Adaptive Insertion Force Measurement Device for Ergonomic Vehicle Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement systems for insertion forces are not optimal when the user changes position, particularly for assessing ergonomic conditions in vehicle environments, as they fail to adapt to different user positions and angles effectively.
Innovation Solution
A measurement device comprising an actuator module with a pneumatic linear actuator, a control module with actuator controllers, a load cell module with step motors, a processing module for analyzing insertion forces, and a notification module using a traffic light device to provide feedback on acceptance criteria, allowing for flexible positioning and angle adjustments to mimic natural user interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed measurement system is used, then the measurement setup is simple, but it cannot adapt to different user positions and angles
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system incorporates movable components including a linear actuator that enables the measurement device to move along the Z-axis, and rotary actuators that allow adjustment of attachment points in X and Y directions. This dynamic positioning capability enables the system to adapt to different user positions and angles while maintaining measurement accuracy, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the measurement system adjusts to different positions, then ergonomic assessment improves, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs load cells that provide real-time feedback on insertion forces during component installation. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain measurement precision across different positions by continuously monitoring and recording force data, while the actuators adjust positioning based on ergonomic requirements. The feedback loop ensures that measurement accuracy is preserved regardless of the measurement device's position or orientation.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple actuators and controllers are added for positioning, then positioning accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system uses multi-functional actuators that perform multiple operations. The linear actuator not only positions the measurement device along the Z-axis but also works in coordination with rotary actuators for X and Y positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated actuators for each degree of freedom, thereby improving positioning accuracy while managing overall system complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and adaptive measurement of insertion forces at various user positions and angles, providing real-time feedback on ergonomic conditions, enhancing the assessment of vehicle components during development and testing.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator module (120) including a pneumatic linear actuator
Implementation Method 2
a load cell module (130) including one or more load cells
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a measurement device is provided that includes an actuator module, a control module, a load cell module, a processing module, and a notification module. The actuator module includes an actuator. The control module includes one or more actuator controllers configured to control the actuator. The load cell module includes one or more motors configured to set orientation of attachments points for the actuator with respect to a component relative to a location of a user. The processing module includes a processor configured to receive and analyze information from the load cell module pertaining to an insertion force for the component. The notification module is configured to provide a notification based on the analyzing performed by the processing module.