Methode Electronics has been granted a patent for a device that monitors the operating temperature of multiple sets of bearings. The device includes temperature sensors that generate signals representing the temperature of the bearings, which are then processed by a controller. The controller determines the operating temperature and checks if it exceeds a threshold temperature. The unique identifier associated with each bearing set is stored in the controller’s memory. The temperature sensors are positioned radially towards the outer surface of the bearings and located on the bottom of a cylindrical portion of the device’s housing. GlobalData’s report on Methode Electronics gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Methode Electronics, Turnable line connectors was a key innovation area identified from patents. Methode Electronics's grant share as of September 2023 was 56%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Monitoring device for bearings' operating temperature with unique identifier
A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11708856B2) describes a device for monitoring the operating temperature of bearings in a variety of applications. The device includes at least one temperature sensor that is positioned between a shaft and a carrier, allowing it to sense the temperature of the bearings. The temperature sensor generates a signal that represents the operating temperature of the bearings, which is then processed by a controller. The controller determines the operating temperature and checks if it exceeds a threshold temperature. The device also includes a memory to store a unique identifier associated with each set of bearings.
The patent claims also mention various features of the device. For example, the temperature sensor can be arranged in a recess of the carrier and may have a cavity filled with a thermally conductive and/or adhesive compound. The temperature sensor is electrically connected to the controller using transmitting elements. The device has at least one electrical parameter that varies based on the sensed operating temperature, providing a varying input voltage to the controller. The time interval between temperature measurements can be adjusted based on the operating temperature of the bearings.
Additionally, the device may include components such as a printed circuit board (PCB), rectifier, transceiver circuit, antenna, and radio-frequency module (RF-module). It can also incorporate an energy harvesting system, energy storing device, and energy storing device charger. The device can be powered by an electrical harvesting system, which includes a magnet supported by a spring and capable of moving in a coil.
Each set of bearings in the device is assigned a unique identifier, allowing for easy identification and tracking.
Overall, this patent describes a device that effectively monitors the operating temperature of bearings in various applications. The device's unique features, such as the use of temperature sensors, adjustable measurement intervals, and energy harvesting capabilities, make it a valuable tool for ensuring the proper functioning and maintenance of bearings.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
