Load Detection Unit Using Deformation Transmission

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing load measuring devices for applications like safety nets and ground anchors are complex, expensive, and require frequent maintenance due to drift in measurement values, especially when dealing with high operational loads.

Innovation Solution

A load detection unit featuring a deformation transmission unit that transfers deformation from a spring-elastic load carrier assembly to a sensor, allowing for a cost-effective design and eliminating the need for multiple strain gauges, using drift-proof vibrating wire sensors to maintain precise measurements without recalibration for extended periods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple strain gauges are used to compensate for temperature differences and asymmetries, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical strain gauge system with a capacitive sensing system. Instead of using multiple strain gauges arranged in Wheatstone bridges to measure deformation, the invention uses capacitive sensors that detect changes in capacitance caused by deformation of the load-bearing element. This substitution eliminates the need for complex gauge arrangements while maintaining measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the measurement parameter from mechanical strain (measured by strain gauges) to electrical capacitance (measured by capacitive sensors). By measuring capacitance changes rather than direct strain, the system achieves temperature compensation inherently, as capacitance is less sensitive to temperature variations than resistance-based strain gauges.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If strain gauges are sealed in chambers to protect them, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidease of manufacture

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates the need for sealed chambers by replacing strain gauges with capacitive sensors that can be surface-mounted on the load-bearing element. Capacitive sensors do not require hermetic sealing like strain gauges do, as they are less susceptible to environmental degradation. This simplifies manufacturing significantly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the sensing function from the internal structure of the load-bearing element and places capacitive sensors on the external surface. This allows the sensors to be applied without modifying the internal structure or requiring sealed chambers, simplifying both manufacturing and installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Ease of manufacture

If a simple load carrier assembly is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to geometry and deformation variations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of manufactureVSAvoidmeasurement precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the measurement approach from directly measuring mechanical strain on a simple load carrier to measuring capacitance changes. This parameter change allows the use of simple, cost-effective load carrier geometries while maintaining measurement precision, as capacitive sensors can detect deformation regardless of the specific geometry or deformation pattern of the load carrier.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

By replacing strain gauge-based mechanical measurement with capacitive sensing, the system becomes insensitive to the specific deformation characteristics of simple load carriers. The capacitive field can detect any deformation pattern, allowing use of simple geometries without compromising measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution provides reliable, ultra-precise, and maintenance-free load measurement over 10 years, reducing production costs and complexity while maintaining accuracy under high loads.

Implementation Method 1

a spring-elastic load carrier assembly (2) for receiving the load (10)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

using drift-proof vibrating wire sensors to maintain precise measurements

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 3

vibrating wire sensors

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS11262251B2Device and method for measuring a load

Publication Date: 2022.03.01 DIGISENS

AI summary

The invention relates to a load detection unit having a spring-elastic load carrier assembly for receiving the load (10) and a sensor (3) for the deformation of the load carrier assembly, which occurs under the load (10) that is to be detected, wherein a deformation transmission unit (6) is operatively arranged between the load carrier assembly and the sensor (3). A method, in which additionally a deformation transmission unit is used, is thus provided, which during operation picks up the deformation of the load carrier assembly and transmits it to the sensor as a changed force/path load.