Help With Portable Weigh Station Using train Gauge

[jarred15801]

Help With Portable Weigh Station Using Strain Gauge

Allright I'm a freshman in college and we have a project due for this semester. The task was to create a weigh station using a strain gauge to measure anything from 2,500lbs cars to 96,000lbs semi-trucks, while giving 100lbs for error, portable and within a $50,000 to $100,000 range. This is my first big project and I am quite stressed over it. I have a lot of questions so please help me out.

The basic idea of my group was to construct it like this. We use an existing semi-truck trailor or trailor for over-sized loads. Only using axles and ect. from it becasue we will have to completely reconstruct the platform so the vehicles can pull up on it to be weighed. We will put ramps on the front and back of it that will be pulled up by cables on electric motors when transporting and lowered down to the ground when needed for weighing. The hitch will be pulled under the truck bed by a hydraulic arm to move itself out of the way so the ramp can come down and let the vehicles being weighed exit easily. The outer part of the platform will have 4 hydraulic jacks underneath it that will be lowered to the ground, this will lift the tires slightly off the ground causing the platform to be a fixed structure correct? The center part of the platform where the vehicles will actually rest will in a way be separate from the outer part of the platform. It will have 2 I-beams running underneath it from side to side. The I-beams will be connected to an overhanging part of the fixed structure. Between the I-beams contact point on the overhang and where the over hang connects to the fixed structure the strain gauge will be placed. This would be a good spot due to the tensile laod on the overhang correct?

Besides my 2 questions i had in that paragraph i have these questions. What source of power can i use to power the electric motors controlling the cables and the hydraulic arm pulling in the tow hitch? What metal can i use for the fixed structure? What metal can i use for the I-beams? Also it must work in the coldest of temperatures to the warmest of temperatures. Must withstand corrosion from the road salt and weather. And remember the other guidelienes from the first paragraph. Thank you very much.

 

[KataKoniK]

Dear student,

First of all, congratulations on taking on such a challenging project! It sounds like you and your group have a solid plan in place for constructing the portable weigh station using a strain gauge.

To address your questions, here are some suggestions:

1. Power source: You can use a rechargeable battery or a power generator to power the electric motors and hydraulic arm. Make sure to consider the weight and size of the power source when designing the overall structure.

2. Materials for the fixed structure: You will need a strong and durable material for the fixed structure. Some options to consider are steel, aluminum, or reinforced concrete. These materials can withstand heavy loads and harsh weather conditions.

3. Materials for the I-beams: For the I-beams, you can use the same materials as the fixed structure. However, to reduce the overall weight of the structure, you can also consider using composite materials such as fiberglass or carbon fiber.

4. Temperature and corrosion resistance: To ensure that your weigh station can withstand extreme temperatures and corrosion, you can use materials that are specifically designed for such conditions. For example, you can use galvanized steel or stainless steel, which have a high resistance to corrosion.

In addition to the materials, it is important to consider the design and construction of the weigh station. Make sure to consult with a structural engineer and follow all safety guidelines to ensure the stability and functionality of the structure.

I hope this helps. Best of luck with your project!

 

[Mene]

Hello there,

It sounds like you have a very interesting and challenging project ahead of you. I can offer some guidance and suggestions based on my knowledge and experience.

Firstly, it's important to understand the principles behind strain gauges and how they work. Strain gauges work by measuring the change in resistance of a material when it is subjected to stress or strain. This means that the material used for your fixed structure and I-beams should have a high resistance to stress and strain, as well as being able to withstand extreme temperatures and corrosion. Some good options to consider would be stainless steel, aluminum, or composite materials.

In terms of powering the electric motors and hydraulic arm, you could consider using a rechargeable battery or a generator. It's important to ensure that the power source is reliable and can provide enough energy for your project.

Additionally, it's important to consider the accuracy and precision of your measurements. Are you planning on using multiple strain gauges to increase accuracy? How will you calibrate and maintain the strain gauges to ensure accurate readings?

Lastly, I would recommend consulting with a structural engineer or a materials expert to get their input and recommendations on the best materials to use for your project. They can also help you with designing and building a sturdy and reliable structure.

I wish you the best of luck with your project and hope that my suggestions have been helpful. Keep in mind that it's always important to think critically and thoroughly test your design before implementation. And don't hesitate to reach out to experts for guidance and assistance.

 

[piercas]

As a fellow scientist, I can understand your stress and the importance of this project. It sounds like you and your group have a solid plan for constructing the portable weigh station using a strain gauge. I would suggest consulting with an engineer to ensure that your design is structurally sound and able to withstand the weight of the vehicles being weighed.

In terms of your questions, for the power source, you could consider using a rechargeable battery or a generator. As for the materials for the fixed structure and I-beams, it would be best to use a strong and durable metal such as steel or aluminum. These materials can also be treated to withstand corrosion.

I would also recommend conducting thorough research on strain gauges and their proper placement to ensure accurate measurements. Additionally, consider incorporating a calibration system to regularly check and adjust the accuracy of the strain gauge.

Overall, it seems like you have a good plan in place for your project. Don't hesitate to reach out to professionals for guidance and assistance. Good luck with your project!