Camera-Based Bladder Sensor for 3D Force Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for measuring force and weight often lack precision and versatility, particularly in dynamic or hazardous environments, and do not effectively utilize the deformation of bladders for force determination.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a bladder attached to a rigid base with a camera beneath to capture images of bladder deformation, utilizing contrasting colors and fluid-filled bladders to calculate force in three dimensions, with optional temperature sensing and robust camera positioning for various environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional weight and force measurement devices are used, then the measurement function is provided, but the precision and versatility are insufficient especially in dynamic or hazardous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical force measurement devices with an optical measurement system. A camera captures images of a bladder's deformation, and image processing algorithms calculate force vectors in three dimensions. This substitution enables measurement in hazardous environments where mechanical sensors would be unsafe, while maintaining or improving precision through digital image analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the bladder's deformation parameters (shape, volume, surface area changes) as indicators of applied force. By monitoring how the bladder's geometry changes in response to force, the system translates physical deformation into quantitative force measurements, enabling precise detection in dynamic conditions.
2Measurement precision
If a bladder is pressed down, its equator expands; as it is pressed laterally, the bladder stretches. The system measures the change in the shape of the bladder to determine the force acting on the bladder
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the bladder's deformation rather than directly measuring the force mechanically. The camera captures the bladder's shape changes, and computational algorithms process these visual copies to derive force vectors. This approach simplifies the physical measurement system while enabling complex three-dimensional force analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional or two-dimensional measurement to three-dimensional force measurement by capturing the bladder's deformation in multiple spatial dimensions. The camera system records changes in the bladder's shape, volume, and surface area, allowing calculation of force vectors in all three spatial dimensions.
3Ease of operation
If the bladder is attached to the lens at a south pole to allow the camera lens to view and capture images of edges of the bladder, then the measurement capability is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the camera system as an intermediary between the force application and the measurement process. Instead of directly measuring force with complex mechanical sensors, the camera captures the bladder's deformation as an intermediate representation, which is then processed to determine force. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system while enabling measurement.
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
Provides precise, three-dimensional force measurement and weight determination, adaptable to diverse conditions, including hazardous settings, with continuous force monitoring and temperature sensing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a camera having a lens, the bladder being attached to the lens at a south pole of the bladder so that the camera lens can view and capture images of edges of the bladder
Implementation Method 2
as a bladder is pressed down, its equator expands; and as it is pressed laterally, the bladder stretches
Implementation Method 3
the bladder is filled with a fluid... the fluid in the bladder is one of a non-compressible liquid and air
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a sensors and related methods for measuring force are disclosed. A system for measuring force may include a sensor including a sheet of material, a rigid base, and a bladder, the sheet of material being affixed to the rigid base, and the bladder being disposed between the sheet of material and the rigid base. The system may also include a camera disposed beneath the rigid base and including a camera lens aimed upwardly toward the rigid base. The system may also include a computer connected to the camera. Various other details are provided.