Vehicle Vibration Analyzer for Multi-Component Source Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for identifying the source of unwanted vehicle vibrations, such as the Sirometer and ADC/DAQ with vibration sensors, are unable to accurately determine which component is causing vibrations, especially when multiple components are vibrating simultaneously or during braking, and cannot differentiate between components like wheel assemblies or drive shafts in four-wheel drive vehicles.
Innovation Solution
The Intelligent Vehicle Vibration Analyzer (IVA) uses four 3D accelerometers, or smart sensors, attached to suspension components at each wheel, which combine X-Y-Z axis data through a single wire to a microprocessor, analyzing vibration forces and frequencies to identify the source of vibrations using color coding and threshold comparisons, and optionally incorporates microphones for sound analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single vibration sensor is used with ADC/DAQ to detect vibrations, then vibration frequency can be measured, but the system cannot determine which specific component is causing the vibration among multiple rotating components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the vehicle into multiple zones with separate vibration sensors placed at each wheel assembly (front left, front right, rear left, rear right). This segmentation allows each sensor to independently measure vibrations at its specific location, enabling the system to identify which wheel assembly or associated component is generating the vibration based on which sensor detects the anomaly.
2Measurement precision
If the Sirometer is used to measure vibration frequency, then rotational speed can be determined, but the device cannot distinguish between multiple components rotating at different speeds simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses four separately located vibration sensors at each wheel assembly to simultaneously monitor different rotating components. Each sensor captures vibration data from its local area, allowing the microprocessor to analyze and distinguish between multiple rotating components (wheels, drive shafts, differentials) operating at different speeds at the same time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensionality to vibration measurement by placing sensors at four distinct locations throughout the vehicle rather than using a single measurement point. This multi-dimensional approach enables the system to differentiate between components based on their spatial location in addition to their rotational characteristics.
3Loss of information
If vibration sensors are placed on suspension components at each wheel, then the system can identify which wheel assembly is vibrating, but the complexity of the diagnostic system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all vibration sensor data into a single microprocessor that performs centralized analysis. The microprocessor receives input from all four sensors and uses algorithms to determine which wheel assembly or component is generating vibrations, simplifying the user interface and reducing the complexity of data interpretation despite having multiple sensors.
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
IVA accurately locates and identifies the source of vibrations in real-time, providing clear visual and auditory alerts, overcoming the limitations of prior art by distinguishing between multiple vibrating components and indicating severity, even during complex driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The vibration sensors are accelerometers that are contained in aluminum cases with a strong magnet located inside each case
Implementation Method 2
The vibration sensors are accelerometers that are contained in aluminum cases with a strong magnet located inside each case
Data Source
AI summary
It has long been known that rotating components can produce unwanted vibrations. When these vibrations are produced by components within a vehicle it can be very difficult to determine where the vibration is emanating from. The present invention is one that locates the origin of a vibration that is produced from rotating components within a vehicle. This vibration analyzer can accurately locate and identify which component or components are creating the excessive vibrations on the vehicle under test. This is accomplished by the use of four vibration sensors that are located at each corner of the vehicle on the suspension.