Vehicle Axle Load Sensor Mounting for Non-Invasive Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load sensor installations on vehicle axles require invasive methods, limiting versatility and increasing costs due to the need for precise mechanical fixation and complex axle modifications, with cumbersome and costly replacement processes.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive load sensor arrangement featuring a sensor holder with a mounting portion adapted for attachment to the vehicle axle and a releasable attachment element, allowing for quick and tool-free installation and replacement without modifying the axle, using magnetic, optical, or other non-invasive sensors that measure load without physical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an invasive load sensor (strain gauge or piezoelectric sensor) is used to measure axle load, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate due to required mechanical fixation and axle modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive mechanical sensors (strain gauges and piezoelectric sensors) with a non-invasive magnetic sensor that measures axle load through magnetic field interaction without physical contact or mechanical fixation. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical installation while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the sensor and the axle. The magnetic sensor measures the magnetic field generated by the axle steel, which correlates to the axle load, without requiring direct mechanical contact between the sensor and the axle
2Measurement precision
If an invasive load sensor is installed between the axle and leaf spring, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation and ease of repair worsen due to cumbersome and costly replacement processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensors that require disassembly and reassembly with a magnetic sensor that can be positioned and removed without mechanical fastening. The sensor holder provides a simple mechanical support structure that allows the sensor to be easily installed and replaced without affecting the axle or leaf spring assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the sensor from the structural components (axle and leaf spring) by introducing an independent sensor holder. This segmentation allows the sensor to be replaced independently without disturbing the structural assembly, significantly easing maintenance and repair operations
3Ease of manufacture
If a non-invasive load sensor is used to measure axle load, then ease of manufacture and ease of operation are improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a magnetic sensor that detects the magnetic field generated by the axle steel, which is influenced by the axle load. This substitution of mechanical measurement with magnetic field measurement enables non-invasive installation while achieving sufficient measurement precision for practical applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct mechanical strain (invasive) to magnetic field strength (non-invasive). The magnetic field strength varies with the axle load, providing a correlated measurement that is sufficient for determining whether the axle is overloaded without requiring direct mechanical contact
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
This solution simplifies the mounting and replacement of load sensors, reduces the impact on the vehicle axle, and eliminates the need for specialized equipment, providing cost-effective and efficient load measurement without compromising axle integrity.
Implementation Method 1
using magnetic, optical, or other non-invasive sensors that measure load without physical contact
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a load sensor arrangement (100) for installation on a vehicle axle (106) of a vehicle (108). The load sensor arrangement (100) comprises: a non-invasive load sensor (102) for measuring a load subjected to the vehicle axle (106) and a sensor holder (110). The sensor holder (110) comprises a sensor holding portion (112) and a mounting portion (114). The mounting portion (114) is adapted for attachment to the vehicle axle (106), and the sensor holding portion (112) is adapted for holding the load sensor (102) in a position for direct measuring on the vehicle axle (106). The load sensor arrangement (100) comprises an attachment element (118) for releasable connection of said load sensor (102) to said sensor holding portion (112). The invention further relates to a vehicle axle arrangement, a vehicle, a method of installing a non-invasive load sensor on a vehicle axle, and the use of a load sensor arrangement.