Securing Member Tension Sensor with Wireless Tamper Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack an efficient and convenient method to monitor the tension of securing members, such as straps and chains, which can become loose due to vibrations, sabotage, or other factors, leading to unstable loads and increased liability during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A device with a sensor and circuitry system that generates signals indicative of low or no tension in securing members, including a cam latch and biasing member, and wireless communication for tampering detection, allowing for remote monitoring and alerting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If periodic manual checks of securing members are performed, then load security can be verified, but transport time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated sensor system that uses electrical or electronic sensors to detect tension changes in securing members. The sensor system continuously monitors tension levels and triggers alerts when tension drops below threshold values, eliminating the need for periodic manual checks while maintaining load security verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor the tension state of securing members and provide real-time information to a monitoring system. When tension drops below a predetermined threshold, the system generates an alert signal that can be displayed locally or transmitted remotely, enabling continuous verification of load security without interrupting transport operations.
2Reliability
If frequent manual inspections are conducted to detect loose securing members, then load stability can be maintained, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous monitoring of securing member tension through automated sensors that operate throughout the entire transport journey. The sensor system maintains constant surveillance of tension levels, providing uninterrupted detection of loosening conditions without requiring periodic interruptions for manual inspection, thereby maintaining load stability while maximizing operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-monitoring system where the securing arrangement automatically detects and reports its own tension status. The sensor system requires no human intervention to function, continuously measuring tension and autonomously generating alerts when threshold violations occur, allowing the system to serve itself without requiring operational staff to perform repeated manual checks.
3Measurement precision
If manual monitoring of securing members is performed, then tension status can be detected, but labor costs and liability risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual or physical inspection with automated sensor systems that precisely measure tension levels in securing members. The sensors provide objective, quantifiable data about tension status, eliminating the subjectivity and potential human error associated with manual detection methods while reducing the need for labor-intensive monitoring activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensor technology as an intermediary between the securing members and the monitoring process. The sensors act as mediators that directly interface with the tensioned securing members, converting mechanical tension into electrical signals that can be processed and analyzed, thereby eliminating the need for human operators to directly engage with or assess the tension state of securing members.
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 ensures continuous monitoring of securing member tension, reducing the need for frequent manual checks, enhancing load stability, and providing real-time alerts for loose straps or tampering, thereby minimizing accidents and costs.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor includes a spring, a piston and a switch. The switch is configured in the open position when the strap has tension above a threshold value and in a closed position when the strap has tension at or below the threshold value.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method are disclosed for sensing the tension of a securing member and generating a signal indicative of a loose securing member when the tension of the securing member drops below a threshold level. The device can further include features for detection of tampering with either the device itself or the tensioning members.