Vehicle Weight Estimation for Adaptive Braking and Load Compliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Freight vehicles face challenges in accurately measuring and accounting for varying weights, which affects braking acceleration and compliance with weight limits, as existing systems either estimate mass or provide unreliable real-time load measurements.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system equipped with sensors and a computing system that estimates weight by processing data from various sensors, including brake and engine force measurements, to provide accurate and reliable weight information for both full and empty loads, enabling real-time monitoring and compliance with regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle weight is estimated based on known truck weight and reported freight weight, then the system can accommodate weight variations, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient for accurate braking control and regulatory compliance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weighing systems with sensor-based detection systems. Sensors mounted on the vehicle chassis detect weight-related parameters (such as suspension compression, axle load, or vehicle dynamics) and convert them into electrical signals for processing. This substitution enables continuous, real-time weight monitoring without requiring physical contact with external weighing infrastructure, thereby improving both measurement precision and adaptability to varying loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices between the vehicle's mechanical structure and the control system. These sensors act as mediators that translate physical weight-related phenomena into measurable electrical signals, which are then processed by the control system to determine actual vehicle weight. This intermediary approach enables indirect but accurate weight measurement, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle system accommodates weight differences between empty and full loads, then it can handle various shipping scenarios, but the braking acceleration control becomes unreliable due to varying mass
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors continuously monitor vehicle weight, and the control system uses this real-time weight information to adjust braking force accordingly. The control system receives weight data from sensors, processes it to determine the current load condition, and automatically modifies braking acceleration to maintain optimal and safe braking performance across all load conditions. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures reliable braking control despite varying vehicle mass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic braking control that adapts to changing vehicle weight conditions. Rather than using fixed braking parameters, the system continuously adjusts braking force based on real-time weight measurements. The control system modifies braking acceleration dynamically according to the detected load, ensuring that braking performance remains reliable and safe whether the vehicle is empty, partially loaded, or fully loaded.
3Reliability
If traditional weighing methods are used, then weight limits can be monitored, but the operational efficiency is reduced due to frequent stops for weighing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous weight monitoring during vehicle operation through onboard sensors and processing systems. Instead of requiring intermittent stops at external weighing stations, the system continuously measures and tracks vehicle weight throughout the journey. This continuous monitoring maintains reliable weight limit compliance while eliminating operational interruptions, thereby significantly improving productivity and operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service weighing system where the vehicle monitors its own weight using onboard sensors and processing capabilities. The vehicle performs self-diagnosis and self-monitoring of its load condition without requiring external weighing infrastructure or manual intervention. This autonomous weight monitoring capability ensures continuous compliance with weight limits while maintaining uninterrupted operation, thereby enhancing both reliability and productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods of estimating a weight of a vehicle and using the information are provided. Kinematic data of the vehicle, including at least one of a velocity or an acceleration of the vehicle, can be measured at a time. This data can be processed to estimate a weight of the vehicle. This data can be used to adjust autonomous driving, confirm a weight of freight carried by the vehicle, transmitted to external devices, or used in other ways.