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Abstract

A reflective optical wheel speed transducer system is disclosed. The system utilizes a single optical fiber to transmit light to a pair of interrupter discs, and to collect light reflected from the discs. One of the interrupter discs is stationary, and one is rotated at an angular velocity proportional to the rotational speed of a wheel. Both discs are provided with alternating, regularly spaced reflecting and transmissible areas. The reflecting areas of the stationary disc reflect a constant bias level of light to the optical fiber. The reflecting areas of the rotatable disc modulate light passing through the transmissible areas of the stationary disc at a rate proportional to the angular velocity of the wheel. Thus, the interrupter discs generate a modulated light signal that rides on top of the fixed bias signal. Decoding circuitry is provided to convert the modulated component of the light signal to an electrical signal that represents the rotational speed of the wheel. Circuitry is also provided to detect the absence of the fixed bias component of the light signal to monitor the continuity and integrity of the system. A graded index lens is provided at the optical fiber interface and an integral lens/optical fiber connector assembly is provided to minimize light losses in the system.

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First Claim