Load Transducer Error Correction via Deformation Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load transducers face challenges with crosstalk between channels, temperature-induced errors, and accuracy issues due to load position, leading to inaccurate force and moment measurements, particularly when used with varying force plate sizes and in high-temperature environments.
Innovation Solution
A load transducer system comprising a compact, one-piece frame with deformation sensing elements and a data processing device that corrects output signals for crosstalk, temperature effects, and load position, using deformation and temperature compensation parameters to enhance measurement accuracy and versatility across different force plate sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional load transducers are used to measure forces and moments, then the basic measurement function is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to crosstalk between channels, temperature-induced errors, and load position sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using additional strain gages to detect crosstalk and temperature-induced errors, then feeding this information back through a data processing device that applies correction factors to the measured forces and moments. This closed-loop approach continuously compensates for measurement errors, significantly improving measurement precision while maintaining the basic transducer structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary data processing device that acts as a mediator between the strain gage measurements and the final output. This intermediary processes the raw signals, applies correction algorithms based on detected crosstalk and temperature effects, and produces corrected force and moment values, thereby isolating the measurement system from the harmful effects of crosstalk and temperature variations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom load transducers are designed for each force plate size, then measurement adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by designing a single load transducer model that can be used with multiple force plate sizes. The transducer incorporates a universal mounting system and correction algorithms that adapt to different plate dimensions, eliminating the need for custom-designed transducers for each force plate size while maintaining measurement accuracy across all configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by using correction factors that are adjusted based on the specific force plate size being used. Rather than redesigning the physical transducer structure for each plate size, the system modifies the computational parameters (correction factors) to account for different geometries, allowing one transducer design to serve multiple applications.
3Area of stationary object
If load transducers span the full length of force plates, then measurement coverage is improved, but material usage and device weight increase excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the force plate into multiple measurement zones, each monitored by smaller, strategically positioned load transducers. Instead of using one large transducer spanning the entire plate, multiple smaller transducers are distributed across the surface, providing comprehensive coverage while using less material per transducer and reducing overall device weight.
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 more accurate and reliable force and moment measurements by compensating for crosstalk, temperature, and load position, enabling universal use with various force plates and reducing material costs through a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
one or more deformation sensing elements disposed on the load transducer frame portion, the one or more deformation sensing elements being sensitive to one or more respective force or moment components of the load and outputting one or more respective output signals representative of the one or more respective force or moment components of the load
Implementation Method 2
the data processing device configured to determine one or more temperature compensation parameters for the load transducer system and to correct the one or more respective output forces or moments using the one or more temperature compensation parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A load transducer system is disclosed herein. The load transducer system includes a load transducer and a data processing device. The load transducer has a load transducer frame portion configured to elastically deform when a load is applied to the load transducer; and one or more deformation sensing elements, disposed on the load transducer frame portion, sensitive to one or more respective force or moment components of the load. The data processing device is operatively coupled to the one or more deformation sensing elements of the load transducer, the data processing device is configured to determine one or more output forces or moments from one or more respective output signals of the one or more deformation sensing elements, to determine one or more deformation compensation parameters for the load transducer system, and to correct the one or more output forces or moments using the one or more deformation compensation parameters.