Universal Force Measurement Apparatus with Sliding Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current force measurement technologies are limited in their ability to universally and efficiently measure both static and dynamic forces across a wide range of applications, particularly in two dimensions, and struggle to accurately quantify the sense of touch and perceptive characteristics of materials and geometries, such as those interacting with human skin.
Innovation Solution
A force measurement apparatus comprising a rigid top plate, a middle plate, and a base plate connected by a sliding member with a low coefficient of friction, equipped with horizontal and vertical load cells that register and output signals for forces in these directions, allowing for the measurement of forces between two objects in both horizontal and vertical orientations, and capable of being connected to an analog-to-digital converter for real-time data processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sophisticated and expensive types of apparatuses (pin-on-disc machines, friction testers, adhesion testers, wear testers, tensile testing machines, impact testers, wind tunnels) are used to measure forces, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The force measurement apparatus is segmented into distinct functional modules: a test object mounting platform, a force sensor assembly with load cells, and a data processing system. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall measurement precision, reducing the complexity compared to monolithic sophisticated apparatuses.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with universal applicability to measure multiple types of forces (friction, adhesion, wear, tensile, impact) using the same basic platform and force sensor assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized apparatuses, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision across different force types.
2Productivity
If tabulated generic data is used for material properties in simulations, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision and accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus enables preliminary experimental measurement of material properties and force characteristics before simulations are conducted. By performing actual force measurements on test objects using the apparatus, accurate material property data is obtained in advance, which can then be directly input into simulations. This preliminary action ensures high accuracy while maintaining productivity, as the measurement process is streamlined and automated.
3Measurement precision
If physical prototypes are used to study material properties and physical interactions, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus enables preliminary measurement of physical properties and force characteristics using simplified test objects before full-scale physical prototypes are developed. By conducting force measurements on representative test specimens using the apparatus, critical material properties and interaction parameters are determined in advance, reducing the need for extensive physical prototype testing and thereby reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses test objects that replicate or copy the essential force interaction characteristics of the actual product or material. By creating simplified test specimens that capture the key mechanical properties and force interactions, accurate measurements can be obtained without requiring complete physical prototypes, thus reducing development time while maintaining measurement precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a force measurement apparatus with multiple degrees of freedom is designed, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus achieves adaptability through universal components: a standardized force sensor assembly that can measure different force types (normal, friction, adhesion) using the same basic structure. The test object mounting platform accommodates various test specimens, and the data processing system handles multiple force measurement modes. This universality provides broad measurement application range without increasing structural complexity.
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 universal, mobile, and easy application for studying forces in various physical events, including contact forces between human skin and materials, providing accurate and comprehensive force data that can be used across multiple applications, from product development to educational settings, with the ability to compensate for internal friction and present data in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
A sliding member with a low coefficient of friction mechanically connects the middle plate to one of the top plate and the base plate
Implementation Method 2
A first load cell is connected to the middle plate and to the one of the top plate and the base plate... The first load cell is configured to register horizontal forces... The first load cell is configured to output a first output signal representative of the horizontal forces
Data Source
AI summary
A universal force measurement apparatus has a top plate onto which a first test object is mounted. The top plate is connected to a middle plate via a sliding member, for example a linear ball slide having a one dimensional degree of freedom. A first load cell is connected to the top plate and the middle plate, hereby preventing them from moving relative to one another in the direction of the degree of freedom of the sliding member. The mid plate is then connected to a second load cell which registers forces in the vertical direction. The second load cell is also connected to a base plate which is placed on a rigid surface. Forces from another object or media acting on the first test object will now be registered by the first and second load cells in the horizontal and vertical directions.