Tire Counter-Deflection Load Estimation Using Speed Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tire load estimation methods face challenges in achieving accurate and reliable measurements, either through direct sensor measurements that are difficult to implement effectively or through methods relying on fixed parameters that lead to less-than-optimum predictions.
Innovation Solution
A counter-deflection load estimation system that uses a sensor mounted on the tire to measure tire parameters, determines the counter-deflection of the tire, and receives a linear vehicle speed signal through a CAN bus network. A processor and load estimation module then calculate the tire load based on these inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct measurement using load or strain sensors is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical load/strain sensors with an indirect measurement system using a position sensor (e.g., optical or magnetic encoder) to detect tire radius changes. This substitution transforms the measurement approach from direct mechanical sensing to optical/magnetic position sensing, thereby improving ease of manufacture and reducing sensor placement complexity while maintaining measurement capability through the relationship between radius change and load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach by measuring tire radius (through position sensing) as an intermediate parameter that correlates to tire load. Instead of directly measuring load or strain, the system measures the intermediary parameter (radius/position) and derives load information from it, simplifying the sensing requirements while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Device complexity
If fixed parameters are used for tire load estimation, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static fixed-parameter estimation to a dynamic measurement system that continuously tracks tire radius/position changes. By using real-time position sensor data that captures the dynamic behavior of the tire under varying load conditions, the system maintains simplicity while achieving superior measurement precision compared to fixed-parameter methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback by continuously monitoring tire position/radius and using this information to dynamically estimate load. The position sensor provides ongoing feedback about tire deformation, enabling the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain accuracy without requiring complex fixed-parameter calibration across all possible scenarios.
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
This method indirectly estimates tire load with high accuracy and reliability, overcoming the limitations of direct measurement techniques and fixed parameter approaches.
Implementation Method 1
A counter-deflection of the tire is determined from the measured parameter
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (10) and method for estimating the load of a tire (12) is disclosed. The tire (12) includes a pair of sidewalls (18) extending to a circumferential tread (20) and supports a vehicle (14). The method comprises the steps of: mounting a sensor (26) to the tire (12); measuring a parameter of the tire (12) with the sensor (26); determining a counter-deflection (40) of the tire (12) from the measured parameter; receiving a linear vehicle speed signal (54) through a controlled area network bus (30) of the vehicle (12); providing a processor (28) in electronic communication with the sensor (26) and with the controlled area network bus (30); receiving the linear vehicle speed signal (54) and the counter-deflection (40) of the tire (12) in a load estimation module (52) that is in electronic communication with the processor (28); and determining a load (68) on the tire (12) with the load estimation module (52).