Wind Tunnel Holding Device for Accurate Z-Force Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wind tunnel holding devices distort measurement accuracy by altering weight forces when adjusting the underbody clearance of vehicles, due to the lifting or lowering of arms which affects the force sensed on weighing pads.
Innovation Solution
A holding device for wind tunnel test stands with a support element connected to a holding base and a test object, allowing for rotational orientation changes without rotating the wheel, using a pivot bearing and torque mechanism to maintain consistent force measurement by converting torque into linear movement, thus avoiding measurement errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the position of the arms of the holding devices is changed in z-direction to adjust underbody clearance, then the underbody clearance can be adjusted, but the weight force sensed on the weighing pad changes due to lifting or lowering movement
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device is divided into separate functional components: a holding base positioned laterally outside the conveyor belt, support elements connecting the base to the vehicle, and positioning mechanisms. This segmentation allows the holding function to be separated from the measurement function, enabling underbody clearance adjustment without affecting the weighing pad measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding base acts as an intermediary element positioned laterally outside the conveyor belt system. By placing the holding mechanism outside the measurement zone, it mediates between the need for vehicle positioning and the requirement for accurate force measurement, preventing direct interference with the weighing pads.
2Reliability
If arms of holding devices are used to hold wheels on conveyor belt, then vehicle positioning is achieved, but lifting or lowering of arms causes fictional forces that distort measurement results
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful function of the holding arms interfering with force measurements is eliminated by extracting the holding function to a separate lateral holding base positioned outside the conveyor belt system. This removes the source of fictional forces from the measurement zone while preserving the vehicle positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having holding arms extend over the conveyor belt from above, the solution inverts the approach by positioning the holding base laterally outside the belt and having support elements connect from the side, reversing the traditional configuration to avoid measurement interference.
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
This solution ensures accurate and reliable detection of z-forces by maintaining consistent contact force on weighing pads during adjustments in underbody clearance, enhancing the overall measurement accuracy and reliability of wind tunnel tests.
Implementation Method 1
using a pivot bearing and torque mechanism to maintain consistent force measurement by converting torque into linear movement
Data Source
AI summary
The device described herein and the associated method relate, in particular, to a holding device for a wind tunnel test stand 1, in particular for a wind tunnel balance. The device may comprise a holding base 5a, 6a, which may be arranged outside of a conveyor belt 3 of the wind tunnel test stand 1, and a support element 7 having at least two ends 7a, 7b. Via a connection element 13, one end of the support element 7 may be connected to a wheel 22 of a test object 4. Furthermore, a support device 8 may be provided, which may be connected to the support element 7 in such a way that a change in a rotational orientation of the support element 7 can cause a lifting or lowering movement of the support device 8.