Detecting Shifted Cargo via Wheel Load Balance Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle safety systems fail to quickly and reliably detect shifted cargo, which can lead to unpredictable handling performance and safety risks due to imbalances and dynamic changes in load distribution during transport.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize positional sensors and wheel load balance analysis to determine changes in load balance over time, comparing relationships between wheel load balances and vehicle motional states to identify shifted cargo, with the option to initiate warnings to the driver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If cargo is transported in a cargo bay or cabin, then the vehicle can carry useful load, but the cargo may shift position causing imbalance and unpredictable handling performance
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of cargo position and load balance before critical handling situations occur. By continuously monitoring wheel speeds and comparing expected versus actual values, the system identifies cargo shifts early, allowing the driver to take preventive action before the imbalance causes dangerous handling changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop by continuously measuring wheel speeds, comparing them against expected values based on vehicle motion state, and providing information about cargo position stability. This feedback mechanism enables real-time monitoring of cargo securement effectiveness and allows for corrective actions.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If wheel speed sensors are used to detect cargo shifts, then detection capability is provided, but false detection may occur due to turns and temporal variations in wheel speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its detection criteria based on the vehicle's current motion state. By considering the vehicle's acceleration, braking, and turning conditions, the system adjusts its expectations of wheel speed variations, allowing it to distinguish between normal dynamic effects and actual cargo shifts. This dynamic approach reduces false detections while maintaining sensitivity to real cargo position changes.
3Reliability
If cargo position is monitored to ensure balance, then handling performance is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes existing wheel speed sensors and vehicle motion data that are already part of the vehicle's standard equipment. By processing this readily available information through comparison with expected values, the system achieves cargo position monitoring without requiring additional specialized sensors or complex hardware, thus minimizing system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A technique for determining shifted cargo on a vehicle is described. A method realisation of this technique comprises the steps of acquiring data from a positional sensor and determining a change in a balance of loads upon wheels of the vehicle. Shifted cargo is determined if the change in load balance does not correspond to the positional data. Furthermore, a device and system suited for carrying out the method are provided.