Anti-Roll Bar Load Indicator Using Single Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load indication devices for motor vehicles require multiple sensors on each axle, making them complex and costly, and are sensitive to localized wheel sag rather than overall vehicle load.
Innovation Solution
A device that uses a single measurement sensor to determine the relative position of an anti-roll bar's mobile point with respect to a reference point, allowing estimation of the vehicle's overall load independently of wheel sag, and generates a sensory signal to indicate the load to the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are installed on each axle to measure wheel displacement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement function of multiple wheel sensors into a single anti-roll bar sensor. The anti-roll bar, being a central structural element connected to both wheels, integrates the displacement information from multiple measurement points into a single measurable parameter, thereby reducing the number of sensors from multiple per axle to just one per axle while maintaining load measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-roll bar serves multiple functions: it provides vehicle stability control and simultaneously acts as a measurement element for load detection. By utilizing the anti-roll bar's inherent movement in response to vehicle loading, the system eliminates the need for dedicated sensors on each wheel, achieving multi-functionality that reduces overall device complexity
2Measurement precision
If sensors measure displacement of mobile parts on each wheel, then localized wheel sag is detected, but the device becomes sensitive to localized rather than overall load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from measuring linear displacement at individual wheel contact points to measuring the rotational position of the anti-roll bar, which reflects the overall load distribution across the axle. This dimensional shift from localized linear measurement to global rotational measurement provides a more accurate representation of total vehicle load
3Device complexity
If a single sensor is used to measure anti-roll bar position, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-roll bar acts as an intermediary mechanical element that translates complex multi-point load distribution into a single measurable rotational parameter. This intermediary mechanism preserves measurement precision by providing a direct mechanical relationship between overall load and sensor reading, eliminating the need for multiple sensors while maintaining accuracy
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
Simplifies the load indication system by reducing the number of sensors needed and accurately estimates the vehicle's load, enabling users to avoid exceeding payload limits, with the sensory signal providing real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
the means for determining the relative position of the moving point may comprise a connecting rod secured in ball joint connection with, on the one hand, an attachment lug integral with the moving point, and on the other hand, an arm arranged in pivot connection with respect to the reference point
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The device (1) has a determination unit for determining a relative position of a mobile point (M1) of an anti-roll bar (2) with respect to a reference point (F1) of a motor vehicle. The mobile point is arranged at a median zone of the bar. A control unit (4) generates a sensory signal e.g. sound signal, based on the position. The reference point is secured to a frame (3) and an axle of the vehicle. The control unit calculates a value from respective positions of the points and generates the signal based on the value obtained according to a law function of the geometry.