Weigh in Motion Strip Scale with Compliant Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weighing systems for vehicles in motion, particularly at high speeds, face limitations in accuracy and reliability due to the inability to effectively measure loads while vehicles are in motion over roadways.
Innovation Solution
A strip scale design featuring an elongated configuration with a base, multiple load cells, and a platform connected via compliant members, allowing for accurate and efficient weighing of vehicles moving at high speeds by embedding the scale in a roadway, which includes a base with a low profile and flexible elements to accommodate the weight distribution and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional weighing system is used for vehicles in motion, then the system structure is simple, but the measurement precision and reliability deteriorate at high speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The scale is divided into multiple independent load cells distributed along the elongated platform, with each load cell measuring force at a specific location. This segmentation allows the system to capture dynamic load distribution during vehicle passage, improving measurement precision while maintaining a modular structure that doesn't excessively increase complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The scale incorporates compliant members that allow dynamic adjustment and flexibility in the load transmission path. The base and platform are designed to accommodate movement and deformation during vehicle passage, enabling accurate measurement of loads even when vehicles are in motion at high speeds, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and the simplicity required for practical deployment
2Reliability
If the scale is designed with rigid connections, then the structural strength is high, but the reliability of measurement deteriorates due to inability to accommodate movement
Solution Approach 1:
The scale transitions from rigid connections to compliant members with specific mechanical properties. The compliant members have controlled flexibility parameters that allow them to deform under load while maintaining sufficient structural strength. This parameter change enables the system to accommodate vehicle-induced movements and vibrations, improving measurement reliability without sacrificing essential structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
Compliant members serve as intermediary elements between the load cells and the platform/base structure. These intermediaries absorb and accommodate movements, vibrations, and deformations that occur during vehicle passage, protecting the load cells from direct exposure to dynamic stresses while maintaining reliable force transmission for accurate measurement
3Measurement precision
If the scale embeds multiple compliant members, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compliant member system is segmented and distributed along the length of the platform, with each segment serving a specific measurement zone. This segmentation allows the scale to capture load distribution information at multiple points simultaneously, improving measurement precision while organizing the complexity into manageable, repeatable modules that can be systematically deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The compliant members are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as structural support elements and as measurement transmission elements. Each compliant member contributes to both the mechanical integrity of the scale and the accuracy of load measurement, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and thereby managing device complexity more efficiently
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
The solution provides a practical, reliable, and accurate method for weighing vehicles in motion, ensuring precise load measurement even at high speeds, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the weighing process.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compliant member disposed between the at least one load cell and the platform
Data Source
AI summary
A strip scale suitable for use in connection with high speed, in motion weighing applications. The scale has a base, a load cell, a compliant member, and a platform. Also disclosed are load cells for use with the scale, and systems and methods for using the scales.