Optical Bladder Force Sensing for 3D Weight Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for measuring force and weight often lack precision and versatility, particularly in dynamic or hazardous environments, and fail to provide comprehensive three-dimensional pressure measurements.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flexible bladder, a rigid base, and a camera-lens combination that captures bladder deformation to calculate force and weight by analyzing shape changes, utilizing contrasting colors and springs for stability, with a computer for iterative calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional force and weight measurement devices are used, then the measurement function is provided, but the measurement precision and versatility are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical force measurement devices with an optical measurement system. A camera captures images of a bladder that deforms under force, and image processing algorithms calculate the force magnitude and direction from the deformation pattern. This substitution enables measurements in hazardous environments where mechanical sensors would be damaged, while maintaining or improving precision through digital image analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct mechanical force detection to optical deformation detection. By monitoring the shape, volume, and surface area changes of the bladder under force, the system infers force characteristics. This parameter transformation allows the system to measure force indirectly through geometric changes, enhancing both precision and environmental adaptability.
2Measurement precision
If traditional force measurement devices are used, then force measurement is provided, but comprehensive three-dimensional pressure measurements cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional or point-based force measurement to two-dimensional surface deformation analysis. The camera captures the bladder's surface deformation across multiple dimensions, and image processing algorithms extract three-dimensional pressure distribution data. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive spatial pressure measurement without requiring complex multi-sensor arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy or image of the bladder's deformation state rather than using direct mechanical contact sensors. The camera captures the deformed bladder shape, and computational algorithms reconstruct the three-dimensional pressure field from this optical copy. This approach simplifies the physical system while enabling comprehensive three-dimensional measurement capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a camera and image processing system are used to measure bladder deformation, then measurement precision and environmental adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the camera system multi-functional by using it for both measurement and communication purposes. The same camera that captures bladder deformation images can also transmit data wirelessly to remote locations, eliminating the need for separate communication hardware. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining enhanced adaptability to hazardous environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary that bridges the camera system and external data processing. Instead of direct physical connections, the system uses wireless transmission as an intermediary to transfer image data, reducing physical complexity and enabling operation in environments where physical connections would be problematic or dangerous.
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 precise, three-dimensional force and weight measurements in various conditions, including hazardous environments, with continuous monitoring and vibration detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible bladder disposed between a lower surface of the piston and an upper surface of the rigid base... moveable into a plurality of deformed positions in response to application of force to an external surface of the bladder
Implementation Method 2
a camera disposed beneath the rigid base and including a camera lens aimed upwardly toward the rigid base to view the bladder through the rigid base
Implementation Method 3
A system may include a piston moveably disposed within the interior space... connected between the piston and the hollow enclosure
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of sensors and related methods for measuring force and/or detecting acceleration or vibration are disclosed. A system may include a hollow enclosure and a rigid base attached to a lower end of the hollow enclosure. The rigid base may allow for the passage of light therethrough. A piston may be disposed within an interior space defined by the hollow enclosure and rigid base. The piston may be moveably secured to the hollow enclosure, such as by a plurality of springs. A flexible bladder may be disposed between a lower surface of the piston and an upper surface of the rigid base. A camera may be disposed beneath the rigid base and aimed upwardly toward the rigid base. A computer may be connected to the camera. Various other details are provided.