Piezoelectric Sensor Enclosure Securement Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for securing enclosures to autonomous vehicles using torque wrenches are cumbersome, inefficient, and prone to mechanical shocks, which can affect the accuracy of sensor alignments and data reliability.
Innovation Solution
The use of piezoelectric sensors to measure torque values during the securing process, converting pressure measurements into torque values and providing audio or visual cues when desired torque is reached, allowing for precise and efficient enclosure alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional torque wrenches are used to secure enclosures, then the enclosure can be fastened to the autonomous vehicle, but mechanical shocks occur that affect sensor alignment accuracy and data reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical torque wrenches with a piezoelectric sensor-based system that uses electrical fields to measure and control torque. The piezoelectric sensor converts mechanical stress into electrical signals, allowing for precise torque measurement without the mechanical impacts associated with traditional wrenches. This substitution eliminates mechanical shocks while maintaining securement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through piezoelectric sensors that continuously monitor torque application during the securement process. The sensors provide immediate electrical signals when the desired torque threshold is reached, allowing operators to stop tightening at the precise moment needed. This feedback mechanism prevents over-tightening and mechanical shocks that would occur with conventional methods.
2Productivity
If conventional torque wrenches are used, then the enclosure can be secured, but the process is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The securement system performs self-measurement and self-validation through integrated piezoelectric sensors that automatically detect when the desired torque is achieved. The system eliminates the need for separate measurement tools and manual verification steps, as the sensors inherently provide both the tightening force application and the torque verification functions in one integrated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces cumbersome mechanical torque measurement devices with electronic piezoelectric sensing that provides immediate, precise feedback. This substitution streamlines the operation by eliminating the need for multiple tools and complex mechanical measurement procedures, making the securement process more efficient and easier to perform.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise torque control is implemented using piezoelectric sensors, then sensor alignment accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric sensor serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the torque application interface and the torque measurement device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for tightening and measuring, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite the enhanced precision capabilities provided by the sensor technology.
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
This method ensures accurate and efficient alignment of sensors, reducing the risk of mechanical shocks and improving data reliability by providing a precise and user-friendly way to secure enclosures to autonomous vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The enclosure can include one or more piezoelectric sensors disposed underneath one or more mounting points of the enclosure. Changes in values from the one or more piezoelectric sensors can be measured as the enclosure is being secured to the fixture
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for securing an enclosure to an autonomous vehicle. The enclosure can be translated to a final alignment location on a fixture of the autonomous vehicle. The enclosure can include one or more piezoelectric sensors disposed underneath one or more mounting points of the enclosure. The one or more piezoelectric sensors can be initialized to an initial value. Changes in values from the one or more piezoelectric sensors can be measured as the enclosure is being secured to the fixture by one or more mechanical coupling devices through the one or more mounting points.