Vehicle Load Detection via RF Spectral Signature Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for managing vehicle load, such as using pressure sensors and piezoelectric technology, are either imprecise or costly, and fail to accurately determine the type and presence of a load, leading to inefficiencies in fuel saving and safety.
Innovation Solution
A method that detects variations in the spectral signature of radiofrequency signals propagated through the vehicle, allowing for precise detection of load presence and type without requiring expensive equipment, by measuring and analyzing the signal's power and spectral changes caused by the load, which can be correlated with existing sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are used to detect load variations, then load detection capability is provided, but measurement precision is insufficient due to small pressure variations and interference from other causes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces radiofrequency signals as an intermediary medium to detect load presence. Instead of directly measuring pressure variations, the system uses RF signals that propagate through the vehicle structure and load, with the load acting as a mediator that modifies signal characteristics. This indirect measurement approach overcomes the limitations of direct pressure sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical pressure sensors with an electromagnetic field-based detection system. By substituting the mechanical measurement approach (pressure sensors) with an electromagnetic approach (RF signal propagation analysis), the system achieves higher precision without the limitations of mechanical sensor tolerance and interference.
2Measurement precision
If piezoelectric sensors are installed on suspension to measure load, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing RF communication infrastructure multi-functional. The same RF modules used for standard vehicle communication are also used for load detection, eliminating the need for separate specialized sensors. This universal approach reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the vehicle's own existing RF communication equipment to perform load detection, rather than requiring external specialized devices. The existing infrastructure serves dual purposes: standard communication and load monitoring, making the system self-sufficient and reducing overall complexity.
3Device complexity
If door sensors are used to detect load presence, then device complexity remains low, but measurement precision is insufficient as door closure does not guarantee load presence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses RF signals as an intermediary to indirectly detect load presence. Instead of relying on direct mechanical contact sensors like door switches, the system analyzes how the load mediates RF signal propagation, providing accurate load detection without complex mechanical sensor arrangements.
4Measurement precision
If mass sensors are installed on suspension to measure load, then measurement precision improves, but manufacturing cost increases particularly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inexpensive RF signal transmission and reception components instead of expensive specialized mass sensors. The approach leverages low-cost wireless communication technology that is already widely available, making the system economically viable while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses existing RF communication infrastructure for dual purposes: standard vehicle communication and load measurement. This eliminates the need for expensive dedicated mass sensors, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining precision through multi-functional use of affordable components.
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 cost-effective monitoring of vehicle loads, allowing for real-time tracking of loading and unloading, load type identification, and intrusion detection, reducing errors in refrigerated compartments and improving overall load management.
Implementation Method 1
the load, once present, has an impact on the propagation of the radiofrequency signal
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a method for managing the load of a vehicle (C) of the type of that equipped with at least one module for transmitting data (110, 120, 130) through radiofrequency signals (F1, F2, F3) and one module for receiving (120, 220) data from the transmission module, said vehicle (C) and the different modules being disposed so that the load, once present, has an impact on the propagation of the radiofrequency signal,remarkable in that it comprises the following operation: detection of the variation of the spectral signature of the signal received (F2′) by the receiving module (120, 220), in order to detect variations, in particular corresponding to the presence and/or absence of a load (600).The invention also concerns the device enabling said method to be implemented.