Development of 3-Axis Load Cell for Measuring the Side-Force of the Rear Damper of MPV

This paper represents the development of 3-axises loadcell for measuring the side-force of the suspension module of MPV (Multi Purposed Vehicle). The side force causes the failure of damper, such as leakage. The loadcell was developed using strain gauges, and the Wheastone bridge circuit to compensate for the cross-talk between each axises and the measurement error by temperature. Structure analysis of loadcell was accomplished with FEM (Finite Element Method) to optimize the location of strain gages. The design optimization for the important factors that have effects on performance of loadcell was accomplished by using DOE (Design of Experiment). Loadcell was produced and successfully tested, showing good sensitivity and low cross-talk. The cross-talk of the developed loadcell is below 2%. The measured history using the manufactured load cell will be utilized in the vibration, and fatigue analysis in the future.