Load scaling transducers

Abstract

A load scaling transducer for use In combination with a vehicle component includes a fixture having first and second enlarged ends configured to be secured to the vehicle component. A bridge section extends from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, with the thickness of the bridge section being less than the thickness of the first and second enlarged ends. A first sensor is secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture and a second sensor is secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture. Identical load scaling transducers may be secured in alignment with each other to inboard and outboard surfaces of the vehicle component to measure vertical load carried by the component while canceling out influence from other loading modes that are not meant to be measured.

Description

[0001]0715-0256.01 LOAD SCALING TRANSDUCERS RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 617,109, filed on January 3, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. DESCRIPTION TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure relates to measurement of loads within vehicle components. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to load scaling transducers configured to measure vertical load carried by vehicle components while canceling out influence from other loading modes that are not meant to be measured. BACKGROUND Various components of a vehicle, such as a suspension beam or an axle beam, are intended to carry vertical loads. Properly measuring the forces experienced by these components during use of the vehicle is critical to designing such components, with various transducers, gages, and sensors being well-known and widely used for measuring these forces. An exemplary load sensor for measuring vertical load applied to a component of a vehicle suspension system is described in U.S. Patent No.7,506,538, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. One disadvantage of conventional approaches to force measurement is their inability to isolate measurement of one force from the influence of other forces that are not meant to be measured. For example, existing load sensors for mechanical suspensions typically rely on an extensometer to measure longitudinal deflection of a component, which can be calibrated to determine vertical load. However, the manner in which such load sensors are conventionally mounted to a vehicle component makes them sensitive to longitudinal load as well. Such load sensors may also be susceptible to the effects of torsional strains experienced by an associated vehicle component traversing uneven terrain. 0715-0256.01 Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide load scaling transducers and load measurement assemblies employing such transducers having improved accuracy in measuring vertical load by eliminating the influence of other loading modes. SUMMARY There are several aspects of the present subject matter which may be embodied separately or together in the devices, systems, and methods described and / or claimed below. These aspects may be employed alone or in combination with other aspects of the subject matter described herein, and the description of these aspects together is not intended to preclude the use of these aspects separately or the claiming of such aspects separately or in different combinations as set forth in the claims appended hereto or later amended. In one aspect, a load scaling transducer is provided for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load. The load scaling transducer comprises a fixture including first and second enlarged ends configured to be secured to the vehicle component and a bridge section extending from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, with the thickness of the bridge section being less than the thickness of the first and second enlarged ends. A first sensor is secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture and a second sensor is secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture. In another aspect, a load measurement assembly is provided for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load. The load measurement assembly includes an inboard load scaling transducer secured to an inboard surface of the vehicle component and an outboard load scaling transducer secured to an outboard surface of the vehicle component, in alignment with the inboard load scaling transducer. In yet another aspect, a load scaling transducer is provided for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load. The load scaling transducer includes a fixture configured to be secured to the vehicle component and a sensor bar configured to be at least partially positioned between the fixture and the vehicle component. The sensor bar includes a center section 0715-0256.01 having a thickness less than a thickness of another section of the sensor bar, a first sensor secured to a surface of the center section of the sensor bar facing toward the fixture, and a second sensor secured to a surface of the center section of the sensor bar facing away from the fixture. These and other aspects of the present subject matter are set forth in the following detailed description of the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figs.1 and 2 are exploded perspective views of components of a load scaling transducer and load measurement assembly in accordance with principles of the present disclosure; Fig.3 is a rear perspective view of a fixture of the load scaling transducer and load measurement assembly of Figs.1 and 2; Fig.4 is a side elevational view of a vehicle component experiencing three- point bending; Fig.5 is a diagram of the shear forces experienced by the vehicle component of Fig.4 along its length; Fig.6 is a diagram of the bending moments experienced by the vehicle component of Fig.4 along its length; Fig.7 is a perspective view of an end of the vehicle component of Fig.4, with a load measurement assembly according to the present disclosure secured thereto; Fig.8 is a top plan view of a sensor of the load scaling transducer of Fig.7; Fig.9 is a diagram illustrating measurements taken by a load measurement assembly employing sensors of the type shown in Fig.8 at different load levels; Fig.10 is a diagrammatic view of a vehicle component experiencing four- point bending; Fig.11 is a diagram of the shear forces experienced by the vehicle component of Fig.10 along its length; Fig.12 is a diagram of the bending moments experienced by the vehicle component of Fig.10 along its length; Fig.13 is a front perspective view of a portion of a vehicle component with a load scaling transducer according to the present disclosure secured thereto; 0715-0256.01 Fig.14 is a rear perspective view of the vehicle component of Fig.13 with a load measurement assembly according to the present disclosure secured thereto; Fig.15 is a top plan view of a sensor of the load scaling transducer of Fig. 13; Fig.16 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a load scaling transducer according to the present disclosure; Fig.17 is a bottom perspective view of the load scaling transducer of Fig. 16; Fig.18 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the load scaling transducer of Fig.16; and Figs.19-24 are perspective views of alternative embodiments of a load scaling transducer according to the present disclosure, each incorporating a plurality of pins. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS The embodiments disclosed herein are for the purpose of providing an exemplary description of the present subject matter. They are, however, only exemplary and not exclusive, and the present subject matter may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting the subject matter as defined in the accompanying claims. A. Exemplary Load Scaling Transducer Fig.1 illustrates selected components of an exemplary load scaling transducer 10 embodying various aspects of the present disclosure, while Fig.2 illustrates additional components of the load scaling transducer 10. It should be understood that the illustrated load scaling transducer 10 is merely exemplary and that load scaling transducers (and load measurement assemblies incorporating such load scaling transducers) according to the present disclosure may be differently configured without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The load scaling transducer 10 includes a fixture 12 (which is also shown in Fig.3) having a first enlarged end 14 and a second enlarged end 16, with a bridge section 18 extending from the first enlarged end 14 to the second enlarged end 16. It may be advantageous for the fixture 12 to be formed of a metallic material 0715-0256.01 (e.g., steel or aluminum) and / or as a monolithic or unitary structure (e.g., being formed via a casting or machining process), though other configurations may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., a fixture having a bridge section that is welded or otherwise affixed to two separately provided enlarged ends). As used in this context, the term “enlarged” refers to each end 14, 16 of the fixture 12 being larger than the associated bridge section 18. Most notably, this includes each end 14, 16 having a significantly greater height and thickness than the associated bridge section 18. As used herein, the term “height” refers to the vertical extent of a vehicle component or a load scaling transducer component or a portion thereof, from its bottom end to its top end when in the orientation of the vehicle component or load scaling transducer during normal use (as shown in Figs.1, 7, 13, and 14), while “width” refers to the horizontal extent of a vehicle component or a load scaling transducer component or a portion thereof from its left end to its right end in this same orientation. As used herein, the term “thickness” refers to the extent of a structure in a direction perpendicular to its width and height. In the illustrated embodiment, each end 14, 16 has a greater width than the associated bridge section 18, though it is within the scope of the present disclosure for the bridge section 18 to have a length that is greater than or equal to the lengths of the associated ends 14 and 16. Additionally, while the illustrated ends 14 and 16 are substantially identical in shape and size, it should be understood that the ends 14 and 16 may be differently configured without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The ends 14 and 16 are configured to be secured to a vehicle component “A” (Fig.1) being monitored by the load scaling transducer 10, with the configuration of each end 14, 16 being informed by the configuration of the region of the vehicle component A to which the load scaling transducer 10 is to be secured and the manner in which the load scaling transducer 10 is to be mounted to the vehicle component A. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, each enlarged end 14, 16 is secured to the associated vehicle component A by a pair of mechanical fasteners 20, with each mechanical fastener 20 being configured as a bolt. The dimensions of the enlarged ends 14 and 16 are selected to 0715-0256.01 accommodate such mechanical fasteners 20, with each end 14, 16 having a height and width that is sufficiently sized to allow for apertures or bores 22 to be provided to receive the mechanical fasteners 20 and a thickness (and material composition) that is sufficiently robust to allow for the mechanical fasteners 20 to properly secure the fixture 12 to the vehicle component A without deforming the ends 14 and 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the four mechanical fasteners 20 are provided in a rectangular arrangement, effectively securing the corners of the fixture 12 to the vehicle component A. To accommodate this approach to securing the fixture 12 to the vehicle component A, each illustrated end 14, 16 has a generally rectangular shape, with a greater height than width. The illustrated bridge section 18 also has a generally rectangular shape (with a width that is greater than its height) and extends from the midsection of one end 14 to the other end 16, giving the fixture 12 an H-shaped configuration. It should be understood that the illustrated approach to securing the fixture 12 to the vehicle component A is merely exemplary and that other approaches may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This may include the use of differently configured mechanical fasteners, such as rivets, for example. Other approaches (e.g., adhesion or welding) may be employed, provided that they are capable of securing affixing the fixture 12 to the associated vehicle component A, as it is advantageous to ensure that the fixture 12 will not rotate or slip with respect to the vehicle component A (which could reduce the repeatability of a strain field). The illustrated load scaling transducer 10 includes a first friction shim 24 associated with the first enlarged end 14 and a second friction shim 26 associated with the second enlarged end 16, with each friction shim 24, 26 being positioned between the corresponding end and the surface of the vehicle component A to which the fixture 12 is secured. Each friction shim 24, 26 shown in Figs.1 and 2 has a shape that is substantially identical to the shape of the corresponding enlarged end 14, 16, including a pair of apertures or bores that are aligned with the apertures or bores 22 of the associated end 14, 16 to accommodate the illustrated mechanical fasteners 20. It should be understood that the friction shims 24 and 26 may be differently sized and shaped from the associated ends 14 and 0715-0256.01 16 of the fixture 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. However, the friction shims 24 and 26 are intended to prevent or at least minimize transferred to the load scaling transducer 10 for repeatability and consistent zero return of signal), so it may be advantageous for the sizes and shapes of the friction shims 24 and 26 to be at least comparable (if not identical to) the sizes and shapes of the ends 14 and 16 of the fixture 12 to ensure that the friction shims 24 and 26 are best able to perform their intended function. In other embodiments, friction shims may be omitted from the load scaling transducer. Turning now to the bridge section 18 of the fixture 12, it is sized and configured to accommodate a pair of sensors, with one sensor 30a secured to an outboard surface 32 of the bridge section 18 (Fig.1) and the other sensor 30b secured to an inboard surface 34 of the bridge section 18 (Fig.3). As used in this context, the term “inboard” refers to the surface of the bridge section 18 facing toward the vehicle component A to which the fixture 12 is secured, while the term “outboard” refers to the surface of the bridge section 18 facing away from the vehicle component A. There may be regions of localized strain within the load scaling transducer 10 itself when the vehicle component A is subjected to a vertical load, so employing a pair of sensors 30a and 30b allows for the readings of the two sensors 30a and 30b to be combined in a way that cancels out opposing local strains, along with avoiding any inaccuracies or differences across the thickness of the bridge section 18 (by calculating the average of the measurements of the two sensors 30a and 30b). As explained above, the bridge section 18 may be less thick than the associated ends 14 and 16 of the fixture 12, which allows for the inboard sensor 30b to be secured between the bridge section 18 and the vehicle component A without being damaged. A relatively thin bridge section 18 (preferably having a uniform thickness) also improves the sensitivity of the sensors 30a and 30b, resulting in higher load calculation accuracy and a lower signal-to-noise ratio. The two sensors 30a and 30b may be differently configured, though it may be more advantageous for them to be similarly (if not identically) configured. As for the particular configuration of the individual sensors 30a and 30b, different configurations may be advantageous depending on whether the vehicle 0715-0256.01 component A being monitored by the load scaling transducer 10 will be subjected to three-point bending or four-point bending. These different load conditions and the configurations of the corresponding sensors will be explained in greater detail herein. Fig.2 shows two more components of an exemplary load scaling transducer 10 – a communications module 36 and a protective housing 38. The communications module 36 is electrically coupled to the sensors 30a and 30b to provide a communications link between the sensors 30a and 30b and a data processor (e.g., a computer or the like) and may be variously configured without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the communications module 36 is configured as or includes a printed circuit board with temperature compensation, battery power delivery, and wired or wireless communication functionalities. As for the protective housing 38, it is secured with respect to the fixture 12 so as to position at least a portion of the communications module 36 therebetween to shield and protect the communications module 36 from the environment in which the vehicle component A is being used or tested. Accordingly, the shape of the protective housing 38 will depend upon the configuration of the associated communications module 36 and fixture 12, with the protective housing 38 being formed of a material or combination of materials configured to prevent damage to the communications module 36. This may include the protective housing 38 being formed of a metallic material, optionally including an elastomeric material to provide cushioning to the communications module 36. It is again emphasized that the load scaling transducer 10 shown in Figs.1 and 2 is merely exemplary of one possible configuration and that other configurations (such as the ones shown in Figs.16-24, which will be described in greater detail) are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This may include individual components of the load scaling transducer 10 being differently configured from the configurations shown in Figs.1 and 2, selected components being omitted, and / or additional components being included. B. Three-Point Bending 0715-0256.01 As noted above, it may be advantageous for the configurations of the sensors of a load scaling transducer according to the present disclosure to be informed by the manner in which the vehicle component being analyzed is to be loaded. For example, the forces experienced by a vehicle component (and possibly measured by sensors of an associated load scaling transducer) subjected to three-point bending are different from the forces experienced by a vehicle component subjected to four-point bending. As will be described, the optimal placement for the load scaling transducer (e.g., whether on a neutral axis of the vehicle component or away from the neutral axis) may also depend upon the manner in which the vehicle component being analyzed is to be loaded. Fig.4 illustrates a vehicle component “B” being subjected to three-point bending, with a downward force “P” being applied at a midpoint of the vehicle component B. The vehicle component B is supported at or adjacent to its ends “C” and ”D,” where reaction forces “R1” and “R2” arise in opposition to the applied force P. The magnitude of the applied force P is intended to be representative of a vertical load that the vehicle component B might be expected to experience during use of the vehicle into which the vehicle component B is incorporated. In one example, the vehicle component B may be of the type that is suitable for use in a “46K” suspension, which has a maximum load capacity of 46,000 lbs, such as the vehicle component B being configured as an equalizing or walking beam of the HAULMAAX® EX heavy-duty suspension manufactured by Hendrickson USA, L.L.C. of Schaumburg, Illinois. A suspension of this type includes two of the vehicle components B shown in Fig.4, such that each component B must be capable of individually supporting a vertical load of 23,000 pounds. In this case, the applied vertical load P is 23,000 pounds, with each of the reaction forces R1 and R2 being 11,500 pounds. Fig.5 illustrates the shear forces experienced by the vehicle component B along its length in this loading condition, while Fig.6 illustrates the bending moment experienced by the vehicle component B along its length. Fig.7 illustrates an end portion of the vehicle component B, with a load scaling transducer 10a according to the present disclosure secured to an inboard surface of the vehicle component B. While this surface is referred to herein as an “inboard” surface (with the opposite surface of the vehicle component B being 0715-0256.01 referred to as an “outboard” surface), it should be understood that these descriptors of the surfaces of the vehicle component B are merely intended to denote oppositely facing surfaces, rather than being limiting to a particular orientation of a component B within a vehicle suspension. Indeed, a pair of load scaling transducers according to the present disclosure may be applied to opposing “fore” and “aft” surfaces of a vehicle component, with one of these surfaces being considered an “inboard” surface and the other being considered an “outboard” surface. As shown in Figs.5 and 6, the forces experienced at one end portion of the vehicle component B are substantially identical in magnitude to the forces experienced at the other end portion, such that it is not necessary to mount an additional load scaling transducer to the inboard surface of the vehicle component B at both end portions. However, while it is unnecessary to mount two load scaling transducers to the same surface of the vehicle component B, it has been found to be advantageous to mount one load scaling transducer 10a to the inboard surface of the vehicle component B and one load scaling transducer 10b to the opposite outboard surface of the component B, in alignment with the other load scaling transducer 10a (with the two load scaling transducers combining to define a load measurement assembly 40). As will be explained in greater detail, this arrangement of two load scaling transducers 10a and 10b (which may be substantially identical in one embodiment) secured in alignment with each other to opposing inboard and outboard surfaces of the vehicle component B allows for improved measurement of the vertical load P applied to the component B. As for the particular positions of the two load scaling transducers 10a and 10b with respect to the associated vehicle component B, they may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. However, it has been found that securing the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b to a region of the vehicle component B having a relatively small cross-sectional area may be advantageous for improved performance of the sensors 30 of each load scaling transducer 10a, 10b. In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the vehicle component B decreases from a maximum area at its midpoint (where the vertical load P is applied) to a minimum area at its ends C and D. As such, it would be optimal to place the two load scaling transducers 10a and 10b directly adjacent to 0715-0256.01 one of the ends C, D of the vehicle component A, due to the cross-sectional area of the vehicle component B being at a minimum there. However, in the illustrated embodiment of Fig.7, the vehicle component B includes brackets E adjacent to each end C, D, which may prevent one of the load scaling transducers 10a, 10b from being mounted at the optimal location. In this situation, the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b are mounted to the vehicle component B at a position between the bracket E and the midpoint of the vehicle component B, directly adjacent to the bracket E (which is where the cross-sectional area of this region of the vehicle component B is at its smallest). In other embodiments in which such a bracket is omitted or the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b are configured and sized to be positioned between an end C, D of the vehicle component B and the bracket E, the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b may be positioned closer to the end C, D (at a more optimal location in which the vehicle component B has a minimum cross-sectional area). As for the position of the two load scaling transducers 10a and 10b along the height of the vehicle component B, it may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. However, it has been found that it may be advantageous for the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b to be mounted on the neutral axis of the vehicle component B to eliminate or at least minimize longitudinal load sensitivity (i.e., there will be no shear response to a longitudinal load at the neutral axis), while maximizing sensitivity to vertical load. Fig.8 illustrates the configuration of an exemplary sensor 30’ that has been found to be advantageous for use in a load measurement assembly to be used in combination with a vehicle component B subjected to three-point bending. The illustrated sensor 30’ is a semiconductor-backed, half-bridge gage having a “torque” style configuration of the type manufactured by Micron Instruments of Simi Valley, California, though it should be understood sensors which are functionally and structurally similar to the illustrated sensor 30’ may also be employed. The sensor 30’ includes two deformable elements 42 and 44 oriented perpendicularly with respect to each other, with each being oriented 45° from horizontal. On account of this orientation of the deformable elements 42 and 44, the sensor 30’ measures strain in two diagonal directions, which are shown in Fig. 0715-0256.01 8 in broken lines. Summing the responses of four such sensors (the inboard sensor of the inboard load scaling transducer 10a, the outboard sensor of the inboard load scaling transducer 10a, the inboard sensor of the outboard load scaling transducer 10b, and the outboard sensor of the outboard load scaling transducer 10b) minimizes sensitivity to lateral and twist load modes, canceling the shear stress induced from torsion, which is not pertinent to vertical load measurement. Fig.9 shows measurements taken by the load measurement assembly (i.e., the combination of its four sensors), reflecting a linear response throughout the measurement range. C. Four-Point Bending Fig.10 is a diagrammatic illustration of a vehicle component “F” being subjected to four-point bending, with a vertical load being applied at two points “G” and “H” (which may be at the locations of the two spring seats of a steering axle) between its ends “I” and “J.” Each application of vertical load has a magnitude of “P / 2”, with a combined downward force equal to “P”. Reaction forces “R1” and “R2” arise at the ends I and J of the vehicle component F, in opposition to the total applied force P. As described above with regard to the loading condition illustrated in Fig.4, the magnitude of the applied force P is intended to be representative of a vertical load that the vehicle component F might be expected to experience during use of the vehicle into which the vehicle component F is incorporated. For example, the vehicle component F may be configured as a fabricated front steer axle of the type marketed by Hendrickson USA, L.L.C. as the STEERTEK NXT. Fig.11 illustrates the shear forces experienced by the vehicle component F along its length in this loading condition, while Fig.12 illustrates the bending moment experienced by the vehicle component F along its length. Fig.13 illustrates a midsection of the vehicle component F (shown as being the region between two spring seats I and J of the component F), with a load scaling transducer 10c according to the present disclosure secured to an inboard surface of the vehicle component F. As explained above with regard to an exemplary load measurement assembly configured for use in combination with a vehicle component subjected to three-point bending, while this surface is referred to herein as an “inboard” surface, it should be understood that the terms “inboard” 0715-0256.01 and “outboard” are used in this context to denote oppositely facing surfaces, rather than being limiting to a particular orientation of a component F within a vehicle suspension. Indeed, for a steering axle of the type shown in Fig.13, one of the load scaling transducers 10c is secured to a “fore” surface of the beam and another load scaling transducer is secured to an “aft” surface of the beam (such that one of these beam surfaces may be considered an “inboard” surface, with the other being considered an “outboard” surface). As shown in Fig.11, the vehicle component F experiences no shear force between the two points of application of the vertical load, which makes the midsection of the component F an appropriate location for the load scaling transducer 10c. As explained above with regard to the placement of the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b of Fig.7, it may be advantageous to position the load scaling transducer 10c at a position of the vehicle component F having a relatively small cross-sectional area. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle component F has a substantially uniform cross-sectional area along its midsection, such that any location along the midsection may be appropriate for mounting the load scaling transducer 10c. As also explained above with regard to the placement of the load scaling transducers 10a and 10b of Fig.7, it has been found to be advantageous to mount one load scaling transducer 10c to the inboard surface of the vehicle component F and one load scaling transducer 10d to the opposite outboard surface of the component F, in alignment with the other load scaling transducer 10c to define a load measurement assembly 40, as illustrated in Fig.14. Per the above discussion, this arrangement of two load scaling transducers 10c and 10d (which may be substantially identical in one embodiment) secured in alignment with each other to opposing inboard and outboard surfaces of the vehicle component F allows for improved measurement of the vertical load P applied to the component F. With regard to the positions of the two load scaling transducers 10c and 10d along the height of the vehicle component F, they may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. However, it has been found that it may be advantageous for the load scaling transducers 10c and 10d to be mounted away from (e.g., above) the neutral axis of the vehicle component F to maximize 0715-0256.01 vertical load sensitivity and to allow for a bending or axial strain to be measured (as there is no bending strain at the neutral axis). Fig.15 illustrates the configuration of an exemplary sensor 30” that has been found to be advantageous for use in a load measurement assembly to be used in combination with a vehicle component F subjected to four-point bending. The illustrated sensor 30” is a semiconductor-backed, half-bridge gage having a “load” style configuration of the type manufactured by Micron Instruments, though it should be understood sensors which are functionally and structurally similar to the illustrated sensor 30” may also be employed. The sensor 30” includes two deformable elements 46 and 48 oriented perpendicularly with respect to each other, with one deformable element 46 oriented vertically and the other deformable element 48 oriented horizontally. On account of this orientation of the deformable elements 46 and 48, the sensor 30” measures strain in a vertical direction and a horizontal direction, as shown in Fig. 15 in broken lines. Summing the responses of four such sensors (the inboard sensor of the inboard load scaling transducer 10c, the outboard sensor of the inboard load scaling transducer 10c, the inboard sensor of the outboard load scaling transducer 10d, and the outboard sensor of the outboard load scaling transducer 10d) minimizes sensitivity to longitudinal load modes (by canceling out the opposing longitudinal loads measured by the two load scaling transducers 10c and 10d), for improved vertical load measurement. D. Alternative Embodiments Figs.16-24 illustrate alternative embodiments of load scaling transducers according to the present disclosure. It should be understood that the load scaling transducers shown in Figs.16-24 may be used interchangeably with the previously described load scaling transducers, including a pair of load scaling transducers of the type shown in Figs.16-24 being incorporated into a load measurement assembly of the type described above. The load scaling transducers of Figs.16-24 are configured to isolate the sensor(s) of the load scaling transducer from bolt up strains that may arise when securing the load scaling transducer to an associated vehicle component. Bolt up strains may arise when a load scaling transducer is secured to a surface of a 0715-0256.01 vehicle component that is not perfectly planar, but rather has a degree of curvature. Tightly securing the load scaling transducer to such a curved surface may cause a portion of the load scaling transducer (e.g., the fixture) to bend, to match the curvature of the surface of the vehicle component. When a sensor is fixedly secured to a portion of the load scaling transducer that has become deformed or deflected, the sensor itself may become deformed, thus possibly preventing the sensor from properly registering an unloaded condition. The load scaling transducer of Figs.16-18 avoids this possible deformation of the sensor(s) by providing a “body bound” configuration, while the load scaling transducers of Figs.19-24 avoid deformation of the sensor(s) using pins, as will be described in greater detail. In each case, deformation experienced by a component or portion of the load scaling transducer when securing the load scaling transducer to the vehicle component is not imparted to the sensor(s) of the load scaling transducer. In the embodiment of Figs.16-18, the load scaling transducer 50 includes a fixture 52, a sensor bar 54, and a pair of sensors 56a and 56b. The fixture 52 is configured similarly to the fixture 12 of Fig.3, with a pair of enlarged ends 58 and 60 connected by a bridge section 62. In the illustrated embodiment, each enlarged end 58, 60 of the fixture 52 includes a pair of apertures or bores 64 configured to receive a plurality of mechanical fasteners 66 for securing the fixture 52 to a vehicle component, though it should be understood that other approaches may be provided for securing the fixture 52 to a vehicle component (which may include approaches that obviate the need for the enlarged ends 58 and 60 of the fixture 52 to have any apertures or bores 64). The fixture 52 of Figs.16-18 differs from the fixture 12 of Fig.3 in that it defines a channel or groove 68 extending laterally from one enlarged end 58 to the other enlarged end 60, in line with the bridge section 62. As shown in Figs.17 and 18, the channel or groove 68 is configured to receive the sensor bar 54, preferably with there being a snug or tight fit between the sensor bar 54 and the surfaces of the channel or groove 68 in order to transmit shear forces from a vertically loaded vehicle component to the sensor bar 54 (and associated sensors 56a and 56b) via the fixture 52. Although not illustrated in Figs.16-18, the load scaling transducer 50 may include end caps or the like to retain the sensor bar 54 in proper position within the channel or groove 68 of the fixture 52. 0715-0256.01 The sensor bar 54 (which may be formed of a generally rigid material, such as a metallic material) includes a relatively narrow center section 70, with a sensor 56a, 56b being applied to opposing faces or surfaces of the center section 70. As best shown in Fig.18, the center section 70 allows for the sensors 56a and 56b to be applied to the sensor bar 54 without contacting the fixture 52 or the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 50 is secured. The configurations of the sensors 56a and 56b may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As described above in greater detail, the configurations of the sensors 56a and 56b may be informed by the nature of the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 50 is to be applied, with different sensor configurations being advantageous for a vehicle component subjected to three- point bending or four-point bending. To secure the load scaling transducer 50 of Figs.16-18 to a vehicle component, the sensor bar 54 (including sensors 56a and 56b) is mounted within the channel or groove 68 of the fixture 52. The fixture 52 is then secured to the appropriate region of the vehicle component (depending, for example, on whether the vehicle component will be subjected to three-point bending or four-point bending, as described above), optionally with at least one friction shim positioned between the fixture 52 and the vehicle component. Additionally, a communications module and / or a protective housing of the type shown in Fig.2 may be associated to the load scaling transducer 50 when securing it to the vehicle component. On account of the sensor bar 54 being separate from the fixture 52, any deformation of the fixture 52 that may occur when securing the fixture 52 to the vehicle component (e.g., if the fixture 52 is deformed to match a non-planar surface of the vehicle component) will not be transferred to the sensor bar 54 and / or to the sensors 56a and 56b mounted to the sensor bar 54. As described above, so isolating the sensors 56a and 56b of the load scaling transducer 50 from bolt up strains that may arise when securing the load scaling transducer 50 to the associated vehicle component may improve their performance by preserving the initial, unloaded configurations of the sensors 56a and 56b. Turning now to the embodiments of Figs.19-24, each load scaling transducer 100, 102, and 104 includes a fixture, a sensor bar, and a pair of 0715-0256.01 sensors (not illustrated). In the embodiment of Figs.19 and 20, the fixture 106 is a single-piece or unitary component defining a pair of apertures or bores 108 configured to receive mechanical fasteners (not illustrated) to secure the load scaling transducer 100 to an associated vehicle component. While Figs.19 and 20 illustrate a fixture 106 configured to be secured to a vehicle component using mechanical fasteners, it should be understood that other approaches may be employed for securing the fixture 106 to a vehicle component, as described above with regard to other fixtures according to the present disclosure. If provided with apertures or bores 108, each aperture or bore 108 may be provided with a substantially annular extension 110 received within aligned apertures or bores 112 of the sensor bar 114 to align and secure the sensor bar 114 with respect to the fixture 106. The extensions 110 also act as spacers between the vehicle component and the surface of the fixture 106 facing the vehicle component, ensuring that the sensors of the sensor bar 114 are not compressed between the fixture 106 and the vehicle component. In addition to the optional apertures or bores 112, the sensor bar 114 also includes a plurality of holes 116, with each hole 116 being configured to receive a pin 118 that is also partially positioned within an aligned hole 120 of the fixture 106. In contrast to mechanical fasteners of the type described herein, the pins 118 are not intended to affix the load scaling transducer 100 to the associated vehicle component, but rather serve to transmit deformation of the vehicle component (when vertically loaded) to the sensor bar 114 (and the sensors thereof) via the fixture 106. Accordingly, the pins 118 do not provide bolt up strains of the type that would tend to deform the sensors of the sensor bar 114 in a way that would affect their proper performance. As for the configuration of the sensor bar 114 (which may be formed of a generally rigid material, such as a metallic material), it will be seen that it has a profile that is comparable to that of the fixture 12 of Fig.3, with two enlarged ends 122 and 124 joined by a center section 126. The holes 116 of the sensor bar 114 are positioned about the center section 126, where the sensors are secured to opposing faces or surfaces of the sensor bar 114 (one facing the fixture 106 and the other facing the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 100 is affixed). Similar to the fixture 12 of Fig.3 or the sensor bar 54 of Figs.16-18, the 0715-0256.01 center section 126 is relatively thin to allow for sensors to be secured to its opposing faces or surfaces without contacting the fixture 106 or the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 100 is secured. The configurations of the sensors may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, depending (for example) on the nature of the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 100 is to be applied, with different sensor configurations being advantageous for a vehicle component subjected to three-point bending or four-point bending (as described above). To secure the load scaling transducer 100 of Figs.19 and 20 to a vehicle component, the sensor bar 114 (including the associated sensors) is aligned with and mounted to the fixture 106, with the pins 118 maintaining the two components in alignment. The fixture 106 is then secured to the appropriate region of the vehicle component (depending, for example, on whether the vehicle component will be subjected to three-point bending or four-point bending, as described above), optionally with at least one friction shim positioned between the sensor bar 114 and the vehicle component. Additionally, a communications module and / or a protective housing of the type shown in Fig.2 may be associated to the load scaling transducer 100 when securing it to the vehicle component. On account of the sensor bar 114 being separate from the fixture 106, any deformation of the fixture 106 that may occur when securing the fixture 106 to the vehicle component will not be transferred to the sensor bar 114 and / or to the sensors mounted to the sensor bar 114. As described above, so isolating the sensors of the load scaling transducer 100 from bolt up strains that may arise when securing the load scaling transducer 100 to the associated vehicle component may improve their performance by preserving the initial, unloaded configurations of the sensors. Turning now to the load scaling transducer 102 of Figs.21 and 22, it includes a fixture 128 and sensor bar 130 that are similar to the fixture 106 and sensor bar 114 of Figs.19 and 20. As in the embodiment of Figs.19 and 20, the fixture 128 illustrated in Figs.21 and 22 is a single-piece or unitary component defining a pair of apertures or bores configured to receive mechanical fasteners 132 to secure the load scaling transducer 102 to an associated vehicle component. While Figs.21 and 22 illustrate a fixture 128 configured to be 0715-0256.01 secured to a vehicle component using mechanical fasteners 132, it should be understood that other approaches may be employed for securing the fixture 128 to a vehicle component, as described above with regard to other fixtures according to the present disclosure. One notable difference between the fixture 128 of Figs.21 and 22 and the fixture 106 of Figs.19 and 20 is that, rather than providing pins that are separate from the fixture 106 (as in the embodiment of Figs.19 and 20), the fixture 128 of Figs.21 and 22 includes integrally formed pins or extensions 134 configured to be received within corresponding holes 136 of the sensor bar 130. The pins 134 may be variously configured without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, with Figs.21 and 22 showing pins 134 having a tapered section that causes the pins 134 to act as spacers between the vehicle component and the surface of the fixture 128 facing the vehicle component, ensuring that the sensors of the sensor bar 130 are not compressed between the fixture 128 and the vehicle component. As in the embodiment of Figs.19 and 20, the sensor bar 130 illustrated in Figs.21 and 22 has two enlarged ends 138 and 140 joined by a relatively thin center section 142. The holes 136 of the sensor bar 130 are positioned about the center section 142, where the sensors are secured to opposing faces or surfaces of the sensor bar 130 (one facing the fixture 128 and the other facing the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 102 is affixed). As described above, the configurations of the sensors may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, depending (for example) on the nature of the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 102 is to be applied, with different sensor configurations being advantageous for a vehicle component subjected to three-point bending or four-point bending. To secure the load scaling transducer 102 of Figs.21 and 22 to a vehicle component, the sensor bar 130 (including the associated sensors) is aligned with and mounted to the fixture 128, with the pins 134 maintaining the two components in alignment. The fixture 128 is then secured to the appropriate region of the vehicle component, optionally with at least one friction shim positioned between the sensor bar 130 and the vehicle component. Additionally, a communications 0715-0256.01 module and / or a protective housing of the type shown in Fig.2 may be associated to the load scaling transducer 102 when securing it to the vehicle component. Finally, Figs.23 and 24 illustrate a load scaling transducer 104 that may be considered as a variation of the embodiments of Figs.19-22. In the embodiment of Figs.23 and 24, the fixture 144 is a two-piece component (rather than a single- piece component, as in the embodiments of Figs.19-22), with each piece 144a and 144b defining an aperture or bore 146 configured to receive a mechanical fastener 148 to secure the load scaling transducer 104 to an associated vehicle component. While Figs.23 and 24 illustrate a fixture 144 configured to be secured to a vehicle component using mechanical fasteners 148, it should be understood that other approaches may be employed for securing the fixture 144 to a vehicle component, as described above with regard to other fixtures according to the present disclosure. Additionally, while the two pieces 144a and 144b of the fixture 144 are shown as being substantially identical and rectangular, it should be understood that they may be differently shaped (e.g., non-rectangular) and that the two pieces 144a and 144b of a single fixture 144 may be differently configured from each other. In the embodiment illustrated in Figs.23 and 24, each piece 144a, 144b of the fixture 144 is provided with a pair of holes 150 configured to receive pins 152 that are also received by corresponding holes 154 of the associated sensor bar 156 (similar to the embodiment of Figs.19 and 20). However, it should be understood that, rather than providing separate pins 152, one or both pieces 144a, 144b of the fixture 144 may include integrally formed pins or extensions that are received by aligned holes 154 defined in the sensor bar 156 (as in the embodiment of Figs.21 and 22). As in the embodiments of Figs.19-22, the sensor bar 156 illustrated in Figs.23 and 24 has two enlarged ends 158 and 160 joined by a relatively thin center section 162. The holes 154 of the sensor bar 156 are positioned about the center section 162, where the sensors are secured to opposing faces or surfaces of the sensor bar 162 (one facing the fixture 144 and the other facing the vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 104 is affixed). As described above, the configurations of the sensors may vary without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, depending (for example) on the nature of the 0715-0256.01 vehicle component to which the load scaling transducer 104 is to be applied, with different sensor configurations being advantageous for a vehicle component subjected to three-point bending or four-point bending. To secure the load scaling transducer 104 of Figs.23 and 24 to a vehicle component, the sensor bar 156 (including the associated sensors) is aligned with and mounted to the two pieces 144a and 144b of the fixture 144, with the pins 152 maintaining the components in alignment. The fixture 144 is then secured to the appropriate region of the vehicle component, optionally with at least one friction shim positioned between the sensor bar 156 and the vehicle component. Additionally, a communications module and / or a protective housing of the type shown in Fig.2 may be associated to the load scaling transducer 104 when securing it to the vehicle component. Aspects Aspect 1. A load scaling transducer for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load, the load scaling transducer comprising: a fixture including a first enlarged end configured to be secured to the vehicle component, a second enlarged end configured to be secured to the vehicle component, and a bridge section extending from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, wherein a thickness of the bridge section is less than a thickness of the first and second enlarged ends; a first sensor secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture; and a second sensor secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture. Aspect 2. The load scaling transducer of Aspect 1, wherein a height of the first enlarged end is greater than a width of the first enlarged end, a height of the second enlarged end is greater than a width of the second enlarged end, and a width of the bridge section is greater than a height of the bridge section. Aspect 3. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein each of the first enlarged end, the second enlarged end, and the bridge section is generally rectangular. Aspect 4. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the fixture is H-shaped. 0715-0256.01 Aspect 5. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein each enlarged end defines a plurality of apertures, and each aperture is configured to receive a mechanical fastener for securing the fixture to the vehicle component. Aspect 6. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, further comprising a first friction shim configured to be positioned between the first enlarged end and the vehicle component, and a second friction shim configured to be positioned between the second enlarged end and the vehicle component. Aspect 7. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein each sensor is configured to measure strain in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction. Aspect 8. The load scaling transducer of any one of Aspects 1-6, wherein each sensor is configured to measure strain in two diagonal directions. Aspect 9. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, further comprising a protective housing secured to the fixture, and a communications module electrically coupled to the sensors and positioned between the protective housing and the fixture. Aspect 10. The load scaling transducer of any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the enlarged ends are substantially identical, and the sensors are substantially identical. Aspect 11. A load measurement assembly for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load, the load measurement assembly comprising: an inboard load scaling transducer secured to an inboard surface of the vehicle component; and an outboard load scaling transducer secured to an outboard surface of the vehicle component in alignment with the inboard load scaling transducer. Aspect 12. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 11, wherein each load scaling transducer comprises a fixture including a first enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, a second enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, and a bridge section extending from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, wherein a thickness of the bridge section is less than a thickness of the first and second enlarged ends, a first sensor secured to an 0715-0256.01 inboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture, and a second sensor secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture. Aspect 13. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 12, wherein, for each load scaling transducer a height of the first enlarged end is greater than a width of the first enlarged end, a height of the second enlarged end is greater than a width of the second enlarged end, and a width of the bridge section is greater than a height of the bridge section. Aspect 14. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-13, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each of the first enlarged end, the second enlarged end, and the bridge section is generally rectangular. Aspect 15. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-14, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, the fixture is H-shaped. Aspect 16. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-15, further comprising a plurality of mechanical fasteners, wherein, for each load scaling transducer each enlarged end defines a plurality of apertures, and each aperture receives a different one of the mechanical fasteners for securing the fixture to the vehicle component. Aspect 17. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-16, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a first friction shim positioned between the first enlarged end and the vehicle component, and a second friction shim positioned between the second enlarged end and the vehicle component. Aspect 18. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-17, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each sensor is configured to measure strain in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction. Aspect 19. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 18, wherein each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors away from a neutral axis of the vehicle component. Aspect 20. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-17, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each sensor is configured to measure strain in two diagonal directions. Aspect 21. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 20, wherein each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors on a neutral axis of the vehicle component. 0715-0256.01 Aspect 22. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-21, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a protective housing secured to the fixture, and a communications module electrically coupled to the sensors and positioned between the protective housing and the fixture. Aspect 23. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 12-22, wherein for each load scaling transducer the enlarged ends are substantially identical, and the sensors are substantially identical. Aspect 24. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 11-22, wherein the inboard load scaling transducer is substantially identical to the outboard load scaling transducer. Aspect 25. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 11, wherein the vehicle component is configured to carry the vertical load in three-point bending, the inboard load scaling transducer includes a first sensor, the outboard load scaling transducer includes a second sensor, and each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors on a neutral axis of the vehicle component. Aspect 26. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 25, wherein each load scaling transducer includes an additional sensor, and the two sensors of each load scaling transducer are substantially identical to each other. Aspect 27. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 26, wherein the four sensors are substantially identical to each other. Aspect 28. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 25-27, wherein each sensor is configured to measure strain in two diagonal directions. Aspect 29. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 26, wherein each load scaling transducer comprises a fixture including a first enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, a second enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, and a bridge section extending from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, one sensor of each load scaling transducer is secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the corresponding load scaling transducer, and the other sensor of each load scaling transducer is secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the corresponding load scaling transducer. Aspect 30. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 29, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, a thickness of the bridge section is less than a 0715-0256.01 thickness of the first and second enlarged ends. Aspect 31. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 29-30, wherein, for each load scaling transducer a height of the first enlarged end is greater than a width of the first enlarged end, a height of the second enlarged end is greater than a width of the second enlarged end, and a width of the bridge section is greater than a height of the bridge section. Aspect 32. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 29-31, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each of the first enlarged end, the second enlarged end, and the bridge section is generally rectangular. Aspect 33. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 29-32, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, the fixture is H-shaped. Aspect 34. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 29-33, further comprising a plurality of mechanical fasteners, wherein, for each load scaling transducer each enlarged end defines a plurality of apertures, and each aperture receives a different one of the mechanical fasteners for securing the fixture to the vehicle component. Aspect 35. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 29-34, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a first friction shim positioned between the first enlarged end and the vehicle component, and a second friction shim positioned between the second enlarged end and the vehicle component. Aspect 36. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 29-35, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a protective housing secured to the fixture, and a communications module electrically coupled to the sensors and positioned between the protective housing and the fixture. Aspect 37. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 25-36, wherein the inboard load scaling transducer is substantially identical to the outboard load scaling transducer. Aspect 38. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 11, wherein the vehicle component is configured to carry the vertical load in four-point bending, the inboard load scaling transducer includes a first sensor, the outboard load scaling transducer includes a second sensor, and each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors away from a neutral axis of the vehicle component. 0715-0256.01 Aspect 39. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 38, wherein each load scaling transducer includes an additional sensor, and the two sensors of each load scaling transducer are substantially identical to each other. Aspect 40. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 39, wherein the four sensors are substantially identical to each other. Aspect 41. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 38-40, wherein each sensor is configured to measure strain in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction. Aspect 42. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 39, wherein each load scaling transducer comprises a fixture including a first enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, a second enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, and a bridge section extending from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, one sensor of each load scaling transducer is secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the corresponding load scaling transducer, and the other sensor of each load scaling transducer is secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the corresponding load scaling transducer. Aspect 43. The load measurement assembly of Aspect 42, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, a thickness of the bridge section is less than a thickness of the first and second enlarged ends. Aspect 44. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 42-43, wherein, for each load scaling transducer a height of the first enlarged end is greater than a width of the first enlarged end, a height of the second enlarged end is greater than a width of the second enlarged end, and a width of the bridge section is greater than a height of the bridge section. Aspect 45. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 42-44, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each of the first enlarged end, the second enlarged end, and the bridge section is generally rectangular. Aspect 46. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 42-45, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, the fixture is H-shaped. Aspect 47. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 42-46, further comprising a plurality of mechanical fasteners, wherein, for each load scaling transducer each enlarged end defines a plurality of apertures, and each 0715-0256.01 aperture receives a different one of the mechanical fasteners for securing the fixture to the vehicle component. Aspect 48. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 42-47, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a first friction shim positioned between the first enlarged end and the vehicle component, and a second friction shim positioned between the second enlarged end and the vehicle component. Aspect 49. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 42-48, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a protective housing secured to the fixture, and a communications module electrically coupled to the sensors and positioned between the protective housing and the fixture. Aspect 50. The load measurement assembly of any one of Aspects 38-49, wherein the inboard load scaling transducer is substantially identical to the outboard load scaling transducer. Aspect 51. A load scaling transducer for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load, the load scaling transducer comprising: a fixture configured to be secured to the vehicle component; a sensor bar configured to be at least partially positioned between the fixture and the vehicle component and including a center section having a thickness less than a thickness of another section of the sensor bar; a first sensor secured to a surface of the center section of the sensor bar facing toward the fixture; and a second sensor secured to a surface of the center section of the sensor bar facing away from the fixture. Aspect 52. The load scaling transducer of Aspect 51, wherein the fixture defines a channel or groove configured to face toward the vehicle component, and at least a portion of the sensor bar is configured to be received within the channel or groove of the fixture. Aspect 53. The load scaling transducer of Aspect 51, further comprising a plurality of pins extending from the fixture to the sensor bar. Aspect 54. The load scaling transducer of Aspect 53, wherein the sensor bar defines a plurality of holes each configured to receive a portion of a different one of the pins. Aspect 55. The load scaling transducer of any one of Aspects 53-54, wherein the fixture defines a plurality of holes each configured to receive a portion 0715-0256.01 of a different one of the pins. Aspect 56. The load scaling transducer of any one of Aspects 53-54, wherein each pin is integrally formed with the fixture. Aspect 57. The load scaling transducer of any one of Aspects 53-56, wherein the fixture includes a first fixture piece and a second fixture piece. It will be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative of some of the applications of the principles of the present subject matter. Numerous modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter, including those combinations of features that are individually disclosed or claimed herein. For these reasons, the scope hereof is not limited to the above description but is as set forth in the following claims, and it is understood that claims may be directed to the features hereof, including as combinations of features that are individually disclosed or claimed herein.

Claims

0715-0256.01 CLAIMS 1. A load measurement assembly for use in combination with a vehicle component configured to carry a vertical load, the load measurement assembly comprising: an inboard load scaling transducer secured to an inboard surface of the vehicle component; and an outboard load scaling transducer secured to an outboard surface of the vehicle component in alignment with the inboard load scaling transducer.

2. The load measurement assembly of claim 1, wherein each load scaling transducer comprises a fixture including a first enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, a second enlarged end secured to the vehicle component, and a bridge section extending from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, wherein a thickness of the bridge section is less than a thickness of the first and second enlarged ends, a first sensor secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture, and a second sensor secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture.

3. The load measurement assembly of claim 2, wherein, for each load scaling transducer a height of the first enlarged end is greater than a width of the first enlarged end, a height of the second enlarged end is greater than a width of the second enlarged end, and a width of the bridge section is greater than a height of the bridge section.

4. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-3, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each of the first enlarged end, the second enlarged end, and the bridge section is generally rectangular.0715-0256.01 5. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-4, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, the fixture is H-shaped.

6. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-5, further comprising a plurality of mechanical fasteners, wherein, for each load scaling transducer each enlarged end defines a plurality of apertures, and each aperture receives a different one of the mechanical fasteners for securing the fixture to the vehicle component.

7. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-6, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a first friction shim positioned between the first enlarged end and the vehicle component, and a second friction shim positioned between the second enlarged end and the vehicle component.

8. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-7, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each sensor is configured to measure strain in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction.

9. The load measurement assembly of claim 8, wherein each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors away from a neutral axis of the vehicle component.

10. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-7, wherein, for each load scaling transducer, each sensor is configured to measure strain in two diagonal directions.

11. The load measurement assembly of claim 10, wherein each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors on a neutral axis of the vehicle component.0715-0256.01 12. The load measurement assembly of any one of claims 2-11, further comprising for each load scaling transducer a protective housing secured to the fixture, and a communications module electrically coupled to the sensors and positioned between the protective housing and the fixture.

13. The load measurement assembly of claim 1, wherein the vehicle component is configured to carry the vertical load in three-point bending, the inboard load scaling transducer includes a first sensor, the outboard load scaling transducer includes a second sensor, and each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors on a neutral axis of the vehicle component.

14. The load measurement assembly of claim 1, wherein the vehicle component is configured to carry the vertical load in four-point bending, the inboard load scaling transducer includes a first sensor, the outboard load scaling transducer includes a second sensor, and each load scaling transducer is secured to the vehicle component so as to position the sensors away from a neutral axis of the vehicle component.

15. The load measurement assembly of claim 1, wherein each load scaling transducer comprises a fixture configured to be secured to the vehicle component; a sensor bar configured to be at least partially positioned between the fixture and the vehicle component and including a center section having a thickness less than a thickness of another section of the sensor bar; a first sensor secured to a surface of the center section of the sensor bar facing toward the fixture; and a second sensor secured to a surface of the center section of the sensor bar facing away from the fixture.

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