Chassis Suspension Load Weighing Using Ground Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the weight of shipping containers are cumbersome, expensive, and prone to errors, with limited availability of scales and equipment, necessitating improved and efficient weight detection systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using sensors like mmWave radar, ultrasonic transducers, or ToF sensors to measure distances and chassis displacement, applying a function W_L = aD^2 + bD + c to estimate weight based on multi-leaf spring suspension characteristics, with communication to a remote server for precise weight determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large scales and container handling equipment (weighbridges, cranes) are used to determine the weight of shipping containers, then weight measurement capability is achieved, but the system becomes cumbersome, expensive, and has poor availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weighing systems (large scales, weighbridges) with a sensor-based system that uses displacement measurement and spring suspension physics to calculate weight. Sensors mounted on the chassis measure displacement of the chassis when a container is placed on it, and this displacement data is used to determine weight through calculation, eliminating the need for cumbersome mechanical weighing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The weighing system is integrated directly into the chassis itself, making the chassis self-sufficient for weight measurement. The chassis with mounted sensors can independently determine its own weight status without requiring external weighing equipment, enabling autonomous weight detection and eliminating dependency on external scales or weighbridges.
2Measurement precision
If traditional weighing methods are used, then weight data can be obtained, but operational efficiency decreases due to cumulative charges and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system continuously monitors chassis displacement and weight status without interruption. Unlike traditional methods that require stopping operations to use external scales, this system provides continuous weight data as containers are placed on or removed from the chassis, enabling real-time tracking and eliminating operational interruptions, thereby maintaining continuous productive activity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback on weight status through continuous sensor monitoring and calculation. This immediate feedback allows operators to know the current weight status without waiting for external weighing processes, enabling prompt decision-making and eliminating delays associated with traditional batch weighing methods, thus improving operational flow and efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If external scales and weighing equipment are deployed, then weight measurement is possible, but cost increases due to cumulative charges and infrastructure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis becomes self-sufficient for weight measurement through integrated sensors and onboard calculation capabilities. This eliminates the need to pay for external weighing services and infrastructure, as the weighing function is now an inherent capability of the chassis itself, reducing operational costs by removing dependency on paid external weighing facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical weighing infrastructure with a low-cost sensor and calculation system. By using simple displacement sensors and mathematical calculations based on spring suspension physics, the system achieves weight measurement capability without requiring costly weighbridges, large scales, or specialized handling equipment, thereby significantly reducing infrastructure and operational costs.
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 accurate and cost-effective weight estimation of loads on chassis-supported containers, reducing operational costs and errors, and enabling efficient fleet management.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a first distance (d1) to a position fixed relative the ground by at least one sensor mounted on the chassis
Implementation Method 2
when a load is placed on a chassis supported by a spring suspension
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A method and system for determining the weight of a load when the load is placed on a chassis supported by a spring suspension. The method comprises measuring a first distance to a position fixed relative the ground by at least one sensor mounted on the chassis; detecting a displacement of the chassis relative to the position based on the first distance and a second distance measured to the position by the at least one sensor; determining the weight of the load on the basis of the chassis displacement; and communicating the determined weight of the load. The system comprises at least one sensor mounted on the chassis for measuring a first distance to a position fixed relative to the ground; a module for detecting a displacement of the chassis relative to the position based on the first distance and a second distance measured to the position by the at least one sensor, the module determining the weight of the load on the basis of the chassis displacement; and a communication module for communicating the determined weight of the load.