Trailer Load Estimation via Vibration Frequency Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining trailer load are cumbersome and inaccurate, relying on manual inspection, which is time-consuming and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing sensor apparatuses with accelerometers and strain gauges to measure vibration frequencies, comparing these to calibration data to estimate load, allowing for automated and precise load detection on trailers and containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection is used to determine trailer load, then no additional equipment is required, but the process is slow and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual inspection with an automated sensor-based system. Sensors (accelerometers, strain gauges, or vibration sensors) are mounted on the trailer to automatically detect and measure load conditions, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection and providing precise, real-time load data.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer itself performs the inspection function through integrated sensors that continuously monitor load status. The system self-detects whether the trailer is loaded or empty without requiring external manual intervention, enabling automatic fleet management decisions.
2Reliability
If manual inspection is used to determine trailer load, then equipment complexity is low, but reliability of load information is poor
Solution Approach 1:
Manual inspection is replaced with electronic sensing systems that provide objective, reliable measurements. The sensors (accelerometers, strain gauges, or vibration sensors) mounted on the trailer automatically detect load conditions, eliminating human error and providing consistent, reliable data for fleet management.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system serves multiple functions: detecting whether the trailer is loaded or empty, estimating load weight, and potentially monitoring other operational parameters. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing comprehensive trailer status information from a single integrated system.
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 accurate and efficient determination of trailer loads, reducing manual errors and improving operational efficiency in fleet management by providing reliable load data.
Implementation Method 1
obtain sensor data for a vehicle providing one or both of displacement or acceleration information for the vehicle; calculating a vibration frequency for the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
A method utilizing sensor apparatuses with accelerometers and strain gauges to measure vibration frequencies
Data Source
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AI summary
A method at a computing device, the method including obtaining sensor data for a vehicle providing one or both of displacement or acceleration information for the vehicle; calculating a vibration frequency for the vehicle; retrieving calibration data for the vehicle, the calibration data comprising at least a first known mass; a second known mass; a vibration frequency for the vehicle at the first known mass; and a vibration frequency of the vehicle at a second known mass; and using the calibration data and the vibration frequency for the vehicle, calculating a load estimation for the vehicle.