Importance

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Abstract

A strain gauge transducer (10) disclosed has particular utility when utilized with a bolt (12) to sense loading and has a construction which permits accurate axial alignment, testing before installation, removal for inspection and any necessary repair, and accurate readings that are not substantially affected by bending loading. The transducer (10) includes a body (30) having a web (40) extending between a threaded inner end (32) and an enlarged outer head (34). An annular seat (36) on the head (34) engages a bolt hole surface as the threaded inner end (32) is received by a threaded portion of the bolt hole. At least two strain gauges (46) are utilized with each mounted on one of the parallel web surfaces (42), and wires (50) connected to the strain gauges extend through a wire passage (48) in the enlarged head to permit a signal to be sensed by the strain gauges and fed to suitable instrumentation. In the preferred construction, the web (40) has a thickness in the range of about 0.020 to 0.060 of an inch and most preferably, about 0.040 of an inch in order to minimize twisting of the web upon installation while still providing accurate readings that are not substantially affected by bending loading. Round inner and outer portions (52,54) provide uniform loading of the web (4) without any stress concentrations.

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First Claim