elastomeric member 6.

In further examples, both a thermoelectric generator 11 and a piezoelectric generator 19 maybe provided on the same biasing component 2, such that electric power is generated from both the increased temperature of the elastomeric member 6 and through pressure applied to the elastomeric member 6.

Optionally, an electric power storage, for example a battery, is provided to store electric power generated by the electric power generator 10,11,19.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the sensor apparatus includes a sensor 9 that is arranged to detect an operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly 1.

The sensor is powered by the electric generator, meaning that the sensor apparatus needs no external power connection in order to function.

In some examples, the operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly 1 is a measure of the performance of the anti-vibration assembly 1, such as the load applied to the anti-vibration assembly 1 or, for a vehicle, the distance covered by the vehicle having the anti-vibration assembly.

- 11 In other examples, the operating characteristic maybe a performance characteristic of the elastomeric member 6 in particular, such as the operating load, stress / strain in the elastomeric member 6, or the operating temperature.

By detecting the operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly l, as briefly described above, it is possible to determine a condition of the elastomeric member 6. For example, it is possible to determine whether the operating temperature has exceeded a known threshold, or whether the strain in the elastomeric member 6 indicates material creep.

io

In this way, it is possible to monitor the condition of the elastomeric member 6, in particular the degradation of the elastomeric member 6.

In one example, the sensor 9 is a load cell arranged to measure the load applied to the elastomeric member 6 during use. The load cell may be arranged to measure compressive load and/or tensile load and/or shear load and/or torsion load that is applied to the elastomeric member 6. The load cell may be attached to an external surface of the elastomeric member 6, or it may be embedded within the elastomeric member 6. Alternatively, the load cell may be disposed between the elastomeric member 6 and the first or second mount 7, 8, or between the first or second mount 7, 8 and the corresponding first or second plate 3, 4.

As explained, the load cell detects the load applied to the biasing member 2, in particular the elastomeric member 6, during use. The detected load may be used to determine the stress that has been applied to the elastomeric member 6. If the yield stress of the elastomeric member 6 is known, then the load cell can be used to monitor if and when the yield stress has been exceeded. Alternatively or additionally, the operational life of the elastomeric member 6 maybe known in terms of load-cycles, and so a load cell can be used to monitor the operational life of the elastomeric member 6.

Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 9 is a strain gauge arranged to measure the strain applied to the elastomeric member 6 during use. The strain gauge may be attached to an external surface of the elastomeric member 6, or it may be embedded within the elastomeric member 6.

- 12 Similarly to the detected load, the detected strain may be used to determine the strain that has been applied to the elastomeric member 6. If the yield strain of the elastomeric member 6 is known, then the strain gauge can be used to monitor if and when the yield strain has been exceeded. Alternatively or additionally, the operational life of the elastomeric member 6 may be known in terms of load-cycles, and so a strain gauge can be used to monitor the operational life of the elastomeric member 6.

Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 9 is a displacement sensor arranged to measure the deformation of the elastomeric member during use. For example, the sensor maybe a height gauge, such as a potentiometer, or the sensor may be a tilt gauge. The displacement sensor may be attached to the elastomeric member, or it may be attached to the mounts and/or first and second plates, and thereby measure the deformation of the elastomeric member.

The detected deformation can be used to determine the strain endured by the elastomeric member 6. High, or increasing, displacement (strain) and indicate material creep in the rubber material of the elastomeric member 6. Therefore, the condition of the elastomeric member 6 can be monitored by detecting the displacement.

Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 9 is an accelerometer arranged to measure the rate of change of deformation of the elastomeric member 6 during use. The deformation may be compressive and/or tensile and/or shear and/or torsional, and the accelerometer may be arranged to detect acceleration in one or more of these modes of deformation. The accelerometer may be attached to the elastomeric member 6, or it may be attached to the mounts and/or first and second plates, and thereby measure the rate of change of deformation of the elastomeric member 6.

If the rate of change of deformation of the elastomeric member 6 is high, or increasing, this can indicate material creep in the rubber material of the elastomeric member 6.

Therefore, the condition of the elastomeric member 6 can be monitored by detecting the rate of change of deformation of the elastomeric member 6.

Alternatively or additionally, the sensor is a temperature sensor arranged to measure the operating temperature of the elastomeric material of the elastomeric member 6 during use. The temperature sensor maybe attached to an external surface of the elastomeric member 6, or it may be embedded within the elastomeric member 6.

-13High operating temperature reduces the operational life of the elastomeric member 6 due to heat degradation. Therefore, monitoring the operational temperature of the elastomeric member 6 allows for monitoring a condition of the elastomeric member 6.

In one example, it may be known that the rubber material of a particular elastomeric member 6 melts at a particular temperature, and if that operational temperature is detected the elastomeric member 6 should be inspected and/or replaced.

Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 9 is a location device, for example a GPS 10 device. The location device determines the location of the biasing component. The location device may be attached to, or embedded within, the elastomeric member.

The operational life of the elastomeric member 6 may be known in terms of distance covered, particularly for vehicles, and so the location device allows this factor to be monitored.

In some examples, a combination of sensors 9 is used. For example, the sensor apparatus may include a load cell and a strain gauge. During use of the elastomeric member 6 the strain within the elastomeric material will increase for a given load as the elastomeric material degrades and material creep sets in. The combination of a load cell and a strain gauge allows this material creep to be more accurately monitored than with one or other of the load cell and strain gauge as any given detected strain can be attributed to the applied load, and therefore material creep can be more accurately determined. In a similar alternative example, a displacement sensor may be used instead of a strain gauge to monitor material creep.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of the sensor apparatus 21 and the elastomeric member 6. As previously explained, the sensor apparatus 21 includes an electric generator 1,11,19 and a sensor 9. The electric generator 10,11,19 generates electric power from the elastomeric member 6. In particular, the electric generator 10 is either a thermoelectric generator 10 or a piezoelectric generator 19. The sensor 9 is powered by the electric generator 10,11,19 and detects an operating characteristic of the antivibration assembly 2, as described above.

-14As described further below, the detected information may be stored in a memory 22, and/or the detected information may be communicated with an external device 23, and/or the detected information maybe processed by a processor 25.

FIG. 6 shows an example of the sensor apparatus 21, including a memory 22. The memory 22 is arranged to receive information detected by the sensor 9 and to store the information. The memory 22 may store only the latest information received from the sensor 9. Alternatively, the memory 22 may store a series of information received from the sensor 9.

The memory 22 may additionally be configured to store temporal information related to the information received from the sensor 9. This provides for tracking and monitoring the operating characteristic and/or condition of the elastomeric member 6 over a period of time.

In some examples, the sensor apparatus 21 described above is part of a monitoring system 26 that uses the detected information to monitor the condition of the elastomeric member 6. In particular, the monitoring system 26 monitors the performance and/or material state of the elastomeric material 6 to determine if and when the elastomeric member 6 should be inspected or replaced.

In an example monitoring system 26, shown in FIG. 7, the sensor apparatus 21 further includes a communication unit 24 that receives the detected information from the sensor 9 and/or memory 22 and communicates that information to an external device

23, which is part of the monitoring system 26. In other examples, the sensor apparatus does not include a memory 22, and instead the communication unit 24 receives the detected information directly from the sensor 9.

The communication unit 24 may be a plug connector, such as a USB port, for connection to an external device 23. In other examples, the communication unit 24 may be a wireless transmitter, such as a radio transmitter or Bluetooth device. Alternatively, the communication unit 24 may be a passive communication device, such as a near field communication device that is activated and energised by an electric field generated by the external device 23, for transfer of information therebetween.

-15The communication unit 24 may be powered by the electric power generator 10,11,19. If the communication unit 24 is powered by the electric power generator 10,11,19, it is preferably a low-energy communication unit, such as a single chip low energy RF transmitter.

The communication unit 24 may be in permanent communication with the external device 23, which may be located nearby the anti-vibration assembly 1. For example, if the anti-vibration assembly 1 is used on a vehicle such as an automobile or a train, the external device 23 may be an on-board computer that is connected to the communication unit 24. This allows for real-time monitoring of the operating characteristic and/or condition of the elastomeric member 6.

In other examples, the external device 23 may be a hand-held device, such as a smartphone or purpose-built hand-held computer, which is periodically used to retrieve information from the sensor 9 and/or memory 22. For example, information can be retrieved during routine maintenance and safety checks to determine if the elastomeric member 6 should be replaced.

The external device 23 may alternatively be a laptop or computer, for example in a maintenance depot, which can periodically be connected to the communication device for retrieval of information.

In some examples, the communication unit 24 and/or the external device 23 is configured to connect to a cloud server, for sharing the detected information.

The external device 23 may process the information detected by the sensor 9 to determine the condition of the elastomeric member 6. This may be advantageous if the electric power provided by the electric power generator 10,11,19 is insufficient or not consistent enough to power an integrated processor, as described below.

In a further example, illustrated in FIG. 8, the sensor apparatus 21 is provided with a processor 25 that is in communication with one or more of the sensor 9, memory 22, and communication unit 24 to receive the detected information, process the detected information, and output the detected information. The processor 25 can receive the detected information from one of the sensor 9 and the memory 22, and the processor may be configured to process the information to determine the condition of the

-ι6elastomeric member 6. The processor 25 may output the processed information, or the detected information, to the communication unit 24 for onward communication to the external device 23

As explained above, the information detected by the sensor 9 can be indicative of the condition of the elastomeric member 6, and the processor may determine the condition of the elastomeric member 6 by processing the detected information from the sensor 9.

In one example, the processor 25 is adapted to identify when the elastomeric member 6 10 needs to be replaced, and is configured to send an appropriate signal to the communication device 24 such that the external device 23 receives this information.

It will be appreciated that in various examples the processor 25 maybe integrated into the sensor apparatus 21, or the processor 25 maybe separate to the sensor apparatus 21 but part of the monitoring system 21.

In some examples, a single monitoring system 26 may include multiple sensor apparatuses 21. For example, a single processor 25 may receive information from a number of sensors 9 in a number of biasing components 2 within a larger anti-vibration assembly 1. For example, a railway carriage may have a number of conical springs, each having a sensor apparatus 21 including an electric generator 11,11,19, a sensor 9, and a communication unit 24 that communicates the detected information to a central processor 25 for processing. The individual sensor apparatuses 21 may include a memory 22, or the overall monitoring system 26 may include a central memory 22. In this way, a single processor is provided for monitoring the condition of a plurality of elastomeric members 6 in a larger assembly.

As will be apparent from the above description, and as illustrated in FIG. 9, the method of monitoring the condition of the elastomeric member 6 of an anti-vibration assembly

1 includes at least the following steps:

- generating electric power from at least one of pressure applied to the elastomeric member 6 during use and heat generated in the elastomeric member 6;

- powering a sensor 9 using the generated electric power;

- detecting an operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly 1; and,

30 - determining a condition of the elastomeric member 6 from the detected operating characteristic.

-17Additionally, the method can also include storing information from the sensor 9 on a memory 22. Alternatively or additionally, the information may be communicated with an external device 23 by means of a communication unit 24. A processor 25 may also process the information, and the processor may be part of the sensor apparatus 21 or part of a broader monitoring system 26, for example part of the external device 23.

Embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in software, hardware, application logic or a combination of software, hardware, and application logic. The software, application logic and/or hardware may reside on memory, or any computer media. In an example embodiment, the application software or an instruction set is maintained on any one of various conventional computer-readable media. In the context of this document, a “memory” or “computer-readable medium” maybe any media or means that can contain, store, communicate, propagate or transport the instructions for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, such as a computer.

In order to address various issues and advance the art, the entirety of this disclosure shows by way of illustration various embodiments in which the claimed invention(s) may be practiced and provide for a superior sensor apparatus and monitoring system for an anti-vibration assembly. The advantages and features of the disclosure are of a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. They are presented only to assist in understanding and teach the claimed features. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects of the disclosure are not to be considered limitations on the disclosure as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and/or spirit of the disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. In addition, the disclosure includes other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

Claims

1. A sensor apparatus for an anti-vibration assembly, the anti-vibration assembly comprising an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations;

wherein the sensor apparatus comprises:

5 an electric power generator configured to generate electric power from at least one of pressure applied to said elastomeric member and heat generated in said elastomeric member; and, a sensor that is powered by the electric power generator and is configured to detect an operating characteristic of said anti-vibration assembly to monitor a

10 condition of said elastomeric member.
2. The sensor apparatus of claim l, further comprising a memory configured to store information detected by the sensor.

15
3· The sensor apparatus of claim l or claim 2, further comprising a communication unit configured to communicate information detected by the sensor with an external device.
4. The sensor apparatus of claim 3, wherein the communication unit is powered by

20 the electric power generator.
5. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising an electric energy storage configured to store electric energy generated by the electric energy generator.
6. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the electric power generator is a thermoelectric generator.
7. The sensor apparatus of claim 6, wherein a first part of the thermoelectric

30 generator is arranged to contact said elastomeric member, and a second part of the thermoelectric generator is arranged to contact a further component of said antivibration assembly.
8. The sensor apparatus of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electric power

35 generator is a piezoelectric generator.

-199- The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the operating characteristic of said anti-vibration assembly detected by the sensor is a performance characteristic of said elastomeric member.

5 to. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a load cell arranged to detect the load applied to said elastomeric member during use.

11. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a strain gauge arranged to detect the strain endured by said elastomeric member during io use.

12. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor arranged to detect the operating temperature of said elastomeric member during use.

13. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor is a location device arranged to detect the location of said anti-vibration assembly during use.

14. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises an 20 accelerometer arranged to detect acceleration of at least a part of said anti-vibration assembly during use.

15. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a tilt gauge arranged to detect a deformation of said elastomeric member during use.

16. The sensor apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a height gauge arranged to detect a deformation of said elastomeric member during use.

17. A monitoring system for an anti-vibration assembly, the anti-vibration assembly 30 comprising an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations;

the monitoring system comprising:

the sensor apparatus of any preceding claim; and, a processor configured to receive information detected by the sensor and to monitor a condition of said elastomeric member.

- 20 i8. The monitoring system of claim 17, comprising a communication unit and an external device, the communication unit being configured to communicate information detected by the sensor with the external device.

5 19. The monitoring system of claim 18, wherein the external device comprises the processor.

20. The monitoring system of any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the processor is configured to determine a condition of said elastomeric member from the detected
10 performance characteristic.

21. The monitoring system of any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the processor is configured to monitor degradation of said elastomeric member.
15 22. A biasing component for an anti-vibration assembly, the biasing component comprising: an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations during use; and, the sensor apparatus of any of claims 1 to 16.

23. A biasing component for an anti-vibration assembly, the biasing component
20 comprising: an elastomeric member arranged to damp vibrations during use; and, the monitoring system of any of claims 17 to 21.
24. The biasing component of claim 22 or claim 23, wherein at least a part of the electric power generator is embedded within the elastomeric member.
25. The biasing component of any of claim 22 to claim 24, wherein at least a part of the electric power generator is attached to a surface of the elastomeric member.
26. The biasing component of any of claims 22 to 25, wherein at least a part of the

30 sensor is embedded within the elastomeric member.
27. The biasing component of any of claim 22 to claim 26, wherein at least a part of the sensor is attached to a surface of the elastomeric member.

- 21
28. The biasing component of any preceding claim, wherein the biasing component comprises a first mounting part and a second mounting part, and wherein the elastomeric member is attachable to the first and second mounting parts.

5
29. A conical spring for a railway bogie, the conical spring comprising the biasing component of any of claims 22 to 28.
30. The conical spring of claim 29, further comprising a housing that is attachable to a first part of said railway bogie, and a spigot that is attachable to a second part of

10 said railway bogie.
31. An anti-vibration assembly comprising the biasing component of any of claims 22 to 28.

15
32. A method of monitoring a condition of an elastomeric member of an antivibration assembly, the method including:

generating electric power from at least one of pressure applied to the elastomeric member during use and heat generated in the elastomeric member;

powering a sensor using the generated electric power;

20 detecting an operating characteristic of the anti-vibration assembly; and, determining a condition of the elastomeric member from the detected operating characteristic.
33. The method of claim 32, further comprising the step of storing detected 25 information on a memoiy.
34. The method of claim 32 or claim 33, further comprising the step of communicating detected information with an external device.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB1620259.0 Examiner: Mr Kevin Hewitt