3D Center of Gravity Determination via Multi-Axis Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inadequate for accurately determining the center of gravity of three-dimensional objects with irregular shapes and mass distributions, particularly in applications like radar cross-section testing where precise balancing is required.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a rotatable test platform with load cells and a computer-based processing device that determines the center of gravity by measuring changes in position along multiple axes through a series of orientations, using load cell data to calculate the center of gravity along the Z-axis by analyzing shifts in the X and Y axes during rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional single-orientation measurement methods are used, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement precision of center of gravity in three-dimensional space is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-orientation (2D) center of gravity measurement to multi-orientation (3D) measurement by rotating the test object around the vertical axis. This dimensional expansion allows determination of the center of gravity position in three-dimensional space (X, Y, Z coordinates) rather than just in a single plane, directly resolving the measurement precision limitation.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system employs dynamic rotation of the test object to multiple orientations rather than static single-position measurement. By rotating the object and measuring at different angular positions, the system captures spatial variations in weight distribution, enabling accurate 3D center of gravity calculation while managing system complexity through controlled dynamic operation.
2Measurement precision
If multi-orientation measurement is implemented, then the center of gravity determination accuracy improves, but the measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process uses periodic rotation of the test object to predetermined angular positions (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) rather than continuous rotation or exhaustive multi-position measurement. This periodic sampling approach captures sufficient spatial information for accurate 3D center of gravity determination while minimizing measurement cycle time through optimized angular intervals.
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
Enables precise determination of the center of gravity in three-dimensional space, allowing for accurate balancing and positioning of objects, enhancing the effectiveness of applications such as radar cross-section testing.
Implementation Method 1
at least three load cells coupled to the test platform to collect mass data related to an object positioned on the test platform
Implementation Method 2
determine a position of the center of gravity along a first axis and a second axis when the object is in the first orientation
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment a method to determine a center of gravity of a three dimensional object comprises positioning the object on a test platform in a first orientation, determining a position of the center of gravity along a first axis and a second axis when the object is in the first orientation, rotating the object with respect to a third axis which is orthogonal to the first axis and the second axis, determining a position of the center of gravity along at least one of the first axis or the second axis when the object is in the second orientation, and using a change in the position of the center of gravity along the at least one of the first axis or the second axis when the object is in the second orientation to determine a position of the center of gravity along the third axis. Other embodiments may be described.