Camera-Based Vehicle Load Measurement via Suspension Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle load determination methods, such as ride height sensors and strain gauges, are costly and inefficient, leading to issues like axle overload, handling degradation, and poor weight distribution, which can cause brake problems and misloading.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing existing vehicle cameras to capture images before and after loading, applying photogrammetry techniques and machine learning algorithms to determine vehicle load changes by analyzing spatial relationships of known reference points and suspension deflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ride height sensors and strain gauges are used to determine vehicle load, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses photogrammetry to create a visual copy of the vehicle and its load through camera images. By capturing images from multiple angles and creating a three-dimensional digital model, the system measures vehicle load without physical sensors. The camera captures spatial relationships that are then converted into load measurements through image processing and comparison with reference models.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sensing systems (ride height sensors and strain gauges) with an optical system. Instead of using mechanical components to directly measure load forces and displacements, the system uses camera-based photogrammetry to optically capture and analyze vehicle geometry changes, thereby substituting a mechanical measurement system with an optical one.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are installed to monitor suspension deflection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both standard imaging tasks and specialized photogrammetric measurements. The same camera hardware used for general vehicle imaging or autonomous driving functions is also utilized for load measurement, eliminating the need for dedicated sensors and simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the vehicle's existing camera infrastructure to serve the additional function of load measurement. Rather than requiring separate dedicated sensors, the vehicle's own imaging system is repurposed to capture the necessary data for suspension deflection and load analysis, reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Device complexity
If camera-based photogrammetry is used to determine vehicle load, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement task into multiple segments: capturing images from multiple camera angles, identifying specific features in each image, calculating spatial relationships separately for each feature, and then synthesizing these segmented measurements into comprehensive load determination. This segmentation allows complex measurements to be broken down into manageable, precise steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional images to three-dimensional spatial understanding by using photogrammetry algorithms. Multiple 2D images captured from different angles are processed to reconstruct 3D coordinates of vehicle features, enabling precise measurement of suspension deflection and load without requiring complex physical sensors.
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
Accurately determines vehicle load without additional sensors, improving weight distribution and preventing axle overload, thereby enhancing handling and reducing brake issues.
Implementation Method 1
applying photogrammetry techniques and machine learning algorithms to determine vehicle load changes by analyzing spatial relationships of known reference points and suspension deflection
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture to determine the load of a vehicle via camera-based height measurement are disclosed herein. An example vehicle described herein includes a suspension assembly associated with a wheel, a first feature, a first camera, and a processor to execute instructions to capture, via the first camera, a first image including the first feature and a second feature, the first feature and a second feature having a first spatial relationship in the first image, capture, via the first camera, a second image including the first feature and the second feature, the first feature and the second feature having a second spatial relationship in the second image, and determine, based on a difference between the first spatial relationship and the second spatial relationship, a deflection of the suspension assembly.