Aerial Platform Load Weighing System Using Vertical Force Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load weighing systems for aerial platforms with vertical masts are inadequate in terms of accuracy and suitability, particularly for those with a fixed vertical mast directly supporting the work platform, due to issues like friction, increased risk of overturning, and bulkiness, which hinder precise load measurement and safety.
Innovation Solution
A load weighing system featuring at least three force sensors arranged between the lifting structure and the work platform, with sensors measuring forces in the vertical direction to accurately determine the weight and moments, reducing the need for heavy mechanical devices and minimizing the system's footprint, allowing for precise load measurement and improved safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a rigid frame with four load cells is used to support the work platform, then the weighing system can measure the load, but the significant mass of the rigid frame increases the risk of tipping and makes it unsuitable for light machines
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid frame is segmented into multiple separate support points, each equipped with its own force sensor. Instead of using one large frame with four load cells, the invention distributes the weighing function across multiple independent sensor locations between the mast and platform, reducing the need for a heavy connecting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The force sensors are extracted and positioned directly between the lifting structure and the work platform, eliminating the need for a heavy rigid frame to support the load cells. This extraction allows the weighing function to be achieved with minimal structural mass.
2Measurement precision
If force sensors are arranged to fully support the work platform weight, then accurate load measurement is achieved, but the system becomes more complex and larger
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensors are positioned at specific locations where they can optimally measure the vertical forces. The sensors are arranged to measure forces in the vertical direction at their specific support points, allowing accurate load determination without requiring a complex overall structure. Each sensor location is optimized for its specific measurement function.
3Measurement precision
If a mechanical device is used to dissociate the weight of the work platform from moments, then the force sensor measures only the weight, but the mechanical device is heavy and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The complex mechanical device used to dissociate weight from moments is replaced by a simplified arrangement of force sensors that directly measure vertical forces at multiple support points. The computational separation of weight and moments is achieved through sensor arrangement and data processing rather than through heavy mechanical means.
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 proposed system provides accurate and precise load measurement on aerial platforms with vertical masts, enhancing safety by reducing the risk of overturning and improving adaptability, while maintaining a compact design that does not significantly increase the platform's height or weight.
Implementation Method 1
at least three force sensors interposed between the lifting structure and the work platform by means of which the lifting structure fully supports the weight of the work platform, in which: each of the force sensors is provided to measure the force exerted on it only in the vertical direction by the work platform
Data Source
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AI summary
The aerial lift comprises a working platform 130 and a lifting structure 120 supporting the platform 130 on one side. At least three, preferably four, force sensors 41, 42 are interposed between the lifting structure 120 and the platform 130. The support interfaces for the force sensors 41, 42 are all situated on a side of the floor 131 of the platform 130 that is situated towards the side of the working platform on which it is supported by the lifting structure 120. Each of the force sensors 41, 42 is provided to measure the force exerted only in the vertical direction by the platform 130 on the support interface thereof when the floor of the working platform extends horizontally.