Commercial Vehicle Load Change Detection for Fast Mass Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brake control and vehicle dynamics systems face challenges in accurately determining the mass of commercial vehicles, especially when load changes occur, leading to potential safety issues during driving, as the estimation process is slow and prone to errors due to outdated mass values.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing an electronic stability program (ESP) with inertial sensors and a control unit to identify load changes by querying sensor data, resetting mass estimates, and adapting variation ranges for faster mass determination, incorporating a learning process to improve accuracy and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mass estimation is carried out gradually using a large number of measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of load changes using inertial sensors before mass estimation is required. By detecting changes in acceleration patterns that indicate load changes, the system prepares in advance by triggering a reset of the mass estimation process, so that when mass determination is needed, the estimation starts from the correct baseline rather than from outdated data
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors inertial sensor data and uses this feedback to detect load changes. When a load change is detected, the system provides feedback to reset the mass estimation process, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing conditions and maintains accuracy without requiring complete re-estimation from scratch
2Device complexity
If the estimator continues using outdated mass values, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mass estimation system serves itself by automatically detecting load changes through inertial sensor data and triggering its own reset. The evaluation unit monitors the estimator's performance and autonomously initiates recalibration when needed, eliminating the need for external intervention or complex manual reset mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static mass estimation approach to a dynamic one where the estimation process can be reset based on real-time conditions. The inertial sensors provide continuous information about vehicle state changes, allowing the system to adapt its estimation process dynamically rather than relying on fixed, outdated values
3Adaptability or versatility
If load change detection is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inertial sensors already present in the vehicle for other purposes (stability control, acceleration measurement) are made multi-functional by also using them for load change detection. The evaluation unit leverages existing sensor data for multiple purposes, avoiding the need for dedicated load sensors and reducing overall system complexity despite the added functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The load change detection function is merged with the existing mass estimation system rather than being implemented as a separate system. The evaluation unit that detects load changes is integrated with the mass estimation controller, combining multiple functions into a unified system that reduces complexity compared to having separate independent systems
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 quick and reliable detection of load changes, allowing for timely adaptation of mass estimates, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the risk of critical situations during driving, especially for autonomous vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The commercial vehicle comprises an electronic stability program (ESP) with at least one inertial sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system for identifying a change in a load of a commercial vehicle, the commercial vehicle including an electronic stability program with at least one inertial sensor and a control unit for estimating a mass of the commercial vehicle and/or the load, including: a device for querying sensor data of the at least one inertial sensor; and an evaluation unit which is configured to identify the load change if the queried sensor data exceed a variation range, and inform the control unit of the identified load change to allow the load change to be taken into account in the estimation of the mass. Also described are a related commercial vehicle, method, and computer readable medium.