The discussion focuses on calculating lateral and eccentric loads on a trailer hitch ball while hauling a trailer with a gross trailer weight (GTW) of 10,000 lbs and a tongue weight (TW) of 1,200 lbs. Key factors influencing lateral forces include cornering, vibration, crosswinds, and road impacts. The user proposes a testing scenario using a weight sensing load cell with a vertical preload of 12,343 lbs and a horizontal test load of 30,000 lbs. The challenge lies in developing a force diagram to determine the resultant vertical force on the load cell, which is complicated by the non-ideal nature of the sensor.
PREREQUISITESMechanical engineers, automotive engineers, trailer manufacturers, and anyone involved in towing vehicle dynamics and load measurement systems.
CWatters said:So basically there is a horizontal shear force applied to a sensor that is intended to measure only vertical loads. If the load cell was "ideal" it would only indicate the preload of 12,343lbs because the horizontal test load of 30,000 has no vertical component. However the sensor is unlikely to be ideal. I think this is one the sensor manufacturer will have to help answer.