A Review on Sensor‐Integrating Machine Elements

Abstract

This contribution summarizes the current state of research regarding so‐called sensor‐integrating machine elements as an enabler of digitalization in mechanical engineering and——if available—their application in industry. The focus is on the methodical aspects of the development of these machine elements in general as well as specific sensor‐integrating machine elements that are either already in use or currently under development. Developmental aspects include the robust design of initially evaluated concepts for sensor‐integrating machine elements as well as their modularization. Smart materials with sensory functions are included in the analysis as well as the differentiation with regard to add‐on sensors. The aim of the authors interlinked by a special research program funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) is to facilitate the exchange with other researchers with the help of the comprehensive overview given in this contribution. The contribution concludes with a brief discussion of open challenges, such as the energy supply and data transfer in rotating systems and also data security.

Manufacturing of soft capacitive strain sensor based on dielectric elastomer material for an elastic element of a jaw coupling

“…Examples of the first approaches of sensor-integrated machine element are a sensor-integrated gear, published by Bonaiti et al [6] and prototypes of smart couplings proposed by Schork et al [7]. Kirchner et al presented an extensive overview of various machine elements with integrated sensors from bolts, couplings and bearings to gears and gear shafts [8]. In mechanical engineering, couplings are essential connecting elements, as they are one of the central elements used in most transmissions [9].…”

An approach to interpreting metastable austenitic material sensors for fatigue analysis

“…Structural health monitoring techniques facilitate more lightweight structures due to reducible safety margins or cost savings when performing predictive maintenance [1]. The goal of the current research project is the development of a sensor-integrating machine element [2], which does not differ in shape and load capacity from a conventional sensor-less machine element. This applicability as a drop-in replacement is intended to provide an easy and cost-effective path to structural health monitoring.…”