Dynamic Wheel Contact Force Measurement Using Embedded Linear Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining wheel contact forces of a vehicle are limited as they require stationary tests using oscillating wheel contact plates or rollers, which do not allow for the measurement of dynamic wheel loads during actual vehicle movement.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that involve driving a vehicle over an obstacle with a defined height and cross-sectional shape, using embedded linear sensor arrangements to directly measure and record the vertical wheel force, allowing for the determination of both dynamic and static wheel contact forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If stationary tests using oscillating wheel contact plates or rollers are used, then measurement precision of wheel contact forces is improved, but the ability to measure dynamic wheel loads during actual vehicle movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from stationary measurement systems to dynamic measurement systems that can measure wheel loads during actual vehicle movement. The sensor arrangements are designed to function while the vehicle is in motion, capturing dynamic wheel contact forces rather than only static or oscillating test conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical oscillating wheel contact plates or rollers with simpler sensor arrangements embedded in the road surface. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical vibration generation while achieving accurate measurement through direct force sensing during natural vehicle operation.
2Measurement precision
If complex oscillating test equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from complex mechanical test equipment and places simple force sensors directly in the road surface. This separates the measurement function from the vehicle and test equipment, using the road infrastructure itself as the measurement platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses relatively simple sensor arrangements that can be embedded in the road surface, replacing expensive and complex oscillating test equipment. The sensors are positioned to measure forces during normal vehicle operation without requiring sophisticated mechanical test systems.
3Measurement precision
If stationary wheel support systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous measurement of wheel contact forces during normal vehicle operation rather than requiring separate stationary test procedures. Measurements are taken during actual driving, allowing for efficient data collection without interrupting vehicle use or requiring specialized test setups.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows vehicles to serve as their own test subjects by measuring wheel contact forces during normal operation. The sensor arrangements in the road surface automatically capture data as vehicles pass, eliminating the need for dedicated test equipment or procedures.
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 the efficient and practical measurement of wheel contact forces during vehicle movement, providing insights into dynamic and static loads, axle behavior, and material stresses, while being adaptable to different vehicle types and configurations.
Implementation Method 1
direct measurement of the vertical wheel force acting on the ground of at least one wheel
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for determining the dynamic wheel load of a vehicle, comprising a measuring platform accessible to a vehicle and an obstacle attachable to the measuring platform and traversable by a vehicle, wherein at least one linear first sensor arrangement extending in the direction of travel of the vehicle is integrated into the measuring platform in the area of the obstacle and/or immediately behind the obstacle, at least in the area of one lane of travel of the vehicle. Further developments enable the determination of static wheel loads separately in addition to the determination of dynamic wheel loads. Methods for determining dynamic and/or static wheel loads are also specified.