Suspension Load Sensor Using Fluid Pressure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle weight measurement devices are complex, costly, and prone to damage due to their configuration, making them ineffective for detecting overloading in commercial vehicles, which can lead to accidents and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle weight measurement device with a simple, inexpensive, and durable structure that includes a load sensor-equipped bearing device with a pressure sensor to detect changes in fluid pressure within an oil chamber, allowing for accurate load measurement in the compression direction, integrated into the suspension system of a vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a platform scale is used to measure vehicle load, then measurement accuracy is improved, but installation cost and facility requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the measurement function from a large platform scale and relocates it to a compact device integrated into the vehicle's suspension system. Specifically, the load sensor is mounted on the suspension component (such as the shock absorber or spring assembly), allowing load measurement without requiring external platform infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension device is given dual functionality: it continues to provide its primary suspension function while simultaneously serving as a load measurement platform. The shock absorber or spring assembly becomes both a mechanical component and a sensor mounting structure, eliminating the need for separate measurement infrastructure.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple load measurement device is mounted on the vehicle, then installation cost is reduced, but device durability decreases due to shock exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic components (circuit board, amplifier) are extracted from the shock-prone suspension area and relocated to the vehicle body where they are protected from vibrations and shocks. Only the essential load sensor remains in the suspension system, minimizing exposure to harsh conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention provides protective measures for electronic components by locating them in a protected environment (vehicle body) rather than exposing them to shock conditions. This preemptive protection prevents damage before it occurs, ensuring long-term reliability without requiring complex shock absorption mechanisms for the electronics.
3Measurement precision
If a load measurement device with circuit board and amplifier is used, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex electronic components (circuit board, amplifier) are extracted from the suspension system and relocated to the vehicle body. This separates the measurement function (sensor in suspension) from the processing function (electronics in body), simplifying the suspension device while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses the vehicle body as an intermediary platform for housing electronic components. The body acts as a protected intermediate location that connects the suspension sensor to the measurement system, reducing overall device complexity by utilizing existing vehicle structure rather than adding dedicated electronic housings.
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 device provides a reliable and cost-effective means to prevent overloading by accurately measuring load in the compression direction, enhancing safety and reducing maintenance costs by integrating seamlessly into the vehicle's suspension system.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor configured to detect a change in pressure of the fluid to be measured filled in the oil chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
This device for measuring the weight of a vehicle is provided with an annular diaphragm (11) for covering the opening region (9d) of a groove part (9c) of an attachment part (7), and forming an oil chamber (9) of a prescribed space together with the groove part. The diaphragm (11) is hermetically secured by an inner collar (33) and an outer collar (35). The diaphragm (11) is pressed by a piston (43) that can be moved by the resilience of a spring in a suspension device. It is possible to change the pressure applied by the movement of the piston to a measurement fluid (R) filled in the oil chamber. The device is provided with a pressure sensor (21) that can detect changes in the pressure of the measurement fluid (R) filled in the oil chamber, the pressure sensor (21) communicating with the oil chamber.