Patent ID: 6834558
Filing Date: 2004-12-28
Classification: F16D,G01L

Abstract:
An apparatus for measuring torque comprising:a magnetic fluid clutch including a rotating shaft having a first end and a second end, one of the ends forming a torque output end of the magnetic fluid clutch, the magnetic fluid clutch including a magnetic fluid medium therein and a coil for generating a magnetic field and applying the magnetic field to the magnetic fluid medium, the magnetic fluid clutch further including a casing surrounding and rotatable relative to the rotating shaft and containing the magnetic fluid medium therein, the rotating casing forming a torque input end of the magnetic fluid clutch, the torque input end being adapted to be connected to a torque supply source and the torque output end being adapted to be connected to a rotational work device; a first detector positioned at the torque input end; a second detector positioned at the torque output end; and a processor for controlling current through the coil of the magnetic fluid clutch and processing signals from the first and second detectors to calculate an angular deviation between the torque input end and the torque output end, the angular deviation being a function of an adjustable property of the magnetic fluid medium in a steady-state quasi-solid phase thereof.