Trailer Hitch Load Sensor with Integrated Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vertical load measuring devices for trailers are prone to inaccurate measurements due to leverage forces, and there is a need for a reliable, compact, and electronically precise method to monitor support loads during loading processes.
Innovation Solution
A support load measuring device equipped with force measuring sensors, an electronic evaluation unit, and a display unit, encapsulated in a weatherproof housing, which can wirelessly transmit data for real-time monitoring and alert drivers to critical load conditions, using sensors like piezoresistive or strain gauges to measure vertical, horizontal, and torsional forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mechanical bathroom scales and nose wheel are used for measurement, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to leverage forces causing up to 15% measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical bathroom scales and nose wheels with electronic force measuring sensors (such as strain gauges or piezoelectric sensors) that directly measure the vertical load at the trailer hitch. This substitution eliminates the leverage force problems inherent in mechanical systems and provides accurate electronic measurement of the support load without the 15% error margin associated with mechanical methods.
2Measurement precision
If force measuring sensors with electronic evaluation units are implemented, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional electronic components and weatherproof housing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the force measuring sensor, evaluation electronics, and power supply into a single integrated measuring device assembly that is mounted at the trailer hitch. This merging of components simplifies the overall system architecture compared to separate mechanical scales and electronic systems, while maintaining high measurement precision through direct electronic sensing at the load point.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring device is designed to perform multiple functions: it measures vertical load, provides real-time display of support load values, and can trigger warnings when maximum permissible loads are exceeded. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated electronic system that combines sensing, processing, and output capabilities in one device package.
3Loss of information
If real-time monitoring and wireless data transmission are added, then the information availability is improved, but the energy consumption increases due to continuous operation of electronics and transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation unit can be configured to perform measurements and transmissions periodically rather than continuously, reducing energy consumption while still providing timely load information. The system can trigger wireless data transmission or warnings only when load conditions change significantly or when maximum permissible loads are approached, rather than maintaining constant active monitoring and communication.
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
Enables precise and continuous monitoring of support loads, preventing overloading and ensuring safe driving conditions by providing real-time data on load distribution, reducing the risk of trailer hitch and drawbar damage.
Implementation Method 1
using sensors like piezoresistive or strain gauges to measure vertical, horizontal, and torsional forces
Implementation Method 2
Force measuring sensor (5), in particular strain gauge, for measuring at least the support load transmitted via the trailer device
Data Source
Figure 1~2c
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~6
AI summary
The device (1) has a force sensor (5) e.g. metal film-strain gauge, arranged in a force path between a towing device and a reference location for measuring a supporting load transferred by the towing device. An evaluation electronics unit (7) is in electrical contact to the sensor for evaluating a supporting load measuring value. A display unit displays the load. A power supply unit supply electrical energy to the electronics unit. The sensor, the electronics unit and the supply unit are provided in a weather-proof sensor housing. An independent claim is also included for a method for retrofitting a towing device with a supporting load measuring device.