DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING AXIAL LOADS

摘要

Devices and methods for determining axial loads on a generally cylindrical member include a clamp portion removably attached by clamping to a portion of a generally cylindrical load-bearing member. The clamp portion of the device moves in response to diametral deformations in the clamped portion of the cylindrical member. A sensor is provided to sense movement of the clamp portion of the device in response to diametral deformations in the portion of the cylindrical member. The sensor generates signals related to the magnitude of the sensed movement and thus the sensed diametral deformations. The sensed movement may be bending in the clamp portion of the device or distance changes between parts of the clamp portion of the device. A signal storage device, which may also be a computer, stores the signals for real time or delayed determination of axial loading in the member.