Dual Platform Weighing Scale for Individual Tire Load Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile weigh scale systems for law enforcement are not compact, lightweight, easy to deploy, accurate, and durable enough for use by non-specialized users on various surfaces and conditions, and cannot measure individual tire loads within dual-tire configurations, leading to unenforceable safety regulations and potential safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A dual platform weighing scale system that is compact, lightweight, and easy to deploy, using dual weigh pads to accurately measure individual tire loads within dual-tire configurations, suitable for use by law enforcement personnel on various surfaces and conditions, and capable of withstanding repeated cycles of storage and deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mobile weigh scale systems are made portable and compact, then ease of transport and deployment is improved, but measurement accuracy and durability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The scale system is divided into separate modular components including individual weigh pads, platforms, and measurement units that can be independently positioned under each wheel or axle. This segmentation allows the system to maintain measurement accuracy through dedicated measurement points while improving portability through modular transport and deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weighing mechanisms with electronic load cells and digital measurement systems. This substitution enables higher measurement accuracy in compact form factors by using electronic sensing rather than mechanical balance, allowing portable scales to achieve law enforcement-grade precision
2Ease of operation
If mobile weigh scale systems are designed for portability, then ease of transport is improved, but durability and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The scale components utilize composite material construction combining lightweight materials for portability with reinforcement elements for durability. The platforms and housings incorporate strength-enhancing materials that maintain structural integrity during repeated deployment cycles while keeping the overall system lightweight enough for mobile operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates protective features and shock-absorbing elements that prevent damage before it occurs during transport and deployment. This includes protective casings, cushioning mounting structures, and design features that prevent damage from rough handling or accidental impacts during field operations
3Device complexity
If single wheel or single axle measurement is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented into multiple independent weigh pads and measurement units that can be positioned under individual wheels or axles. Each segment performs a dedicated measurement function, and the results are combined to provide comprehensive axle and vehicle weight data, improving precision without requiring a single complex measurement system
Solution Approach 2:
The weigh pad and measurement unit design provides multi-functionality, capable of measuring individual wheel loads, axle loads, and total vehicle weight using the same basic components. This universal approach improves measurement precision through multiple measurement points while avoiding the complexity of specialized systems for each measurement type
4Measurement precision
If fixed base scale facilities are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but adaptability to various locations and surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scale system transitions from fixed stationary installations to mobile dynamic deployment. The portable weigh pads and platforms can be positioned, removed, and repositioned to adapt to various locations including roadways, shoulders, parking lots, and uneven surfaces, maintaining measurement accuracy through controlled positioning at each location
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 accurate measurement of individual tire loads, allowing enforcement of safety regulations, improving safety and efficiency by identifying overrated tires and ensuring equal weight distribution, while being durable and user-friendly for non-specialized users.
Implementation Method 1
Each load cell (14) has a body (142) and a top surface (144). A platform (16) contacts the top surface (144) of the load cell (14).
Data Source
AI summary
A dual platform, electronic weigh scale is disclosed. The scale is compact and self-contained. The scale is useful for commercial vehicle weight enforcement. The scale has a base, a set of load cells, and two (2) platforms. The base is rigid, metallic, and generally rectangular, and has a central recessed area. The load cells are elongated, rectangular, and are coupled to the base in the central recessed area. The set of load cells are arranged such that half are in communicative contact with one platform and the other half are in communicative contact with the other platform.