Adjustable Stopper Load Detector for Sensitivity and Range Trade-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load detectors, such as those described in JP59-155971A, face limitations in detecting varying loads due to diaphragm thickness, which affects the allowable load range and require resin treatment for water resistance, impacting performance.
Innovation Solution
A load detector design featuring a flexure element with an adjustable stopper part and breathable, waterproof air vent, allowing for improved load detection and prevention of excessive deformation, while maintaining water resistance without resin treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the diaphragm is thinned to detect smaller loads, then the detection sensitivity for small loads is improved, but the allowable load magnitude decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an adjustable stopper part that can dynamically adjust the maximum deformation amount of the flexure part. By changing the position of the stopper part, the system can adapt to different load ranges, allowing the use of thinner flexure parts for high sensitivity while preventing excessive deformation that would limit the allowable load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of maximum deformation amount by adjusting the stopper part position. This allows the same flexure part to operate in different detection ranges - for small loads with high sensitivity when the stopper allows larger deformation, and for larger loads when the stopper limits deformation to prevent damage.
2Reliability
If a resin material is used to cover the strain gauge for water resistance, then water resistance is improved, but the output of the strain gauge is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a breathable film with micropores to cover the strain gauge. This porous structure allows water vapor and air to pass through while blocking liquid water, providing water resistance without the need for resin coating that would interfere with the strain gauge's electrical output and sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The breathable film acts as an intermediary between the strain gauge and the external environment. It provides the necessary water resistance protection while maintaining electrical isolation, allowing the strain gauge to function accurately without direct exposure to moisture that would cause short circuits or corrosion.
3Device complexity
If the distance between the stopper part and the flexure part is fixed, then the structure is simplified, but the adaptability to different load ranges is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper part is designed with adjustability, allowing the distance between the stopper and the flexure part to be dynamically changed. This enables the system to adapt to different load ranges by repositioning the stopper, providing versatility without requiring multiple different flexure parts for different applications.
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
Enhances load detection performance by adjusting the stopper distance to manage deformation and maintain water resistance, extending the load detector's operational range and durability.
Implementation Method 1
the air vent is blocked with a film, the film being breathable and waterproof
Implementation Method 2
at least one strain gauge attached to an inner surface of a flexure part constituting the flexure element
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a load detector with performance capable of being improved. A load detector 1, 1A includes a flexure element 20, a base part 10 supporting the flexure element 20, at least one strain gauge 24 attached to an inner surface 22a of a flexure part 22 constituting the flexure element 20, and a stopper part 14 attached to the base part 10, receiving the inner surface 22a of the flexure part 22 when the flexure part 22 is deformed, and regulating the deformation of the flexure part 22. A distance D between the stopper part 14 and the inner surface 22a of the flexure part 22 is adjustable.