Stress-Wave Sensor Module for Rapid Collision Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acceleration-based sensors have limitations in response time for detecting vehicle collisions, necessitating a faster sensor system to effectively detect stress waves induced by such events.
Innovation Solution
A stress-wave sensor module comprising support members, a diaphragm member, and strain gauge sensors, which generate signals in response to deflection caused by stress waves, with a microprocessor determining collision events based on signal amplitude, enabling rapid airbag deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If acceleration-based sensors are used to detect vehicle collisions, then the sensor system can detect collision events, but the response time is insufficiently fast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces acceleration-based mechanical sensing with stress-wave detection using strain gauge sensors that measure elastic deformation. This substitution enables faster response times (3-4 milliseconds) by detecting the propagation of stress waves through the sensor structure, which occurs immediately upon collision, rather than relying on acceleration measurements that have inherent response delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from acceleration to stress/strain. By measuring the stress waves that propagate through the diaphragm member and support members during collision, the system achieves faster response times while maintaining detection reliability. The strain gauge sensors detect rapid elastic deformation caused by stress wave propagation, providing immediate collision detection.
2Measurement precision
If strain gauge sensors are coupled to both support members and diaphragm member, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensor into distinct functional segments: a diaphragm member that receives collision forces, support members that transmit stress waves, and strain gauge sensors positioned at specific locations. This segmentation allows precise measurement of stress wave propagation while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The strain gauges are strategically placed to detect stress waves without requiring complex sensor assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the diaphragm member and support members as intermediaries that transmit collision forces to the strain gauge sensors. These structural elements serve as mechanical mediators that convert collision energy into measurable stress waves, enabling precise detection while keeping the sensor system itself relatively simple. The intermediaries amplify and transmit the stress signals to the measurement devices.
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 stress-wave sensor module achieves a response time of 3-4 milliseconds, allowing for immediate detection and deployment of airbags during vehicle collisions, enhancing safety by providing faster signal generation and processing compared to existing sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second strain gauge sensors are coupled to both the first support member and the diaphragm member. The first and second strain gauge sensors generate first and second signals, respectively, in response to the first and second strain gauge sensors detecting deflection of the diaphragm member due to stress waves propagating through the diaphragm member.
Data Source
AI summary
A stress-wave sensor module, a stress-wave sensor, and a method for detecting a vehicle collision event utilizing the stress-wave sensor are provided. The stress-wave sensor has first and second support members and a diaphragm member coupled between the first and second support members. The stress-wave sensor further has first and second strain gauge sensors coupled to both the first support member and the diaphragm member. The first and second strain gauge sensors generate first and second signals, respectively, in response to the first and second strain gauge sensors detecting deflection of the diaphragm member due to stress waves propagating through the diaphragm member.