Force Transducer with Double Bending Beams for Precision Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing force transducers are limited in their ability to simultaneously measure multiple force components from different directions, leading to reduced measurement accuracy and precision in force detection.

Innovation Solution

A force transducer composed of multiple double bending beams connected in series, with strain gauges arranged on each beam to measure forces in orthogonal directions, allowing for precise detection of forces in three-dimensional space, and a monolithic design for compactness and ease of manufacturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple force components are measured simultaneously using multiple separate transducers, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple force measurement functions into a single integrated transducer assembly. Multiple double bending beams are connected in series to form one unified device that can simultaneously measure multiple force components (Fx, Fy, Fz) that would otherwise require separate transducers, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The force transducer is designed as a multi-functional device capable of measuring force components in multiple directions simultaneously. The series connection of double bending beams enables the single transducer to perform the work of multiple separate transducers, achieving universal measurement capability across different force vectors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If strain gauges are exposed for force measurement, then measurement accuracy is improved, but reliability decreases due to strain gauge damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidreliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a protective film or coating that covers the strain gauges while allowing them to function. This protective layer shields the fragile strain gauges from mechanical damage and environmental factors, preventing damage that would compromise reliability, while still enabling accurate force measurement through the protective medium

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple double bending beams are connected with pins and bores, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing precisionVSAvoidease of manufacture
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the connection features (pins and bores) directly into the monolithic structure during manufacturing. Rather than assembling separate components with pins and bores, the double bending beams are formed as an integrated unit with built-in connection elements, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining the precision required for accurate force transmission

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Volume of moving object

If force transducer size is reduced for compactness, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransducer sizeVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent arranges multiple double bending beams in a nested or compact series configuration. The beams are connected in series along a compact path, allowing the transducer to maintain adequate measurement dimensions while occupying less overall volume. This nested arrangement enables precise force measurement without requiring a large transducer footprint

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enhances measurement accuracy and precision by enabling simultaneous recording of multiple force components, improving the detection of force direction and reducing the size of the transducer, while protecting strain gauges and simplifying connections.

Implementation Method 1

a first strain gauge pair, wherein the strain gauges of the first strain gauge pair are arranged on the first double bending beam, a second strain gauge pair, wherein the strain gauges of the second strain gauge pair are arranged on bending beams of the two second double bending beams

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain gauge resistance change: Piezoresistive Effect

Implementation Method 2

The force transducer comprises a bending body designed as a double bending beam with strain gauges arranged on it. The bending body also has two end pieces on its two opposing end faces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3578942B1Apparatus and procedures for measuring forces
Publication Date: 2024.05.01 AMAZONEN WERKE H DREYER GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3578942B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP3578942B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP3578942B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Devices and methods for measuring forces, in particular wheel forces, are shown using a force transducer constructed from double bending beams, which transmits forces acting on a component connected to the force transducer to another component.