Wheel Hub Deformation Sensor for Dynamic Load Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for dynamically acquiring vehicle load information are limited and costly, primarily relying on floor scales that are not easily deployable or affordable.

Innovation Solution

A deformation sensor and device consisting of a metal lining and a full-bridge resistance strain gauge fixed on the wheel hub, connected to a differential amplification circuit and microcontroller unit, with a radio frequency communication component for real-time load measurement, allowing for quick and dynamic load acquisition at a lower cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If floor scales are used to measure vehicle load, then measurement capability is achieved, but cost and deployment flexibility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle load measurementVSAvoiddeployment cost and flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical floor scale system with an electronic sensing system consisting of strain gauges mounted on the wheel hub. The strain gauges convert mechanical deformation into electrical signals, which are then processed by electronic circuits to determine vehicle load. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive mechanical scales while enabling flexible deployment on existing vehicles.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The wheel hub serves multiple functions: it is both a structural component of the wheel assembly and a mounting platform for the load sensing system. The strain gauges mounted on the wheel hub can measure not only vertical load but potentially other mechanical parameters, making the system versatile for various measurement applications without requiring separate dedicated equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If floor scales are used for load measurement, then static measurement is possible, but dynamic measurement capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload measurementVSAvoiddynamic measurement capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static measurement capability of floor scales into a dynamic measurement system by mounting strain gauges on the rotating wheel hub. The strain gauges continuously monitor deformation as the wheel rotates and the vehicle moves, enabling real-time load measurement during vehicle operation. The electronic processing system captures and processes signals dynamically, providing continuous load data rather than static snapshots.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 dynamic measurement of vehicle load with improved sensitivity and cost-effectiveness, enhancing the capability for intelligent transportation systems.

Implementation Method 1

a resistance strain gauge fixed on the metal lining

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStrain gauge effect: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

resistance strain gauge

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoresistive effect: Piezoresistive Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11331946B2Deformation sensor, device for measuring load of wheel hub of vehicle, and wheel assembly of vehicle

Publication Date: 2022.05.17 CITIC DICASTAL CO LTD

AI summary

The present disclosure discloses a deformation sensor and device for measuring the load of a wheel hub of a vehicle, and an automobile. The deformation sensor includes: a metal lining fixed on the surface of the wheel hub, and a resistance strain gauge fixed on the metal lining. The resistance strain gauge is fixed on the metal lining through a structural adhesive.