Load Cell Assembly for Eccentric Load Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tension load cells are inaccurate when eccentric loads are applied and prone to wear due to continuous threaded connections, which can lead to unsafe connections, especially in heavy-duty applications like cranes and lifting equipment.
Innovation Solution
A load cell assembly with first and second connection members having different diameters and facing surfaces that distribute the load evenly, allowing for eccentric force compensation and reducing wear by preventing relative movement between the connection members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connections are used to attach load cell to load transmission member, then the connection can be made securely, but the threads wear out over time due to continuous twisting motion and eccentric forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the threaded mechanical connection system with a press-fit connection system. The load transmission member is inserted into a recess in the load cell body and secured through interference fit and retaining rings, eliminating the twisting motion that causes thread wear and extending connection longevity while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the threaded connection elements from the load cell assembly. By eliminating the threads entirely and using a press-fit mechanism with retaining rings, the design removes the source of wear while maintaining the necessary connection functionality.
2Measurement precision
If non-eccentric load is applied to load cell, then accurate measurement is achieved, but the load cell cannot accommodate eccentric forces that may be applied in practice
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the load transmission member can rotate freely within the recess during operation. This allows the connection to adapt to eccentric forces by permitting rotational movement, thereby maintaining measurement accuracy while accommodating practical eccentric loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the connection by allowing rotational freedom. The load transmission member is free to rotate within the recess, changing the rigid fixed-position connection into a dynamic adjustable connection that can accommodate varying force application angles while maintaining measurement precision.
3Device complexity
If small contact surface is used between connection members, then the structure remains compact, but the pressure between contact surfaces increases causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent distributes the contact force across multiple dimensions by using multiple retaining rings positioned at different locations around the load transmission member. This spreads the load over a larger effective contact area while maintaining a compact overall structure, reducing pressure on individual contact points and preventing damage.
Data Source
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AI summary
A load cell assembly configured to measure an axial load in a direction of a central axis of the load cell assembly, the load cell assembly comprising: a load cell body having a first end and a second end, a load transmission member configured to transfer a load to the load cell body in a direction coaxial with the central axis of the load cell, a first connection member being connected with the first end of the load cell, where the first connection member has a first end facing the load transmission member, the first end having a first diameter, and a second end having a second diameter, and a first connection surface extending from the first diameter to the second diameter, a second connection member being connected with the load transmission member, where the second connection member has a first end facing the load connection member, the first end having a third diameter and a second end facing the load cell, the second end having a fourth diameter, and a second connection surface extending from the third diameter to the fourth diameter, where the first diameter and the third diameter are different from the second diameter and fourth diameter, where the first connection surface faces the central axis of the load cell assembly and the second connection surface faces the first connection surface, or the second connection surface faces the central axis of the load cell assembly, and the first connection surface faces the second connection surface.