Patent Application
20250091394
This application relates generally to wheel end temperature monitoring.
In the event of a failure associated with the wheel end, such as a bearing failure or brake failure, elements of the wheel end can reach high temperatures very quickly. Such high temperatures may cause tires and/or lubricant to ignite, resulting in wheel lock up or fire. Due to the intense heat caused by a wheel end failure, the wheel end may detach from the axle.
There remains a need for a system for monitoring the wheel end assembly temperature and collecting data on the temperature for immediate and long-term evaluation. Some systems for measuring wheel end assembly temperature may require complex installation of components. Moreover, the sensor systems may be difficult to maintain. For example, replacement or repair of damaged sensors may be difficult in situation wherein the sensor is installed through the axle. There remains a need for a system for monitoring wheel end assembly temperatures wherein system components may be efficiently installed, repaired, and replaced thereby reducing costs associated with maintenance and repair.
body.
In some embodiments, a wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel-end assembly mounted to an axle is described. The system may include a temperature sensor including a sensor head configured for mounting at a spindle section of an axle near or in the wheel end assembly, the sensor head being in a heat exchange relationship with a bearing or other component of the wheel-end assembly. The system may further include a transmitter disposed on the axle to which the wheel-end assembly is mounted, the transmitter being configured to receive a sensor signal from the temperature sensor indicative of a wheel-end temperature and transmit the signal to a receiver. A vehicle data acquisition module may be coupled to the receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive the sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature determined at the spindle. The vehicle data acquisition module may further include a display to provide a digital indication of the temperature and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with the temperature. The data acquisition module may further be configured to compare the detected temperature to a threshold temperature and to initiate one or more alarms if the temperature exceeds the threshold temperature. For example, the transmitter may be configured to send a high-temperature alert to a driver mobile device or fleet operator computer or other recipient by text message or email when the temperature sensor detects a temperature above a temperature threshold. The temperature threshold may be a temperature past which the wheel end is at risk of fire or failure of components, such as bearing seals.
It is an objective of some embodiments herein to provide diagnostic information pertaining to the temperature of a wheel end assembly to a system user. For example, one or more alerts or alarm faults may be initiated when one or more wheel-end assembly components reach a threshold temperature or other threshold condition. Systems herein may further identify characteristics of wheel end temperature associated with one or more alerts or alarm faults. For example, systems herein may be used to readily identify a particular wheel-end assembly initiating a fault, such as using an in-cab display included in a data acquisition module. Data acquisition modules herein may further provide an accurate digital reading of a measured temperature of the wheel end of a vehicle or component parts thereof. In some embodiments, a plurality of temperature measurements may be made using temperature probes mounted at different positions within a wheel-end assembly of a vehicle. Such information may provide for a reliable warning of a high temperature condition. Additionally, diagnostic information may be accessed by a user and used to help diagnose whether any vehicle components may be damage, should any such damage have occurred.
It is an objective of some embodiments herein to provide for an accurate measurement of temperature of components of a wheel-end assembly of a vehicle. In some of those embodiments, a sensor head of a an electrical temperature sensor may be positioned in contact with a component of a wheel-end assembly of a vehicle. The sensor head may route an electrical signal generated therein to circuitry of the sensor positioned away from or external to the wheel-end assembly. The electrical signal and a reference signal may then be used to generate a digital signal indicative of temperature. In some embodiments, more than one sensing heads may be positioned on or near more than one component or region of a wheel-end assembly of a vehicle. For example, each of a first sensor and a second sensor may be positioned within a wheel-end assembly of a vehicle. At least one of the first and second sensors may include a sensor head in a heat exchange relationship with the bearings of a wheel-end assembly.
As may be seen in
The vehicle 100 may be provided with a pressurized air supply (not shown) used to provide pressurized air to an optional automatic tire inflation system (indicated with air hoses 112). The high-temperature warning system (shown in more detail in
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As may be seen in the embodiment of
In the embodiment shown in
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In some embodiments, sensors as described herein may include a plurality of parts. For example, a sensor may comprise two main component parts so that the sensor may sometimes be referred to as a two-piece sensor. For example,
Notably, it may be relatively easy to mount the first subunit 502 during initial stages of installation of a temperature warning system (e.g., before a spindle plug 9 or mounting plate is secured in place) but more difficult to replace the first subunit 502 after the spindle plug is secured in place. In some embodiments, under normal vehicle operation, the first subunit 502 may, generally, not need to be replaced or may only need to be replaced infrequently or if damaged. The second subunit 504 may, for example, include parts of the sensor that may be subject to replacement or that may be broken off or dislodged during vehicle assembly. Thus, two-piece or other sensors as described herein may generally serve as a convenient platform facilitating ease of installation, repair, and maintenance of sensor components of a wheel end temperature warning system.
In some embodiments, the second subunit 504 may be mounted to the base 506 using threads. Alternatively, the second subunit 504 may be mounted to the base 506 using other components or means. For example, the second subunit 504 may be mounted to the base 506 using connectors that couple together through an interference fit (e.g., where a lip on one subunit 502, 504 engages with a rim including a flange or ridge of the other subunit 502, 504) or the second subunit 504 and base 506 may couple together using other suitable means or connectors. In some embodiments, the second subunit 504 may be mounted to the base 506 through a snap-fit connection. Generally, first subunit 502 may also provide structure for securing the sensor 500 in place and for positioning a sensing head at a desired location for temperature sensing. For example, in the embodiment shown in
As shown in
As shown in
In some embodiments, either or both of the first subunit 502 and the second subunit 504 may be provided, respectively, with removable protective caps 530, 532. As further described herein (see method 550 for installing the sensor 500), protective caps 530, 532 may be useful for protecting various internal components of the subunits 502, 504 during installation of a high temperature warning system. For example,
In some embodiments, second subunit 504 may include a rechargeable battery. For example, as shown in
A temperature sensor 14, 500 may monitor the local temperature of a component to which the sensor is attached. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may contain more than one sensing head or probe. Thus, each of a plurality of sensing heads or probes may be inserted into an associated component for temperature monitoring. The temperature sensor may then monitor the internal temperature or adjacent temperature of more than one component or associated regions of a wheel end so as to provide a more accurate temperature profile of a desired region. For example, a difference in temperature between two or more components of a wheel end may provide for sensitive detection of a fault condition or otherwise serve other diagnostic functions, such as to indicate that one or more sensors or probes of a sensor may be damaged and need to be replaced.
The system 1 may include a transmitter 16 electrically coupled to the temperature sensor 14 (or alternatively to the sensor 500). Such coupling may be wired or wireless and may permit communication of a temperature signal from the temperature sensor to the transmitter 16. For example, a wired connection between the transmitter 16 and the temperature sensor 14, 500 may be used when the transmitter 16 is attached to the axle 12, or other suitable locations. Where a wireless link is established between the transmitter 16 and temperature sensor 14, 500 the transmitter may be located near but outside of a wheel-end assembly, such as on the axle or another suitable location of a vehicle frame. In some embodiments, a transmitter 16 may be integrally linked to the temperature sensor 14, 500 such as included in a common housing together with other components of the temperature sensor 14, 500. For example, in some embodiments, a transmitter 16 may be included in either of first subunit 502 or second subunit 504. The transmitter 16 may be disposed on the axle 12 at a distance from the wheel-end assembly 2 such that heat generated therein does not pose a hazard to the electronics or housing of the transmitter 16, thus avoiding potential damage from high wheel-end temperatures, mechanical impact and lubricants. In some embodiments, the pair of wires 23 may be sized in length so as to enable positioning of the reference junction 26 at a suitable distance from the sensor head 25. For example, either or both of a reference junction 26 and voltage measurement circuitry (e.g., voltmeter 27) may be positioned in either of the first subunit 502 or second subunit 504 and positioned at a distance from the wheel-end assembly 2, such as on axle 12. The transmitter 16 may, for example, be coupled to the axle 12 through a tapped hole in the axle or at or near the mid-point of a non-tapped bore into the axle.
While a threaded connection may be preferred for connecting the sensor 14, 500 and transmitter 16 to the spindle and axle, other means of mechanically joining the components may be utilized. Welding, gluing, and strapping are some examples of possible coupling methods other than a threaded connection. For example, in some embodiments, a sensor head 25, 525 may be attached to a wall of the spindle section 10 via a threaded connection and in some situations additionally glued or fixed therein so that a sensing junction of the head 25 is in intimate contact with the wall of the spindle section 10. Such a connection may help to ensure that the sensor head 25, 525 and thermo-electric junction or other sensor modality included therein are in a heat exchange relationship with the bearings 6 or other component of the wheel-end assembly.
The transmitter 16 may be able to send collected signal data to a data acquisition module 19 of a wheel end high-temperature warning system. In some embodiments, the data acquisition module 19 may be part of another vehicle data collection and/or processing system, such as a processing module for a tire inflation system. By way of nonlimiting example, a data collection module 19 may be part of another data processing or collection system such as a tire pressure monitoring system, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a telematics system, or other onboard or attached vehicle system. Likewise, the transmitter 16 may also be shared among two or more different data collection systems. In some embodiments, a transmitter 16 may include a processor, such as may include one or more memory buffers. The processor may, at least temporarily, store data from signals received from different vehicle systems and selectively send signals in a desired manner as may be needed for further processing. Such a processor may be programmed to direct transmission of temperature signal data at a predetermined rate or frequency. And, in some embodiments, that rate or frequency of transmission of temperature signal data may be adjusted based on characteristics of one or more input signals. For example, if a temperature signal is received from a temperature sensor 14, 500 and the signal indicates that one or more wheel end components may be near a temperature limit, a rate of data transmission may be adjusted. To that aim, a processor included in the transmitter 16 may be capable of performing at least a rudimentary analysis of signals to compare the signals to one or more specification limits. Accordingly, if a wheel-end assembly is within acceptable boundaries (e.g., within normal specification limits for vehicle operation) temperature data may be transmitted to the data acquisition module 19 at a low rate. If signal changes to indicate that the temperature of a wheel-end assembly may be closer to an alarm threshold, a rate of data transmission may be increased.
In some embodiments, either or both of receiver 15 and/or transmitter 16 may be configured for two-way communication. For example, receiver 15 may be readily accessed by the data acquisition module 19, which may include a more sophisticated processor for analysis of temperature data. Data acquisition module 19 may be configured to send a signal using receiver 15 (if appropriately configured for two-way communication) to instruct appropriately configured transmitter 16 to increase or decrease a rate of signal transmission. Thus, signal data may be selectively transmitted when one or more fault conditions may be most likely. Accordingly, energy used in transmission of signal data may be conserved.
In some embodiments, the transmitter 16 may have an internal power supply. Such a power supply may be a battery, dynamo, or other energy storage or energy producing device. The transmitter may communicate with the data collection system through a wireless protocol and methodology. Alternately, the transmitter may be powered by a separate power source through a wired connection. For example, the transmitter 16 may be connected to the vehicle main electrical system or other vehicle sub-system to power the transmitter. Such sub-system may include but not be limited to an ABS, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), or other powered subsystem.
An example of such a transmitter 16 may be a sensor-transmitter package from a TPMS that is adapted to collect the thermal data from the wheel end temperature sensor 14, 500. The adaptation may include the TPMS sensor package being reconfigured to accept temperature data rather than pressure data or the TPMS transmitter package may be reconfigured to accept both temperature and pressure data. Such a temperature adapted TPMS sensor may collect the temperature data and display the data, transmit the data to another module, or both display and transmit the data.
The temperature sensor 14, 500 and transmitter 16 may be in communication with one another by means of a wired connection 22. For example, wired connection 22 may comprise the pair of wires 23 or another connection may be used. For example, as described above, the wired connection 22 may comprise a pair of wires 23 protected by a suitable protective sheathe 21 and routed through the interior of the spindle 10 and to axle 12. The protective sheath may, for example, be a steel-braided protective sheath.
In a further embodiment, as shown in
In other embodiments, multiple temperature sensors may be coupled to a single transmitter. The transmitter may be configured to discriminate among multiple temperature sensor signals. Thus, if one of the multiple temperature sensors detects a high local temperature, the transmitter may transmit just the signal from that temperature sensor. In other embodiments, the transmitter may send signals from all of the multiple temperature sensors, and the receiving system may determine which temperature sensor has provided the high temperature signal. More than one temperature sensor may be placed in a wheel-end assembly. In some embodiments, a temperature fault may further be initiated based on a threshold difference in temperature between two or more sensors, a threshold rate of change of temperature for one or more sensor, or both.
Although not limited to use with fixed axles, the previous embodiments focused on a temperature monitoring system for a fixed axle. However, systems herein may generally be applied to either of a fixed or a steer axle, as described in the following embodiments described in relation to
Referring to
The outer bearings 178 may be retained by a spindle nut 160. A washer 162 may be mounted may between the spindle nut 160 and outer bearing 178. A cotter pin may be inserted through a receiving hole in the end of the wheel spindle so as to prevent the spindle nut 160 from becoming unscrewed. The spindle 154 may be pivotably mounted to the steer axle 114 via a knuckle post assembly (not shown). A hub cap (not shown) may be mounted to the hub so as to generally seal the bearings 158 and 178 from debris and prevent the loss of lubricant.
As shown in
In some embodiments, a temperature sensor 256 may be directly disposed at the interior face 254 of the spindle 154 such as in
The disposition of the temperature sensor 256 may allow for the collection of direct thermal data pertaining to the spindle 154 and indirect thermal data for adjacent wheel end components. A temperature sensor 256 may be in wired communication with a transmitter (not shown) disposed on the axle as in previous embodiments. A wire 176 may be routed from the sensor to the transmitter through or around the knuckle post assembly and then the axle or other suitable routing path. In other embodiments, a sensor 256 may be in wireless communication with a transmitter or a data collection module elsewhere on the vehicle.
In some embodiments, a steer axle temperature monitoring system may have a plurality of temperature sensors disposed at the spindle as seen in
The transmitter may be configured to send a high-temperature alert to a driver mobile device or fleet operator computer or other recipient by text message or email when the temperature sensor detects a temperature above a temperature threshold. The temperature threshold may be a temperature past which the wheel end might risk fire or melting of components, such as bearing seals. In other embodiments, a high-temperature warning system may receive temperature data from the transmitter, and may send such an alert to a driver or fleet operator. The high-temperature warning system may be configurable to provide more than one temperature threshold, depending on how many and where sensors are used for a wheel-end. In yet other embodiments, the transmitter may trigger an in-cab alert (such as a sound, light, or message) if a dangerously high temperature is detected. The transmitter may be in communication with other components of a high-temperature warning system through wired or wireless connection. Any suitable wireless network may be used to send an alert. In some embodiments, the transmitter may be a client device in a client-server network architecture, or may send temperature data to a client and/or server where such a network architecture is used for a high-temperature warning system. In some embodiments, the transmitter may be configurable to recognize and adopt communication with one or more transducers, and to receive adjustable temperature warning threshold settings for each transducer. Each transducer may be individually coded to permit a high-temperature warning system to identify and depict on a graphical user interface the vehicle location and temperature reading of each transducer.
In further embodiments, a steer axle temperature monitoring system may have a plurality of temperature sensors disposed in the spindle as seen in
In yet another embodiment, a steer axle temperature monitoring system may have a plurality of temperature sensors disposed at the spindle as seen in
Use of multiple sensors may permit calculation of a temperature gradient between sensors, and allow detection of the location and spread of high temperatures throughout the wheel end assembly.
For embodiments wherein the wire is routed internally through the spindle, the wire may exit the body of the spindle at any point and then access a transmitter on the axle by means of cross-drilling the spindle as in the embodiment of
In some embodiments, as seen in
The transmitter 30 may couple to an axle and be so disposed as prevent interference with other wheel end components. For example, the transmitter 30 may be located about 30 inches from the temperature sensor 28. In some embodiments, the transmitter 30 may be located about 25 inches to about 40 inches from the transmitter or at the axe endpoint, approximately. Such a location may avoid interference with other vehicle components and provide a location sufficiently free from electronical or other interference for wireless communication between the transmitter 30 and any data collection systems of the vehicle. Alternately, the transmitter 30 may accept a wired connection to vehicle data collection systems. Such a wired connection may be realized through the use of a Deutsch connector (or other connector switchable for automotive use) at the transmitter to provide environmental protection for the wired connection point. Or, the sensor 28 may be connected to a vehicle data collection system using a suitably weather tight connector.
The transmitter assembly 30 may be an electronic device housed inside a protective body 34 with the body maintaining a mating lug 36 at the lower face of the body. Such a lug 36 may have a central passage through the lug so as to allow a wire 32 to pass from the electronic portion of the transmitter 30 for connection to the associated sensor head 28. The lug may also have a faceted portion or washer 38 integrated into the lug 36 at the upper portion of the lug, such as where the lug 36 joins the protective body 34 of the transmitter assembly 30. Such a washer 38 may provide an appropriate section of the overall transmitter assembly 30 at which torque may be applied via a tool such as a wrench. Additionally, the protective body 34 of the transmitter 30 may maintain a circumferential pattern of indentations 40. Such indentations 40 may allow a user to readily and adequately apply torque to the transmitter assembly 30 without the use of a tool. As in other embodiments, the transmitter assembly 30 may house a second temperature sensor or be adapted for use with a plurality of sensor heads.
Both sensor head 28 and transmitter assembly 30 may be coupled to their respective section of the vehicle by means of a threaded connection. For example, the sensor may be a thermocouple that threads into a port on a plug or spindle face, as the case may be, while the transmitter body maintains a threaded lug that mates to a port in the axle. Additionally, both sensor head 28 and transmitter assembly 30 may be sealed so as to provide environmental protection for the electronic electrically sensitive components or elements of each.
In another embodiment, the temperature sensor 256 may be disposed inside of a hubcap 42. The sensor may be located at the interior face of the hubcap of the outboard wall 44 of the hubcap as in
In yet another embodiment, as seen in
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A unitary design is illustrated in
As shown at step 552, components of a sensor for a high temperature warning system may be provided for installation. For example, the first subunit 502 of the sensor 500 may be provided for installation. Notably, the first subunit 502 may be provided for installation before the second subunit 504 is needed. Installation of the first subunit 502 (see steps 552-560) may generally be executed at any of various stages of manufacture of a vehicle or installation of a high temperature warning system and may proceed without requiring the second subunit 504. For example, generally the first subunit 502 may be installed on an axle before the axle is otherwise used in trailer assembly and before the axle is sealed. Thus, generally, the second subunit 504 may be provided along with the first subunit 502 at step 552. However, the second subunit 504 may also be provided, as needed, at later steps of the method 550, such as at step 562, for example. Each of the first subunit 502 and the second subunit 504 may be provided with respective caps 530, 532 mounted thereto. The sensor 500 may, for example, be used with a press plug 90 with an associated cap screw 92 as shown in
As shown at step 554, the first subunit 502 may be prepared for installation and fed through a predrilled hole (e.g., a ¼ inch National Standard Pipe Thread (NPT) hole 410 as shown in
As shown at step 556, the base 506 of first subunit 502 may then be secured to the axle 12. In some embodiments, threads 510 of the base 506 may be used to screw the first subunit 502 to the tapped hole 410 of axle 12. The base 506 may be screwed in place using an appropriate amount of force, such as about 23 foot pounds to about 28 foot pounds of force, for example. In some embodiments, the first subunit 502 may be secured to the axle 12 in some other suitable ways. For example, in some embodiments, the base 506 may be welded, glued, epoxied, or bolted to the axle 12 so as to secure the base 506 to the axle 12 and maintain pressure in the axle 12 if needed.
As shown at step 558, sensor head 525 may then be secured to a desired wheel end component. For example, in some embodiments, the connector 517 embodied in the form of a ring eyelet may be connected to the press plug 90 using the cap screw 92. Generally, the connector 517 may be secure thereto so as to achieve thermal contact from the press plug 90 to the connector 517 and to the temperature sensing head 525 of the sensor 500. For example, a technician may apply thread lock material on the cap screw 92, then loosely secure the ring eyelet (connector 517) to the press plug 90. As shown in
As shown at step 560, the plug 90 may then be secured at the end of the spindle 154. For example, retaining compound may be applied to the plug 90 and the plug may be fixedly secured to the spindle 154. Notably, at this stage of the method of installation 550, the second subunit 504 of the sensor has not yet been installed. The base 506 may generally remain capped and protected throughout installation up to this point. Likewise, the first subunit 502 may also remain protected and capped during any additional or intermediate stages of work on the vehicle or the wheel end. For example, in some embodiments, the now sealed axle with the first subunit 502 installed thereto may be shipped to a trailer assembler so that it may be coupled to a trailer box or cargo carrying (e.g., flat bed) components of the trailer. Electrical components of the second subunit 504 need not to be shipped together with the axle. Thus, they may, for example, be delivered separately and more securely for further assembly. Likewise, the second subunit 504 (not yet installed on the axle) will not be at risk of damage in other intermediate operations involving the axle. For example, at this stage of assembly, brake line components may still need to be coupled to the axle. This may be done before installation of the second subunit 504 to the axle and with the first subunit 502 safely installed thereto and capped for safety. Importantly, only when needed, the cap 530 may be removed from the base 506. For example, at step 562, the respective caps 530, 532 may be removed from each of the first subunit 502 and the second subunit 504 and the second subunit 504 may be coupled to the base 506.
Once the sensor 500 is installed it may be paired with associated data acquisition components of a high temperature warning system so that sensor data may be analyzed and displayed. For example, data collected by the sensor 500 may be displayed using the data display 600 or another suitable display. For example, in some embodiments, data collected from a sensor 500 associated with a particular wheel end may be displayed using the display unit 650, shown in
A method 700 for pairing a sensor located at a particular wheel end to a data acquisition system and display unit 600, 650 is shown in
As shown at step 704, the user may then activate the sensor 500 for input of a unique sensor code to the data acquisition system. In some embodiments, the user may activate the sensor 500 by placing a magnet on or near the sensor 500. Once activated the user may touch the sensor to the display unit (e.g., touching the sensor to the bottom of the display unit). For example,
While the preceding embodiments disclose a single or double temperature sensor arrangement, a plurality of sensors may be employed such that any particular area or component of the wheel end, wherein the capture of temperature data is of benefit, may have a sensor disposed at the desired location.
While some embodiments disclosed use of a thermocouple as a temperature sensor, other electrical temperature sensors may also be utilized. Such other types of sensors may include, but not be limited to, thermistors, resistance temperature detectors such as resistance thermometers silicon bandgap temperature sensors, and other temperature detection modalities or methodologies as may be known to one skilled in the art. The temperature sensors may be of contact or non-contact modalities.
In any or all of the above embodiments, the temperature sensor may be combined with or co-located within a rotary union. As many thermocouples have a probe extension on the thermocouple and many rotary unions rely on a stator that passes through the body to which the rotary union is attached, the probe and stator may be unified into a single body or a temperature probe may be attached to the stator. Alternately, a combined thermocouple and rotary union may be interdisposed such that the probe of the thermocouple passes through the center opening of the rotary union.
The inflation manifold may thus be variously embodied, and wheel end assemblies may thus be variously formed, as described in the following clauses:
Clause 1. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel-end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor including a sensor head configured for mounting within a spindle section of said axle near the wheel end assembly, the sensor head being in a heat exchange relationship with one or more bearings of the wheel-end assembly; a transmitter disposed on the axle to which the wheel-end assembly is mounted, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor indicative of a wheel-end temperature, and transmit the signal to a receiver; and a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature of the spindle; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature; and the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature to a threshold temperature and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature.
Clause 2. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1, said sensor head being mounted to any of a wall of the spindle section of the axle, an outboard end of the spindle section of the axle, a pressure barrier plug sealing the axle, or a mounting plate disposed in the axle.
Clause 3. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple including a pair of wires sized in length to route a thermo-electric signal generated at said sensor head to a thermocouple reference junction, the reference junction being positioned out of heat exchange relationship with said wheel-end assembly.
Clause 4. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 3, the temperature sensor comprising a steel-braided protective sheath substantially enclosing the pair of wires, the steel-braided protective sheath extending between said sensor head and said reference junction.
Clause 5. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of claim 4, said reference junction being coupled to a voltmeter, said voltmeter positioned adjacent said transmitter and mounted to said axle.
Clause 6. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple, a reference junction, and a voltmeter; said voltmeter and said transmitter included in a common housing and mounted to said axle.
Clause 7. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1, said sensor head being disposed adjacent the centerline of an outer spindle end of said spindle.
Clause 8. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1 further comprising a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor configured to provide at least one second sensor signal, the at least one second sensor signal related to a temperature of one or more of a hub, hub lugs, brake system body, or hubcap of a vehicle.
Clause 9. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 8 said data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on whether one or more of said first sensor signal and/or said at least one second sensor signal indicates that a wheel-end temperature exceeds a temperature threshold.
Clause 10. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 8, the data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on a difference in temperature measured between said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor.
Clause 11. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1, the data acquisition system further programmed to display a tire inflation pressure.
Clause 12. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 1, said axle being a fixed axle.
Clause 13. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor including a sensor head configured for mounting within a wheel-end assembly of the axle, the sensor head in a heat exchange relationship with one or more bearings or brake components of the wheel-end assembly; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor indicative of a wheel-end temperature and to transmit the first sensor signal to a receiver; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature to a threshold temperature and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature.
Clause 14. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, said sensor head being mounted to either of a wall of a spindle section of said axle, an outboard spindle end, a pressure barrier plug, or a mounting plate, a hub, hub lugs, a brake system component, or a hubcap.
Clause 15. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple including a pair of wires, said pair of wires sized in length to route a thermo-electric signal generated at said sensor head to a thermocouple reference junction, the reference junction being positioned outside of said wheel-end assembly.
Clause 16. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, the temperature sensor comprising a steel-braided protective sheath substantially enclosing the wires, the steel-braided protective sheath extending between said sensor head and said reference junction.
Clause 17. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 16, said reference junction block being coupled to a voltmeter, said voltmeter positioned adjacent said transmitter and mounted externally to the wheel-end assembly.
Clause 18. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple including a pair of wires, a reference junction, and a voltmeter; said voltmeter and said transmitter included in a common housing and mounted externally to the wheel-end assembly.
Clause 19. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, said sensor head being disposed adjacent the centerline of an outer spindle face of a spindle.
Clause 20. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13 further comprising a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor configured to provide at least one second sensor signal.
Clause 21. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 20 said data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on whether one or more of said first sensor signal and/or said at least one second sensor signal indicates that a wheel-end temperature exceeds a temperature threshold.
Clause 22. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 20, the data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on a difference in temperature measured between said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor.
Clause 23. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause
13, the data acquisition system further programmed to display a tire inflation pressure.
Clause 24. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, said axle being a fixed axle or a steer axle.
Clause 25. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, the transmitter being disposed on one or more of the axles or on a vehicle frame.
Clause 26. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 13, said axle being either of a fixed axle or a steer axle.
Clause 27. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to a steer axle, the system comprising a mounting block disposed on the inboard face of a spindle within a space between said spindle and the steer axle; a first temperature sensor mounted within said mounting block, the sensor head in a heat exchange relationship with one or more bearings of the wheel-end assembly; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor indicative of a wheel-end temperature and to transmit the first sensor signal to a receiver; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature to a threshold temperature and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature.
Clause 28. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 27, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple said pair of wires sized in length to route a thermoelectric signal generated at said sensor head to a reference junction, the reference junction being positioned outside of said wheel-end assembly.
Clause 29. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 27, the temperature sensor comprising a steel-braided protective sheath substantially enclosing the wires, the steel-braided protective sheath extending between said sensor head and said reference junction.
Clause 30. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 29, said reference junction being coupled to a voltmeter, said voltmeter positioned adjacent said transmitter and mounted externally to the wheel-end assembly.
Clause 31. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 27, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple, a reference junction, and a voltmeter; said voltmeter and said transmitter included in a common housing and mounted externally to the wheel-end assembly.
Clause 32. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 27 further comprising a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor configured to provide at least one second sensor signal.
Clause 33. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 32 said data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on whether one or more of said first sensor signal and/or said at least one second sensor signal indicates that a wheel-end temperature exceeds a temperature threshold.
Clause 34. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 33, the data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on a difference in temperature measured between said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor.
Clause 35. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 27, the data acquisition system further programmed to display a tire inflation pressure.
Clause 36. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 27, the transmitter being disposed on said steer axle.
Clause 37. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to a steer axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor mounted in a spindle of said wheel end assembly; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor indicative of a wheel-end temperature and to transmit the first sensor signal to a receiver; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature to a threshold temperature and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature.
Clause 38. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 37, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple including a pair of wires, said pair of wires sized in length to route a thermo-electric signal generated at said sensor head to a reference junction, the reference junction being positioned outside of said wheel-end assembly.
Clause 39. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 37, the temperature sensor comprising a steel-braided protective sheath substantially enclosing the wires, the steel-braided protective sheath extending between said sensor head and said reference junction.
Clause 40. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 39, said reference junction being coupled to a voltmeter, said voltmeter positioned adjacent said transmitter and mounted externally to the wheel-end assembly.
Clause 41. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 37, the temperature sensor being a thermocouple including a pair of wires, a reference junction block, and a voltmeter; said voltmeter and said transmitter included in a common housing and mounted externally to the wheel-end assembly.
Clause 42. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 37 further comprising a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor configured to provide at least one second sensor signal.
Clause 43. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 42 said data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on whether one or more of said first sensor signal and/or said at least one second sensor signal indicates that a wheel-end temperature exceeds a temperature threshold.
Clause 44. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 43, the data acquisition system programmed to generate one or more system alerts based on a difference in temperature measured between said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor.
Clause 45. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 37, the data acquisition system further programmed to display a tire inflation pressure.
Clause 46. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause
37, the transmitter being disposed on said steer axle.
Clause 47. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of any of clauses 37-47, the first temperature sensor being mounted to an exterior face of the spindle.
Clause 48. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of any of clauses 37-47, the first temperature sensor being mounted to the spindle, the first temperature sensor being routed through the spindle through a channel cross drilled in the spindle.
Clause 49. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of any of clauses 37-47, the first temperature sensor being mounted to the spindle, the first temperature sensor being routed through a mid-body wall of the spindle.
Clause 50. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor including a sensor head configured for mounting within said wheel end assembly, the sensor head in a heat exchange relationship with one or more bearings of the wheel-end assembly; a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor configured to collect a second sensor signal; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor and said second sensor signal, the transmitter configured for transmitting the first sensor signal and second sensor signal to a receiver; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and said second sensor signal and process the signals to determine each of a first temperature value measured by the first temperature signal and a second temperature value measured by the second temperature signal; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said first temperature and said second temperature and to identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with the first and the second temperatures; the data acquisition module further configured to compare one or more of said first temperature and said second temperature to one or more threshold temperatures and to initiate one or more alarms based thereof.
Clause 51. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 50, said first temperature sensor being disposed at or through the outboard end of a spindle and said second temperature sensor being disposed at a mounting block on the inboard face of the spindle.
Clause 52. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 51, the data acquisition system being programmed to determine a difference in temperature measured by said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said difference to one or more thresholds and to initiate one or more alarms based thereof.
Clause 53. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 51, further including a wire disposed through the interior of the spindle body, the wire connecting the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensors.
Clause 54. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 51, said first temperature sensor being disposed in a spindle of said wheel-end assembly and said second temperature sensor being disposed through a mid-body wall of the spindle.
Clause 55. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 54, further including a wire connecting the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensors.
Clause 56. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor including a sensor head configured for mounting at a first position within said wheel end assembly, the sensor head in a heat exchange relationship with a bearing of the wheel- end assembly; a second temperature sensor, the second temperature sensor configured to collect a second sensor signal from a second position in the wheel-end assembly; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor and to receive said second sensor signal, the transmitter configured for transmitting signal data derived from one or more of said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to determine a difference in temperature measured by said first temperature sensor and said second temperature sensor; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said difference to one or more thresholds and to initiate one or more alarms based thereof.
Clause 57. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 56, said vehicle data acquisition module configured for calculating a temperature gradient between the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor.
Clause 58. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor disposed at or near said wheel-end assembly, the first temperature sensor in a heat exchange relationship with a bearing of said wheel-end assembly; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive a first sensor signal from the first temperature sensor indicative of a wheel-end temperature and to transmit the first sensor signal to a receiver; said first temperature sensor being mounted to either of the outboard end of the spindle or a plug mounted within the spindle; said transmitter being mounted on an axle and located at a distance from the wheel-end assembly to avoid interference with one or more other vehicle transmitters.
Clause 59. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 58, the transmitter being located about 25 inches to about 40 inches from the first temperature sensor.
Clause 60. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor disposed within said wheel-end assembly, the first temperature sensor in a heat exchange relationship with a bearing of said wheel-end assembly; said first temperature sensor being mounted to either of the outboard face of the spindle or a plug mounted within the spindle; said first temperature sensor being in wired communication with a vehicle data acquisition module through the use of a weather-tight electrical connector.
Clause 61. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor disposed on or within a hubcap of said wheel-end assembly and configured to collect a first sensor signal; a transmitter disposed externally to the wheel end assembly, the transmitter being configured to receive said first sensor signal via a wired connection and to transmit the first sensor signal to a receiver; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature value for the wheel-end assembly; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature value and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature value; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature value to a threshold temperature value and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature value.
Clause 62. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 61, the first temperature sensor being mounted to either of the interior face of an outboard wall of the hubcap or an interior face of a side wall of the hubcap.
Clause 63. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor disposed on or within a hubcap of said wheel-end assembly and configured to collect a first sensor signal; a transmitter disposed on said hubcap, the transmitter being configured to receive said first sensor signal via a wired connection and to transmit the first sensor signal to a receiver; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature value for the wheel-end assembly; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature value and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature value; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature value to a threshold temperature value and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature value.
Clause 64. The wheel end high-temperature warning system of clause 63, the first temperature sensor being mounted to either of the interior face of an outboard wall of the hubcap or an interior face of a side wall of the hubcap.
Clause 65. A wheel end high-temperature warning system for a vehicle having a wheel end assembly mounted to an axle, the system comprising a first temperature sensor disposed on or within said wheel-end assembly and configured to collect a first sensor signal; said first temperature sensor being in wired communication with a vehicle data acquisition module through the use of a automotive electrical connector; a vehicle data acquisition module coupled to said receiver, the data acquisition system being programmed to receive said first sensor signal and process the signal to determine a temperature of the spindle; the vehicle data acquisition module further including a display to provide a digital indication of said temperature and identify the particular wheel-end assembly associated with said temperature; the data acquisition module further configured to compare said temperature to a threshold temperature and to initiate one or more alarms if said temperature exceeds said threshold temperature.
Although the disclosed subject matter and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition, or matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one will readily appreciate from the disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized. For example, although the disclosed apparatus, system 18s and methods may be described with reference to a manual or manually-activated pressure reduction valve, an electric valve or other automatic electronic or mechanical valve may be used to accomplish relatively rapid reduction of fluid pressure. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, system or steps.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/264,534 titled “Digital Wheel End Assembly Temperature Monitoring System” filed Jan. 29, 2021, which is a '371 national stage entry of International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US2019/044560 titled “Digital Wheel End Assembly Temperature Monitoring System” filed Jul. 31, 2019, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/712,788 titled, “Digital Wheel End Assembly Temperature Monitoring System” filed Jul. 31, 2018. The foregoing applications are fully incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62712788 | Jul 2018 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17264534 | Jan 2021 | US |
| Child | 18965718 | US |
