ASABE Technical Library - Abstract

Abstract. Vibrations and higher impact sensitivity are a few of the common problems of using impact-type sensors or load cell technology. Vibration, at some point, can be addressed by modifying the link between the system and the machines where the sensors are placed. Vibration dampeners can minimize the effect caused by the machines but does not provide solutions to the inherent problems. Aside from this disturbance, other vibrations are also formed by machine motions due to uneven terrain, which are also very difficult to quantify. Different calibrations are normally employed by different settings of vibrations before the system can be used. Another approach is by modeling the harmonic oscillation of the machines and using this information to only extract the impact generated by the object. This approach may provide a better solution but it has never have been field tested. This paper addresses the shortcomings of the current technologies by using microelectromechanical (MEMS) pressure sensors. The new system is molded with rubber and can be placed in an array to extend the area of interest in measuring impact force.

The molded rubber provides two things; robust impact surface and hole ventilation enclosure for the sensor. Though the application for this system is for addressing the impact-type sensors' deficiency, its application in measuring transient weight sediment can also be made possible as the sensitivity of the system is within 100 grams. A model and prototype will be presented in this paper.