Aerial Lift Load Detection via Single Linkage Pin Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load sensing systems for aerial lift assemblies, such as those using hydraulic pressure sensors and multiple load sensing pins, face inaccuracies due to temperature variations and frictional effects, and are complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
A single load sensing pin is strategically positioned at the pivotal connection of the actuator and linkage assembly, coupled with a load sensor to detect applicable loads and vectors, communicating with a controller to calculate platform height and load, reducing component count and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If hydraulic pressure sensors are used to measure hydraulic pressure in the lift cylinders, then load sensing capability is provided, but measurement precision deteriorates due to temperature variations and frictional effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic pressure sensors (mechanical/fluid-based system) with a load sensor that directly measures the load on the linkage assembly. This substitution eliminates the indirect measurement through hydraulic pressure, thereby removing the harmful effects of temperature variations and frictional effects that plague hydraulic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the load sensing function from the hydraulic system and places it directly on the linkage assembly through a dedicated load sensor. This separation removes the load sensing capability from the temperature-sensitive and friction-prone hydraulic environment, allowing for more accurate measurements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple load sensing pins are used at the platform to directly measure platform load, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the load sensing function into a single location on the linkage assembly rather than distributing multiple sensors across the platform. By placing one load sensor on the linkage assembly, the system combines what would require multiple separate measurement points into a single integrated sensing location, reducing complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single load sensor on the linkage assembly serves multiple functions: it measures the load on the linkage, provides information about platform load, and can detect load vectors. This multi-functionality replaces what would otherwise require multiple dedicated sensors positioned at different locations on the platform.
3Reliability
If multiple load sensing pins and hydraulic pressure sensors are used, then comprehensive load measurement is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the load sensing function into a single integrated sensor on the linkage assembly, combining what would otherwise require multiple separate components (hydraulic pressure sensors and multiple load sensing pins) into one unified system that provides comprehensive load measurement capability.
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
The solution enhances accuracy and reliability by minimizing hysteresis and temperature interference, reduces component complexity and cost, and simplifies maintenance, offering a more precise and efficient load measurement system.
Implementation Method 1
A load sensor is provided upon the pivotal connection of one of the plurality of links of the linkage assembly... the load sensor detects an applicable load and load vector
Data Source
AI summary
An aerial lift assembly is provided with a chassis. A linkage assembly is provided with a plurality of pivotally connected links. The linkage assembly is mounted to the chassis to extend and retract from the chassis. A platform is supported upon the linkage assembly to extend and retract from the chassis. A load sensor is provided upon a pivotal connection of one of the plurality of links of the linkage assembly.