Vehicle Thrust Bearing with Direct Vertical Load Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional suspension control apparatuses face challenges in precisely measuring the load vertically acting on each wheel of a vehicle while it is running, as they either rely on indirect measurements of rotating angles or deformation of fixed members, leading to inaccuracies in load calculation.
Innovation Solution
A thrust bearing system is introduced, featuring an upper and lower case that rotate about a piston rod, equipped with a load sensor, such as a hydraulic, film-type, or optical fiber sensor, to directly measure the load vertically acting on the suspension, ensuring precise load measurement and smooth rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor measures the rotating angle of the bottom race with respect to the top race, then the rotating angle can be detected, but the vertical load measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the load measurement function from the rotation angle measurement system. By placing a load sensor directly on the bottom race to measure vertical load independently, the system separates load measurement from rotation angle measurement, eliminating the need to calculate vertical force from rotation data and achieving precise load measurement without compromising rotation detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The bottom race is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a rotational component (rotating with respect to the top cup) and a load measurement platform (supporting the load sensor). This multi-functionality allows the same component to enable both rotation detection and direct vertical load measurement without requiring separate independent systems
2Measurement precision
If a deformation sensor measures the amount of deformation of fixed members, then the deformation can be detected, but the vertical load measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical deformation measurement with direct load sensing. Instead of using deformation sensors to measure deformation of fixed members and calculating load from that data, the invention places a load sensor directly on the bottom race to measure vertical load directly, substituting an indirect mechanical measurement system with a more reliable direct measurement approach
Solution Approach 2:
The load sensor acts as an intermediary element placed between the vehicle body-side attaching portion and the bottom race. This intermediary directly transduces the vertical load into a measurable signal, providing reliable load measurement without relying on deformation calculations of surrounding structural members
3Ease of operation
If the upper case and lower case rotate with respect to each other, then smooth rotation is achieved, but friction between the cases increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bearing as an intermediary component between the upper case and lower case. This bearing mediates the rotational interaction, enabling smooth rotation while significantly reducing direct friction between the case surfaces. The bearing converts direct sliding friction into rolling friction or fluid film lubrication, dramatically reducing energy loss
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 thrust bearing system enables precise measurement of vertical loads on each wheel, reduces friction between the upper and lower cases, and allows for real-time adjustment of braking force and suspension settings, enhancing vehicle stability and load management.
Implementation Method 1
a load sensor for measuring a load vertically acting on the suspension
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a thrust bearing for a vehicle, such bearing accurately measuring the load applied in the vertical direction of a suspension for each wheel during travel. Provided is a thrust bearing (100) for a vehicle, the bearing being equipped with an upper case (110) that is in contact with a vehicle-body-side attachment section and a lower case (120) that overlaps rotatably with the upper case (110) around the axis (AX) of a piston rod used in a shock absorber of a vehicle suspension, wherein the thrust bearing (100) for a vehicle is provided with a load sensor (140) that measures the load applied in the vertical direction of the suspension.