Patent ID: 6687623
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: F16C,G01L

Abstract:
A rolling element bearing assembly comprising:an inner race having a central axis mounted to an axle shaft; an outer race adapted to support a bearing carrier and mounted to said inner race; an annular channel formed within one of said axle shaft and said bearing carrier and extending around said bearing assembly to provide an unsupported cylindrical surface of said inner race or said outer race extending around said bearing assembly; a plurality of rolling element elements disposed between and interconnecting said outer race and said inner race to support said outer race on said inner race and to allow said outer race to rotate with respect to said inner race about said central axis; and a plurality of strain gages mounted to said unsupported cylindrical surface of said inner race or said outer race of said bearing assembly, said strain gages being oriented to measure axial strain results from bending deflection of said inner race or said outer races in response to an applied load.