Trailer Coupling Holding Arm Force Sensing Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for coupling trailers or load carriers to motor vehicles struggle to precisely and reliably measure the forces acting on the holding arm.
Innovation Solution
A sensor arrangement with at least three deformation sensors is positioned on the same side of the neutral fiber of the holding arm, and a force detection module is placed on the side not facing the roadway, using a deformation transfer element connected to the arm with rigid fastening areas and deformation sensors to detect and differentiate forces acting on the coupling element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If deformation sensors are arranged on different sides of the holding arm, then it is easier to detect different force orientations, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in separating force components
Solution Approach 1:
The holding arm is segmented into multiple deformation zones (first deformation zone and second deformation zone) with different deformation characteristics. Each zone is equipped with deformation sensors that detect specific force components. This segmentation allows the system to detect different force orientations while maintaining measurement precision through the distinct deformation behavior of each zone.
2Ease of operation
If the force detection module is located on the side facing the roadway, then it is easier to access and maintain, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of damage from contact with objects
Solution Approach 1:
The force detection module is inverted from the conventional position facing the roadway to the opposite side. This inversion protects the sensitive sensors from damage by roadway objects while the module remains functional. The module detects forces through the holding arm structure from the protected position.
3Measurement precision
If multiple deformation sensors are used to detect different force components, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding arm structure serves multiple functions: it mechanically supports the coupling element, transmits forces to the vehicle body, and acts as a deformation transfer element that conveys force information to the sensors. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating separate force transmission components while maintaining high measurement precision through the arm's inherent deformation characteristics.
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 setup allows for precise detection of deformations and forces on the holding arm, preventing damage and enabling accurate differentiation between different force orientations, enhancing the reliability of force measurement.
Implementation Method 1
at least three deformation sensors... arranged on the same side of a neutral fiber of the holding arm which is not deformed in the event of a bending deformation of the holding arm
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to detect the forces acting on the holding arm of a device for coupling a trailer or load carrier unit that can be mounted at the rear of a motor vehicle body, comprising a holding arm which is fixedly connected to the motor vehicle body at a first end during operation and carries a coupling element at a second end, it is provided that forces acting on the coupling element during operation and transmitted from the holding arm to the motor vehicle body are detected by an evaluation unit with a sensor arrangement which has at least three deformation sensors.