Vehicle Load Estimation Calibration Using Static-Dynamic Sensor Comparison

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle weight measurement systems are inaccurate due to significant error factors in load estimation, particularly when vehicles are in motion, and require calibration during manufacturing, which adds time and cost, and accuracy can drift over time due to suspension wear, leading to potential misloading and reduced safety.

Innovation Solution

The system employs dynamic load estimation techniques in conjunction with static load estimation using sensor data from wheels and tires, with a secondary weight estimation system calibrating the primary system based on differences between stationary and moving load conditions, ensuring continuous accuracy as suspension properties change.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If calibration is performed during manufacturing, then initial measurement accuracy is improved, but manufacturing time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload estimation accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary calibration actions during manufacturing by comparing static and dynamic load measurements, establishing baseline calibration data before the vehicle enters service. This preliminary action reduces the need for extensive field calibration later.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors load measurements during vehicle operation and uses feedback loops to adjust calibration parameters. The calibration module receives ongoing feedback from sensor comparisons to maintain accuracy without requiring repeated manual calibration procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If calibration is performed during manufacturing, then initial measurement accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload estimation accuracyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The vehicle's load measurement system performs self-calibration during normal operation by automatically comparing static and dynamic measurements. This self-service capability eliminates the need for expensive external calibration services and reduces manufacturing overhead costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts calibration parameters dynamically based on operating conditions and sensor performance. By changing calibration parameters rather than requiring physical recalibration, the system maintains accuracy while reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If static load estimation is used, then measurement simplicity is improved, but accuracy drifts over time due to suspension wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement system simplicityVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously compares static and dynamic load measurements and uses feedback to detect drift caused by suspension wear. When drift is detected, the calibration module automatically adjusts calibration parameters to compensate, maintaining measurement reliability without increasing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The calibration parameters are made dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the system to adapt to changing suspension characteristics over time. The system transitions from static calibration to dynamic recalibration based on operational data, maintaining accuracy despite component wear.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Measurement precision

If dynamic load estimation is used for calibration, then continuous accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload estimation accuracyVSAvoidcalibration system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration module serves multiple functions: it compares static and dynamic measurements, detects drift, recalibrates parameters, and validates sensor performance. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single integrated module, managing complexity while maintaining continuous accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12181335B2Methods and apparatus to calibrate a weight estimation
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US12181335B2 patent drawing
  • US12181335B2 patent drawing
  • US12181335B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture to calibrate a weight estimation are disclosed herein. An example apparatus comprises memory including stored instructions, and a processor to execute the instructions to determine, via a first sensor, a first load estimation of a vehicle corresponding to when the vehicle under a load condition, determine, via a second sensor, a second load estimation corresponding to when the vehicle is moving and under the load condition, and calibrate, based on a difference between the second load estimation and the first load estimation, an error of the first load estimation.