KR102654049B1 - Test RIG FOR A ROTARY DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A SUSPENSION BEARING UNIT - Google Patents

Abstract

Test equipment for rotating devices, especially suspension bearing devices
The present invention relates to a test equipment (1) for measuring the friction torque of a rotating device (2), in particular a suspension bearing unit, the test equipment comprising a first plate (3), a second plate (4), the plate ( A test chamber (9) formed between 3 and 4, a driving means (10) fixed to the first plate (3), and a sensor (41) fixed to the second plate (4) and for measuring friction torque. a measuring unit (12) with a first holder (11) rotatably coupled to the driving means (11), wherein the first holder (11) is a rotating device (2) arranged in the test chamber (9). ) is fixed to the first rotatable element 15 and includes a second holder 13 coupled to the measuring unit 12, wherein the second holder 13 is the second holder 13 of the rotation device 2. 2 It is fixed to element 16.

Description

Test equipment for rotating devices, especially suspension bearing units {Test RIG FOR A ROTARY DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR A SUSPENSION BEARING UNIT}

The present invention relates to the field of testing equipment, in particular for measuring the friction torque of rotating devices, especially automotive suspension bearing devices.

As is known, vehicle suspension systems include struts that support axles and vehicle wheels. A suspension bearing unit is arranged in the upper part of the strut on the side opposite to the wheel and the ground between the suspension spring and the upper member fixed to the body shell of the vehicle. A spring is arranged around the shock absorber piston rod, the end of which may be fixed to the body shell of the vehicle.

The suspension bearing unit includes a rolling bearing, a lower cup, an upper cup and at least one seal arranged between the cups. The different components of the suspension bearing unit can be made of plastic material and the cups can be reinforced by particularly robust inserts made of metal to increase mechanical strength. The upper cup is inserted between the upper ring of the rolling bearing and the upper member, and the lower cup is inserted between the lower ring of the rolling bearing and the suspension spring. Accordingly, the suspension bearing unit is designed to transmit axial forces between the suspension springs and the bodyshell of the vehicle and to allow relative angular movement between the rings of the rolling bearing.

The central axis of the suspension bearing unit and the central axis of the strut with the spring may be inclined with respect to each other, and the relative inclination of the axes may be 5° to 10°. The suspension bearing units are consequently subject to radial forces.

In addition to performance related to mechanical integrity and tightness, the main variable for the quality of a suspension bearing unit is the friction torque when under load. It is essential to know the mechanical properties of the suspension bearing unit because the suspension performance and resulting driving comfort of the vehicle on which the bearing unit will be installed will arise from the mechanical properties. Test equipment set up to measure friction torque when a suspension bearing unit is under load has been developed to optimize structure, materials and design. The test equipment is intended to provide test conditions similar to application conditions.

As is known, a test equipment for measuring friction torque when a suspension bearing unit is under load comprises a tubular sleeve with a cylindrical bore on which two suspension bearing units are mounted from top to tail, each bearing unit is mounted on one of the axial ends of the bore. Each of the retaining cups of the bearing unit is held in place within the bore. The rotatable cup of the bearing unit is rotatably connected by a shaft, which applies a load to the bearing unit. The bore extends around a central axis that is inclined with respect to the horizontal by the relative inclination angle characteristic between each bearing unit and the shaft simulating the strut. An oscillatory rotational motion about a central axis is exerted on the shaft by a motor, and this motion is transmitted to the two suspension bearing units being tested.

The test equipment can therefore test suspension bearing units under conditions of oscillatory motion, inclination, axial load and radial load (resulting from the created inclination and applied axial load) similar to the application conditions. The test equipment also includes at least one friction torque sensor for determining friction torque resulting from vibration of the two suspension bearing units. The two bearing units connected to measure the friction torque may be identical or different, with one bearing unit being tested and the other bearing unit having known characteristics.

The friction torque of the suspension bearing unit tested in the test equipment can only be inferred by measuring the generated friction torque and cannot be directly determined. Although this type of test equipment has demonstrated reliability and repeatability, new test equipment is needed that directly measures, rather than infers, the friction torque of individual suspension bearing units under application conditions.

The present invention is a test equipment, especially a test for directly measuring the friction torque of a single rotating device, especially a vehicle suspension bearing device, to reproduce application conditions, to be applicable to all types of rotating devices, and to provide reliable and repeatable measurement values. It concerns the field of equipment.

The present invention is a test equipment for measuring the friction torque of a rotating device, comprising a first plate, a second plate, a test chamber formed between the plates, a driving means fixed to the first plate, and a second plate. a measuring unit with a sensor for measuring friction torque, comprising a first holder rotatably coupled to the drive means, the first holder being fixed to a first rotatable element of a rotary device arranged in a test chamber; , comprising a second holder coupled to the measuring unit, the second holder being fixed to a second element of the rotating device.

According to the present invention, the first plate is fixed and the second plate can translate and move towards or away from the first plate to provide an axial load to the rotating device, The first holder includes a support plate rotatably coupled to the driving means and a support post on a central axis, a first end of the support post is connected to the support plate, and a second end of the support post is rotatable to the first of the rotation device. fixed to an element, the position of a first end of the support post on the support plate being adjustable to form a relative inclination of the central axis of the support post with respect to the central axis of the first element, the second holder comprising a shaft, A first end of the shaft is coupled to a second element of the rotating device and a second end of the shaft is coupled to a sensor to measure friction torque.

According to the invention, an axial load can be applied to a rotating device, in particular a suspension bearing unit, mounted in the test chamber between the driving means on one side and the measuring means on the other side. The axial load is applied through a translatable plate. Since the support post can be advantageously inclined with respect to the bearing unit, radial loads can arise from this arrangement. Additionally, the rotatable element, in particular the movable cup of the suspension bearing unit, can be coupled to the driving means so that during the test process the movable element can be subjected to any relevant movement, in particular vibration about the central axis of the bearing unit. By means of the test equipment according to the invention a large number of application conditions can be reproduced for any type of rotating device, in particular for suspension bearing units.

The test equipment can test a single rotating device and directly measure the friction torque of the device without the need to infer the friction torque from other parameters.

According to another feature of the invention which is advantageous but not obligatory, the following features are contemplated, alone or in combination:

The drive means includes a motor for setting the drive plate to rotate, a rod having a first end connected to the drive plate at a pivot connection and a second end connected at a pivot connection to the first end of a crank, the crank being connected to the first end of the crank. 1 It has a second end rotatably coupled to the support plate of the holder.

The first holder also includes a guide to which a first end of the support post is coupled via a coupling element with a pivot connection.

The guide includes at least one transverse rail, the coupling member being operable with the rail and capable of being fixed to the rail at different positions.

The support post is a spring-loaded strut at its second end for support against a bearing surface of the first rotatable element of the rotating device.

The support post includes at its second end a first adaptive element whose shape matches the bearing surface of the first element of the rotating device.

The first adaptive element is fixed to the second end of the support post by means of fastening means.

The second holder includes a second adaptive element fixed to a second element of the rotating device, the second adaptive element coupled to the first end of the shaft via a pivot connection. The second adaptive element comprises a first part fixed to the second element of the rotating device and a second part fixed to the first part of the shaft by a pivot connection, the first and second parts of the second adaptive element The parts are fastened to each other by fastening means.

The measuring unit comprises a tubular casing having a central bore and secured to the outer surface of the second plate outside the test chamber, the shaft passing through the plate and extending within the bore of the casing.

At least one rolling bearing is inserted between the bore of the casing and the shaft to support the rotating shaft.

The measuring unit comprises a measuring plate arranged within the casing, the measuring plate having a first side connected to a second end of the shaft via an Oldham coupling so that the shaft transmits torque to the measuring plate, The measuring plate and shaft have a shape that matches the Oldham coupling, and the measuring plate has a second side that operates with the torque sensor.

The second side of the measuring plate includes a protruding portion connected to the torque sensor.

A bearing unit is inserted between the second end of the shaft and the first surface of the measuring plate, the bearing unit comprising: a first ring fixed to the first surface of the measuring plate, a second ring fixed to the second end of the shaft It includes a ring and at least one row of rolling elements inserted between the rings, the row of rolling elements radially surrounding the Oldham coupling.

The rolling elements are balls.

The casing is located on opposite sides of the shaft and includes a free end closed by a cover (43).

The torque sensor also has load measurement means.

The measuring unit comprises means for temporary engagement between the cover and the casing, the cover being in contact with the torque sensor.

The means for temporary engagement comprises at least one screw extending into corresponding holes in the cover and casing.

The measuring unit comprises means for a temporary coupling between the measuring plate and the casing, wherein the measuring plate is fixed to the casing.

- The measuring plate comprises means for temporary engagement and at least one radially projecting part capable of cooperating with the casing.

- The casing includes one or more windows in which at least one radially protruding part of the measuring plate is received.

- The means for temporary coupling comprise a measuring plate and at least one screw extending into a corresponding hole in the casing.

- The first and second plates each contain a thickness of thermally insulating material on the inner surface of the test chamber.

- The test equipment comprises a support frame with side walls covered with a thickness of thermally insulating material on the inner surfaces within the test chamber.

- The test equipment includes means for temperature control inside the test chamber.

The invention will be better understood upon reading the following detailed description, which is given by way of example and not limitation of the invention.
It is explained with reference to the attached drawings.
Figure 1 is a front view of the testing equipment for a suspension bearing unit according to the invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the test equipment of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a detailed axial cross-sectional view of the suspension bearing unit within the test rig of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a perspective view showing in detail the driving means for the test equipment of Figure 1;
Figure 5 shows a detailed axial cross-section along II of the measuring unit of the test equipment of Figure 1;
Figure 6 shows a detailed axial cross-section along II-II of a first configuration of the measuring unit of Figure 5;
Figure 7 shows a detailed axial cross-section along II-II of a second configuration of the measuring unit of Figure 5;

1 and 2 show test equipment 1 for measuring the friction torque of a rotating device 2, in this case a suspension bearing unit. For the sake of detail and understanding of the drawings, the test rig 1 is shown without a holding frame that supports the test rig and secures it to the ground.

The test equipment (1) includes a first lower plate (3). The first plate (3) extends in a horizontal plane and is fixed to the frame of the testing equipment (1).

The test equipment (1) includes a second plate (4). The second plate (4) extends on a horizontal plane parallel to the first plate (3) and is capable of translational movement relative to the first plate (3).

The test equipment (1) comprises four tubular guides (5) fixed to a first plate (3) and a third upper plate (7) which is likewise fixed to the frame. The tubular guide 5 extends between the fixed first, lower plate 3 and the fixed third upper plate 7 along an axis perpendicular to the plates 3 , 4 , 7 . The tubular guide (5) passes through the second movable plate (4) and forms a guide for the translational movement of this plate (4).

The test equipment 1 also comprises a motion transmission mechanism 6 in the form of a known screw 8 which ensures a translational movement of the second plate 4 . The delivery mechanism (6) is advantageously fixed to the third plate (7). The second plate (4) is capable of translational movement between the first plate (3) and the third plate (7).

The test equipment (1) comprises a test chamber (9) formed between a fixed first plate (3) and a translationally movable second plate (4). A suspension bearing unit (2) for testing in the test equipment is accommodated in the test chamber (9).

In order to apply an axial load to the suspension bearing unit 2 tested in the test equipment 1, the second plate 4 can be translated, as detailed below. The second plate 4 remains fixed during the test process and is set to only move in translation during the steps of configuring and adjusting the test conditions.

Preferably, the first and second plates 3, 4 each include a thickness of the insulation material 3-1, 4-1 on the inner surface of the test chamber 9.

According to a variant not shown, the test equipment 1 comprises a support frame in the test chamber 9 with side walls similarly covered with a thickness of thermal insulation on the inner side. Accordingly, the test chamber 9 is thermally insulated. Preferably, the test equipment may also comprise means (not shown in the drawing) for temperature regulation inside the test chamber 9 in order to regulate the test temperature to reproduce the application conditions. It is also possible to provide means for monitoring the relative humidity inside the test chamber 9.

The test equipment 1 includes a driving means 10 fixed to a fixed first lower plate 3 and a first lower holder 11 rotatably coupled to the driving means 10. The test equipment 1 also includes a second translatable upper plate 4 and a second upper holder 13 coupled to the measuring unit 12 . The suspension bearing unit 2 to be tested in the testing equipment 1 is coupled to a first holder 11 on one side and fixed to a second side holder 13 on the other side.

Figure 3 shows the suspension bearing unit 2 mounted within the test chamber of the test equipment 1. The suspension bearing unit 2 presented in this embodiment is of the MacPherson type (“MacPherson suspension bearing unit” or “MSBU”).

The suspension bearing unit 2 comprises a single oblique-contact rolling bearing 14, a rotatable lower cup 15 and an upper cup 16. The suspension bearing unit 2 and its components have an overall shape that is axially symmetrical about the central axis X2. The cups 15, 16 together form an inner housing in which the rolling bearing 14 is accommodated. The suspension bearing unit 2 may advantageously comprise external and/or internal sealing means to ensure the tightness of the rolling bearing against external contamination.

In this embodiment, the rolling bearing 14 comprises an inner ring, an outer ring and a row of inclined contact rolling elements, in this case balls, arranged between the gears (not shown in the drawing). The rolling bearing 14 is preferably an inclined contact rolling bearing for limiting loads and friction within the suspension bearing unit 2 in use.

The lower cup 15 is rotatable about axis X2 and relative to the upper cup 16. The lower cup 15 is circular and includes a central tubular portion and a radial portion extending from the tubular portion towards the outside. The lower cup 15 forms a lower holder for the rolling bearing on the first upper axial side and a holder operable with the vehicle's strut springs on the second lower axial side.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first holder 11 of the test equipment 1 has an angle A17 with respect to the axis X2 of the suspension bearing unit 2 and extends along the axis X17 forming an inclination. Includes support posts (17). The support post 17 has a first lower end 17-1 coupled to the drive means 10 described in the following description and a first adaptation means 18 whose shape matches the lower surface of the lower cup 15. It includes a second upper end (17-2) with.

By means of the first adaptation means 18 of the support post 17 the structural and mechanical properties of the strut spring of the vehicle can be reproduced. The first adaptation means (18) is fixed to the support post (17) via at least one fastening screw (19). Accordingly, the first adaptation means 18 can be easily mounted on or removed from the support post 17 , in particular when replaced by a first adaptation means having a different shape suitable for the different suspension bearing units being tested.

Optionally, the support post may be replaced by a strut with a spring at its second end supported on the bearing surface of the first cup of the suspension bearing unit.

The upper cup 16 is circular around the axis X2 and forms an upper support for the rolling bearing 14. The upper cup 16 is generally fixed to the vehicle's suspension system, and the upper cup 16 is fixed to the vehicle's chassis. The suspension bearing unit 2 is mounted in the test equipment 1 so that the upper cup 16 is not fixed, and can transmit the friction torque generated by the oscillatory rotational movement of the lower cup 15.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second holder 13 of the test equipment 1 has a first lower end 20-1 coupled to the upper cup 16 of the suspension bearing unit 2 and a measuring unit described below ( It includes a shaft 20 having a second upper end 20-2 connected to 12). The second holder 13 also includes a second adaptation element 21 fixed to the upper cup 16 , which is connected to the first adaption element 21 of the shaft 20 via a pivot connection 22 . It is coupled to the end (20-1). Accordingly, the connection between shaft 20 and suspension bearing unit 2 can be adapted to any type of bearing unit and inclination of support post 17 tested.

Preferably, the second adaptation element 21 is coupled to the first end 20-1 of the shaft 20 via a pivot connection 22 and a lower part 21-1 fixed to the upper cup 16. It includes an upper part 21-2, and the two parts 21-1 and 21-2 are fixed to each other by a fixing screw 21-3. Accordingly, when the lower part 21-1 of the second adaptation means 21 is replaced by a second adaptation means with a different shape suitable in particular for the different suspension bearing units being tested, the upper part 21-2 and thus the shaft (20) It can be easily mounted or removed.

Optionally, the suspension bearing units may have different structural designs and the test equipment according to the invention is designed to accommodate and test all types of suspension bearing units. Specifically, the second end 17-2 of the support post 17 has a first adaptation element with a lower cup or the first end 20-1 of the shaft 20 has a second adaptation element with an upper cup. elements, the cups of which can be connected to the elements of the suspension bearing unit to be tested.

The first holder 11 includes a support post 17 with a first end 17-1 connected to the drive means 10 as shown in FIG. 4 .

The first holder 11 comprises a guide 23 to which the first end 17 - 1 of the support post 17 is coupled via a coupling element 24 with a pivot connection 25 . The guide 23 comprises two transverse rails 23-1, 23-2, and the coupling element 24 has a protrusion operable with the rails 23-1, 23-2. Including people. Once the coupling element 24 is positioned on the rails 23-1, 23-2 of the guide 23, the coupling element 24 is secured with fastening means (not shown in the drawing), for example screws, It is secured in the desired position by clamping means or any other temporary fixing means. Accordingly, the post 17 is coupled to the guide 23 so that the angle of inclination of the support post 17 is formed for one part relative to the suspension bearing unit 2 and for the other part relative to the guide 23. .

The first holder 11 also includes a support plate 26 rotatably connected to the drive means 10 . The guide 23 is fixed to the support plate 26 so as to move as one with the support plate 26 using suitable means, for example, screws. Accordingly, the post 17 is connected to the drive means 10 via a support plate 26 and a coupling element 24 mounted on a guide 23 which ensures that the post 17 is tilted.

The entire first holder 11 is mounted on the fixed lower plate 3 of the test equipment. The support plate 26 is driven by drive means 10 via a shaft (not shown in the drawing) passing through an opening provided in the plate 3.

Drive means 10 are shown in Figure 1 and include a motor 27 which sets the drive plate 28 to rotate about a rotation axis X28. The rod 29 has a first end coupled to the drive plate 28 at a pivot connection 30 and a second end connected to the first end of the crank 32 at a pivot connection 31 . The crank 32 has a second end rotatably connected to the support plate 26 of the first holder 11 via a shaft (not shown in the drawing) penetrating the lower plate 3.

In an embodiment of the invention, the drive means 10 is of the known rod-crank type and converts the rotary motion into an oscillatory motion around the rotary motion. The crank 32 transmits the oscillatory movement to the support plate 26 and, by a continuous connection, to the guide 23 with a coupling element 24 and a support post with first adaptation means 18. 17) and finally to the lower cup (15) of the suspension bearing unit (2), which is tested in the test equipment (1). By means of the test equipment 1 with the drive means 10, the movements of the suspension bearing unit 2 to be tested under application conditions can be reproduced.

The test equipment (1) includes a measuring unit (12) coupled to the upper cup (16) of the bearing unit (2) on the side opposite to the drive means (10) to which the lower cup (15) of the suspension bearing unit (2) is coupled. Includes.

More specifically, the upper cup 16 is connected to the measuring unit 12 via a second holder 13 comprising second adaptation means 21 coupled to the first end 20-1 of the shaft 20. is combined with The measuring unit 12 is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 .

The measuring unit 12 has a central bore 33-1 extending along the central axis X33 and comprises a tubular casing 33 fixed to the outer surface of a translatable second plate 4. The casing 33 preferably includes a radial lip 33-2, and a plurality of fixing screws 34 are provided through the lip 33-2 to be secured to the corresponding opening formed in the second plate 4. passes through the formed opening.

The second plate 4 also has a hole 4-2 through which the shaft 20 passes, the shaft 20 extending through the bore of the casing 33 along the axis X20 coinciding with the central axis X33. It extends within (33-1). Accordingly, the suspension bearing unit 2 is connected on one side by a shaft 20 to the measuring unit 12 inside the test chamber 9 and on the opposite side outside the test chamber 9 with a second plate 4 Can be mounted on top.

To support the rotational movement of the shaft 20, two rolling bearings 35 and 36 are inserted between the bore 33-1 of the casing 33 and the shaft 20. In this embodiment, the rolling bearings 35, 36 are comprised of an inner ring mounted in a clamped state on the outer cylindrical surface of the shaft 30, and an outer ring freely mounted on the inner cylindrical surface of the bore 33-1 of the casing 33. It comprises a ring 33 and a row of balls arranged between the rings, the inner ring being capable of producing a relative rotational movement with respect to the fixed outer ring. The shaft 20 includes a stepped outer surface 20-3, and the cylindrical surface on which the inner rings of the rolling bearings 35, 36 are mounted is the middle part of the shaft having an outer surface with a relatively large diameter. It is formed and mounted with a relatively small diameter. The rolling bearings 35, 36 are easily mounted by means of the shaft 20, which has a stepped outer surface 20-3. Protrusions are formed on the periphery of the shaft 20 to maintain the inner rings of the rolling bearings 35, 36 in the axial direction. Two support rings 37 and 38 are mounted on the shaft 20 in a fixed state to fix the inner rings of the rolling bearings 35 and 36 in the axial direction. A support ring 38 is mounted around the second end 20-2 of the shaft 20.

Preferably, the ring 37 is formed of an insulating material to avoid a thermal bridge between the test chamber 9 and the measuring unit 12 via the shaft 20 .

Alternatively, the rolling bearings may be of other types, such as plain bearings or rolling bearings with other types of rolling elements, such as cylindrical or conical rollers. Optionally, the casing may include a single rolling bearing or two or more rolling bearings to support the shaft.

Since the support post 17 forms an inclination with respect to the lower cup 15 of the suspension bearing unit 2 and the translatable second plate 4 exerts an axial load on the suspension bearing unit 2, the radius Directional loads occur within the suspension bearing unit (2) and in particular on the upper cup (16). The radial load applied to the shaft 20 by the upper cup 16 is transmitted to the casing 33 fixed to the second plate 4 through the rolling bearings 35 and 36. This arrangement constitutes means for filtering the radial forces so that they do not affect the measurement of friction torque within the measuring unit 12.

The measuring unit 12 also includes a measuring plate 39 arranged within the casing 33 .

The measuring plate 39 has a lower surface coupled to the second end 20-2 of the shaft 20 via an Oldham coupling 40 so that the shaft 20 only transmits torque to the measuring plate 39. do. The Oldham coupling is well known in the prior art, and the measuring plate 39 and shaft 20 have a shape that matches the Oldham coupling. More specifically, the lower surface of the measuring plate 39 includes a protrusion 39-1 extending in the first axial plane, and the second end 20-2 of the shaft 20 extends in the first axial direction. It comprises a protrusion 20-4 extending in a second axial plane perpendicular to the plane, and the Oldham coupling 40 has a groove and a groove for receiving the protrusion 39-1 of the measuring plate 39 at its upper surface. It includes a groove for receiving the protrusion 20-4 of the shaft 20 on the lower surface. When the lower cup 15 forms an oscillating rotational movement, the friction torque transmitted by the upper cup 16 of the suspension bearing unit 2 is transmitted to the shaft 20, and then to the Oldham coupling 40. It is transmitted to the measuring plate 39 through.

The measuring plate 39 operates with the torque sensor 41 and has its upper face on the side opposite from the lower face coupled to the Oldham coupling 40. The upper surface of the measuring plate 39 includes a protruding portion 39-3 connected to the torque sensor 41 by a plurality of fixing screws.

The ball bearing unit 42 is axially inserted between the measuring plate 39 and the shaft 20.

The bearing unit 42 includes an upper ring fixed to the lower surface of the measuring plate 39 by a set screw. The bearing unit 42 surrounds the Oldham coupling 40 in the radial direction. The bearing unit 42 is fixed to the second end 20-2 of the shaft 20 and, in more detail, has a lower ring fixed to the support ring 38 mounted on the end 20-2 of the shaft 20. Includes. Rolling Elements In this case, a row of balls is inserted axially between the upper and lower rings to form a bearing unit 42 rotating in a parallel radial plane about the axis X33. An axial load may be transmitted between the shaft 20 and the measuring plate 39 by the bearing unit 42.

Figure 6 shows a first configuration of mounting and operation of the test equipment 1, in particular the measuring unit 12.

The casing 33 is located on the side opposite from the shaft 20 and has a free end closed by a cover 43, which contacts the torque sensor 41 and the upper lip of the casing 33. . The casing 33 and the cover 43 are fixed to each other by fastening screws 44 fixed to the upper lip of the casing 33 and the opening formed through the cover 43.

Accordingly, the second plate 4 can apply an axial load to the suspension bearing unit 2 through the cover 43 fixed to the casing 33. The axial load is continuously transmitted from the second plate 4 to the casing 33, cover 43, torque sensor 41, measuring plate 39, and shaft 2 through the ball bearing unit 42. It is transmitted to the upper cup 16 of the suspension bearing unit 2 through the second holder 13. The rolling bearings 35, 36 are also freely mounted within the casing and do not affect the axial load.

Furthermore, in contrast to the second mounting configuration for the measuring unit 12 in FIG. 7 described below, the measuring plate 39 and the casing 33 are separated from each other and the fixing screws 42 are removed. Accordingly, the measuring plate 39 is free from deformation under the influence of the friction torque transmitted by the shaft 20 via the Oldham coupling 40.

Accordingly, the torque sensor 41 is connected to the suspension bearing unit 2. The drive means (10) provides an oscillatory rotational movement to the lower cup (15) of the suspension bearing unit (2) via the first holder (11). Friction torque is generated between the lower cup (15) and the upper cup (16). The friction torque is transmitted from the upper cup 16 to the second holder 13, in particular to the shaft 20 and via the Oldham coupling to the measuring plate 39. Accordingly, the torque sensor 41 measures friction torque through the measuring plate 39.

Preferably, the torque sensor 41 may also have load measuring means.

Figure 7 shows a second arrangement for mounting and operating the test equipment 1, in particular the measuring unit 12.

The measuring plate 39 includes a radial protruding portion 39-2. The casing 33 includes a window 33-3 in which the radial protrusion 39-2 of the measuring plate 39 is accommodated. The radial protrusion 39-2 is arranged axially on the radial lip 33-4 of the casing 33. The casing 33 and the measuring plate 39 are fixed to each other by fixing screws 45 fixed in the openings formed through the radial protrusions 39-2 and the lips 33-4.

Preferably, the measuring plate 39 may comprise a plurality of protruding portions 39-2, and the casing 33 may have a radial lip 33-4 for operating with the portions 39-2. It may include the same number of windows 33-3.

In the first mounting configuration for the measuring unit 12 shown in FIG. 6 , the measuring plate 39 and the casing 33 are separated from each other.

In this second mounting configuration of the measuring unit 12 , the measuring plate 39 is fixed to the casing 33 and thus to the second plate 4 . The second plate 4 remains fixed during the test process and is set to translate only during the configuration and adjustment stages of the test conditions. Accordingly, the measuring plate 39 is prevented from moving from the second mounting configuration. The friction torque transmitted to the measuring plate 39 by the shaft 20 through the Old Ham coupling 40 cannot be transmitted to the torque sensor 41.

Furthermore, in contrast to the first mounting configuration of the measuring unit 12 shown in FIG. 6 , the cover 43 and the casing 33 are separated from each other and the fixing screws 44 are removed.

The torque sensor 41 is not loaded by the measuring plate 39 and is not configured to measure the friction torque of the measuring plate 39.

On the other hand, the second plate 4 can apply an axial load to the suspension bearing unit 2 through the measuring plate 39 fixed to the casing 33. The axial load is continuously transmitted from the second plate 4 to the casing 33, measuring plate 39 and shaft 20 through the ball bearing unit 42 and to the suspension bearing through the second holder 13. It is delivered to the upper cup 16 of the unit 2.

On the other hand, the torque sensor 41 is separated from the suspension bearing unit 2. Commercially known torque sensors are not designed to operate continuously for long periods of time. This second mounting configuration makes it possible to carry out long-lasting durability tests on the suspension bearing unit 2 without having to use other test equipment or remove the measuring unit 12 . Coupling/disconnection of the measuring unit 12 is greatly simplified by mounting/removing fastening screws 44,45.

Therefore, for all types of suspension bearing units with conditions such as oscillatory movements, inclinations, axial and radial loads or even temperatures applied, the test equipment 1 is capable of measuring the friction torque in the first mounting configuration shown in FIG. Both measurements and durability testing can be performed in the second mounting configuration shown in FIG. 7.

It may be particularly desirable to provide a series of tests comprising a first measurement of the friction torque of the suspension bearing unit 2, a subsequent durability test and, at the end of the durability test, a measurement of the final friction torque. Intermediate measurements of friction torque may also be considered. All the above tests are made possible by the test equipment according to the invention with two possible configurations, and it is easier to move from one configuration to the other.

The invention regarding the measuring unit has been described as a non-limiting example of testing equipment for suspension bearing units. It will be understood that the measuring unit according to the invention can be implemented in any means for measuring the friction torque of a rotating device operating with the above application conditions, with or without load.

1......Test equipment,
2......Rotating device;
3......First plate,
4......Second plate,
9......Test chamber,
10......Drive means;
12......Measuring unit,
11......First holder,
15......rotatable element,
13......Second holder,
16......second element,
17......support post,
41......Sensor.

Claims (11)

As a test equipment (1) for measuring the friction torque of a rotating device (2),
- first plate (3),
- second plate (4),
- a test chamber (9) formed between the plates (3, 4),
- driving means (10) fixed to the first plate (3),
- a measuring unit (12) fixed to the second plate (4) and having a torque sensor (41) for measuring the friction torque,
- a first holder (11) rotatably coupled to the drive means (10), the first holder (11) being the first rotatable element of the rotation device (2) arranged in the test chamber (9) It is fixed at (15),
- a test equipment comprising a second holder (13) coupled to the measuring unit (12), the second holder (13) being fixed to the second element (16) of the rotating device (2),
- the first plate (3) is fixed and the second plate (4) is translated and moves towards or away from the first plate (3) so as to provide an axial load on the rotating device. can move,
- The first holder 11 includes a support plate 26 rotatably coupled to the driving means 10, a support post 17 on a central axis (X17), and a first end of the support post ( 17-1) is connected to the support plate 26 and the second end 17-2 of the support post is fixed to the first rotatable element 15 of the rotation device 2, on the support plate 26 The position of the first end 17-1 of the support post 17 forms a relative inclination of the central axis X17 of the support post 17 with respect to the central axis X2 of the first rotatable element 15. can be adjusted to
- the second holder 13 comprises a shaft 20, the first end 20-1 of which is coupled to the second element 16 of the rotating device 2, the second end of which (20-2) is a test equipment characterized in that it is connected to the sensor (41) to measure friction torque.
The method of claim 1, wherein the driving means (10) includes a motor (27) that sets the driving plate (28) to rotate, a first end connected to the driving plate (28) at a pivot connection (30), and a pivot connection (31). ) and a rod 29 having a second end connected to the first end of the crank 32, wherein the crank 32 is rotatably coupled to the support plate 26 of the first holder 11. A test equipment characterized by having a second end.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first holder (11) further comprises a guide (11) to which the first end (17-1) of the support post (17) is coupled via a coupling element (24) with a pivot connection (25). 23), wherein the guide 23 includes at least one transverse rail 23-1, 23-2, and the coupling element 24 includes the rail 23-1, 23-2. Test equipment, characterized in that it can operate with and be fixed to the rails (23-1, 23-2) in different positions.
The support post (17) according to claim 1, wherein the support post (17) has at its second end (17-2) a first adaptable element (18) whose shape matches the bearing surface of the first element (15) of the rotating device (2). Test equipment comprising:
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the second holder (13) comprises a second adaptable element (21) fixed to the second element (16) of the rotating device (2), the second adaptable element (21) Test equipment, characterized in that it is coupled to the first end (20-1) of the shaft (20) through a pivot connection (22).
6. The method of claim 5, wherein the measuring unit (12) has a central bore (33-1) and
It includes a tubular casing (33) fixed to the outer surface of the second plate (4) outside the test chamber (9), the shaft (20) passing through the plate (4) and the bore (33) of the casing (33). -1) Test equipment characterized in that it extends within.
The method of claim 6, wherein at least one rolling bearing (35, 36) is inserted between the bore (33-1) of the casing (33) and the shaft (20) to support the rotating shaft (20). test equipment.
7. The measuring unit (12) according to claim 6, wherein the measuring unit (12) comprises a measuring plate (39) arranged in the casing (33), the measuring plate (39) being connected to the shaft (20) via an Oldham coupling (40). The shaft 20 transmits torque to the measuring plate 39 by having a first surface connected to the second end 20-2 of the Oldham coupling. (40), wherein the measuring plate (39) has a second side that operates with a torque sensor (41).
The method of claim 8, wherein a bearing unit (42) is inserted between the second end (20-2) of the shaft (20) and the first face of the measuring plate (39), and the bearing unit (42) is A first ring fixed to the first surface of the plate 39, a second ring fixed to the second end 20-2 of the shaft 20 and a row of at least one rolling element inserted between the rings. ), wherein the row of rolling elements radially surrounds the Oldham coupling (40).
10. The measuring unit (12) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the casing (33) has a free end located on an opposite side of the shaft (20) and closed by a cover (43). ) includes means (44) for temporary coupling between the cover (43) and the casing (33), wherein the cover (43) is in contact with the torque sensor (41).
10. The measuring unit (12) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the measuring unit (12) comprises means (45) for a temporary coupling between the measuring plate (39) and the casing (33). is a test equipment characterized in that it is fixed to the casing (33).

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