Automated Spring Seat Adjustment for Precise Vehicle Corner Weighting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle weight balancing methods are imprecise due to operator error and variance, leading to inconsistent weight distribution among wheels, which affects vehicle performance.
Innovation Solution
An automated system and method that uses scales and processors to measure and adjust wheel weights by extending or retracting spring seats, applying a decaying sinusoidal waveform to minimize static friction, and storing settings for different passengers and tracks, allowing for precise weight distribution adjustments while driving.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment by operator is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision and manufacturing precision deteriorate due to operator error and variance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an automated electromechanical system. A processor-controlled actuator adjusts the spring seat position based on scale measurements, eliminating operator error and variance while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically measuring wheel weights on scales, calculating the required adjustments, and actuating the spring seats without human intervention. The vehicle system itself provides the adjustment service, eliminating dependency on operator skill.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated spring seat adjustment is applied, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring seat assembly serves multiple functions: it provides suspension support, enables precise weight adjustment, and integrates with the vehicle's existing control systems. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated adjustment mechanisms, thereby limiting complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the weight adjustment function with the existing suspension spring seat structure. The actuator integrates with the spring seat assembly rather than being a separate system, and the control processor utilizes existing vehicle communication buses and power systems, combining multiple functions into unified subsystems.
3Ease of operation
If downward impulse is applied to overcome static friction, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to operator error in impulse application
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies a preliminary decaying sinusoidal waveform to the spring seat before the main adjustment to overcome static friction in the suspension components. This preliminary action prepares the system for accurate measurement and adjustment by eliminating friction-induced errors in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic sinusoidal waveforms to actuate the spring seat during adjustment. The oscillating motion naturally overcomes static friction and settles into a stable position, providing repeatable and precise adjustments without requiring manual impulse application.
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 achieves precise and adaptive weight balancing, reducing operator error and ensuring optimal vehicle performance across varying conditions and loads, including passenger weight and fuel consumption changes.
Implementation Method 1
The wheel having an associated spring seat and an associated spring
Implementation Method 2
applying a decaying sinusoidal waveform at the spring seat to reduce an effect of static friction within an associated suspension component
Data Source
AI summary
A weight balancing system for a vehicle performs a method of adjusting a weight on a wheel of a vehicle. The system includes a processor of the vehicle and a scale. A wheel of the vehicle is placed on the scale, the wheel having an associated spring seat and associated spring. The scale measures a weight placed on the wheel by the vehicle and communicates the weight to the processor. The processor activates the spring seat to adjust a length of the spring, thereby adjusting the weight placed on the wheel by the vehicle.