Patent ID: 8893557
Filing Date: 2014-11-25
Classification: F16B,G01L

Abstract:
1. A fastener tension monitoring system, comprising: a threaded bolt having a head and an elongate shank extending from the head, wherein the elongate shank comprises a proximal grip length portion and a distal portion, the distal portion being threaded and the proximal grip length portion being smooth; piezoelectric material disposed only along the proximal grip length portion of the shank and terminating at an interface between the proximal grip length portion and the distal portion; an impedance reader, microcontroller, and transmitter disposed atop the head of the bolt, the impedance reader, microcontroller, and transmitter communicating electrically with the piezoelectric material; and an electrical energy storage device disposed atop the head of the bolt, the electrical energy storage device communicating electrically with the impedance reader, microcontroller, transmitter, and piezoelectric material.