Development of a Dynamic Biomechanical Model for Load Carriage: Phase II Part A: Initial Development of a Novel Strap Tension Sensor
Abstract
This work was undertaken in support of the DLR research thrust "Development of a Dynamic Biomechanical Load Carriage Model". This document details the design and development of a novel transducer (StrapSensor[TM]) that can be attached to a flexible membrane or strap to measure material tension. The transducer achieves an exceptionally small footprint (< 13 mm) and can be inserted into any strap on conventional Load Carriage (LC) systems to record strap tensions. No modification to the surface is required for attachment and it is readily repositioned. A variety of load ranges can be accommodated using the same transducer theory. The device demonstrated a highly linear response (R2 = 0.98 - 0.99) and low repeatable hysteresis (<6.5% error over multiple load-unload cycles). This is a potentially exploitable technical development and formal disclosure has been made to protect any intellectual property arising from this work. Initial patent searches have discovered an expired patent on a related similar device and further exploration is being made to determine if this new device is a "substantive" improvement and subsequently remain patentable. Opportunities (other than by patenting) may exist for commercialization by protecting aspects of this device as a Registered Industrial Design.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA480772
Entities
People
- G. A. Sanders
- J. A. Good
- J. Tim Bryant
- Joan M. Stevenson
- Susan A. Reid
Organizations
- Queen's University