Force Sensor Inspection Strain Gauges Plastic Deformation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional force-torque sensors lack the ability to detect plastic deformation of the strain element, which can lead to inaccurate force measurement when the strain element exceeds its elastic limit.
Innovation Solution
A force sensor with inspection strain sensing elements disposed in stress concentration areas, equipped with inspection bridge circuits to detect specific directional components of stress and a failure detection circuit to determine plastic deformation by comparing detected stress with a predetermined threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional force-torque sensors are used to detect force components, then force measurement is achieved, but plastic deformation of the strain element cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is segmented into two independent detection subsystems: a measurement bridge circuit for detecting force components and an inspection bridge circuit for detecting plastic deformation. Each subsystem uses dedicated strain gauges positioned at different locations on the strain element, allowing simultaneous operation without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection strain gauges act as intermediaries positioned at stress concentration areas to detect the onset of plastic deformation. These gauges serve as early warning sensors that monitor critical stress zones and provide information about the strain element's structural integrity before failure occurs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the strain element is designed to detect force, then force detection capability is achieved, but the strain element is vulnerable to plastic deformation and fracture
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection strain gauges are pre-positioned at stress concentration areas where plastic deformation is most likely to occur. This preliminary placement allows the system to detect plastic deformation at its earliest stages, enabling preventive action before the strain element suffers catastrophic failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection bridge circuit provides continuous feedback about the stress state in critical areas of the strain element. When the output voltage exceeds a predetermined threshold, the system receives feedback that plastic deformation has occurred, allowing for immediate correction or shutdown to prevent further damage.
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 detection of plastic deformation in the strain element, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of force measurement by identifying when the strain element has exceeded its elastic limit.
Implementation Method 1
The strain gauges detect strain in the strain element caused by the force applied to the strain element
Implementation Method 2
bridge circuits each including a certain combination of strain gauges. The strain gauges detect strain in the strain element caused by the force applied to the strain element
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a force sensor that is capable of detecting plastic deformation of a strain element. The force sensor detects components, in a plurality of directions, of a force exerted on the strain element. The force sensor includes: inspection strain gauges disposed in stress concentration areas of the strain element; and an inspection bridge circuit that includes the inspection strain gauges and that is configured to detect a component, in a specific direction, of a stress that occurs in the strain element.