Vehicle Center of Gravity Height Determination Using Wheel Slippage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the height of a vehicle's center of gravity (COG) are inadequate, especially for vehicles with more than two axles, as they rely on mass which may not be relevant due to varying payloads, and require additional sensors or devices, making it difficult to accurately estimate COG during motion and speed changes.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines the height of COG by calculating tangential and normal forces at predetermined reference points within the vehicle, using existing sensors, and applying algorithms to compute COG height during acceleration phases, without the need for additional sensors, suitable for vehicles with 3, 4, or more axles, including combinations like tractors and semi-trailers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mass is used to evaluate the height of COG, then the determination is simplified, but the accuracy deteriorates due to varying payloads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters used for COG height determination from mass-based to force-based measurements. By measuring tangential forces (from accelerometers during acceleration/deceleration) and normal forces (from suspension sensors) at multiple axles, the system achieves accurate COG calculation that adapts to varying payloads without requiring additional complex equipment.
2Measurement precision
If additional sensors or devices are added to determine COG height, then the accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing vehicle components serve multiple functions. Accelerometers originally designed for other purposes are utilized for measuring tangential forces, and suspension sensors are used for normal force measurement. This multi-functional approach achieves accurate COG determination without adding dedicated sensors, thereby avoiding increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle's own existing sensor systems serve the additional function of COG height determination. The system uses the vehicle's inherent acceleration measurements and suspension force sensors to self-determine its COG position, eliminating the need for external or additional specialized measurement devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If COG height is determined for vehicles with more than two axles, then the applicability improves, but the calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vehicle into distinct axle groups (first group with first and second axles, second group with third axle). By calculating COG height separately for each axle group using their respective tangential and normal forces, the system handles multi-axle vehicles of various configurations (3, 4, 5 or more axles) through a modular approach that manages calculation complexity effectively.
Data Source
AI summary
The height of the center of gravity of a vehicle having at least 3 axles is estimated using the slippage rate of the wheels.