Fluid-Bladder Optical Sensing for 3D Force and Weight Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for measuring force and weight are limited in their ability to accurately determine the three-dimensional forces exerted by an object, particularly in dynamic and complex environments.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system comprising a flexible sheet, a rigid clear plate, and a fluid-filled bladder, coupled with a camera and computer, measures force by analyzing the deformation of the bladder's shape through image processing to calculate the force exerted in all three dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional weight and force measurement devices are used, then simple weight measurement is achieved, but accurate determination of three-dimensional forces in dynamic environments cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor divides the measurement task into multiple independent components: a flexible sheet for force distribution, a fluid-filled bladder for pressure transmission, and a camera system for spatial analysis. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the system to measure three-dimensional forces by analyzing the bladder's shape deformation from multiple viewpoints.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid-filled bladder acts as an intermediary between the applied force and the camera measurement system. The fluid transmits pressure uniformly throughout the bladder, converting complex three-dimensional force vectors into a measurable shape change that can be captured optically and processed to determine force magnitude and direction.
2Stress or pressure
If a fluid-filled bladder is used to transmit force, then force distribution is improved, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a fluid-filled bladder that exploits the incompressibility and uniform pressure transmission properties of fluids. When force is applied to the flexible sheet, the fluid transmits this pressure uniformly throughout the bladder, causing the bladder to deform in a predictable manner that reflects the applied force distribution. This hydraulic principle simplifies the force transmission mechanism while enabling three-dimensional force measurement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If camera-based image processing is used to measure force, then three-dimensional force determination is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces traditional mechanical force sensors with an optical measurement system. Instead of using mechanical transducers that directly convert force to electrical signals, the system uses a camera to capture the shape of the fluid-filled bladder and processes this visual information to calculate force vectors. This substitution enables three-dimensional force measurement while using readily available optical technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible sheet and bladder are constructed from materials with contrasting colors or patterns that are visible to the camera. This contrast enhancement allows the camera to clearly distinguish the bladder's boundaries and shape changes against the background, improving the accuracy of image processing and force calculation while keeping the overall system design relatively simple.
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
The system provides precise and continuous measurements of forces in three dimensions, enabling applications in robotics, pressure sensing, and weight determination, while being adaptable to hazardous environments.
Implementation Method 1
the bladder is an elastic spheroid
Implementation Method 2
fluid in the bladder being a non-compressible liquid
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a sensors and related methods for measuring force are disclosed. A system for measuring force may include a sensor including a flexible sheet of material, a rigid clear plate, and a fluid filled bladder, the flexible sheet of material being affixed to the rigid clear plate, and the fluid filled bladder being disposed between the flexible sheet of material and the rigid clear plate. The system may also include a camera disposed beneath the rigid clear plate and including a camera lens aimed upwardly toward the rigid clear plate. The system may also include a computer connected to the camera. Various other details are provided.