Theses and Dissertations - UTB/UTPA
Date of Award
8-2012
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
First Advisor
Dr. Robert E. Jones
Second Advisor
Dr. Javier A. Kypuros
Third Advisor
Dr. Constantine M. Tarawneh
Abstract
Knowledge of the loading applied to railcar suspension elements is necessary for improved rail safety, efficiency, and for monitoring bearing health. An economical, reliable system for keeping track of both dynamic and static loads on a rail car bearing offers potential for many improvements in rail service. The difficulties of implementing such a system are considerable because the sensor must be in the bearing load path and is thus subject to all the stressors of that environment including high impact, high load, high temperature, and corrosion. This thesis describes an attempt to incorporate a load measurement system in a polyurethane suspension element. It reviews existing technology and describes several experiments using strain gauges, Micro-Electro-Mechanical pressure sensors, and piezo electric materials as load measurement devices.
Granting Institution
University of Texas-Pan American
Comments
Copyright 2012 Jazmín Ley. All Rights Reserved.
https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/load-sensor-elastomer-suspension-element/docview/1152530509/se-2