Field deployable resonance sensor

Abstract

A resonant sensor for environmental health risk detection is disclosed. An adhesive may include at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator embedded within a material constituting at least a portion of the adhesive. The at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may be formed from a composite material. In addition, the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may include a plurality of first carbon particles configured to resonate uniquely in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This patent application is an international application claiming priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 369,418, filed on September 18, 2023, and entitled “FIELD DEP LOYABLE RESONANTSENSORS”. This patent application claims priority to the following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 408,372, filed on September 20, 2022, and entitled “RESONANT SENSORS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RISK DETECTION”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 463,495, filed on May 2, 2023, and entitled “HAND-THROW N, LAUNCHED AND / OR UNMANNED DEPLOYABLE SENSOR”, all of which are assigned to their assignees; the disclosures of all prior applications are considered part of and incorporated by reference into this patent application.

[0003] Patent application 18 / 369,418 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application No. 17 / 940,256, filed on September 8, 2022, entitled “SENSOR S INCORPORATEDINTO AIRBORNE VEHICLE COMPONENTSTO DETECT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES,” which is assigned to its assignee; the disclosures of all prior applications are considered part of and incorporated by reference into this patent application.

[0004] U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 940,256 claims priority to the following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 242,270, filed on September 9, 2021, entitled “SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO SEMI-RIGID STRUCTURAL MEMBERS TO DETECTPHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,680, filed on September 23, 2021, entitled “SENSORS INCORPORATED INTOSEMI-RIGID STRUCTURAL MEMBERS TO DETECTPHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,680, filed on September 23, 2021, entitled “SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO SEMI-RIGID STRUCTURAL MEMBERS TO DETECTPHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 247,680, filed on November 5, 2021, entitled “SENSORS INCORPORATED IN VEHICLE COMPONENTS TO DETECT PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 276,274, entitled “SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO AI RBORNE VEHICLE COMPONENTS TO DETECTPHYSICAL CH ARACTERISTIC CHANGES” filed on November 22, 2021, all of which are assigned to their assignees; the disclosures of all prior applications are deemed a part of this patent application and are incorporated by reference into this patent application.

[0005] U.S. patent application No. 17 / 940,256 is also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. patent application No. 17 / 227,249, filed on April 9, 2021, entitled “TUNED RADIOFREQUENCY (RF) RESONANT MATERIALS AN D MATERIAL CONFIGURATIONS FOR SENSING IN AVEHIC LE,” which in turn claims the benefit of priority to the following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 008,262, filed on April 10, 2020, entitled “RESONANCE SENSING IN TIRES,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 036,796, filed on June 9, 2020, entitled “RESONANCE SENSING IN ELASTOMER-CONTAI NING PRODUCTS,” all of which are assigned to their assignees; the disclosures of all prior applications are deemed a part of and incorporated by reference into this patent application.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 227,249 is also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 829,355, filed on March 25, 2020, entitled “TIRES CONTAINING RESONATING CARBON-BASED MICROS TRUCTURES,” which in turn claims the benefit of priority to the following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 985,550, filed on March 5, 2020, entitled “RESONANT SE RIAL NUMBER INVEHICLE TIRES,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 979,215, filed on February 20, 2020, entitled “WASTEENERGY HARVES TING AND POWERING IN VEHICLES,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 986,697, filed on March 27, 2019, entitled “TUNING RESONANT MATERIALS FOR VEHICLE SENSING”, all of which are assigned to their assignees; the disclosures of all prior applications are considered part of and incorporated by reference into this patent application.

[0007] U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 940,256 is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 340,493, filed on June 7, 2021, entitled “SENSORS INCORPORATED INTO ELASTOMERIC MATERIALS TO DETECT ENVIRONMENTALLY-CAUSED HYSICAL CHAR ACTERISTIC CHANGES,” which in turn claims the benefit of priority to the following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 036,118, filed on June 8, 2020, entitled “CAR BON-CONTAINING STICTION SENSORS”; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 094,223, filed on October 20, 2020, entitled “SENSORS FOR ELA STOMER PROPERTYCHANGE DETECTION”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 094,223, filed on October 20, 2020, entitled “RESONANCE SENSING IN ELASTOMER-CONTAINING PRODUCTS” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 036,796, all of which are assigned to their assignees; the disclosures of all prior applications are considered part of and incorporated by reference into this patent application.

[0008] U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 340,493 is also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 829,355, filed on March 25, 2020, entitled “TIRESCONTAINING RESONATING CARBON-BASED MICROS TRUCTURES,” which in turn claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 824,440, filed on March 27, 2019, entitled “TUNING RESONANT MATERIALS FOR VEH ICLE SENSING,” all of which are assigned to their assignees; the disclosures of all prior applications are deemed a part of and incorporated by reference into this patent application. Technical Field

[0009] The present disclosure relates generally to sensors and, more particularly, to incorporating macroscale and mesoscale resonant structures into or onto structural members. Background Art

[0010] Advances in sensors have created opportunities for further technology integration. This is particularly true as modern vehicles transition to fully autonomous driving and navigation, where technology (rather than trained and capable humans) must regularly monitor the performance and reliability of vehicle components to ensure the continued safety and comfort of vehicle occupants. Traditional systems, such as tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) or other electronic or mechanical based sensors, may not provide the high fidelity required for high performance (such as racing) or fully autonomous driving applications. Such applications may present unique challenges, such as rapid vehicle component (e.g., tire) wear encountered in demanding driving, variable profiles of vehicle drag based on the environment, or the inability to have a human driver present to check vehicle status during vehicle operation.

[0011] Recent developments in sensors allow for the detection of health-related environmental conditions (eg, presence of toxins, presence of radiation, etc.) However, further improvements in sensor technology as well as new modes of deployment are desired. Summary of the invention

[0012] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0013] One innovative aspect of the subject matter described in the present disclosure may be implemented as an electromagnetic state sensing device (EMSSD) that includes split ring resonators (split ring resonators) configured to be embedded within a material. Each split ring resonator may be formed of a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth and respond to an electromagnetic stimulation signal transmitted from a user device (e.g., a smart phone, a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader, or a near field communication (NFC) device) to generate an electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal. The electromagnetic return signal may indicate the state of the material at a location near the corresponding split ring resonator. When the material is in a first state, the split ring resonator may resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal, and when the material is in a second state, the split ring resonator may resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal. The natural resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based on physical properties of the material, such as permittivity and / or permeability. In this way, the extent to which the natural resonant frequencies of the first split ring resonator and the second split ring resonator shift in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal may indicate the amount of deformation of the material.

[0014] In various implementations, each split ring resonator can indicate a first condition of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal, and can indicate a second condition of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse. Additionally, the first electromagnetic return signal can have a first frequency, and the second electromagnetic return signal can have a second frequency different from the first frequency.

[0015] The state of the material can include deformation of the material. In some aspects, the split ring resonator can indicate deformation of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal, and can indicate the absence of deformation of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse.

[0016] In some implementations, at least one split ring resonator includes a resonant portion that can resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal when the state of the material exceeds a threshold, and can resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal when the state of the material is below a threshold. Some split ring resonators can each have a first split ring resonator (split ring resonator) having first carbon particles that can resonate uniquely in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal based on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the first split ring resonator. Some split ring resonators can have a second split ring resonator adjacent to the first split ring resonator having second carbon particles that can resonate uniquely in response to the electromagnetic stimulation signal based on a concentration level of the second carbon particles within the second split ring resonator.

[0017] Each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles may be chemically bonded to the material. In some aspects, the first carbon particles may include first aggregates forming a first porous structure, and the second carbon particles may include second aggregates forming a second porous structure. In this way, the resonance amplitude of the first split ring resonator or the second split ring resonator may indicate the degree of wear of the material. In addition, the first split ring resonator may resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse, and the second split ring resonator may resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse, wherein the first frequency is different from the second frequency. Each of the first split ring resonator and the second split ring resonator may each have an attenuation point associated with the frequency response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse.

[0018] In some implementations, the split ring resonator is disposed within a structural member of the EVTOL. Additionally, some techniques are disclosed to demonstrate how resonant sensors can play an important role in the safety and maneuverability of EVTOL vehicles and other types of aerial vehicles.

[0019] In one implementation, a component may include at least one split ring resonator (SRR), the at least one SRR embedded within the material of the carrier component and / or the at least one SRR formed from a three-dimensional (3D) monolithic carbonaceous growth. Additionally, the at least one SRR may be configured to have a resonant frequency shift in response to at least one of a reversible deformation, stress, or strain of the material.

[0020] In various embodiments, the material can be a non-elastomeric material, a semi-rigid material, and / or a foam-based material. In one embodiment, the foam-based material can amplify the resonant frequency shift. Additionally, the foam-based material, in conjunction with the at least one SRR, can produce an overall frequency effect based on a combination of the resonant frequency shift of the at least one SRR and the frequency response of the foam-based material.

[0021] The vehicle component may be a land vehicle or an air vehicle. In addition, the air vehicle may be one of the following: a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a drone, a manned drone, a commercial aircraft, a military aircraft, or a rocket.

[0022] Additionally, in some implementations, the resonant frequency shift may be at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the material is in a first state, and may be at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the material is in a second state. The resonant frequency shift may be based at least in part on one or more physical properties of the material. Additionally, the first frequency of the resonant frequency shift may indicate a first condition of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse, and the second frequency of the resonant frequency shift may indicate a second condition of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse. The first frequency may be different from the second frequency.

[0023] The resonant frequency shift may occur in response to the reversible deformation of the material. In addition, the at least one SRR may be configured to indicate a first state of the reversible deformation of the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse, and may be configured to indicate a second state of the reversible deformation of the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse. In addition, the at least one SRR may include a resonant portion, and / or the resonant portion may be configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the state of the material exceeds a threshold, and may be configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the state of the material is below the threshold.

[0024] In various implementations, the resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based at least in part on either or both of the permittivity and the magnetic permeability of the material. In addition, the at least one SRR may include a plurality of first carbon particles configured to resonate uniquely in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one SRR. In addition, a second SRR may be configured to be embedded in the material of the carrier component, and / or the second SRR may include a plurality of second carbon particles configured to resonate uniquely in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of the second carbon particles within the second SRR. Each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles may be chemically bonded to the material. In addition, the first carbon particles may include first aggregates forming a first porous structure, and the second carbon particles may include second aggregates forming a second porous structure. In addition, the resonance amplitude of each of the at least one SRR may indicate a degree of wear of the material, and each of the at least one SRR has a decay point. The attenuation point of each of the at least one SRR may be associated with a frequency response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse.

[0025] In various embodiments, an adhesive may include at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator embedded within a material constituting at least a portion of the adhesive, wherein the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator is formed of a composite material. Additionally, the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may include a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator.

[0026] In one embodiment, the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may include at least one split ring resonator (SRR). The resonance may be an electromagnetic return signal indicating the state of the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator. In addition, the state of the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may indicate exposure to an analyte, exposure to a biological material, or exposure to radiation. The state of the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may be associated to indicate a maximum value of at least one exposure to an analyte, exposure to a biological material, or exposure to radiation. In addition, the state may include absorption or adsorption into the material. The adhesive may be configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the material is in a first state, and may be configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the material is in a second state. The adhesive may be configured to indicate the degree of adsorption into the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse, and may be configured to indicate no adsorption into the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse.

[0027] In one embodiment, a first group of the one or more SRRs may include a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on the sensed concentration level of the first analyte. A second group of the one or more SRRs may include a plurality of second carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on the concentration level of the second analyte. In addition, each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles may be chemically bonded to the material. The first carbon particles may include first aggregates forming a first porous structure. The second carbon particles may include second aggregates forming a second porous structure.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least three instances of the adhesive can be used to triangulate the position of the adhesive. The adhesive can be configured to be applied to one of a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a drone, a manned drone, a commercial aircraft, a military aircraft, a vehicle, a robot, a body, a box, a personal electronic device, a tool box, a household appliance, or a rocket. Additionally, the composite material can include a 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth.

[0029] In one embodiment, the tuned resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based at least in part on one or more physical properties of the material. The resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based at least in part on either or both of the permittivity and permeability of the material. Additionally, the electromagnetic return signal may have a first frequency, and the second electromagnetic return signal may have a second frequency different from the first frequency.

[0030] In one embodiment, the device may include a protective layer over the material. The at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator may include an array of two or more split ring resonators. Additionally, each split ring resonator of the array may be configured to detect at least one of a specific predetermined analyte, a biological agent, a radioisotope, or a specific predetermined volatile substance.

[0031] In various embodiments, a device may include: a housing having one of a permeable skin or an outer surface of the housing containing holes; and at least one sensor embedded in the housing, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to respond to a gas or a volatile substance.

[0032] In one embodiment, the at least one sensor may include at least one split ring resonator (SRR). The at least one SRR may be formed of a composite material. The composite material may include a 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth. Additionally, a resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based at least in part on either or both of a permittivity and a magnetic permeability of the composite material.

[0033] In one embodiment, the device may be configured to be thrown or launched by hand. In addition, the housing may be capable of withstanding impact forces. In addition, the device may be deployed in a confined space. The at least one sensor may be configured to detect a specific and predetermined compound. The gas or volatile substance may include one of the following: an ambient gas, a flammable gas, a hazardous gas, an illegal gas, a biogas, a vapor, radiation, or an aerosol.

[0034] In one embodiment, the device may be configured to be launched by a launcher and / or may be configured to be deployed using a remotely controlled vehicle or an aerial vehicle, or using an autonomous unmanned vehicle or an aerial vehicle.

[0035] In one embodiment, the at least one SRR includes a plurality of first carbon particles that can be configured to resonate uniquely in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of the first carbon particles within the at least one sensor. In addition, the at least one SRR of the first group can include a plurality of first carbon particles that are configured to resonate uniquely in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a sensed concentration level of a first analyte. In addition, the at least one SRR of the second group can include a plurality of second carbon particles that are configured to resonate uniquely in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of a second analyte. Each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles can be chemically bonded to the shell. The first carbon particles can include first aggregates that form a first porous structure. Furthermore, the second carbon particles can include second aggregates that form a second porous structure.

[0036] In one embodiment, the tuned resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based at least in part on one or more physical properties of the enclosure. The resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth may be based at least in part on either or both of the permittivity and the permeability of the enclosure. The at least one sensor may include an array of split ring resonators, wherein each split ring resonator of the array is configured to detect at least one of a specific predetermined analyte, a biological agent, a radioisotope, or a specific predetermined volatile substance. Additionally, the device may be configured to provide environmental conditions in the confined space prior to entry by a responding person.

[0037] Details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Please note that the relative sizes of the following drawings may not be drawn to scale. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 An in-situ carrier control system according to one embodiment is presented that includes various sensors formed of a carbon-containing composite material tuned to exhibit a desired radio frequency (RF) signal resonance and response after being detected.

[0039] Figure 2 A signal processing system is depicted that analyzes transmitted and / or returned RF signals that are frequency shifted and / or attenuated by a sensor formed of a tuned RF resonant material containing carbon, according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 3 A feature classification system according to one embodiment is shown.

[0041] Figure 4 A sequence of tire condition parameters sensed from changes in RF resonance of various layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material is depicted according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an apparatus for tuning multiple plies of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuned RF resonant materials from separate and independent reactors for incorporation into the body of a single tire component is depicted, according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Depicted are sets of example condition signatures that may be emitted from a new tire formed from a layer of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material, according to one embodiment.

[0044] Figure 8 Depicted is a top-down schematic diagram of an example split ring resonator (split ring resonator) configuration including two concentric split ring resonators according to one implementation.

[0045] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram is depicted showing a complete tire diagnostic system and apparatus for tire wear sensing via impedance-based spectroscopy, according to one embodiment.

[0046] Fig.10 and Fig.11 A schematic diagram is depicted relating to tire information transmitted via telemetry into a navigation system and an apparatus for making printed carbon-based materials according to one embodiment.

[0047] Fig.12 A schematic diagram is shown for digitally encoding a carrier tire based on a resonance serial number via a tire tread layer and / or tire body ply printing code according to one embodiment.

[0048] Fig.13 The resonance mechanism contributing to the overall phenomenon caused by different nearby resonator types is shown according to one embodiment.

[0049] Fig.14 is an example temperature sensor including one or more of the presently disclosed split ring resonators according to one embodiment.

[0050] Fig.15 FIG. 5 is a graph of measured resonance characteristic signal strength (in decibels dB) versus height (in millimeters mm) of a tire tread layer loss according to one embodiment.

[0051] Fig.16FIG. 5 is a graph of measured resonant signature signal strength (in decibels dB) versus the natural resonant frequency of a split ring resonator, showing the resonant response shift proportional to tire ply deformation, according to one embodiment.

[0052] Fig.17 is a graph of signal strength versus chirp signal frequency for a split ring resonator that may resonate corresponding to an encoded serial number according to one implementation.

[0053] FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y A carbonaceous material is depicted for use as a forming material to produce any of the presently disclosed resonators (eg, a split ring resonator) according to one embodiment.

[0054] Fig.19A1 and Fig.19A2 An illustration of a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form is provided according to one embodiment.

[0055] Figure 19B1 and Figure 19B2 A depiction of a column including the split ring resonator or split ring resonators and equations for measuring changes within a structural member is shown according to one embodiment.

[0056] Fig. 20 The use of split ring resonators on the outside of structural members of various shapes already in use is shown. Fig. 20 Also shown are examples of possible factors and equations that may be critical in determining the size, orientation, location, and application of the split ring resonator or split ring resonators according to one embodiment.

[0057] Fig.21 is a flow chart representing a process for implementing a split ring resonator in a given application according to one embodiment.

[0058] FIG. 22A1 to FIG. 22A3 is presented to illustrate the use of a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators within a roadside barrier according to one embodiment.

[0059] Fig. 22B A roadside barrier for use in a racetrack is depicted, showing the structural components that make up the roadside barrier, in which a split ring resonator or a plurality of split ring resonators may be placed, according to one embodiment.

[0060] Fig.23 An illustration of a split ring resonator disposed on a surface of a concrete structure after concrete has been poured into a given structural form, according to one embodiment.

[0061] Fig.24AA sensing stack comprising alternating layers of carbon-containing resin and carbon fibers in contact with each other is depicted according to one embodiment.

[0062] Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 The frequency shift phenomenon is depicted as demonstrated by a sensing stack including a carbon-containing tuned RF resonance material according to one embodiment.

[0063] Figure 24B3 FIG. 5 is a graph showing the idealized variation of RF resonance as a function of deflection according to one embodiment.

[0064] Figure 24B4 Graph showing the change in RF resonance for 4-layer and 5-layer build-ups according to one embodiment.

[0065] Fig.24C Surface sensor deployment in the vehicle area is shown according to one embodiment.

[0066] Fig.25A An illustration of the interaction between a vehicle and a split ring resonator disposed in the road asphalt and / or on the road surface is provided according to one embodiment.

[0067] Fig.25B An illustration is provided of how a split ring resonator disposed in or on a tire may be used to measure tire static friction according to one embodiment.

[0068] Fig.26 Depicted is the placement of a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and / or on a road surface according to one embodiment.

[0069] Fig. 27 is a flow chart showing a process for determining tire static friction according to one embodiment.

[0070] Fig.28 The correlation between measurement frequency and tread thickness according to one embodiment is shown.

[0071] Fig.29 A portion of a carrier surface is shown in which an array of individually configured split ring resonators is provided according to one embodiment.

[0072] Fig.30 A configuration of a split ring resonator in a frequency range is shown according to one implementation.

[0073] Fig.31 Graph illustrating detection of time-based deflection changes, as indicated by time-based changes in resonant frequency, according to one embodiment.

[0074] Fig.32A feature classification system is shown that processes signals received from a sensor formed of a carbon-containing tuned resonant material according to one embodiment.

[0075] Fig.33 An illustration of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a drone and / or drone platform is shown according to one embodiment.

[0076] Fig.34 A depiction of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a flying vehicle is shown according to one embodiment.

[0077] Fig.35 A depiction of a split ring resonator and a landing position sensor disposed in and / or on a flying vehicle is shown according to one embodiment.

[0078] Fig.36A and Fig.36B Two depictions of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on an aircraft are shown according to one embodiment.

[0079] Fig.37A An illustration of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a rocket is shown according to one embodiment.

[0080] Fig.37B A depiction of a split ring resonator and landing position sensor disposed in and / or on a rocket and / or landing platform is shown according to one embodiment.

[0081] Fig.38A is a flow chart related to reporting feedback from a split ring resonator according to one embodiment.

[0082] Fig.38B 1 is a flow chart relating to landing an aerial vehicle and / or drone utilizing a split ring resonator, according to one embodiment.

[0083] Fig.39 A depiction of a metamaterial in a dielectric matrix and its associated circuitry is shown according to one embodiment.

[0084] Fig.40 A depiction of a split ring resonator embedded within an open or closed cell material is shown according to one embodiment.

[0085] Fig.41 A depiction of a pressure sensor using open or closed pore materials is shown according to one embodiment.

[0086] Fig.42 A depiction of wind pressure sensing data using open or closed cell materials is shown according to one embodiment.

[0087] Fig.43A depiction of pathways and circuits associated with frequency selective conductivity is shown according to one embodiment.

[0088] Fig.44 A depiction of the many industries in which a split ring resonator may be used is shown according to one embodiment.

[0089] Fig.45 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive sticker according to one embodiment.

[0090] Fig.46 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive sticker according to one embodiment.

[0091] Fig.47 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive sticker with a protective film according to one embodiment.

[0092] Fig.48 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in a roll of adhesive stickers according to one embodiment.

[0093] Fig.49 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive decal in use in an automobile according to one embodiment.

[0094] Fig.50 An illustration showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive sticker in use with a robot according to one embodiment.

[0095] Fig.51 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive sticker in production line use according to one embodiment.

[0096] Fig.52 A depiction showing one or more split ring resonators embedded in an adhesive sticker for use with a sensing element portion of an object in motion according to one embodiment.

[0097] Fig.53 A deployable sensor including one or more split ring resonators is shown according to one embodiment.

[0098] Fig.54 A deployable sensor including one or more split ring resonators is shown according to one embodiment.

[0099] Fig.55 A deployable sensor including one or more split ring resonators on a deployable vehicle is shown according to one embodiment.

[0100] Fig.56An illustration of a deployable sensor including one or more split ring resonators on a remotely controlled vehicle is shown.

[0101] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0102] Various implementations of the subject matter disclosed herein are generally directed to deploying durable sensors made from carbonaceous microstructures.

[0103] The carbonaceous material can be adjusted during synthesis to achieve specific expected radio frequency (RF) signal deviation (referring to frequency shift) and signal attenuation (referring to reduction in signal amplitude) behavior related to the transmitted RF signal. The device capable of transmitting the RF signal may include, for example, a transceiver for interrogating the current resonance of the sensor. The currently disclosed implementation does not require moving parts. The target RF resonance frequency value of the disclosed component carbonaceous materials can be adjusted within a reaction chamber or reactor to exhibit interactions to obtain target performance characteristics. The characteristics can be used for any number of applications. Resonators formed from unique carbonaceous materials exhibit frequency shifts and / or signal attenuation at specified radio frequencies (RF) of, for example, 0.01 GHz to 100 GHz, which can be adjusted depending on the desired application. Regarding adjustability, the carbonaceous material can be naturally grown (e.g., self-nucleated) from carbonaceous gaseous matter in a reactor without the need for seed particles to produce sophisticated 3D structures.

[0104] Environmental conditions surrounding the disclosed materials and systems may affect the resonance, frequency shift, and / or signal attenuation behavior of the resonator.

[0105] The currently disclosed resonators can be tuned to detect trace or trace amounts of toxins and / or biological materials and / or radiation. Such changes can be detected by "probing" the current state of the sensor (e.g., transmitting an RF signal and later observing and analyzing the RF signal), and then processing a unique set of detected properties (e.g., "signatures"). Various mechanisms for calibrating observed signal features and processing return features are discussed. Structural components of a mobile platform or a platform in motion (e.g., rigid components, semi-rigid components, flexible components, sponge components, etc.) can incorporate a tuning carbon having a unique tuned carbonaceous microstructure, which can be nano-sized, micro-scale sized, or mesoscale particles, including structures with feature sizes up to several millimeters (mm).

[0106] As found in the detailed description, the illustrative information presented is intended to illustrate various architectures (including optional architectures) and uses. It should be specifically noted that the information is presented for illustrative purposes (to provide as thorough a description as possible) and should not be construed as limiting in any way. Any of the following features may be optionally combined with or without excluding the other features described.

[0107] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle condition detection system 100, for example, intended to be equipped on a vehicle (such as a car and / or truck). The vehicle condition detection system 100 may include a sensor, such as a tuned RF resonant component 108 (e.g., a split ring resonator, such as Figure 8 ). Each tuned RF resonant component 108 may be formed from a variety of carbon-based microstructured materials, aggregates, agglomerates, and / or the like, such as the materials disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 785,020, filed by Stowell et al. on February 7, 2020, entitled “3D Self-Assembled Multi-Modal Carbon-Based Particle” (collectively referred to as “carbonaceous materials”), the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference for all purposes. The tuned RF resonant component 108 may be incorporated into any one or more of the belt sensor 104, hose sensor 105, tire sensor 106, and transceiver antenna 102 on a vehicle (such as a conventional driver-driven car or a fully automated transportation pod or vehicle capable of moving vehicle occupants without a human driver).

[0108] The tuned RF resonant component 108 may be configured to communicate electronically and / or wirelessly (such as by measuring signal frequency shift or attenuation) with any one or more of the following: transceiver 114; vehicle central processing unit 116; vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118; vehicle actuator control unit 120; and actuators 122 including doors, windows, locks (collectively 124); engine controls 126; navigation / heads-up display 128; suspension controls 129; and wing trim 130. The tuned RF resonant component 108 may cause a shift (referred to as a "frequency shift," meaning any change in frequency) in the observed frequency of the transmitted RF signal 110 and / or the returned RF signal 112 using the transceiver 114. Reference to a returned RF signal 112 corresponding to the transmitted RF signal 110 may refer to electronic detection of a frequency shift or attenuation of the transmitted RF signal 110 relative to one or more tuned RF resonant components 108 integrated into any one or more of the belt sensors 104, hose sensors 105, tire sensors 106, transceiver antennas 102 on the vehicle, and / or the like (e.g., not an actual physical reflection or return of the signal from the sensor). The transmitted RF signal 110 and the returned RF signal 112 may be communicated to (and therefore also evaluated by) any one or more of the vehicle central processing unit 116, the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118, the vehicle actuator control unit 120, and / or the actuators 122. The vehicle condition detection system 100 may be implemented using any suitable combination of software and hardware.

[0109] Any one or more of the various illustrated sensors of the vehicle condition detection system 100 may be formed from a carbon-based microstructure that is tuned to achieve specific RF resonant behavior when "detected" (meaning struck or otherwise contacted by a transmitted RF signal). The vehicle condition detection system 100 (or any aspect thereof) may be configured to be implemented in any conceivable vehicle use application, area, or environment, such as during adverse weather conditions including sleet, hail, snow, ice, frost, mud, sand, debris, uneven terrain, water, and / or the like.

[0110] The tuned RF resonant component 108 may be disposed around and / or on the vehicle (such as in a cockpit, engine compartment, or trunk, or on the body of the vehicle). Figure 1As shown in , the tuned RF resonant component may include a belt sensor 104, a hose sensor 105, a tire sensor 106, and a transceiver antenna 102, any one or more of which may be implemented in a modern vehicle during production in the modern vehicle, or (alternatively) retrofitted to a pre-existing vehicle, regardless of the age and / or condition of the vehicle. The tuned RF resonant component 108 may be formed in part using readily available materials, such as fiberglass (such as for wings) or rubber (such as for tires) or glass (e.g., for windshields). These conventional materials may be combined with carbon-based materials, growths, agglomerates, aggregates, sheets, particles, and / or the like, such as materials that self-nucleate in-flight from carbon-containing gas species in a reaction chamber or reactor and are formulated to achieve the following goals: (1) increase the mechanical (such as tensile, compressive, shear, strain, deformation, and / or the like) strength of the composite material into which the material is incorporated; and / or (2) resonate at a particular frequency or set of frequencies (in the range of 10 GHz to 100 GHz). The variables that determine the RF resonant properties and behavior of the material can be controlled independently of the variables responsible for controlling the strength of the material.

[0111] Radio frequency (RF) based stimulation (such as that transmitted by transceiver 114 or transmitted by a resonator) may be used to transmit RF signals to tuned RF resonant component 108, actuator 122 (and / or the like, such as a sensor implemented in or on tuned RF resonant component 108) to detect its corresponding resonant frequency or frequencies and the frequency shifts and patterns observed in the attenuation of the transmitted signal (which may be affected by internal or external conditions). For example, if a tuned RF resonant component (such as tire sensor 106) has been specifically prepared (referred to as being "tuned") to resonate at a frequency of approximately 3 GHz, then when stimulated by a 3 GHz RF signal, tire sensor 106 may emit sympathetic resonance or sympathetic vibration (referring to a harmonic phenomenon in which a previously passive string or vibrating body responds to an external vibration that has a harmonic similarity to the external vibration).

[0112] These sympathetic vibrations may occur at the stimulation frequency and also in the overtones or side lobes derived from the 3 GHz fundamental tone. If the tuned resonant component (tuned RF resonant component 108) has been tuned to resonate at 2 GHz, then when the tuned resonant component is stimulated by the 2 GHz RF signal, the tuned resonant component will emit sympathetic vibrations as described. These sympathetic vibrations will occur at the stimulation frequency and in the overtones or side lobes (in engineering, the local maximum of the far-field radiation pattern of an antenna or other radiating source that is not the main lobe) derived from the 2 GHz fundamental tone. Many additional tuned resonant components may be located near the RF transmitter. The RF transmitter may be controlled to emit a 2 GHz acoustic pulse first, then a 3 GHz acoustic pulse, then a 4 GHz acoustic pulse, and so on. This series of acoustic pulses of different and increasing frequencies may be referred to as a "chirp".

[0113] Adjacent tire plies within a tire body (such as tire plies that are in contact with each other), such as Figures 5 to 7 The tire plies generally shown in FIG. 1 may have different concentration levels or configurations of carbon-based microstructures to define sensors incorporated into the (referred to as the respective) tire body plies and / or tread layers to resonate at different frequencies that are non-harmonic to one another. That is, the non-harmonic plies may ensure distinct and easily identifiable detection of specific tire body plies and / or tread layers (or other surfaces or materials) relative to others, with minimal likelihood of confusion due to signal interference caused by (or otherwise associated with) harmonics.

[0114] transceiver 114 (and / or resonator, Figure 1 108) may be configured to transmit a transmitted RF signal 110 to any one or more of the tuned RF resonant components 108 to digitally identify a frequency shift and / or attenuation of a returned RF signal 112 from any one or more of the tuned RF resonant components 108. Such a "return" signal 112 may be processed into digital information that may be electronically transmitted to a vehicle central processing unit 116 that interacts with a vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 and / or a vehicle actuator control unit 120 that transmits additional vehicle performance related signals based on the received sensor data. The return signal 112 may at least partially control an actuator 122. That is, the vehicle actuator control unit 120 may control the actuators 122 to operate any one or more of the doors, windows, locks 124, engine controls 126, navigation / heads-up display 128, suspension controls 129, and / or wing trim 130 based on feedback received from the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118 regarding wear or degradation of vehicle components as indicated by a tuned RF component in communication with the transceiver 114.

[0115] Detection of road debris and adverse weather conditions while monitoring the behavior (such as frequency shift and / or attenuation) of the returned RF signal 111 may, for example, cause the actuator 122 to trigger corresponding changes in the suspension control 129. Such changes may, for example, include softening the suspension settings to accommodate driving over road debris, and then tightening the suspension settings to accommodate the increased vehicle responsiveness that may be required for driving during heavy rain (and therefore low traction) conditions. There are many variations of such control by the vehicle actuator control unit 120, in which any conceivable condition external to the vehicle (as exhibited by frequency shift and / or attenuation of the transmitted RF signal 110 and / or the returned RF signal 112) may be detected by the transceiver.

[0116] Any tuned RF resonant components 108 forming the described sensors may be tuned to resonate at a particular frequency when stimulated, wherein a defined frequency shift (caused by the carbon-based microstructures) may form one or more signal signatures indicative of the material or condition of the material into which the sensor is incorporated.

[0117] The time variance or deviation (TDEV) of the frequency shift (such as that shown in the signal signature) in the returned RF signal 112 (referring to the temporal stability of the phase x versus the observation interval τ of the measurement clock source; the time deviation thus forms a standard deviation type of measurement for indicating the temporal instability of the signal source) may correspond to temporal variance variations of the sensor's environment and / or temporal variance variations of the sensor itself. Thus, a signal processing system (such as any one or more of the vehicle central processing unit 116, the vehicle sensor data receiving unit 118, and / or the vehicle actuator control unit 120, etc.) may be configured to analyze the signals associated with the sensor (such as the transmitted RF signal 110 and the returned RF signal 112) according to the TDEV principle. The results of such analysis (such as the signature analysis) may be delivered to the vehicle central processing unit 116, which may (in turn) transmit commands to the vehicle actuator control unit 120 to take appropriate response actions. In some configurations, such responsive actions taken by the actuators 122 may involve at least some human driver input, while in other configurations, the vehicle condition detection system 100 may function in a completely self-contained manner, thereby allowing vehicles so equipped to resolve component performance issues that arise in fully unmanned situations. Additionally, the vehicle central processing unit 116 may electronically communicate with one or more upstream components 113 (e.g., computing devices associated with racing applications housed in a fixed area) and / or a racing mission control unit 119 responsible for collecting and / or processing all data associated with the tuned RF resonant component 108.

[0118] Figure 2A signal processing system 200 is depicted that analyzes transmitted and / or returned RF signals that are frequency shifted and / or attenuated by a sensor formed of a tuned RF resonant material containing carbon, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the signal processing system 200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the signal processing system 200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0119] As shown in the figure, Figure 2 A block diagram of a signal processing system 200 is shown, which may include a surface sensor 260 and an embedded sensor 270, any one or more of which may electronically communicate with the others regarding changes 250 in the environment of a vehicle so equipped (referring to a vehicle equipped with the surface sensor 260 and the embedded sensor 270). The signal processing system 200 may also include a transceiver 214, a signature analysis module 254, and a vehicle central processing unit 216, any one or more of which may electronically communicate with the others.

[0120] In some implementations, embedded sensors 270 (which may be embedded within a material such as a tire ply) may employ and / or be powered by self-powered telemetry that includes a friction energy generator (also incorporated within the material enclosing the respective sensor). Figure 2 ). Thus, the friction energy generator can generate usable current and / or power by collecting static charge accumulated between, for example, a rotating tire or wheel and the pavement it contacts to power a resonant circuit (described in more detail herein), which can then resonate to transmit an RF signal at a known frequency. Thus, an externally mounted transceiver unit (such as a transceiver unit mounted in each wheel well of the vehicle) can transmit an RF signal, which is further propagated through the resonant circuit, which in this configuration is friction-powered and embedded in the ply of the tire body. The frequency shift and / or amplitude attenuation of the transmitted signal is likewise received and analyzed, for example, by the signature analysis module 254 and / or the vehicle central processing unit 216.

[0121] Self-powered telemetry (referring to the collection of measurements or other data at a remote or inaccessible point and the automatic transmission of the measurements or other data to a receiving device for monitoring) can be incorporated into a vehicle tire. As described herein, self-powered telemetry includes utilizing the generation of frictional charges within the tire, storing said charges, and subsequently discharging the stored charges into or through a resonant circuit to utilize the "ringing" (referring to the oscillation of the resonant circuit responsible for the further transmission of the RF signal) that occurs during the discharge of the resonant circuit (referring to a circuit composed of an inductor represented by the letter L and a capacitor represented by the letter C connected together, the circuit being used to generate an RF signal at a specific frequency or frequencies).

[0122] Generally, acoustic pulse stimulation may be provided in one of two possible configurations of the presently disclosed vehicle component wear detection systems, including reliance on a signal or "acoustic pulse" generated by a stimulation source (such as a conventional transceiver) located external to the tire (or other vehicle component intended for monitoring wear from ongoing use), such as incorporated into each wheel well of a vehicle so equipped; or using an in-tire (meaning also embedded in the tire plies, similar to sensors with carbon-based microstructures) friction energy generator that harvests friction energy obtained from otherwise wasted friction energy between the rotating wheel and / or tire and the ground or pavement it contacts. Tribology, as generally understood and referred to herein, means the scientific and engineering study of surfaces that interact in relative motion. Such friction energy generators may provide power to in-tire resonance devices that in turn provide self-transmitting tire property telemetry.

[0123] Either of the two "acoustic pulse wave" stimulation generators or providers discussed above may have a complex resonant frequency (CRf) component from about 10 to 99 GHz (e.g., due to the resonant frequency of small-scale structures such as graphene flakes) and lower frequency resonances in the KHz range due to the relatively large size of the resonances in the tire in question. In general, the CRf may be equivalent to a function of the natural resonant frequency of the elastomer component, the natural resonant frequency of the carbon component, the ratio / integration of the constituent components, and the geometry of the resonant device in the tire.

[0124] The signal processing system 200 is used to analyze signal characteristics (defined by digitally observing frequency shifts and / or attenuation of any one or more of the transmitted RF signal 210 and / or the returned RF signal 212) when the sensor formed by the carbon-based microstructure is stimulated. Due to the stimulation, the chirp signal sensor resonating at one chirp / acoustic pulse frequency "responds" by resonating at or near its corresponding tuned frequency, shifting the transmitted frequency, and / or attenuating the amplitude of the transmitted signal. When environmental changes occur while the chirp / acoustic pulse is being transmitted (such as environmental changes that cause wear of the tire body plies and / or tread layers), the modulation changes of the "returned" signal - above or below the tuned frequency - can be monitored. Accordingly, the transceiver 214 can be configured to receive the returned RF signals 212, which are representative of the surface they detected, etc.

[0125] Of course, it should also be understood that although Figure 1 to Figure 1 The context of 8 is primarily related to automotive applications of split ring resonators, but such teachings may also be equally applicable to other scenarios and industries detailed herein (including concrete, material science, aerospace, drones and flying vehicles, mining materials, oil industry components, etc.). Thus, the teachings herein with respect to automobiles (and tires, in particular) may be applied in the context of these other industries, some of which will be described in more detail below.

[0126] The aforementioned chirp / acoustic pulse wave signal may be transmitted by the transceiver 214 (such as by an inaudible RF signal, pulse, vibration and / or similar transmission). In addition, the "return" signal may be received by the transceiver 214. As shown, the chirp signal may occur in a repeating sequence of chirps (such as the transmitted RF signal 210). For example, the chirp signal sequence may be formed by a pattern including a 1 GHz acoustic pulse wave, followed by a 2 GHz acoustic pulse wave, followed by a 3 GHz acoustic pulse wave, and so on. The entire chirp signal sequence may be continuously repeated in its entirety. There may be a brief period of time between each acoustic pulse wave, so that a return signal (returned RF signal 212) from the resonant material may be received immediately after the acoustic pulse wave ends. Alternatively or additionally, the signal corresponding to the acoustic pulse wave stimulation and the observed "response" signal may occur simultaneously and / or along the same general path or route. The feature analysis module may employ digital signal processing techniques to distinguish the observed "response" signal from the acoustic pulse wave signal. In the case where the returned response includes energy across multiple different frequencies (such as overtones, side lobes, etc.), a notch filter may be used to filter the stimulus. The return signal received by the transceiver may be sent to the feature analysis module 254, which in turn may send the processed signal to the vehicle central processing unit 216. Figure 2 Discussion of includes discussion of sensors formed from carbon-containing tuned resonant materials and may also refer to sensing stacks.

[0127] The disclosed sensor can be incorporated into tire layers, for example, including resin layers that can be layered with gaps between additional carbon fiber layers within a tire ply. Each layer of carbon-containing resin can be formulated differently to resonate at a different expected or desired tuning frequency. The physics of material resonance can be described in terms of corresponding molecular composition. For example, a layer having a first defined structure, such as a first molecular structure, will resonate at a first frequency, while a layer having a second, different molecular structure may resonate at a second, different frequency.

[0128] A material having a particular molecular structure and contained in a layer will resonate at a first tuned frequency when the layer is in a low energy state, and will resonate at a second, different frequency when the material in the layer is in an induced higher energy state. For example, a material in a layer exhibiting a particular molecular structure may be tuned to resonate at 3 GHz when the layer is in a natural, undeformed, low energy state. Conversely, the same layer may resonate at 2.95 GHz when the layer is at least partially deformed from its natural, undeformed, low energy state. As a result, the phenomenon may be adapted to detect with high fidelity and accuracy even the slightest anomaly of a tire surface that is in contact with a road surface (such as a pavement) and experiencing enhanced wear at a certain localized contact area. Even under time-sensitive race day conditions, a car racing on a demanding track (referring to a highly technical, windy track with sharp turns and rapid elevation changes) may benefit from such localized tire wear or degradation information to make informed tire replacement decisions.

[0129] See FIG. 24B1 to FIG. 24B2 To illustrate and discuss the frequency shift phenomenon described above (such as resonating at a frequency of 3 GHz to resonating at a frequency of 2.95 GHz), this will be discussed below.

[0130] Carbonaceous materials (such as carbonaceous materials including carbon-based microstructures) that are tuned to exhibit a specific resonant frequency when probed by an RF signal can be tuned to exhibit a specific resonance curve by adjusting the specific compounds that make up the material to have a specific electrical impedance. Different electrical impedances, in turn, correspond to different frequency response curves.

[0131] Impedance describes how difficult it is for an alternating current (AC) current to flow through a component. In the frequency domain, impedance is a complex number with a real part and an imaginary part, due to the structure behaving as an inductor. The imaginary part is the inductive reactance (the opposition of a circuit element to the flow of current due to the inductance or capacitance of the element; for the same applied voltage, a larger reactance results in a smaller current) component X L , the inductive reactance component is based on the frequency f and the inductance L of the specific structure:

[0132] X L =2πfL (Equation 1)

[0133] As the receiving frequency increases, the reactance also increases, so that at a certain frequency threshold, the measured strength (amplitude) of the transmitted signal may be attenuated. The inductance L is affected by the material's electrical impedance Z, where Z is related to material properties such as magnetic permeability μ and permittivity ε, as shown below:

[0134]

[0135] Therefore, adjusting the material properties changes the electrical impedance Z, which affects the inductance L, and thus the reactance X. L .

[0136] Carbon-containing structures having different inductances may exhibit different frequency responses (when used to create sensors for the aforementioned systems), such as the carbon-containing structures disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,428,197, entitled “Carbon and Elastomer Integration,” issued on October 1, 2019 by Anzelmo et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. That is, a carbon-containing structure having a high inductance L (based on the electrical impedance Z) will reach a certain reactance at a lower frequency than another carbon-containing structure having a lower inductance.

[0137] Material properties such as magnetic permeability, permittivity, and electrical conductivity may also be considered when formulating a compound to be tuned to a particular electrical impedance. Additionally, it has been observed that a first carbon-containing structure will resonate at a first frequency and a second carbon-containing structure will resonate at a second frequency when the structures are placed under tension-inducing conditions, such as when the structures are slightly deformed (such as to slightly change the physical properties of the structures).

[0138] An example carbon-containing structure that can resonate at a first frequency (e.g., FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y ), may be associated with an equivalent circuit comprising capacitor C1 and inductor L1. The frequency f1 is given by the following equation:

[0139]

[0140] The deformation of the carbon-containing structure may in turn change the inductance and / or capacitance of the structure. The change may be associated with an equivalent circuit comprising capacitor C2 and inductor L2. The frequency f2 is given by the following equation:

[0141]

[0142] Figure 3A feature classification system 300 is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the feature classification system 300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the feature classification system 300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0143] The signature classification system 300 processes signals received from sensors formed of a tuned resonant material containing carbon.The signature classification system 300 may be implemented in any physical environment or weather conditions. Figure 3 The invention relates to incorporating tuned resonant sensing materials into automotive components to classify signals (such as signatures) detected, classified and / or received from sensors mounted in the vehicle. In operation 302, an acoustic pulse signal of a selected acoustic pulse frequency is transmitted. The acoustic pulse signal generation mechanism and the acoustic pulse transmission mechanism may be performed by any known technique. For example, the transmitter module may generate a selected frequency of 3 GHz and use one or more antennas to radiate the signal. The design and location of the tuned antennas (such as mounted on and / or within any one or more wheel wells or the vehicle) may correspond to any tuned antenna geometry, material and / or location so that the intensity of the acoustic pulse is sufficient to induce (RF) resonance in nearby sensors. Several tuned antennas are disposed on or within structural members near corresponding sensors. Thus, when a nearby surface sensor is stimulated by the acoustic pulse, it may resonate with a signature. The signature may be received (in operation 304) and stored in a data set including received signatures 310. The sequence of transmitting an acoustic pulse followed by receiving a signature may be repeated in a loop.

[0144] The acoustic pulse wave frequency may be changed during the iteration through the loop (operation 308). Therefore, when operation 304 is performed in the loop, operation 304 may store features 312, including the first feature 3121, the second feature 3122, and the Nth feature 312. N The number of iterations may be controlled by decision 306. When the "no" branch of decision 306 is taken (such as when no additional acoustic pulses are to be transmitted), the received features may be provided (in operation 314) to a digital signal processing module (such as, Figure 2 ). The digital signal processing module classifies the features against a set of calibration points 318 (operation 316). The calibration points may be configured to correspond to specific acoustic pulse wave frequencies. For example, the calibration points 318 may include a first calibration point 3201 that may correspond to a first acoustic pulse wave and a first return feature near 3 GHz, a second calibration point 3202 that may correspond to a second acoustic pulse wave and a second return feature near 2 GHz, and so on for any integer value "N" calibration points (until the Nth calibration point 320 N).

[0145] In operation 320, the classified signal is sent to a vehicle central processing unit (such as Figure 1 The classified signals may be relayed by the vehicle central processing unit 116 to an upstream repository hosting a computerized database configured to host and / or run a machine learning algorithm. Thus, a large number of stimuli associated with signals, classified signals, and signal responses may be captured for subsequent data aggregation and processing. The database may be computationally prepared, referred to as "trained," given a set of sensed measurements that may be associated with a condition or diagnosis related to vehicle performance (such as tire degradation due to repeated use). If, during vehicle operation, the measured deflection (such as air pressure) of a particular portion of a wing member is different from the measured deflection (such as air pressure) of a different portion of the wing member, then a possible diagnosis may be that one tire is under-inflated and therefore causes the vehicle to ride at an inconsistent height, resulting in the airflow over, on, and / or around the vehicle exhibiting commensurate inconsistencies, as detected by the deflection of the wing member. Other potential conditions or diagnoses may also be determined by the machine learning system. The status and / or diagnostic and / or support data may be transmitted back to the vehicle to complete the feedback loop.The instrumentation in the vehicle provides a visualization that may be acted upon, such as by a driver or engineer.

[0146] Figure 4 A series of tire condition parameters sensed from changes in RF resonance of various layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material are depicted according to one embodiment.

[0147] Figure 4 A series of tire condition parameters 400 are depicted that are sensed from changes in RF resonance of various layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material according to one embodiment. Optionally, the tire condition parameters 400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the tire condition parameters 400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0148] As shown in the figure, Figure 4Various physical characteristics or aspects (tire condition parameters 400) related to incorporating tuned resonant sensing materials into automotive components such as tires are shown. Here, the figure is presented with respect to addressing the deployment of survivable sensors in tires (including non-pneumatic tires as well as pneumatic tires). The construction of the tire may correspond to a radial tire, a bias-ply tire, a tubeless tire, a solid tire, a run-flat tire, etc. The tire may be used in any kind of vehicle and / or equipment and / or accessories related to the vehicle. Such vehicles may include aircraft, all-terrain vehicles, automobiles, construction equipment, dump trucks, bulldozers, agricultural equipment, forklifts, golf carts, harvesters, crane trucks, mopeds, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, racing cars, riding lawn mowers, tractors, trailers, trucks, wheelchairs, etc. In addition to or in lieu of the vehicles presented, the tire may also be used in non-motorized vehicles, equipment and accessories such as bicycles, tricycles, unicycles, lawn mowers, wheelchairs, carts, etc.

[0149] Figure 4 The parameters shown are by way of example only, and other variations may exist or otherwise be prepared to achieve specific desired performance characteristics for many conceivable end-use scenarios, including a truck tire designed to provide increased durability (possibly at the expense of road adhesion) or a soft racing tire designed to provide maximum road adhesion (possibly at the expense of service life).

[0150] Various carbon structures may be used in different formulations with other non-carbon materials integrated into the tire, followed by mechanical analysis to determine the corresponding tire properties. Some of these properties may be determined empirically through direct testing, while others are determined based on measurements and extrapolation of data. For example, rolling uniformity may be determined by sensing force changes as the tire rolls on a uniform surface such as a roller, while tread life is based on short-term wear tests whose results are extrapolated to yield a predicted tread life value.

[0151] Many more tire characteristics can be measured, but some of these measurement techniques may be physically destructive to the tire and therefore are measured at desired points in the life of the tire. In contrast, the use of survivable sensors embedded in the tire allows such otherwise destructive measurements to be made throughout the life of the tire. For example, detection of response signals based on RF signals probing the sensors embedded in the tire can be used for such sensing. Furthermore, as discussed herein, each body ply and / or tread layer of the tire includes a durable (also referred to as "survivable") sensor tuned to resonate at a specific frequency.

[0152] The plies used in the tire may be formulated to combine carbon-containing structures with other materials to achieve a specific material composition that exhibits desired performance characteristics, such as handling and durability. The natural resonant frequency (or frequencies) of a specific material composition may be spectrally analyzed to form a spectral curve for the specific material composition. The spectral curve may be used as a calibration baseline for the material. When the main plies and / or tread layers of the tire undergo deformation, the spectral curve changes, and the spectral curve changes may be used as additional calibration points, such as calibration point 318. Many such calibration points may be generated through testing, and such calibration points may then be used to measure deformation.

[0153] Analysis of the spectral response results in quantitative measurements of a number of tire parameters. Tire parameters that may be determined based on the signature analysis may include, for example, tread life 422, handling at a first temperature 428, handling at a second temperature 426, rolling economy at a first temperature 430, rolling economy at a second temperature 432, rolling uniformity 436, and braking uniformity 438.

[0154] A response, such as a response represented spectrally based on a returned acoustic pulse signal received from a sensor embedded in the material in the tire plies, can be representative of the observed deformation. That is, a certain type of tire deformation will correspond to a certain type of specific response, so that a mapping can be established between a response or response type and a type of degradation. In addition, the time-varying changes in the spectral response of the tire as it undergoes in-situ deformation can be used to determine a number of environmental conditions. In tires constructed using multiple plies, each body ply and / or tread layer can be formulated to exhibit a specific tuned frequency or frequency range. For example, Figure 5 (shown below) shows a schematic diagram for building a tire from multiple plies, each of which has a different specific tuning frequency or frequency range.

[0155] Figure 5 A schematic diagram 500 is depicted of an apparatus for tuning multiple plies of a tire by selecting carbon-containing tuned RF resonance materials from separate and independent reactors for incorporation into the body of a single tire component, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the schematic diagram 500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the schematic diagram 500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0156] Schematic 500 may be used to fine-tune or adjust multiple body plies and / or tread layers of a tire by selecting a carbon-containing tuned resonance material for incorporation into a tire component or structure that may be implemented in any environment. Figure 5Shows how different carbons are mixed into tire compound formulations, which are then assembled into multi-ply tires. The resulting multi-ply tires exhibit various resonance sensitivity and frequency shift characteristics.

[0157] Multiple reactors (such as, reactor 5521, reactor 5522, reactor 5523, and reactor 5524) each produce (or otherwise deliver or provide) a specific carbon additive / filler into a network that is tuned to obtain a specific defined spectrum curve. Carbon additives (such as first tuned carbon 554, second tuned carbon 556, third tuned carbon 558, and fourth tuned carbon 560) can be mixed with other (carbon-based or non-carbon-based) composite materials 550. Any known techniques can be used to mix, heat, pre-treat, post-treat, or otherwise combine specific carbon additives with other composite materials. Mixers (such as, mixer 5621, mixer 5622, mixer 5623, and mixer 5624) are presented to show how different tuned carbons can be introduced into various components of the tire. Other techniques for tire assembly may involve other construction techniques and / or include other components of the tire. Any known techniques for multi-ply tires can be used. In addition, the frequency spectrum curve of a particular body ply and / or tread layer (such as a group of body ply and / or tread layers 568, including body ply and / or tread layer 5681, body ply and / or tread layer 5682, body ply and / or tread layer 5683, and body ply and / or tread layer 5684) can be determined based on the characteristics of the particular body ply and / or tread layer formulation. For example, based on the stimulus and response characteristics, a first body ply and / or tread layer formulation (such as body ply and / or tread layer formulation 5641) can exhibit a first frequency spectrum curve, while a second body ply and / or tread layer formulation (such as body ply and / or tread layer formulation 5642) can exhibit a second frequency spectrum curve.

[0158] The resulting different formulations (such as, main cord layer and / or tread layer formulation 5641, main cord layer and / or tread layer formulation 5642, main cord layer and / or tread layer formulation 5643 and main cord layer and / or tread layer formulation 5644) are used in different main cord layers and / or tread layers formed into a tire assembly 566, each of which exhibits a corresponding spectrum curve.

[0159] Figure 6Depicted are multiple sets of example conditional features 600 that may be emitted from a new tire formed of multiple layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the example conditional features 600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the example conditional features 600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0160] Figure 6 A second set of example condition signatures 600 are shown emanating from a tire formed of multiple layers of carbon-containing tuned resonance material. The example condition signatures 600, or any aspect thereof, may be emanated in any environment. Figure 6 A plurality of body plies and / or tread layers of a new tire are shown (such as body ply and / or tread layer #1, body ply and / or tread layer #2, and body ply and / or tread layer #3). The term "ply," as used in this example and elsewhere with reference to any one or more of the presented implementations, may refer to a ply or layer within the tire body, or a layer of the tire tread that projects radially outward away from the tire body and is intended for contact with hard pavement or, for off-road tires, with the ground). In one embodiment, a first body ply and / or tread layer may be formulated (meaning made with a specific formulation) with tuned carbon such that the first body ply and / or tread layer resonates at 1.0 GHz when stimulated with a 1.0 GHz acoustic pulse (such as first acoustic pulse 602). Similarly, the second body ply and / or tread layer is formulated with a tuned carbon such that the second body ply and / or tread layer resonates at 2.0 GHz when stimulated with a 2.0 GHz acoustic pulse stimulus, such as first acoustic pulse 604. Additionally, the third body ply and / or tread layer is formulated with a tuned carbon such that the third body ply and / or tread layer resonates at 3.0 GHz when stimulated with a 3.0 GHz acoustic pulse stimulus, such as third acoustic pulse 606. As shown by first response 608, second response 610, and third response 614, all three body ply and / or tread layers are responsive at their respective tuned frequencies.

[0161] The transceiver antenna may be located in and / or on the wheel well of the corresponding tire (and / or anywhere near the split ring resonator). The system that processes any such generated response signals may be configured to distinguish from other potential responses generated from other surfaces (such as the remaining non-target tires of the vehicle). For example, even though the right front tire mounted on the right front wheel of the vehicle may respond to an acoustic pulse transmitted from a transceiver antenna located in the left front wheel well of the vehicle, the response signal from the right front tire will be significantly attenuated (and therefore identified) compared to the response signal from the left front tire of the vehicle. In various embodiments, the positioning of the transceiver antenna may be within a few inches of the split ring resonator, or may be 5 to 10 meters (or even further) as desired. Such positioning may vary with the power of the transmitter receiver.

[0162] When the transceiver antenna is located in the wheel well of the corresponding tire, the response from the corresponding tire will be attenuated relative to the acoustic pulse stimulation. For example, the response from the corresponding tire will be attenuated by 9 decibels (-9 dB) or more relative to the acoustic pulse stimulation, or may be attenuated by 18 decibels (-18 dB) or more relative to the acoustic pulse stimulation, or may be attenuated by 36 decibels (-36 dB) or more relative to the acoustic pulse stimulation, or may be attenuated by 72 decibels (-72 dB) or more relative to the acoustic pulse stimulation. In some cases, the acoustic pulse signal generator is designed to be combined with the transceiver antenna located in the wheel well so that the acoustic pulse response of the corresponding tire is attenuated by no more than 75 dB (-75 dB).

[0163] Figure 7 Depicted are multiple sets of example conditional features 700 that may be emitted from a new tire formed of multiple layers of carbon-containing tuned RF resonant material, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the example conditional features 700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the example conditional features 700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0164] As shown, the third set of example condition signatures 700 are emitted from a tire after some carbon-containing tuned resonance material wears away. Optionally, one or more variations of the example condition signatures 700 or any aspect thereof may be implemented in the context of the architecture and functionality of the implementations described herein. The example condition signatures 700 or any aspect thereof may be emitted in any environment.

[0165] In this example, the tire is worn. More specifically, the outermost body ply and / or tread layer is completely worn. Therefore, the 1.0 GHz acoustic pulse stimulus does not result in a response from the outermost ply. This is shown in the graph as a first response decay 702. As the tire continues to experience tread wear, the acoustic pulse response from the next body ply and / or tread layer and the acoustic pulse response from the next consecutive body ply and / or tread layer, and so on, will decay, which can be used to measure the total tread wear of the tire. Alternatively, the same tuned carbon can be used in all plies. The tread wear of the tire and other indications can be determined based on the signal characteristics returned from the tire.

[0166] Figure 8 A top-down schematic diagram 800 of an example split ring resonator (split ring resonator) configuration including two concentric split ring resonators is depicted according to one embodiment. Optionally, the top-down schematic diagram 800 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the top-down schematic diagram 800 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0167] As shown in the figure, Figure 8 is a top view of two layers, each of which carries a split ring resonator (split ring resonator), for example, forming an example split ring resonator (split ring resonator) configuration including two concentric split ring resonators. As used herein, a split ring resonator (split ring resonator) consists of a pair of concentric rings disposed on a dielectric substrate, wherein each ring has a slit (e.g., due to a printed pattern). When the split ring resonator array is excited by a time-varying magnetic field, the structure behaves as an effective medium with negative effective permeability in a narrow band around the split ring resonator resonance point. Many geometries are possible, for example, such that the size and / or spacing between individual split ring resonators, including the dimensions "a", "r", and / or "c", are selected to achieve a specific corresponding spectral response. For example, "a" may be approximately 1 mm, "r" may be 2 mm, and "c" may be approximately 0.6 mm. These dimensions may correspond to producing a desired and / or expected spectral response, e.g., resulting in a relatively wide and / or broad signal response rather than a narrow and / or notched response, thereby facilitating improved spectral analysis, resulting in increased cost efficiency in the use of spectral analysis tools (such as spectrum analyzers). Additionally or alternatively, any of the dimensions may be further adjusted to achieve a particular desired end result goal, e.g., application in a racing circuit as opposed to an off-road application, etc. In one embodiment, a particular geometry may involve gaps between the concentric rings. Such gaps may produce capacitance that, combined with the inductance inherent in the pair of concentric rings, results in a change in the overall resonance.

[0168] The printable, sheet-oriented, cylindrical split ring resonator design can be constructed from any conductive material, including metals, conductive non-metals, dielectric materials, semiconductor materials, etc. In addition to adjustments based on the selection and / or processing of the conductive material, the split ring resonator can also be adjusted by changing the geometry so that the effective permittivity is adjusted accordingly. The effective permittivity as a function of the geometry of the split ring resonator is given in Equation 5.

[0169]

[0170] where a is the spacing of the cylinders, ω is the angular frequency, μ0 is the permeability of free space, r is the radius, d is the spacing of the concentric conductive sheets, l is the stack length, c is the ring thickness, and σ is the resistance per unit length of the sheet measured around the circumference.

[0171] In some cases, the value of a (e.g., the spacing of the cylinders of a cylindrical split ring resonator) can be made relatively small so that the concentric rings absorb EM radiation within a relatively narrow frequency range. In other cases, the value of a can be made relatively large so that the concentric rings each absorb EM radiation within a wider range of frequencies. In some cases, split ring resonators of different sizes can be disposed on different surfaces of a tire. In some cases, split ring resonators of different sizes disposed on different surfaces of a tire can be used to measure tire conditions (e.g., temperature, aging, wear, etc.).

[0172] In some embodiments, the material forming the split ring resonator is a composite material. Each split ring resonator can be configured to make any specific desired tuned response to EM stimulation. At least because the split ring resonator is designed to mimic the resonant response of atoms (but at a larger scale, and at lower frequencies), the larger scale of the split ring resonator allows for more control over the resonant response than atoms. In addition, the split ring resonator is more responsive than the ferromagnetic materials found in nature. The significant magnetic response of the split ring resonator has significant advantages over heavier natural materials.

[0173] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram 900 is depicted showing a complete tire diagnostic system and apparatus for tire wear sensing via impedance-based spectroscopy, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the schematic diagram 900 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the schematic diagram 900 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0174] As shown, a schematic diagram 900 of a tire, such as a pneumatic rubber tire filled with air or nitrogen (N2), may include conventional tire components, including a body 920, an inner liner 912, a bead filling region 922, beads 916, one or more belt layers 904, 906, 908, and 910, a tread 902, and impedance-based spectroscopy wear sensing printed electronics 918 (alternatively, a sensor comprising a carbon-based microstructure in which signal frequency shift and attenuation are monitored via resonators embedded within any one or more of the belt layers 904-910).

[0175] As shown here, wireless strain sensors can be placed on the surface or side of the inner liner (or embedded therein) to monitor tire conditions for automotive safety (such as detecting damaged tires). Tire deformation or strain monitoring can (indirectly) provide information representative of the degree of friction between the tire and the contacting road surface, which can then be used to optimize the automotive tire control system. The tire information can be wirelessly transmitted to a receiver located in the wheel well (and / or anywhere near the split ring resonator) based on a resonant sensor platform. It should be understood that the receiver can potentially be located anywhere that is not opaque to radio frequency (wireless) signaling.

[0176] Fig.10 A schematic diagram 1000 is depicted relating to tire information transmitted via telemetry to a navigation system and an apparatus for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials according to one embodiment. Optionally, the schematic diagram 1000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the schematic diagram 1000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0177] As shown, schematic 1000 illustrates a system for providing tire wear related information that is transmitted via telemetry to a navigation system and an apparatus for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials. Schematic 1000 may function with any one or more of the presently disclosed systems, methods, and materials, such as sensors including carbon-based microstructures, and thus redundant descriptions thereof are omitted. Impedance spectroscopy, also known as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), refers to an impedance conversion method that involves applying a sinusoidal electrochemical perturbation (potential or current) over a wide frequency range when measuring a sample, such as a sensor including a carbon-based microstructure incorporated into one or more tire belt layers of tire 1002. The printed carbon-based resonators 1004 may be incorporated into one or more tire components, such as tire belts, with each printed carbon-based resonator 1004 having a generally elliptical configuration as shown or some other shape or configuration customized to achieve specific desired resonance properties suitable for effective and accurate vehicle component wear detection via monitoring frequency shifts and / or attenuation, such as first response attenuation indicating wear of a tire body ply and / or tread layer having a natural resonant frequency of approximately 1.0 GHz.

[0178] The roller assembly 1010 capable of forming a printed carbon-based resonator 1004 includes a reservoir 1012 (such as a vat) of carbon-based microstructures and / or microstructure materials (such as graphene), an anilox roller 1014 (refers to a hard cylinder, typically constructed of a steel or aluminum core coated with an industrial ceramic having millions of tiny pits (called cells) on the surface), a plate cylinder 1016, and an imprint cylinder 1018. In operation, graphene extracted from the reservoir 1012 can be rolled, pressed, stretched, or otherwise fabricated into a printed carbon-based resonator 1004 by the rollers in the roller assembly 1010. Registration (referring to alignment) of the printed carbon-based resonator 1004 may not be required for the schematic 1000 to function.

[0179] Thus, any combination of the foregoing features may be used to create a tire having a resonator (referring to an actual or "equivalent" resonant tank), LC, and / or resonant circuit, wherein the carbonaceous microstructure itself may resonate in response to a transmitted RF signal from a transceiver and / or from energy provided by an advanced energy source, such that other sensors disposed in or on any one or more components of the tire (such as the tread, one or more plies, innerliner, etc.) may exhibit frequency shift or signal attenuation properties or behaviors. The described resonators do not necessarily need to be embodied as actual circuits and / or integrated circuits (ICs). The described resonators may be simply implemented as tuned carbonaceous microstructures, thus avoiding common degradation issues that may occur when implementing conventional discrete circuits in decomposable materials (such as tire tread layers). Such resonators may resonate in response to an externally provided "acoustic pulse" (such as provided by a transceiver located in a wheel well of the vehicle), or the resonator may respond to charging due to co-located (meaning within the same tire tread layer, but possibly at different locations within the tire tread layer), self-powered, self-detecting capabilities facilitated by any deformation or any number of electrical or charge generators (such as thermoelectric generators, piezoelectric energy generators, triboelectric energy generators, etc.).

[0180] Any of the described resonators (and other resonators and / or resonant circuits) may be configured to emit and / or further emit an oscillating RF signal (or other form of electromagnetic radiation, depending on the overall configuration) at any time the tire is rolling or otherwise undergoing deformation. As a vehicle tire undergoes wear due to use (such as on-road or off-road driving), the tire tread layer in contact with the pavement or ground (earth) may experience deformation (such as observed from being "squeezed," which refers to at least partial flattening of portions of the exposed vehicle tire tread layer during rotation or rolling, and / or deformation observed from lateral motion experienced during rotation, etc.), and thus, the resulting signal frequency shift and / or attenuation behavior may change in accordance with such "squeezing" because the associated signal may oscillate within one or more known amplitude ranges. Additionally or alternatively, as the tire deforms, the observed signal may oscillate within a known frequency range corresponding to a particular resonator, allowing for precise and accurate identification of the type of degradation occurring as it occurs, rather than requiring the driver, passenger, and / or other vehicle occupant to exit the vehicle and observe the tire tread condition while the vehicle is stationary. Such frequency shift oscillations may be observed as a back-and-forth frequency shift between two or more frequencies within a known frequency range.

[0181] Strain sensors with wireless capabilities (such as geometric measurements of deformation that represent relative displacement between particles in a bulk of a material that may be caused by external constraints or loads) located on the side of the inner liner can monitor tire condition for automotive safety (such as by detecting damaged tires). In addition, tire deformation or strain monitoring can indirectly provide information about the degree of friction between the tire and the road surface, which can then be used to optimize the automotive tire control system. Such tire information can be wirelessly transmitted to a receiver (and / or transceiver) located in the wheel hub based on a resonant sensor (such as impedance spectroscopy, IS, sensor) platform.

[0182] Fig.11 A schematic diagram 1100 is depicted relating to tire information transmitted via telemetry to a navigation system and an apparatus for manufacturing printed carbon-based materials according to one embodiment. Optionally, the schematic diagram 1100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the schematic diagram 1100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0183] In one embodiment, schematic 1100 may relate to a resonant serial number based digital encoding system for determining wear of a vehicle tire via a ply printed code. The resonant serial number based digital encoding system may be combined and / or function with the presently disclosed systems, methods, and sensors. The resonant serial number based digital encoding system provides digital encoding of the tire via the ply printed code, and thus provides cradle-to-grave (meaning throughout its lifetime) tracking of the tire (and related performance indicators) and usage profiles without the need for conventional electronics in the tire that are subject to daily wear and tear.

[0184] In some implementations, digital encoding of a resonant serial number of a tire via tire tread layer printing can facilitate cradle-to-grave tire tracking of tires and usage without necessarily requiring the presence of electronics within the tire. For example, along with tire wear sensing accomplished via impedance spectroscopy, additional resonators can be digitally encoded onto one or more printed patterns of a serial number, for example, for telemetric tracking. Thus, a vehicle so equipped can track tread wear, miles driven (e.g., total), and tire age without the need for radio frequency identification (RFID) technology.

[0185] Along with tire wear sensing via impedance spectroscopy (IS) and / or electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), additional resonators may be digitally encoded onto the printed pattern to provide an identifiable serial number for telemetry-based tire performance tracking. Tires incorporating the printed carbon-based resonators discussed may be inherently serialized by incrementally printing onto the body ply and / or tread layer.

[0186] Fig.12 A schematic diagram 1200 is depicted for digital encoding of a vehicle tire based on a resonance serial number via tire tread layer and / or body ply printing encoding according to one embodiment. Optionally, the schematic diagram 1200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the schematic diagram 1200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0187] As shown, the serial number "6E" is shown encoded in a specially prepared array of printed carbon resonators configured to resonate according to the 'acoustic pulse' stimulus-response graph 1212, thereby allowing convenient and reliable identification of that particular body ply and / or tread layer of a carrier tire so equipped.

[0188] Fig.13 A resonance mechanism 1300 is shown according to one embodiment, which contributes to the overall phenomenon produced by different resonator types existing in the vicinity. Optionally, the resonance mechanism 1300 can be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or their descriptions. However, of course, the resonance mechanism 1300 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0189] In one embodiment, a resonance mechanism 1300 may be used to illustrate the use of a split ring resonator (split ring resonator) as a resonant device that contributes to an overall phenomenon created by different resonator types present in proximity. The figure shows an inner surface 1301 of a tire, wherein the inner surface has two split ring resonators (e.g., split ring resonator 1303A and split ring resonator 1303B), each of which forms a circuit configuration 1305 that can be adjusted to attenuate a signal at a specific frequency and / or attenuate within a specific frequency range. In this embodiment, the circuit configuration 1305 is shown as a geometric pattern that corresponds to a generally circular split ring resonator; however, alternative circuit configurations may have different geometric patterns (e.g., cylindrical, elliptical, rectangular, oval, square, etc.), and thus, any conceivable geometric configuration is possible. A variation of the geometric configuration may be selected based on the effect on the resonant ability of the geometric pattern. Specifically, and as shown, the geometric pattern may include self-assembled carbon-based particles having various aggregation modes (e.g., aggregation mode 1306, aggregation mode 1308, and aggregation mode 1310), any one or more of which may constitute a dense region 1304 that may affect the resonant properties of the material in which the carbon-based microstructure is incorporated. An aggregation mode and / or a series of aggregation modes may also affect the resonant properties of the material in which the carbon-based microstructure is incorporated.

[0190] In various configurations, the carbon-based microstructure may be formed at least in part of graphene. In this context, graphene may refer to an allotrope of carbon in the form of a single layer of atoms in a two-dimensional hexagonal lattice, with one atom forming each vertex. Co-positioning and / or juxtaposing multiple such hexagonal lattices into more complex structures introduces other resonance effects. For example, the juxtaposition 1302 of two sheets or flakes of graphene may resonate between themselves at a frequency that depends on the length, width, spacing, thickness, spacing shape, and / or other physical properties of the sheets or flakes and / or their juxtaposition relative to each other.

[0191] Table 1 illustrates one possible chord of attenuation caused by the overall effect. As shown in the table, each of the structures has a different resonant frequency domain corresponding to its dimension label.

[0192] Table 1: Examples of overall effects

[0193]

[0194] Any number of different split ring resonators may be printed onto the surface of the tire. Furthermore, any number of different sized split ring resonators may be printed onto any surface of the tire. Selection of the material and / or size and / or other structural or dimensional characteristics of a particular split ring resonator may be used to control the resonant frequency of the split ring of that particular resonator. A series of split ring resonators of different sizes may be printed such that the pattern corresponds to a digitally encoded value. Stimulating a series of different sized split ring resonators via electromagnetic signal communication, for example, sweeping through a range of 8 GHz to 9 GHz or the like, and measuring the attenuation response in the return range, may result in an identifiable encoded serial number. Many different encoding schemes are possible, and therefore, the non-limiting example of Table 2 is for illustration only.

[0195] Table 2: Example encoding scheme

[0196]

[0197]

[0198] Fig.14 1 is an example temperature sensor 1400 according to one embodiment, the example temperature sensor comprising one or more currently disclosed split ring resonators. Optionally, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0199] In one implementation, the example temperature sensor 1400 may include a portion 1402 of a tire body having a plurality of tire plies (e.g., Fig. 9 ). The example temperature sensor 1400 can detect, for example, the temperature 1408 of a tire ply in which the example temperature sensor 1400 is incorporated. In one implementation, the tire sensor can include a ceramic material 1404 (e.g., organized as a matrix) and one or more split ring resonators 1406, such as Figure 8 Each of the one or more split ring resonators 1406 may have a natural resonant frequency (e.g., Fig.16 ), the natural resonant frequency may shift in response to one or more of a change in elastomeric properties of the corresponding tire or a change in temperature. The conductive layer 1410 may be dielectrically separated from a corresponding split ring resonator of the one or more split ring resonators 1406. In some implementations, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be manufactured and shipped without being incorporated into a tire so that it may be incorporated into the tire and / or tire ply at a later time.

[0200] Additionally, or in an alternative embodiment, the example temperature sensor 1400 may be incorporated into a tire configured to detect tire strain in a vehicle (e.g., Fig.16 The system (shown in Fig.14 The system may include an antenna disposed on one or more of the vehicle or vehicle components (e.g., as discussed in this disclosure with respect to emission and / or propagation of electromagnetic signals). The antenna may be configured to output electromagnetic acoustic pulses. The system may also include a body formed of one or more tire plies (e.g., as discussed in this disclosure with respect to emission and / or propagation of electromagnetic signals). Fig. 9 Any one or more of the tire plies may include a split ring resonator (split ring resonator), for example, as discussed in the present disclosure. In one implementation, each split ring resonator may have a natural resonant frequency that is configured to shift proportionally (e.g., as discussed in the present disclosure) in response to a change in an elastomeric property (e.g., reversible deformation, stress, and / or strain) of the corresponding one or more tire plies. Fig.16 ).

[0201] In some implementations, the described systems can be used to detect changes in physical properties of materials in configurations other than those associated with tires and / or vehicles (e.g., cars and trucks). For example, the system can detect changes in surface temperature of aircraft wings and / or other types of wings (e.g., associated with spacecraft, etc.). In addition, the system can permit, for example, one or more split ring resonators 1406 to be removably attached to a patient in a hospital setting so that a body temperature reading of the respective patient can be obtained without the use of conventional thermal sensors (e.g., relying on radiative heat transfer techniques, etc.). In any of these examples, as well as other examples, such systems can detect physical properties associated with a surface.

[0202] In one implementation, the system may include a single antenna configured to output an electromagnetic acoustic pulse and one or more flexible substrates. Each flexible substrate may include a first side that includes a plurality of split ring resonators (split ring resonators) disposed on the flexible substrate (e.g., such as one or more split ring resonators 1406). Each split ring resonator may have a natural resonant frequency that may shift proportionally in response to a change in the elastomeric properties of the corresponding one or more tire plies (e.g., such as Fig.16 ). The elastomeric properties may include one or more of reversible deformation, stress, strain, or temperature. In this way, the system may generate an absorption curve (e.g., a unique change in the absorption phenomenon of the electromagnetic acoustic pulse output by the antenna). The system may include a second side positioned opposite the first side. The second side may be attached to a surface. A single antenna may analyze data associated with the absorption curve and output a profile of the physical property.

[0203] Fig.151500 is a graph of measured resonance characteristic signal intensity (in decibels dB) relative to the height (in millimeters mm) of the tire tread layer loss according to one embodiment. Optionally, the graph 1500 can be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or their descriptions. However, of course, the graph 1500 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0204] As shown here, carbon-containing microstructures and / or microstructure materials can be incorporated into the sensor at a given concentration level or multiple different concentration levels (in each of one or more tire tread layers) or in some configurations throughout the layers of one or more tire treads to achieve the unique degradation curves shown. That is, as described herein, a measured resonance signature (referring to the identifying "signature" of the particular tire tread layer) can be 'probed' by one or more RF signals to exhibit attenuation of the transmitted signal as shown.

[0205] A new tire tread layer may be configured to indicate a signal strength (measured in decibels dB) of approximately 0. The strength may vary in proportion to the degree of degradation of the tire tread layer. For example, a 2 mm height loss of a tire tread layer (assuming it is the tire tread layer in contact with the pavement) may correspond to the measured resonant characteristic signal strength curve shown. A 6.7 GHz 'acoustic pulse' signal may be measured at an intensity level of approximately 9 dB, and so on.

[0206] Thus, carbonaceous microstructures having unique concentration levels, chemistries, dispersions, distributions, and / or the like may be embedded in a tire tread layer (or, in some cases, disposed on one or more surfaces of a tire tread layer) to achieve a unique and easily identifiable measured resonant signature signal strength as shown. Thus, a user of such a system may be informed of the exact extent and location of tire tread wear as it occurs during driving, rather than being limited to observing the tire while the vehicle is stationary, which can be a time-consuming and cumbersome process.

[0207] Fig.16 1600 is a graph of measured resonant signature signal strength (in decibels dB) versus the natural resonant frequency of a split ring resonator, according to one embodiment, showing the resonant response shift proportional to tire ply deformation. Optionally, graph 1600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, graph 1600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0208] In one embodiment, graph 1600 shows measured resonant signature signal strength (in decibels, dB) relative to the natural resonant frequency of a split ring resonator (split ring resonator) incorporated into a tire tread and / or tread ply (e.g., as discussed in the present disclosure) according to one embodiment. As shown here, carbonaceous and / or carbonaceous microstructures and / or microstructural materials may be incorporated into the sensor at a given concentration level or multiple different concentration levels (in each of one or more tire tread layers) or in some configurations throughout the layers of one or more tire treads to achieve the unique degradation curves shown. That is, as described herein, the measured resonant signature (referring to the identifying "signature" of the particular tire tread layer) may be 'probed' by one or more RF signals to exhibit a shift in the transmitted signal as shown, for example, indicative of and / or proportional to the degree of reversible tire deformation (e.g., stress and / or strain) (such as may be encountered in a drift situation). In this way, the split ring resonator "response" signal behavior can be modeled as a function of tire deformation (e.g., strain) (associated with drift), thereby allowing a complete characterization of tire condition and performance. Real-world scenarios that result in a loss of lateral tire static friction may include drift and / or hydroplaning, for example, meaning a phenomenon that occurs when a layer of water forms between the vehicle's wheels and the road surface, resulting in a loss of traction, thereby preventing the vehicle from responding to control inputs. If all contacting wheels simultaneously hydroplaning, the vehicle effectively becomes an uncontrolled sled. The presently disclosed split ring resonator and / or resonator used in conjunction with an antenna and / or signal processing device can effectively remove the need to rely on conventional hydroplaning detection techniques (e.g., via the use of a vibration detection unit coupled to the tire surface, where the tire may degrade and become damaged due to long-term use). In addition, Fig.16 The spectral response (in signal decibels) associated with lateral tire movement encountered during a loss of static friction while drifting is shown. In a real-world scenario, temporary static friction loss might be heard, for example, via a high-pitched "squealing sound" rather than other sounds heard only during rapid forward rotation. Such periodic static friction loss (before a drifting vehicle regains static friction and / or traction) may exhibit ( Fig.16 (not shown) is a regular and / or periodic shift of the natural resonant frequency of the corresponding split ring resonator. Fig.16 , a "screech" type condition may be visually depicted by slight regular and / or periodic frequency shifts in the various valleys and / or peaks of the curve.

[0209] As can be seen, the real-time multimodal resonator supports a method for measuring static friction using a sensor containing a resonant material for detecting changes in elastomer properties. In one arrangement, one or more sensors containing a resonant material for detecting changes in elastomer properties are disposed at a location near the sensor. A stimulus signal may be emitted to excite one or more sensors containing a resonant material for detecting changes in elastomer properties. The emission includes electromagnetic energy across a known frequency range. A calibration signal is captured under known static friction conditions. After receiving a return signal that at least partially includes a frequency that responds to the stimulus signal, various signal processing techniques are applied to the return signal. For example, various signal processing techniques are applied to the return signal to compare with the stimulus signal. As long as the frequency and / or amplitude of the return signal is different from the calibration signal, the corresponding interface indirect permittivity (e.g., at the interface between the tire and the driving surface) is calculated. The absolute and / or relative value of the interface indirect permittivity is related to the static friction value (e.g., using a calibration table). The change in the static friction value over time is then related to the road and / or tire conditions.

[0210] The static and / or dynamic values ​​that constitute the aforementioned calibration signals and / or calibration tables may be based at least in part on an analysis of the stimulus signal and / or an analysis of the environment near the sensor. In addition, the aforementioned calibration signals and / or calibration tables may include a permittivity calibration signal, a permeability calibration signal, a temperature calibration signal, a vibration calibration signal, a doping calibration signal, and the like. In one implementation, a calibration procedure may be performed under known and / or controlled environmental conditions (e.g., dry pavement and clear weather) to generate baseline data at various forward angular velocities (so that the test vehicle moves directly forward only without lateral slip and / or sliding motion). Subsequently, the baseline data is used as one or more calibration curves, and the deformation values ​​may then be compared to the calibration curves and / or calculated based on the calibration curves. In this way, significant performance changes relative to the initial unstretched (baseline) calibration curve may be observed, for example, Fig.16 as shown in .

[0211] Whenever and wherever the return signal differs from the calibration signal, further analysis of the return signal relative to the stimulus signal can be used to identify which frequencies of the return signal differ from the calibration signal. The difference can be observed / measured as an attenuation of one or more frequencies relative to the calibration signal. Additionally or alternatively, the difference can be observed / measured as a frequency shift of a peak relative to a peak of the calibration signal (e.g., Fig.16 , observed / measured relative to data correspondingly stretched at 0.5%, etc.).

[0212] Fig.171700 is a graph of signal strength of a split ring resonator according to one embodiment, which may resonate in response to an encoded sequence number, relative to the frequency of a chirped signal. Optionally, the graph 1700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the graph 1700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0213] In one embodiment, graph 1700 shows the use of a split ring resonant structure, which is configured to resonate in a manner corresponding to a coded sequence number. Such patterns of split ring resonant structures can be printed on tires or other elastomers. As shown, the coded sequence number "E1" is shown by the presence of four different sizes of split ring resonators. Graph 1700 shows EM stimulation in the range of about 8 GHz to about 9 GHz, and the response is shown to be about attenuation in the range of -8 dB to about -18 dB. The S parameters of the electromagnetic signal communication across the range to stimulate the series of different sizes of split ring resonators and measure the return signal across the range lead to convenient and reliable identification of this specific printed pattern. Therefore, if a unique pattern is printed on each of a series of tires and if the pattern is associated with a coded sequence number, a specific tire can be determined based on the response of the pattern to the EM query.

[0214] More specifically, if a unique pattern is printed on each of a series of tires, and if the pattern is associated with a coded serial number, the specific tire can be determined based on measured S parameters (e.g., S parameter ratios corresponding to attenuation) in response to an EM interrogation of an EM stimulus in a range corresponding to the coding scheme. Fig.17 In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, the attenuation falls within the range of about -8dB to about -18dB, however, in other measurements, the attenuation falls within the range of about -1dB to about -9dB. In other measurements, the attenuation falls within the range of about -10dB to about -19dB. In other measurements, the attenuation falls within the range of about -20dB to about -35dB. In empirical experiments, the attenuation is substantially independent of the number of differently configured resonators that are co-located adjacently on the tire surface. More specifically, in some experiments, the attenuation may be particularly significant when the resonators are co-located adjacently on the tire surface, which may be on the tread side of a steel belt (e.g., in a steel belted radial tire).

[0215] The aforementioned encoding and printing techniques can be used in tires and other parts containing elastomers. In some cases, printing the resonator is performed at a relatively high temperature and / or using a chemical agent (e.g., a catalyst) so that chemical bonds are formed between the resonator and the carbon atoms of the elastomer. The chemical bonds formed between the resonator and the carbon atoms of the elastomer contribute to the overall effect, and thus, a calibration curve can be used to take into account the type and degree of the aforementioned chemical bonds.

[0216] The elastomer may contain any one or more types of rubber. For example, isoprene is a common rubber formulation. Isoprene has its own single C-C bond and double bonds between other molecular elements in the ligand. The additional double carbon bonds formed by high temperature printing of the split ring resonator have the effect of increasing conductivity, which can be used to form larger, lower frequency resonators. Additionally or alternatively, the aggregates can be tuned to a specific size, which will produce overtones that contribute to the overall effect, which in turn leads to very high sensitivity given EM interrogation within the tuning range. In some cases, the response of the material to EM interrogation is sufficiently discernible that the age or other health aspects of the elastomer can be determined (e.g., by comparison with one or more calibration curves).

[0217] More specifically, as the elastomer ages, the molecular spacing changes and the coupling and / or penetration of energy decreases accordingly, thus shifting the response frequency as the conductive sites become increasingly isolated relative to neighboring sites. In some cases, the attenuation and / or return signal strength will change at a particular frequency. Such changes can be determined over time and can be used to construct a calibration curve.

[0218] The design of the tire supports many possible locations for printing the split ring resonator. For example, the split ring resonator can be located on any inner surface of the tire, including but not limited to the cap ply, and / or on or near the steel belt (e.g., on the tread side of the steel belt), and / or on or near the radial ply, and / or on the sidewall, and / or on the bead guard, and / or on the bead, etc.

[0219] The use of split ring resonator technology is not limited to tires. The technology can be applied to any component containing elastomers, such as belts and hoses. In addition, the use of split ring resonator technology is not limited to vehicles. That is, since there are consumables in organic power system and / or drive system components in a wide range of motorized devices (for example, in industrial machinery systems), the split ring resonator technology can also be applied to such consumables. Some aspects of the wear phenomenon are the result of friction, heat, thermal cycling and corrosion, any of which can cause and / or accelerate changes in the molecular structure of the material. Changes in the molecular structure of the material can be detected under EM interrogation. More specifically, by calculating the frequency shift, the response of a specific sample (for example, the response of an aged sample), the age or health of the material relative to a calibration curve under a specific EM interrogation mode can be evaluated based on the frequency shift magnitude.

[0220] FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y A carbonaceous material for use as a forming material for producing any of the presently disclosed resonators (e.g., split ring resonators) is depicted according to one embodiment. Alternatively, FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y It may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any preceding and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y It can be implemented in the context of any desired environment.In addition, the above definitions are also applicable to the following description.

[0221] As shown in the figure, FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y Depicting carbon-based materials, growths, agglomerates, aggregates, sheets, particles and / or the like, such as materials that self-nucleate in flight from a carbon-containing gaseous substance such as methane (CH4) in a reaction chamber or reactor, as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 785,020, entitled “3D Self-Assembled Multi-Modal Carbon-Based Particle,” filed by Stowell et al. on February 7, 2020, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0222] The carbon-based nanoparticles and aggregates shown can be characterized by a high degree of "homogeneity" (such as a high mass fraction of a desired carbon allotrope), a high degree of "order" (such as a low concentration of defects), and / or a high "purity" (such as a low concentration of elemental impurities), as opposed to less uniform, less ordered, and less pure particles that can be achieved by conventional systems and methods.

[0223] Nanoparticles produced using the methods described herein can contain multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSFs) or linked MWSFs and have high uniformity (e.g., a graphene to MWSF ratio of 20% to 80%), high order (e.g., D / I GThe nanoparticles produced using the methods described herein contain a MWSF or a linked MWSF, and the MWSF does not contain a core composed of impurity elements other than carbon. The particles produced using the methods described herein may be aggregates containing the above-mentioned nanoparticles having a large diameter (such as greater than 10 μm).

[0224] Conventional methods have been used to produce particles containing highly ordered multi-walled spherical fullerenes, but may result in a final product with a variety of disadvantages. For example, high temperature synthesis techniques result in particles having a mixture of many carbon allotropes and therefore having low homogeneity (such as less than 20% fullerenes relative to other carbon allotropes) and / or small particle sizes (such as less than 1 μm, or in some cases less than 100 nm). Methods using catalysts may result in products that contain the catalyst element and therefore also have relatively low purity (meaning less than 95% carbon to other elements). These undesirable properties also generally result in undesirable electrical properties of the resulting carbon particles (such as, conductivity of less than 1,000 S / m).

[0225] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be characterized by Raman spectroscopy, which indicates a high degree of order and uniformity of the structure. As described below, the uniform ordered and / or pure carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be produced using relatively high-speed, low-cost improved thermal reactors and methods.

[0226] The term "graphene", as commonly understood and as referred to herein, means an allotrope of carbon in the form of a two-dimensional, atomic-scale, hexagonal lattice with one atom forming each vertex. The carbon atoms in graphene are sp 2 In addition, the Raman spectrum of graphene has two main peaks: about 1580cm -1 G mode and about 1350cm -1 D mode (when using 532nm excitation laser).

[0227] The term "fullerene", as commonly understood and as referred to herein, means a carbon molecule in the form of a hollow sphere, ellipsoid, tube or other shape. Spherical fullerenes may also be referred to as buckminsterfullerenes or buckyballs. Cylindrical fullerenes may also be referred to as carbon nanotubes. Fullerenes are structurally similar to graphite, which consists of stacked graphene sheets connected by hexagonal rings. Fullerenes may also contain pentagonal (or sometimes heptagonal) rings.

[0228] The term "multi-walled fullerene", as commonly understood and referred to herein, means a fullerene having multiple concentric layers. For example, a multi-walled nanotube (MWNT) comprises multiple rolled layers of graphene (concentric tubes). A multi-walled spherical fullerene (MWSF) comprises multiple concentric fullerene spheres.

[0229] The term "nanoparticle", as commonly understood and as referred to herein, means a particle of 1 nm to 989 nm. A nanoparticle may include one or more structural characteristics (such as crystal structure, defect concentration, etc.) and one or more types of atoms. A nanoparticle may be in any shape, including but not limited to a spherical shape, an ellipsoidal shape, a dumbbell shape, a cylindrical shape, an elongated cylindrical type shape, a rectangular and / or prism shape, a disc shape, a linear shape, an irregular shape, a dense shape (such as, very few gaps), a porous shape (such as, many gaps), etc.

[0230] The term "aggregate", as commonly understood and referred to herein, means a plurality of nanoparticles linked together by van der Waals forces, by covalent bonds, by ionic bonds, by metallic bonds, or by other physical or chemical interactions. The size of the aggregates may vary widely, but is typically greater than about 500 nm.

[0231] The carbon nanoparticle may include two (2) or more connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) and a graphene layer coating the connected MWSF, and may be formed independently of a core composed of an impurity element other than carbon. As described herein, the carbon nanoparticle may include two (2) or more connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) and a graphene layer coating the connected MWSF. In such a configuration, the MWSF does not contain a void (meaning a space without carbon atoms larger than about 0.5 nm or larger than about 1 nm) at the center. The connected MWSF may be composed of sp 2 Concentric, extremely ordered spheres of hybridized carbon atoms form (in advantageous contrast to conventional spheres of randomly ordered, non-uniform, amorphous carbon particles, which otherwise may not achieve any one or more of the unexpected and advantageous properties disclosed herein).

[0232] The average diameter of the nanoparticles containing linked MWSF is 5 nm to 500 nm, or 5 nm to 250 nm, or 5 nm to 100 nm, or 5 nm to 50 nm, or 10 nm to 500 nm, or 10 nm to 250 nm, or 10 nm to 100 nm, or 10 nm to 50 nm, or 40 nm to 500 nm, or 40 nm to 250 nm, or 40 nm to 100 nm, or 50 nm to 500 nm, or 50 nm to 250 nm, or 50 nm to 100 nm.

[0233] The carbon nanoparticles described herein form aggregates in which many nanoparticles are aggregated together to form larger units. The carbon aggregates may be a plurality of carbon nanoparticles. The diameter of the carbon aggregates may be 10 μm to 500 μm, or 50 μm to 500 μm, or 100 μm to 500 μm, or 250 μm to 500 μm, or 10 μm to 250 μm, or 10 μm to 100 μm, or 10 μm to 50 μm. As defined above, an aggregate may be formed by a plurality of carbon nanoparticles. The aggregates may contain connected MWSFs, such as having high uniformity indicators (such as a ratio of graphene to MWSF of 20% to 80%), high order (such as I D / I G ratio of 0.95 to 1.05) and high purity (such as greater than 99.9% carbon).

[0234] Aggregates of carbon nanoparticles, mainly referring to aggregates with diameters in the above range, especially particles greater than 10 μm, are usually easier to collect than particles or particle aggregates less than 500 nm. Easy collection reduces the cost of manufacturing equipment used in carbon nanoparticle production and improves the yield of carbon nanoparticles. Compared with the risk of handling smaller nanoparticles (such as, potential health and safety risks caused by inhaling smaller nanoparticles), particles with sizes greater than 10 μm bring fewer safety issues. Lower health and safety risks therefore further reduce manufacturing costs.

[0235] With reference to the carbon nanoparticles disclosed herein, the carbon nanoparticles have a graphene to MWSF ratio of 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20% to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%. The carbon aggregates have a graphene to MWSF ratio of 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20% to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%. The ratio of graphene to attached MWSF of the carbon nanoparticles is 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20% to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%. The ratio of graphene to attached MWSF of the carbon nanoparticles is 10% to 90%, or 10% to 80%, or 10% to 60%, or 10% to 40%, or 10% to 20%, or 20% to 40%, or 20% to 90%, or 40% to 90%, or 60% to 90%, or 80% to 90%.

[0236] Raman spectroscopy can be used to characterize carbon allotropes to distinguish their molecular structures. For example, graphene can be characterized using Raman spectroscopy to determine information such as order / disorder, edges and grain boundaries, thickness, number of layers, doping, strain, and thermal conductivity. MWSF is also characterized using Raman spectroscopy to determine the degree of order of the MWSF.

[0237] Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the structure of the MWSF or connected MWSF used with reference to the various tire-related plies incorporated into the tires discussed herein. The main peaks in the Raman spectra are the G mode and the D mode. The G mode is attributed to the sp 2 The D peak is the vibration of carbon atoms in a hybrid carbon network, while the D mode is related to the breathing of hexagonal carbon rings with defects. In some cases, defects may be present but may not be detected in the Raman spectrum. For example, if the crystal structure presented is orthogonal to the basal plane, the D peak will show an increase. Alternatively, if a perfectly planar surface parallel to the basal plane is presented, the D peak will be zero.

[0238] When using 532 nm incident light, for planar graphite, the Raman G mode is typically 1582 cm –1 However, for MWSF or connected MWSF, it may be shifted downward (for example, to 1565cm –1 Or down to 1580cm –1 ). In the Raman spectrum of the MWSF or the connected MWSF, a peak at about 1350 cm –1 The ratio of the intensity of the D mode peak to the intensity of the G mode peak (such as I D / I G ) is related to the degree of order of the MWSF, where lower I D / I G Indicates a higher degree of order. D / I G Close to or below 1 indicates a relatively high degree of order, and I D / I G Greater than 1.1 indicates a lower degree of order.

[0239] As described herein, carbon nanoparticles or carbon aggregates containing MWSF or attached MWSF can have and / or exhibit a wavelength of about 1350 cm-1 when using 532 nm incident light. -1 The first Raman peak is at about 1580 cm -1 The ratio of the intensity of the first Raman peak to the intensity of the second Raman peak of the nanoparticles or aggregates described herein (such as I D / I G) may be in the range of 0.95 to 1.05, or 0.9 to 1.1, or 0.8 to 1.2, or 0.9 to 1.2, or 0.8 to 1.1, or 0.5 to 1.5, or less than 1.5, or less than 1.2, or less than 1.1, or less than 1, or less than 0.95, or less than 0.9, or less than 0.8.

[0240] As defined above, the carbon aggregate containing the MWSF or the linked MWSF has a high purity. The carbon to metal ratio of the carbon aggregate containing the MWSF or the linked MWSF is greater than 99.99%, or greater than 99.95%, or greater than 99.9%, or greater than 99.8%, or greater than 99.5%, or greater than 99%. The carbon to other elements ratio of the carbon aggregate is greater than 99.99%, or greater than 99.95%, or greater than 99.9%, or greater than 99.5%, or greater than 99%, or greater than 90%, or greater than 80%, or greater than 70%, or greater than 60%. The carbon to other elements ratio of the carbon aggregate (except hydrogen) is greater than 99.99%, or greater than 99.95%, or greater than 99.9%, or greater than 99.8%, or greater than 99.5%, or greater than 99%, or greater than 90%, or greater than 80%, or greater than 70%, or greater than 60%.

[0241] As defined above, the carbon aggregates containing the MWSF or the linked MWSF have a high specific surface area. The Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET) specific surface area of ​​the carbon aggregates is 10 to 200 m 2 / g, or 10 to 100m 2 / g, or 10 to 50m 2 / g, or 50 to 200m 2 / g, or 50 to 100m 2 / g, or 10 to 1000m 2 / g.

[0242] As defined above, the carbon aggregate containing the MWSF or the linked MWSF has a high electrical conductivity. As defined above, the carbon aggregate containing the MWSF or the linked MWSF is compressed into pellets, and the electrical conductivity of the pellets is greater than 500 S / m, or greater than 1,000 S / m, or greater than 2,000 S / m, or greater than 3,000 S / m, or greater than 4,000 S / m, or greater than 5,000 S / m, or greater than 10,000 S / m, or greater than 20,000 S / m, or greater than 30,000 S / m, or greater than 40,000 S / m, or greater than 50,000 S / m, or greater than 60,000 S / m, or greater than 70, In some cases, the pellets have a density of about 1 g / cm2. 3 , or about 1.2g / cm 3 , or about 1.5g / cm 3 , or about 2g / cm 3 , or about 2.2g / cm 3 , or about 2.5g / cm 3 , or about 3g / cm 3 Additionally, tests have been conducted in which compressions of 2,000 psi and 12,000 psi and annealing temperatures of 800° C. and 1,000° C. have been used to form compressed pellets of carbon aggregate material. Higher compression and / or

[0243] Or higher annealing temperatures generally result in pellets having a higher degree of conductivity, included within the range of 12,410.0 S / m to 13,173.3 S / m.

[0244] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be produced using thermal reactors and methods. Additional details of thermal reactors and / or methods of use can be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,862,602, entitled "CRACKING OF A PROCESSGAS", issued on January 9, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. In addition, carbon-containing and / or hydrocarbon precursors (at least methane, ethane, propane, butane, and natural gas) can be used with thermal reactors to produce the carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein.

[0245] Carbon nanoparticles and aggregations described herein are produced using a thermal reactor with a gas flow rate of 1 slm to 10 slm, or 0.1 slm to 20 slm, or 1 slm to 5 slm, or 5 slm to 10 slm, or greater than 1 slm or greater than 5 slm. Carbon nanoparticles and aggregations described herein are produced using a thermal reactor with a gas resonance time of 0.1 seconds (s) to 30 s, or 0.1 s to 10 s, or 1 s to 10 s, or 1 s to 5 s, 5 s to 10 s, or greater than 0.1 seconds, or greater than 1 s, or greater than 5 s, or less than 30 s.

[0246] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be produced using a thermal reactor at a production rate of 10 g / hr to 200 g / hr, or 30 g / hr to 200 g / hr, or 30 g / hr to 100 g / hr, or 30 g / hr to 60 g / hr, or 10 g / hr to 100 g / hr, or greater than 10 g / hr, or greater than 30 g / hr, or greater than 100 g / hr.

[0247] Thermal reactors (or other cracking devices) and thermal reactor methods (or other cracking methods) can be used to refine, pyrolyze, dissociate or split the raw process gas into its components to produce the carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein and other solid and / or gaseous products (such as hydrogen and / or lower hydrocarbon gases). The raw process gas generally includes, for example, hydrogen (H 2 ), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), C 1 to C 10 Hydrocarbons, aromatics and / or other hydrocarbon gases, such as natural gas, methane, ethane, propane, butane, isobutane, saturated / unsaturated hydrocarbon gases, ethylene, propylene, etc., and mixtures thereof. Carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates may include, for example, multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF), connected MWSF, carbon nanospheres, graphene, graphite, highly ordered pyrolytic graphite, single-walled nanotubes, multi-walled nanotubes, other solid carbon products, and / or carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein.

[0248] The method for producing the carbon nanoparticles and carbon aggregates described herein may include a thermal cracking method, which uses, for example, an elongated longitudinal heating element optionally enclosed in an elongated shell, housing or body of a thermal cracking device. The body may include, for example, one or more tubes or other suitable housings made of stainless steel, titanium, graphite, quartz or the like. The body of the thermal cracking device is generally cylindrical in shape, with a central elongated longitudinal axis arranged vertically and a raw material process gas inlet at or near the top of the body. The raw material process gas may flow longitudinally downward through the body or a portion thereof. In a vertical configuration, airflow and gravity help remove solid products from the body of the thermal cracking device.

[0249] The heating element may include any one or more of the following: a heating lamp, one or more resistance wires or filaments (or twisted pairs), a metal filament, a metal strip or rod, and / or other suitable thermal free radical generators or elements that can be heated to a specific temperature (such as a molecular cracking temperature) sufficient to thermally crack the raw process gas molecules. The heating element may be arranged, positioned or arranged to extend centrally within the body of the thermal cracking device along its central longitudinal axis. In a configuration with only one heating element, it may be placed at or concentric with the central longitudinal axis; alternatively, for a configuration with multiple heating elements, they may be spaced or offset generally symmetrically or concentrically at positions near and around the central longitudinal axis and parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0250] Thermal cracking for producing the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein can be achieved by causing a raw process gas to flow through, contact with, or flow near a heating element in a longitudinally elongated reaction zone to heat the raw process gas to or to a specific molecular cracking temperature, wherein the reaction zone is generated by heat from the heating element and is defined by and contained within the body of the thermal cracking apparatus.

[0251] The reaction zone can be considered as a region surrounding the heating element and close enough to the heating element that the raw process gas receives enough heat to cause its molecules to thermally crack. The reaction zone is thus generally axially aligned or concentric with the central longitudinal axis of the body. Thermal cracking is performed at a specific pressure. The raw process gas is circulated around or across the outer surface of the container of the reaction zone or heating chamber to cool the container or chamber and preheat the raw process gas before flowing into the reaction zone.

[0252] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates and / or hydrogen described herein are produced without the use of a catalyst. Thus, the process may be completely catalyst-free.

[0253] The disclosed methods and systems can advantageously be rapidly scaled up or down as needed for different production levels, such as being scalable to provide an independent hydrogen and / or carbon nanoparticle production station, hydrocarbon source, or fuel cell station, to provide a higher capacity system such as for a refinery and / or the like.

[0254] A thermal cracking apparatus for cracking a raw process gas to produce carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein includes a body, a raw process gas inlet, and an elongated heating element. The body has an internal volume having a longitudinal axis. The internal volume has a reaction zone concentric with the longitudinal axis. During a thermal cracking operation, the raw process gas may flow into the internal volume via the raw process gas inlet. The elongated heating element may be disposed within the internal volume along the longitudinal axis and surrounded by the reaction zone. During a thermal cracking operation, the elongated heating element is electrically heated to a molecular cracking temperature to produce a reaction zone, the raw process gas is heated by heat from the elongated heating element, and the heat causes the molecules of the raw process gas in the reaction zone to thermally crack into components of the molecules.

[0255] A method for cracking a raw process gas to produce carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein may include at least any one or more of the following: (1) providing a thermal cracking apparatus having an interior volume, the interior volume having a longitudinal axis and an elongated heating element disposed along the longitudinal axis within the interior volume; (2) heating the elongated heating element to a molecular cracking temperature by electrical energy to produce a longitudinal elongated reaction zone within the interior volume; (3) causing the raw process gas to flow into the interior volume and through the longitudinal elongated reaction zone (such as, wherein the raw process gas is heated by heat from the elongated heating element); and (4) thermally cracking the molecules of the raw process gas within the longitudinal elongated reaction zone into its components (such as, hydrogen and one or more solid products) as the raw process gas flows through the longitudinal elongated reaction zone.

[0256] The raw process gas used to produce the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein may include hydrocarbon gas. The result of the cracking may then further include hydrogen in gaseous form (such as H 2 ) and various forms of carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein. The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates include two or more MWSFs and graphene layers coating the MWSFs, and / or connected MWSFs and graphene layers coating the connected MWSFs. Before the raw process gas is flowed into the internal volume, the raw process gas is preheated (e.g., preheated to 100° C. to 500° C.) by flowing the raw process gas through a gas preheating zone between a heating chamber and an outer shell of a thermal cracking device. The gas having nanoparticles therein flows into the internal volume and flows through a longitudinally elongated reaction zone to mix with the raw process gas to form a coating of solid products (such as a graphene layer) around the nanoparticles.

[0257] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) or connected MWSF described herein can be produced and collected without the need to complete any post-processing treatment or operation. Alternatively, some post-processing can be performed on one or more of the currently disclosed MWSFs. Some examples of post-processing involved in the process of manufacturing and using resonant materials include mechanical treatments, such as ball milling, wheel milling, sand milling, microfluidization, and other techniques for reducing particle size without damaging the MWSF. Some other examples of post-processing include exfoliation processes (referring to the complete separation of carbonaceous material layers, such as the generation or extraction of graphene layers from graphite, etc.), including shear mixing, chemical etching, oxidation (such as the Hermers method), thermal annealing, doping by adding elements (such as sulfur and / or nitrogen) during annealing, vaporization, filtration and freeze drying, etc. Some examples of post-processing include sintering processes, such as spark plasma sintering (SPS), DC sintering, microwave sintering and ultraviolet (UV) sintering, which can be carried out in an inert gas at high pressure and high temperature. A variety of post-processing methods can be used together or in succession.Post-processing produces functionalized carbon nanoparticles or aggregates containing multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSF) or linked MWSF.

[0258] Materials can be mixed together in different combinations, quantities and / or ratios. The different carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or the MWSF connected described herein can be mixed together before one or more post-processing operations (if any). For example, different nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or the MWSF connected with different properties (such as, different sizes, different compositions, different purities, from different processing operations, etc.) can be mixed together. The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or the MWSF connected described herein can be mixed with graphene to change the ratio of the MWSF connected in the mixture to graphene. The different carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or the MWSF connected described herein can be mixed together after post-processing. The different carbon nanoparticles and aggregates containing MWSF or the MWSF connected with different properties and / or different post-processing methods (such as, different sizes, different compositions, different functionalities, different surface properties, different surface areas) can be mixed together in any quantity, ratio and / or combination.

[0259] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are produced and collected, and subsequently processed by mechanical grinding, milling, and / or exfoliation. Processing (such as by mechanical grinding, milling, exfoliation, etc.) can reduce the average size of the particles. Processing (such as by mechanical grinding, milling, exfoliation, etc.) increases the average surface area of ​​the particles. Processing by mechanical grinding, milling, and / or exfoliation shears off a portion of the carbon layer, thereby producing graphite flakes mixed with the carbon nanoparticles.

[0260] Mechanical grinding or milling is to use a ball mill, planetary mill, rod mill, shear mixer, high shear granulator, autogenous mill or other types of machines for breaking solid materials into smaller pieces by grinding, crushing or cutting. Mechanical grinding, milling and / or peeling are carried out dry or wet. Mechanical grinding is carried out by grinding for a period of time, then idling for a period of time, and repeating grinding and idling a certain number of cycles. The grinding time is 1 minute (minute) to 20 minutes, or 1 minute to 10 minutes, or 3 minutes to 8 minutes, or about 3 minutes, or about 8 minutes. The idling time is 1 minute to 10 minutes, or about 5 minutes, or about 6 minutes. The number of grinding and idling cycles is 1 minute to 100 minutes, or 5 minutes to 100 minutes, or 10 minutes to 100 minutes, or 5 minutes to 10 minutes, or 5 minutes to 20 minutes. The total amount of time for grinding and idling is from 10 minutes to 1,200 minutes, or from 10 minutes to 600 minutes, or from 10 minutes to 240 minutes, or from 10 minutes to 120 minutes, or from 100 minutes to 90 minutes, or from 10 minutes to 60 minutes, or about 90 minutes, or about several minutes.

[0261] The grinding step in the cycle is performed by rotating the mill in one direction (such as clockwise) in the first cycle and then in the opposite direction (such as counterclockwise) in the next cycle. Mechanical grinding or milling is performed using a ball mill, and the grinding step is performed using a rotation speed of 100 to 1000 rpm, or 100 to 500 rpm, or about 400 rpm. Mechanical grinding or milling is performed using a ball mill, and the ball mill uses a milling medium with a diameter of 0.1 mm to 20 mm, or 0.1 mm to 10 mm, or 1 mm to 10 mm, or about 0.1 mm, or about 1 mm, or about 10 mm. Mechanical grinding or milling is performed using a ball mill, and the ball mill uses a milling medium composed of a metal such as steel, an oxide such as zirconium oxide (zirconium dioxide), yttria-stabilized zirconium oxide, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, magnesium oxide, or other hard materials such as silicon carbide or tungsten carbide.

[0262] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are produced and collected, and then processed using high temperatures, such as thermal annealing or sintering. Processing using high temperatures is performed in an inert environment, such as nitrogen or argon. Processing using high temperatures is performed at atmospheric pressure or vacuum or low pressure. Processing using high temperatures is performed at temperatures of 500 to 2,500°C, 500°C to 1,500°C, 800 to 1,500°C, 800°C to 1,200°C, 800°C to 1,000°C, 2,000°C to 2,400°C, or about 8,00°C, or about 1,000°C, or about 1,500°C, or about 2,000°C or about 2,400°C.

[0263] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are produced and collected, and then in post-processing operations, additional elements or compounds are added to the carbon nanoparticles, thereby combining the unique properties of the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates into other material mixtures.

[0264] Before or after post-processing, the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are added to solids, liquids or slurries of other elements or compounds to form additional material mixtures that combine the unique properties of the carbon nanoparticles and aggregates. The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein are mixed with other solid particles, polymers or other materials.

[0265] The carbon nanoparticles and aggregates described herein may also be used in a variety of applications, either before or after post-processing, in addition to applications related to making and using resonant materials. Such applications include, but are not limited to, transportation applications (such as automobile and truck tires, couplings, brackets, elastomeric "O" rings, hoses, sealants, grommets, etc.) and industrial applications (such as rubber additives, functionalizing additives for polymeric materials, additives for epoxy resins, etc.).

[0266] Fig.18A and Fig.18B Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of synthesized carbon nanoparticles are shown. Fig.18A (at the first magnification) and Fig.18B The carbon nanoparticles (at the second magnification) contain connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSFs) with a graphene layer coating the connected MWSFs. Due to the relatively short resonance time, the ratio of MWSF to graphene allotrope in this example is about 80%. Fig.18B The diameter of the MWSF in the process is about 5nm to 10nm, and using the above conditions, the diameter can be 5nm to 500nm. The average diameter of the MWSF is in the following range: 5nm to 500nm, or 5nm to 250nm, or 5nm to 100nm, or 5nm to 50nm, or 10nm to 500nm, or 10nm to 250nm, or 10nm to 100nm, or 10nm to 50nm, or 40nm to 500nm, or 40nm to 250nm, or 40nm to 100nm, or 50nm to 500nm, or 50nm to 250nm, or 50nm to 100nm. No catalyst is used in the process, therefore, there is no central seed containing pollutants. The particle size of the aggregated particles produced in this example is about 10μm to 100μm or about 10μm to 500μm.

[0267] Fig.18C The Raman spectrum of the synthesized aggregates in this example is shown, acquired under 532 nm incident light. D / I GIt is about 0.99 to 1.03, indicating that the aggregates are composed of carbon allotropes with a high degree of order.

[0268] Fig.18D and Fig.18E An example TEM image of carbon nanoparticles after size reduction by grinding in a ball mill is shown. Ball milling was performed in multiple cycles of 3 minutes (minutes) of counterclockwise grinding operation, followed by 6 minutes of idling operation, followed by 3 minutes of clockwise grinding operation, followed by 6 minutes of idling operation. The grinding operation was performed using a rotation speed of 400 rpm. The milling media was zirconium oxide and had a size range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm. The total size reduction processing time was 60 minutes to 120 minutes. After size reduction, the particle size of the aggregated particles produced in this example was approximately 1 μm to 5 μm. The carbon nanoparticles after size reduction were connected MWSFs, and the graphene layer coated the connected MWSFs.

[0269] Fig.18F Raman spectra from these aggregates after size reduction are shown using 532 nm incident light. D / I G The particle size after size reduction is about 40m 2 / g to 50m 2 / g Bruno, Emmet and Teller (BET) specific surface area.

[0270] Mass spectrometry and x-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy were used to measure the purity of the aggregates produced in this sample. The ratio of carbon to elements other than hydrogen measured in 16 different batches ranged from 99.86% to 99.98%, with an average carbon content of 99.94%.

[0271] In this example, a hot wire processing system was used to produce carbon nanoparticles. The precursor material was methane, with a flow rate of 1 slm to 5 slm. Using these flow rates and tool geometry, the resonance time of the gas in the reaction chamber was about 20 seconds to 30 seconds, and the carbon particle production rate was about 20 g / hr.

[0272] Additional details regarding such processing systems may be found in previously mentioned US Patent 9,862,602, entitled "CRACKING OF A PROCESS GAS," which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0273] Example 1

[0274] Figure 18G , Fig.18H and Fig.18ITEM images of the synthetic carbon nanoparticles of this example are shown. The carbon nanoparticles contain connected multi-walled spherical fullerenes (MWSFs), and the graphene layers coat the connected MWSFs. Due to the relatively long resonance time, thicker or thicker graphene layers are allowed to coat the MWSFs, and the ratio of multi-walled fullerenes to graphene allotropes in this example is about 30%. No catalyst is used in this process, so there is no central seed containing contaminants. The particle size of the synthetic aggregate particles produced in this example is about 10 μm to 500 μm. Fig.18J The Raman spectra of the aggregates from this example are shown. The Raman signature of the synthetic particles in this example indicates a thicker graphene layer coating the MWSF in the synthetic material. In addition, the synthetic particles have a Raman signature of about 90 m 2 / g to 100m 2 / g Bruno, Emmet and Teller (BET) specific surface area.

[0275] Example 2

[0276] Figure 18K and Figure 18L TEM images of carbon nanoparticles of this example are shown. Specifically, the images depict carbon nanoparticles after size reduction by grinding in a ball mill. The size reduction process conditions are the same as those described above. Figure 18G to Figure 18J The process conditions were the same as those described. After size reduction, the particle size of the aggregate particles produced in this example was about 1 μm to 5 μm. The TEM images show that after size reduction connected MWSFs embedded in the graphene coating can be observed. Figure 18M The Raman spectrum of the aggregates from this example after size reduction, acquired using 532 nm incident light, is shown. D / I G is about 1, indicating that the connected MWSF embedded in the synthesized graphene coating becomes detectable in Raman after size reduction and is well ordered. The particle after size reduction has a size of about 90 m 2 / g to 100m 2 / g Bruno, Emmet and Teller (BET) specific surface area.

[0277] Example 3

[0278] Fig.18N is a scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of a carbon aggregate showing graphite and graphene allotropes at a first magnification. Fig.18O is a SEM image of a carbon aggregate showing graphite and graphene allotropes at a second magnification. The layered graphene is clearly shown within the distortions (wrinkles) of the carbon. The 3D structure of the carbon allotropes is also visible.

[0279] Fig.18N and Fig.18O The particle size distribution of the carbon particles is shown in Figure 18P The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1806 corresponds to the left y-axis (Q 3 The mass particle size distribution 1808 histogram corresponds to the right axis (dQ 3 (x) [%]). The median particle size is about 33 μm. The 10th percentile particle size is about 9 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size is about 103 μm. The mass density of the particles is about 10 g / L.

[0280] Example 4

[0281] The particle size distribution of carbon particles captured from the multi-stage reactor is shown in Figure 18Q The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1814 corresponds to the left y-axis (Q 3 The mass particle size distribution 1816 histogram corresponds to the right axis (dQ 3 (x) [%]). The median particle size captured was approximately 11 μm. The 10th percentile particle size was approximately 3.5 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size was approximately 21 μm. Figure 18Q The graph in FIG. 1 also shows the left axis (Q 0 (x) [%]) has a number-based cumulative particle size distribution of 1818. The number-based median particle size is about 0.1 μm to about 0.2 μm.

[0282] Back to Figure 18P 1, the graph also shows a second set of example results. Specifically, in this example, the particles were size-reduced by mechanical grinding and then processed using a cyclone separator. The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1810 of the size-reduced carbon particles captured in this example corresponds to the left y-axis (Q 3 The histogram of the mass-based particle size distribution 1812 corresponds to the right axis (dQ 3 (x) [%]). The median particle size of the captured size-reduced carbon particles in this example was about 6 μm. The 10th percentile particle size was 1 μm to 2 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size was 10 μm to 20 μm.

[0283] Additional details regarding the manufacture and use of cyclone separators may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 725,928, filed Oct. 5, 2017, entitled “MICROWAVE REACTOR SYSTEM WITH GAS-SOLIDS SEPARATION,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0284] In some cases, a microwave plasma reactor system can be used to produce carbon particles and aggregates containing graphite, graphene and amorphous carbon using precursor materials containing methane, or containing isopropyl alcohol (IPA), or containing ethanol, or containing concentrated hydrocarbons (such as hexane). In some other examples, the carbon-containing precursor is optionally mixed with a supply gas (such as argon). The particles produced in this example contain graphite, graphene, amorphous carbon, and no seed particles. The ratio of carbon to other elements (except hydrogen) in the particles in this example is about 99.5% or greater.

[0285] In one specific example, hydrocarbons are input materials to a microwave plasma reactor, and the separated output of the reactor contains hydrogen and carbon particles containing graphite, graphene, and amorphous carbon. The carbon particles are separated from the hydrogen in a multi-stage gas-solid separation system. The solid content of the separated output from the reactor is 0.001 g / L to 2.5 g / L.

[0286] Example 5

[0287] Figure 18R , Figure 18S and Figure 18T TEM image of synthesized carbon nanoparticles. The image shows examples of graphite, graphene and amorphous carbon allotropes. Layers of graphene and other carbon materials can be clearly seen in the image.

[0288] The particle size distribution of captured carbon particles is shown in Figure 18U The mass-based cumulative particle size distribution 1820 corresponds to the left y-axis (Q 3 The histogram of mass particle size distribution 1822 corresponds to the right axis (dQ 3 (x) [%]). The median particle size captured in the cyclone separator in this example is about 14 μm. The 10th percentile particle size is about 5 μm, and the 90th percentile particle size is about 28 μm. Figure 18U The graph in FIG. 1 also shows the left axis (Q 0 (x) [%]) number basis cumulative particle size distribution 1824. The number basis median particle size in this example is about 0.1 μm to about 0.2 μm.

[0289] Figure 18V , Figure 18W and Figure 18X and Figure 18Y To show images of three-dimensional carbon-containing structures grown onto other three-dimensional structures. Figure 18V This is a 100-fold magnification of the three-dimensional carbon structure grown on carbon fiber. Figure 18WA 200-fold magnification of a three-dimensional carbon structure grown onto carbon fibers. Figure 18X A 1601x magnification of a three-dimensional carbon structure grown onto a carbon fiber. The three-dimensional carbon growth on the fiber surface is shown. Figure 18Y A 10,000x magnification of a three-dimensional carbon structure grown onto a carbon fiber. The image shows growth onto the basal plane as well as onto the edge plane.

[0290] More specifically, Figure 18V to Figure 18Y Example SEM images showing 3D carbon materials grown onto fibers using plasma energy from a microwave plasma reactor and thermal energy from a thermal reactor. Figure 18V An SEM image of interlaced fibers 1831 and fibers 1832 is shown, with 3D carbon material 1830 grown on the fiber surfaces. Figure 18W To show a higher magnification image of the 3D carbon material 1830 on the fiber 1832 (with Figure 18V Scale bar is 300 μm compared to 500 μm). Figure 18X A further magnified view (scale bar 40 μm) of the 3D carbon material 1830 on the fiber surface 1835 is shown, in which the 3D nature of the 3D carbon material 1830 can be clearly seen. Figure 18Y A close-up view of the carbon alone is shown (scale 500 nm), showing the interconnection between the basal plane of the fiber 1832 and the edge planes 1834 of the numerous sub-particles of 3D carbon material grown on the fiber. Figure 18V to Figure 18Y The ability to grow 3D carbon on 3D fiber structures is demonstrated, such as 3D carbon growths grown on 3D carbon fibers.

[0291] 3D carbon growth on fibers can be achieved by introducing multiple fibers into a microwave plasma reactor and using plasma in the microwave reactor to etch the fibers. Etching produces nucleation sites so that when carbon particles and sub-particles are produced by hydrocarbon dissociation in the reactor, the growth of 3D carbon structures begins at these nucleation sites. The direct growth of 3D carbon structures on fibers (which are three-dimensional themselves) provides a highly integrated 3D structure having holes into which resin can penetrate. Compared to composite materials with conventional fibers, where conventional fibers have smooth surfaces and the smooth surfaces are typically delaminated from the resin matrix, the 3D reinforcing matrix for resin composite materials (including 3D carbon structures integrated with high aspect ratio reinforcing fibers) leads to enhanced material properties, such as tensile strength and shear.

[0292] Carbon materials, such as any one or more of the 3D carbon materials described herein, may have one or more exposed surfaces prepared for functionalization, such as to promote adhesion and / or add various elements, such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, silicon, or hardeners. Functionalization refers to the addition of functional groups to a compound by chemical synthesis. In materials science, functionalization can be used to achieve desired surface properties; for example, functional groups can also be used to covalently attach functional molecules to the surface of a chemical device. Carbon materials can be functionalized in situ, that is, in situ functionalization is performed in the same reactor in which the carbon material is produced. Carbon materials can be functionalized in post-processing. For example, the surface of fullerenes or graphene can be functionalized with oxygen- or nitrogen-containing substances that form bonds with the polymer of the resin matrix, thereby improving adhesion and providing strong bonding forces to enhance the strength of the composite material.

[0293] Any one or more of the disclosed carbon-based materials (such as CNTs, CNOs, graphenes, 3D carbon materials, such as 3D graphenes) may be subjected to functionalized surface treatment using a plasma reactor (such as a microwave plasma reactor) as described herein. Such treatment may include in-situ surface treatment during the production of a carbon material that may be combined with a binder or polymer in a composite material, or surface treatment performed after the carbon material is produced while the carbon material is still in the reactor.

[0294] Some of the foregoing embodiments include resonators that include a plurality of three-dimensional (3D) aggregates formed of a carbonaceous material embedded within one or more plies of a tire. However, some embodiments include resonators that are printed or otherwise disposed on an inner surface of a tire (e.g., on an inner liner of a tire).

[0295] Fig.19A1 A drawing 19A100 of a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form is provided according to one embodiment. Optionally, the drawing 19A100 can be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the drawing 19A100 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0296] like Fig.19A1 As shown, a split ring resonator may be incorporated into a concrete pour stream 1902. A split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 may be mixed into the concrete 1906 while the concrete is in a mixing container, or a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators may be mixed into the concrete while the concrete is in mid-stream during the pouring process.

[0297] The split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be captured within the concrete pour 1902. The split ring resonators may be captured within the formwork in any orientation, but may be stabilized near the bottom of the structural element; for example, wherein any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially vertical, or any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially horizontal, or any given split ring resonator may be oriented such that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is at an angle between vertical and horizontal.

[0298] In some cases, the split ring resonator will be captured within the template at a location relatively close to the template boundary. In other cases, the split ring resonator ends up within the template at a location relatively far from the template boundary. This is due to the natural tendency of foreign objects (e.g., split ring resonators) to randomly position themselves within the concrete pour 1902 (e.g., fluid dynamics). The techniques for detecting the split ring resonator with a signal and for receiving a return signal are operable regardless of the location of the split ring resonator within the template. More specifically, because the signal-to-noise ratio is very wide (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ), the split ring resonator can be detected by the user by the user. Fig.17 ), so the return signal from any given split ring resonator in any particular position can be received and processed to facilitate comparison with the calibration signal. The described technique can be applied to a variety of structures, one such example can be found in Fig.19A1 , the figure shows a vertically oriented concrete structural member.

[0299] The foregoing examples relate to vertically oriented concrete structural members, however, the techniques disclosed herein are also applicable when forming horizontally oriented concrete structural members (or concrete structural members at any angle).

[0300] Fig.19A2 A drawing 19A200 of a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form is provided according to one embodiment. Optionally, the drawing 19A200 can be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the drawing 19A200 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0301] In one embodiment, Fig.19A2Shown is a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 that can be incorporated into a concrete pouring stream 1902 when pouring a panel 1910. The split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 can be mixed into the concrete 1906 while the concrete is in a mixing container, or the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 can be mixed into the concrete 1906 while the concrete is in mid-stream during the pouring process.

[0302] The split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 can be captured within the concrete pouring stream 1902 and captured within the formwork in any orientation. For example, any given split ring resonator can be oriented so that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially vertical, or any given split ring resonator can be oriented so that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is substantially horizontal, or any given split ring resonator can be oriented so that the normal vector from the plane of the split ring resonator is at an angle between vertical and horizontal. In one embodiment, the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 can be dispersed closer to the wall of the horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914. In certain embodiments, the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 can ultimately be located within the formwork at a position relatively close to the top surface of the horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914. In certain other embodiments, the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 can be relatively close to the bottom surface of the horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914. Furthermore, the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be oriented, integrated into, and / or attached to rebar (or other support structure within a concrete member) such that the position of the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 may be maintained during concrete pouring 1902 into the concrete member.

[0303] In various embodiments, Fig.19A1 and Fig.19A2 One embodiment of a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators placed in concrete before the concrete is poured into a given structural form (e.g., a vertically oriented concrete structural member, a horizontally oriented concrete structural member) is shown. Fig.19A1 and Fig.19A2 1904 (e.g., annular type or cylindrical type) or a plurality of split ring resonators 1904 (e.g., annular type, or cylindrical type, or a combination thereof) may be incorporated into a concrete mix before the concrete is poured into a form in one embodiment. The form may be of any shape. Strictly speaking, as an example and as Fig.19A1 As shown in , the formwork may be configured to receive a pouring flow for a vertically oriented concrete structural member 1912 (e.g., a column or wall 1908 as shown). Additionally or alternatively, and as Fig.19A2 As shown in , the formwork may be configured to receive a pouring flow for a horizontally oriented concrete structural member 1914 (eg, panel 1910 as shown).

[0304] Regardless of the location of the split ring resonator within the template (e.g., at the top surface, at the bottom, in concrete, etc.), the techniques for probing the split ring resonator with a signal and for receiving a return signal can be maintained and be operational. More specifically, since the signal-to-noise ratio is very wide (see e.g., Fig.17 ), the return signal from any given split ring resonator at any particular location can be received and processed to facilitate comparison with an earlier captured calibration signal.

[0305] In one embodiment, once the cast stream solidifies, the aforementioned calibration signal may be captured. Such calibration signals may be stored in a database, and / or any system that stores specified information. At a later time, the structural member may be interrogated with the acoustic pulse signal, and its current return signal may be compared to the corresponding calibration signal. In one embodiment, the difference between the later captured signal and the calibration signal may indicate a change in compression between the time the calibration signal was captured and the time the interrogation was performed.

[0306] A similar approach may be applied in the presence of multiple split ring resonators dispersed throughout a structural member. Specifically, probing in an area of ​​a structural member where there are many split ring resonators in substantially the same location will return a calibration signal, which may also be stored in a database or any other system that can store information. Likewise, at any later time, the structural member may be interrogated with the acoustic pulse signal, and its current return signal may be compared to the corresponding calibration signal. If a difference is determined between the two signals, the phenomenon may indicate a change in the structure and or its constituent materials. There are many possible techniques for analyzing changes in response (e.g., due to compression, or due to bending, etc.), depending on the method. Figure 19B1 to illustrate and describe some of the techniques.

[0307] Figure 19B1 A drawing 19B00 is shown of a column containing the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators and equations for measuring changes in a structural member according to one embodiment. Optionally, the drawing 19B00 can be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the drawing 19B00 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0308] As shown, drawing 19B00 shows a solidified column containing a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 and various equations for measuring changes in the structural member. In addition, the compression change 1916 of the material surrounding the split ring resonator 1904 causes a response change 1922 from the split ring resonator (e.g., Figure 19B2 In addition, Figure 19B1 An example equation for measuring the degree of compression within a structural member as a function of compression is shown, Equation 6. Additionally, while Equation 6 is shown as relating to compression, and Equation 7 (below) is shown as relating to a change in response, it should be appreciated that any change in torsion, hygrometry (humidity), bending, response, material properties, etc. may be a basis for determining and / or measuring changes in a split ring resonator.

[0309] In one embodiment, a single-use model can support structural assessment of concrete foundations of infrastructure (e.g., apartment buildings, condominiums, homes, hotels). In addition, a single-use model can generally support structural assessment of infrastructure of buildings, including monitoring of steel beams, support columns / pillars, and other aspects of structural health monitoring. Ongoing or periodic monitoring of material integrity over time can indicate whether the materials forming the structure have changed, for example, due to aging, excessive or related stresses, and / or due to physical damage, etc. In some cases, the imminent failure of the material can be prevented to avoid a disaster. In some cases, multiple structural members can be combined into a load-bearing structure, the integrity of which will be monitored over time. For example, calibration and periodic monitoring can be accomplished in a two-step manner. In a first step, a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to a selected frequency and transmits a signal near a split ring resonator in a structural member. The return signal from the split ring resonator and / or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.) are captured. The technician stores the return signal and / or its characteristics as a calibration point associated with the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and / or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to a point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

[0310] In a second step, performed at any later time after the first step, the technician may repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data returned by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between the calibration features and the current data may potentially indicate changes in material integrity. In one embodiment, the response change 1918 may indicate only compression changes. A certain range of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur in normal use (e.g., when the structure bends under stress caused by earth movement such as an earthquake). In addition to the aforementioned techniques for measuring compression changes, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below.

[0311] Figure 19B2 A depiction 19B02 is shown of a column containing the split ring resonator or split ring resonators and equations for measuring changes in a structural member according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 19B02 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the depiction 19B02 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0312] In one embodiment, drawing 19B02 shows a cured plate containing the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 and an example equation for measuring the degree of bending in a structural member as a function of bending, Equation 7. Additionally, a change in bending 1920 of the material surrounding the split ring resonator 1904 results in a change 1922 in the response from the split ring resonator, thereby resulting in a signal response that is different than that initially determined. This information is considered essential for monitoring the integrity of the material in its application.

[0313] As previously mentioned in a given case, a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 will be implemented in the concrete foundation to allow monitoring of the material. This can be accomplished, for example, in a two-step manner. In a first step, a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to a selected frequency, and the signal generator can transmit a signal near the split ring resonator in the structural member. The return signal and / or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.) from the split ring resonator is captured. The technician stores the return signal and / or its characteristics as a calibration point associated with the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and / or its characteristics are then used as a calibration feature corresponding to a point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

[0314] When the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators are implemented into the component, the exact orientation and position may not be controllable during casting, however, the aforementioned two-step procedure can still be used. This is because, when multiple split ring resonators are probed, the overall effect signal (the returns from multiple split ring resonators) can be used as a calibration. Similarly, in the second step performed at any later time after the first step, the technician will repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data returned by the split ring resonators in the structural component. Comparison between the calibration features and the current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. On the other hand, the response change 1918 may only indicate compression changes. Certain ranges of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur in normal use (for example, when the structure is bent under stress caused by earth movement such as earthquakes). In addition to the aforementioned techniques for measuring compression changes, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below.

[0315] If a structural member is already in a given use, a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators 1904 may still be implemented on the structural member regardless of the physical characteristics (e.g., shape, size, location). Fig. 20 An example of such a situation is shown and described below.

[0316] Fig. 20 A use 2000 of a split ring resonator according to one embodiment is shown outside of a structural member of varying shapes that is already in use. Optionally, the use 2000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the use 2000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0317] In one embodiment, Fig. 20 Examples of possible factors and equations that may be critical to determining the size, orientation, location, and application of a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators on a structural member are also shown. Fig. 20 The use of a split ring resonator applied to the exterior of structural members of varying shapes is shown. Fig. 20 Examples of possible factors and equations that may be critical in determining the size, orientation, location, and application of the split ring resonator or split ring resonators on a structural member are shown.

[0318] More specifically, Fig. 20A horizontal member 2002 is depicted to which a split ring resonator 1904 may be attached (e.g., using ultrasonic welding) and used in a given application (e.g., an axle component, a tie rod component, a push rod, rebar, etc.) In addition to horizontal elongated members, a split ring resonator may also be attached to a curved member 2004 (e.g., a bucket handle, a suspension portion, a portion of a spring, rebar, etc.).

[0319] In a particular instance, a split ring resonator 1904 or a plurality of split ring resonators may be applied to the rebar using any known technique, after which the rebar may be placed in a form. When concrete or other building composite material is poured into the form, the juxtaposition of the split ring resonator on the rebar and the juxtaposition of the split ring resonator in the form remain substantially the same as when the split ring supply is applied to the rebar and placed in the form. Thus, the split ring resonator may be positioned so as to be substantially aligned with a horizontally oriented plane (i.e., in the 'X' direction), or so as to be substantially aligned with a vertically oriented plane (i.e., in the 'Y' direction), or so as to be substantially aligned with a depth oriented plane (i.e., in the 'Z' direction).

[0320] Additionally or alternatively, the split ring resonator may be attached to a flat structural member 2006 (e.g., a car hood). In this given application, the split ring resonator may be used to dynamically measure the curvature of the car hood at any given moment. This approach has many advantages over using a wind tunnel to measure the curvature of the car hood. This is because, in the case of a wind tunnel, the vehicle is stationary, whereas in an expected use model where the vehicle is actually driving, the actual real-time response can be calculated. Thus, the split ring resonator or split ring resonators 1904 provide real-time feedback during actual driving conditions.

[0321] The determined size of the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators for each structural component may depend on the size of the component and the application. This is shown by Equation 8. Specifically, the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators of different sizes resonate at corresponding different frequencies. Different sizes may be considered during initial calibration testing.

[0322] In some cases (e.g., when the split ring resonator is applied to a straight horizontal member, or when the split ring resonator is applied to a curved member, or when the split ring resonator is applied to a flat member), the optimal position (Equation 10) and / or orientation (Equation 9) may be determined or inferred from analysis of a finite element model (e.g., using CAD software such as SOLIDWORKS, AGROS2D, CALCILIX). More specifically, the results of the finite element analysis will produce bending vectors, compression vectors, and expansion vectors depending on the application and the associated desired properties. Based on the results of the finite element analysis, a particular structural member may be configured to have a split ring resonator in a corresponding position (Equation 10) and / or orientation (Equation 9).

[0323] Fig.21 21 is a flowchart 2100 representing a process for implementing a split ring resonator in a given application according to one embodiment. Optionally, the flowchart 2100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the flowchart 2100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0324] As shown, the first step of the process is to determine whether the scenario warrants an internal or external placement of a split ring resonator (step 2102). In the case of an internal application of the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators (step 2104), it will be necessary to determine the mixing technology (step 2106). In one embodiment, the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators can be combined with an aggregate mixture or cement. The aggregate mixture or cement can then be poured into the structure or foundation, and the split ring resonators will be randomly dispersed in the mixture, ultimately forming a component (step 2110).

[0325] Once the foundation or structure has solidified, the split ring resonator can be calibrated and an initial state or calibration signature can be collected (step 2114). To achieve the calibration signature, a unique signal can be used to detect the response from the split ring resonator. Based on the characteristics of the medium in which the split ring resonator is embedded, a response can be generated that varies with the parameters of the medium (compression, density, frequency, etc.). This initial reading when the structure is in a certain initial state can become the calibration signature and reference parameter for future comparison. Of course, it will be understood that the initial reading can be reset (and / or recalibrated) at a later point in time (such as cement recasting, seismic upgrade, etc.).

[0326] In the case of external applications (such as, via ultrasonic welding), the split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators will be integrated into the component in a manner that does not compromise the accuracy of the split ring resonator. The orientation, location and application of the split ring resonator can be used to collect correct data from the split ring resonator (step 2108) (for example, the split ring resonator is mounted to a motor axle). The orientation of the split ring resonator relative to the shaft can be used to achieve a normal, horizontal or angle vector relative to the plane of the split ring resonator that does not compromise the signal-to-noise ratio and allows for operational feedback of calibration features or points. The location of the split ring resonator on the shaft can be placed in the fault and fluctuating stress area to properly monitor the integrity of the shaft. Sonic welding (step 2112) of the split ring resonator to the shaft can be used to ensure the accuracy of the split ring resonator calibration features and points. Sonic welding allows different materials to be joined without using solder or other materials to form welds that may inhibit or change the response of the split ring resonator. Of course, it should be understood that any type of attachment can also be used instead of welding.

[0327] As shown in the flowchart, both external and internal processes converge to a test event (step 2116). During the test event, a stimulus is applied (step 2118), and a response is measured (step 2120). The test event is used to collect calibration points and compare the calibration points to the calibration signature (step 2122). After a given amount of time has passed, and strictly speaking, as an example, a stress event for a structure or component has occurred, or a routine maintenance inspection or visual observation of a component or structure requires testing. When the structure or component may be different in terms of structural integrity, the calibration points returned by the test may be substantially similar to the calibration signature collected later. A two-step technique can be used to complete obtaining the necessary calibration. In the first step (step 2120), a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) adjusts the signal generator to a selected frequency and transmits a signal near a split ring resonator in a structural member. The return signal from the split ring resonator and / or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.) are captured. The technician stores the return signal and / or its characteristics as a calibration point associated with the acoustic pulse wave at that location and that given point in time. The return signal and / or its characteristics are then used as a calibration feature corresponding to a point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

[0328] In a second step (step 2122), performed at any later time after the first step, the technician will repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data transmitted back by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between the calibration features and the current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. On the other hand, the response change 1918 may only indicate a change in compression. A certain range of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur in normal use (for example, when the structure bends under stress caused by earth movement such as an earthquake. In addition to the aforementioned techniques for measuring compression changes, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below. Regardless of the shape of the member, the previous techniques or any related techniques disclosed herein can be used to collect the necessary information.

[0329] The calibration point is then compared to the calibration signature. If the difference between the two signals is outside the acceptable error threshold or tolerance ("yes" decision option 2124), then the "yes" decision branch 2124 is taken and a report is made (step 2126). In addition, FIG. 22A1 to FIG. 22A3 Other embodiments applying the foregoing are shown.

[0330] FIG. 22A1 to FIG. 22A3 is presented to illustrate the use of a plurality of split ring resonators or a plurality of split ring resonators in a roadside barrier according to one embodiment. Optionally, FIG. 22A1 to FIG. 22A3 It may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any preceding and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, FIG. 22A1 to FIG. 22A3 It can be implemented in the context of any desired environment.In addition, the above definitions are also applicable to the following description.

[0331] As shown in the figure, Fig.22A1 A road 2202 is depicted containing a concrete barrier 2206 and / or a metal barrier 2204, or possibly both, which use a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators. Roadside barriers are intended to reduce the severity of potential vehicle accidents (e.g., going over a cliff, entering a body of water, etc.) by absorbing the forces from oncoming cars and stopping the car from continuing along its path by allowing the barrier body shape to deform. After this is done, the integrity of the barrier material may be altered due to the material deformation and may need to be replaced. Although the outer physical aspects of the barrier appear unchanged, deformation may have occurred within the material, causing it to weaken due to the impact, thus requiring replacement of the barrier.

[0332] In order to determine when and how often a given barrier may need to be replaced, e.g. Fig.22A2As shown in , a split ring resonator can be placed in a concrete barrier (e.g., an example of the technique depicted in FIG. 19A ). Once the foundation or structure has cured, the split ring resonator can be calibrated and an initial state or calibration signature can be collected, for example, by a two-step technique. In a first step, a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to a selected frequency and transmits a signal near the split ring resonator in the concrete barrier. A return signal and / or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single frequency resonance, multi-frequency resonance, etc.) from the split ring resonator is captured. The technician stores the return signal and / or its characteristics as a calibration point associated with the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and / or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to a point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

[0333] The same situation can be applied to Fig.22A3 The split ring resonator can also be attached by the application technique of step 2112 (e.g., ultrasonic welding). Once attached to the metal barrier, the split ring resonator can be calibrated and the previous two-step technique can be used to collect the initial state or calibration characteristics. Similarly, the racetrack barrier can also use multiple split ring resonators to monitor the integrity of the barrier, in Fig. 22B This is illustrated in .

[0334] Of course, it should be understood that the split ring resonator can be embedded in other materials (in addition to Fig.22A2 Concrete barriers and / or Fig.22A3), including but not limited to: aviation-related embodiments (e.g., wings, landing gear, aircraft parts, etc.), marine-related embodiments (e.g., sails, masts, buoys, structural steel, etc.), utility-related embodiments (e.g., power line structures, transmission lines, pipelines, etc.), construction-related embodiments (e.g., beams, concrete towers, etc.), biomedical-related embodiments (e.g., prostheses, implants, orthoses, etc.), professional sports equipment-related embodiments (e.g., helmets, protective pads, hand tools, footwear, etc.), forging or smelting-related embodiments (e.g., metals, composites, alloys, etc.), power generation-related embodiments (e.g., metals, composites, alloys, etc.),

[0013] The invention relates to a variety of applications including energy storage and fuel cell-related embodiments (e.g., solar arrays, hydroelectric dams, wind turbines, natural gas storage and transportation, etc.), automotive-related safety and / or performance embodiments (e.g., engine performance, suspension, chassis and body integrity, etc.), manufacturing-related embodiments (e.g., assembly, 3D printing, component consolidation, testing, etc.), agriculture-related embodiments (e.g., growth rates, temperature control, moisture saturation, UV exposure, etc.), and / or space travel-related embodiments (e.g., airlock performance, propellant container integrity, launch effect tolerance measurements, capsule / fuselage deformation during flight, etc.). In short, the use of a split ring resonator to determine deformation of a material to which it is attached or incorporated may be relevant to any application in which it may be embedded and / or attached where the substrate to which the split ring resonator is attached or embedded has any deformation of the substrate that would indicate a sufficiently persistent state of material fatigue.

[0335] As a specific example, drilling platforms are often exposed to high temperatures and corrosive environments in offshore applications. Such conditions often lead to drill pipe failures, which are primarily caused by metal fatigue. In one embodiment, embedding a split ring resonator within the drill pipe itself will allow metal fatigue to be detected before it causes drill pipe failure (and the inherent complexity generated by such failures). Consistent with the description herein, the split ring resonator embedded in the drill pipe can be initially calibrated, where an initial state or calibration signature can be collected (consistent with the two-step technique). A signal generator (or similar tool) can tune the signal generator to a selected frequency and transmit a signal next to the split ring resonator in the drill pipe. The return signal and / or its characteristics can be captured, which can then be stored as a calibration signature for the current material. At a later time period (consistent with step 2116), a stimulus can be applied (in accordance with step 2118), and a response can be measured (in accordance with step 2120), which can then be compared to the calibration signature (in accordance with step 2122). It should be appreciated that the stimulation may be applied at any time period rate predetermined by the user (e.g., every minute, day, week, month, etc.) In this manner, deformations (which may indicate fatigue cracks, crack growth, etc.) may be measured within the drill pipe and detected before they actually cause failure of the drill pipe.

[0336] Fig. 22B A roadside barrier 22B00 for use in a racetrack is depicted, according to one embodiment, showing the structural components that make up the roadside barrier, in which a split ring resonator or multiple split ring resonators may be placed. Optionally, the roadside barrier 22B00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the roadside barrier 22B00 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0337] In one embodiment, the roadside barrier 22B00 may include a steel and foam energy-reducing barrier. As shown, the track is on one side of the foam absorber (with an internal split ring resonator 2208). The steel and foam energy-reducing barrier may be used in high-speed sections of certain tracks and functions by absorbing kinetic energy during impact to reduce the severity of the accident and in the event of a car crash, isolating spectators from possible danger and / or preventing hazardous materials from falling into the crowd. When the barrier contacts one or more cars, the absorbed energy is propagated along the side of the wall, thereby reducing car damage and preventing spectator injury.

[0338] Additionally, the split ring resonator array 2212 may be placed on the surface of and / or within the push rod steel barrier 2210 to obtain the information needed to determine barrier integrity, for example, after one or more impacts, or over a period of time. In an exemplary case, the split ring resonator array 2212 may be placed on the front and back of the push rod steel barrier, and / or embedded in a foam absorber and / or placed on or in any cement wall.

[0339] In a particular embodiment, after the split ring resonator array 2212 has been positioned (e.g., placed in a foam absorber having internal split ring resonators 2208 and / or placed outside or inside the push rod steel barrier 2210 and / or placed outside or inside the foam absorber, etc.), the split ring resonators can be calibrated using the two-step technique detailed herein.

[0340] In a first step, a technician operating a signal generator (or similar tool) tunes the signal generator to a selected frequency, wherein the signal generator transmits a signal in a foam absorber having an internal or external split ring resonator 2008 and / or in the vicinity of a split ring resonator external or internal to the push rod barrier 2210. A return signal from the split ring resonator and / or its characteristics (e.g., attenuation, single frequency resonance, multiple frequency resonance, etc.) are captured. The technician stores the return signal and / or its characteristics as a calibration point associated with the acoustic pulse wave at that location and at that given point in time. The return signal and / or its characteristics are then used as a calibration signature corresponding to a point in time when the material is considered to have a baseline state of structural integrity.

[0341] In a second step, performed at any later time after the first step, the technician will repeat the detection and feature capture process to collect current data transmitted back by the split ring resonator in the structural member. Comparison between the calibration feature and the current data can potentially indicate changes in material integrity. On the other hand, the response change 1918 can only indicate a change in compression. A certain range of compression changes over time may be considered normal and may occur in normal use (for example, when the structure bends under stress caused by earth movement such as an earthquake. In addition to the aforementioned techniques for measuring compression changes, other techniques related to measuring bending changes are also presented below. After the collected data is analyzed, a report can be created in which replacement of the barrier can be determined.

[0342] Fig.23 A depiction 2300 of a split ring resonator disposed on a surface of a concrete structure after concrete has been poured into a given structural formwork according to one embodiment is shown. Optionally, the depiction 2300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the depiction 2300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0343] As shown, depiction 2300 includes split ring resonators (e.g., split ring resonator 19041, split ring resonator 19042, split ring resonator 19043) disposed on the surface of a concrete structure (e.g., a column or wall 1908) after the concrete has been poured into a given structural form. The placement of such split ring resonators (e.g., the surface-applied split ring resonator 2302 shown) can be done as a "retrofit", in some cases, long after the pour has cured, and in some cases, long after the column and / or wall has been used to construct the building. The means of constructing, placing, and attaching the surface-applied split ring resonator 2302 to the structure can be accomplished using any known technique. For example, such surface-applied split ring resonator 2302 can be printed or screen printed onto a roll of substrate, and the roll of substrate or portions thereof can be applied (perhaps with an adhesive) to the surface of the column or wall. In some cases, the substrate is lifted off, leaving the surface-applied split ring resonator 2302 attached to the surface of the column or wall. In some cases, the surface applied split ring resonator 2302 can be printed directly onto the rebar. In some cases, the surface applied split ring resonator 2302 can be printed onto the substrate using an inkjet or bubble jet printer. In some cases, the surface applied split ring resonator 2302 can be printed onto the substrate using lithography or printing (e.g., multi-color lithography). In some cases, the surface applied split ring resonator 2302 can be printed onto the substrate using gravure printing techniques.

[0344] The calibration and testing module 2301 may be located proximate to any location where there is a surface applied split ring resonator 2302. One or more calibration signatures based on a particular combination of occurrences of the transmitted RF signal 210 and corresponding occurrences of the returned RF signal 212 may be communicated via the network to the upstream component 113. Strictly, as an example related to this and other embodiments, the upstream component may include, but is not limited to, a module that performs continuous inspection and analysis of the structure, a module that is combined to function as an early warning system, a module that complies with management, and / or a module that complies with any regulatory reporting requirements.

[0345] Any of the aforementioned techniques for making and using split ring resonators may be combined. For example, a surface-applied split ring resonator may be retrofitted onto the surface of a roadside barrier and / or components thereof. Additionally, for example, the upstream component may include a track safety monitoring unit. Furthermore, a split ring resonator of a first geometry (e.g., concentric rings) in the split ring resonator may be combined (e.g., proximally juxtaposed) with a split ring resonator of a second geometry (e.g., concentric cylinders). Strictly, as yet another embodiment, a roadside barrier made of steel and / or other barrier components made of steel of another conductive material may be used as a conductive layer, which is dielectrically isolated (e.g., via an adhesive) from any one or more split ring resonators disposed on the surface of the roadside barrier.

[0346] The foregoing discloses various methods for incorporating or otherwise embedding a split ring resonator into a base material that forms a desired structural member (e.g., such as in a cement casting stream). In addition, the foregoing discloses various methods for attaching a split ring resonator to a surface of a structural member (e.g., such as a tie rod of a steering mechanism in an automobile). In addition, as also discussed herein, it is contemplated to use an RF "horn" to transmit a specific signal and measure the response of the embedded split ring resonator.

[0347] Some approaches involve placing (possibly printing) the split ring resonator on a "ground plane" that forms an assembly that is in turn applied to the surface of a structural member. This can greatly improve the sensitivity of the split ring resonator over a wide EM range.

[0348] The foregoing methods support static non-destructive testing only by comparing the current response / signature with a previously acquired calibration response / signature and then classifying the differences between the two features. More specifically, some differences apparent between the features may be associated with corresponding physical property changes. In some cases, the physical property changes indicate aging (e.g., embrittlement). In some cases, the physical property changes indicate stretching, compression, other deformation, etc.

[0349] In some cases, a change in a physical property indicates a change in a property that is dynamically changing (e.g., vibration). Capturing a series of dynamically acquired responses / feature series with a previously acquired calibrated response / feature series supports dynamic non-destructive testing. Significant differences between the two sets of features may be associated with a change in a physical property such as a cyclic deformation. In some cases, a change in a physical property indicates aging (e.g., a change in an elastic deformation curve). In some cases, a change in a physical property that occurs between readings and / or a change in a physical property measured when a series of readings is compared to another series of readings may indicate elastic deformation versus plastic deformation, which sometimes indicates an impending failure. Strictly, as an example, when a measured elastic curve (e.g., based on a series of readings) resembles an elastic curve region that is designated as preceding a failure event, it may indicate that a component is about to fail.

[0350] Fig.24A A sensing stack 24A00 comprising alternating layers of carbon-containing resin and carbon fibers in contact with each other is depicted according to one embodiment. Optionally, the sensing stack 24A00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the sensing stack 24A00 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0351] As shown, sensing stack 24A00 includes a schematic side cross-sectional view of a plurality of layers stacked one on top of the other, including (in order) carbon-containing resin 24042, carbon fiber 24022, carbon-containing resin 24041, and carbon fiber 24021. In one embodiment, sensing stack 24A00 may represent a FIG. 24A to FIG. 24C Any sensor discussed in the content shown. The term "resin" (in polymer chemistry and materials science) generally refers to a solid or highly viscous substance of plant or synthetic origin, which can generally be converted into a polymer (a large molecule or macromolecule composed of many repeating subunits). Synthetic resins can be industrially produced resins, generally viscous substances that are converted into hard polymers by a curing process. In order to cure, resins generally contain reactive end groups, such as acrylates or epoxides. The term "carbon fiber" refers to a fiber with a diameter of about 5 to 10 microns (μm) and composed primarily of carbon atoms. Carbon fibers have several advantages, including high stiffness, high tensile strength, low weight, high chemical resistance, high temperature resistance, and low thermal expansion.

[0352] Any one or more of the carbon-containing resin 24042, carbon fibers 24022, carbon-containing resin 24041, and carbon fibers 24021 may be tuned to exhibit or display one or more specific resonant frequencies when detected using an RF signal by combining any one or more of the aforementioned carbon-containing microstructures at a specific concentration level. The sensing stack may include any one or more of the carbon-containing resin 24042, carbon fibers 24022, carbon-containing resin 24041, and carbon fibers 24021 in any configuration, orientation, order, or layering, and / or fewer or more layers comprising similar or different materials. Additional resin layers may be layered with gaps between additional carbon fiber layers.

[0353] Each layer of carbon-containing resin can be formulated in a different manner to resonate at a different expected or desired tuning frequency. The physics of material resonance can be described in terms of corresponding molecular composition. For example, a layer having a first defined structure (such as a first molecular structure) will resonate at a first frequency, while a layer having a second, different molecular structure may resonate at a second, different frequency.

[0354] A material having a specific molecular structure and contained in a layer will resonate at a first tuned frequency when the layer is in a low energy state, and will resonate at a second different frequency when the material in the layer is in an induced higher energy state. For example, a material in a layer exhibiting a specific molecular structure can be tuned to resonate at 3 GHz when the layer is in a natural, undeformed, low energy state. Conversely, the same layer can resonate at 2.95 GHz when the layer is at least partially deformed from its natural, undeformed, low energy state. As a result, the phenomenon can be adjusted to accommodate even the slightest anomaly of a tire surface that is in contact with a road surface (such as a pavement) and experiences enhanced wear in a localized contact area with high fidelity and accuracy. Even under time-sensitive race day conditions, a car racing on a demanding track (referring to a highly technical, windy track with sharp turns and rapid elevation changes) can benefit from such local tire wear or degradation information to make informed tire replacement decisions. As described herein, the phenomenon can be applied to any context and / or application in which a split ring resonator can be integrated into or attached to a substrate.

[0355] Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 1 shows a frequency shift phenomenon as exhibited by a sensing stack including a carbon-containing tuned RF resonance material according to one embodiment. Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 It may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any preceding and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 It can be implemented in the context of any desired environment.In addition, the above definitions are also applicable to the following description.

[0356] See also FIG. 24B1 to FIG. 24B2 The frequency shift phenomenon mentioned above is shown and discussed ( Fig.24A For example, from resonating at 3 GHz to resonating at 2.95 GHz). Figure 24B2 The frequency shift phenomenon exhibited in the sensing layer including the carbon-containing tuned resonance material is shown.

[0357] As is well known, atoms emit electromagnetic radiation at the natural frequency of a given element. That is, atoms of a particular element have a natural frequency corresponding to the properties of the atom. For example, when a cesium atom is stimulated, the valence electron transitions from a lower energy state (such as the ground state) to a higher energy state (such as an excited energy state). When the electron returns to its lower energy state, it emits electromagnetic radiation in the form of photons. For cesium, the emitted photons are in the microwave frequency range; 9.192631770 THz. Structures larger than atoms, such as molecules formed by multiple atoms, also resonate at predictable frequencies (such as by emitting electromagnetic radiation). For example, a pile of liquid water resonates at 109.6 THz. Water in a tension state (such as, at the surface of a water pile, in various surface tension states) resonates at 112.6 THz. Carbon atoms and carbon structures also exhibit natural frequencies that depend on the structure. For example, the natural resonant frequency of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) depends on the tube diameter and length of the CNTs. Growing CNTs under controlled conditions to control the tube diameter and length leads to controlling the natural resonant frequency of the structure. Therefore, synthesizing or otherwise "growing" CNTs is one way to tune to a desired resonant frequency.

[0358] Other structures formed of carbon can be formed under controlled conditions. Such structures include, but are not limited to, carbon nano-onions (CNO), carbon lattices, graphene, carbonaceous aggregates or agglomerates, graphene-based, other carbonaceous materials, engineered nanoscale structures, and the like, and / or combinations thereof, any of which are incorporated into sensors of vehicle components according to the currently disclosed implementations. Such structures can be formed to resonate at specific tuning frequencies, and / or such structures can be modified in post-processing to obtain desired characteristics or properties. For example, desired properties, such as high reinforcement values, can be achieved by selecting material combination ratios and / or by adding other materials. In addition, the co-location of multiple such structures introduces other resonance effects. For example, two graphene sheets can resonate between themselves at a frequency that depends on the length, width, spacing, spacing shape, and / or other physical properties of the sheets and / or their juxtaposition to each other.

[0359] As is known in the art, materials have specific, measurable properties. This is true for naturally occurring materials as well as engineered carbon allotropes. Such engineered carbon allotropes can be tuned to exhibit physical properties. For example, a carbon allotrope can be designed to exhibit physical properties corresponding to: (a) a specific configuration of constituent elementary particles; (b) formation of aggregates; and (c) formation of agglomerates. Each of these physical properties affects the specific resonant frequency of a material formed using the corresponding specific carbon allotrope.

[0360] In addition to tailoring a particular carbon-based structure for a particular physical configuration that corresponds to a particular resonant frequency, a carbon-containing compound can be tuned to a particular resonant frequency (or set of resonant frequencies). A set of resonant frequencies is called a resonance curve.

[0361] Figure 24B1 A first carbon-containing structure is depicted that resonates at a first frequency, which may be associated with an equivalent circuit including capacitor C1 and inductor L1 (note that the context of Equation 3 provided below may also be found in the context of Figure 2 preceding and / or explicitly stated FIG. 18A to FIG. 18Y The frequency f1 is given by the following equation:

[0362]

[0363] Figure 24B2 Draw Figure 24B1 The slight deformation of the first carbon-containing structure. The deformation results in a physical structural change, which in turn changes the inductance and / or capacitance of the structure. The change may be associated with an equivalent circuit including capacitor C2 and inductor L2. The frequency f2 may be given by the following equation:

[0364]

[0365] Figure 24B3 Graph 24B300 is a graph illustrating an idealized change in RF resonance as a function of deflection according to one embodiment. Optionally, graph 24B300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, graph 24B300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0366] As shown, graph 24B300 depicts an idealized change in measured resonance as a function of deflection. Optionally, one or more variations of graph 24B300 or any aspect thereof may be implemented in the context of implementations described herein. Graph 24B300 (or any aspect thereof) may be implemented in any environment.

[0367] Figure 24B3 The implementation shown in is only an example. The graph shown illustrates one aspect of deformation, particularly deflection. When a component or surface is deformed due to deflection (such as bending), the deformation can change the resonant frequency exhibited by the component when detected by a signal (such as an RF signal). The shape of the curve can depend on the characteristics of the component, such as the characteristics of the layers forming the component or surface. The curve may be steep for small changes and flatten out when the deflection reaches a maximum value. In addition, the shape of the curve depends in part on the number of layers of the layer, the geometry of the carbon structure, how the carbon is incorporated into the layer, etc.

[0368] Figure 24B4 Graph 24B400 is a graph illustrating the change in RF resonance of a 4-layer and 5-layer stack according to one embodiment. Optionally, graph 24B400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, graph 24B400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0369] As shown, graph 24B400 depicts the change in resonance for 4-layer stack 292 and 5-layer stack 294. Optionally, one or more variations of graph 24B400 or any aspect thereof may be implemented in the materials and systems described herein. Materials such as the stack described may be deployed in many applications. One particular application may be for surface sensors that may be deployed in, on, or on many locations of a vehicle. Fig.24C An example of such a deployment is shown and described below.

[0370] Fig.24C Depicted is the deployment of surface sensors in an area of ​​a vehicle 24C00 according to one embodiment. Optionally, the vehicle 24C00 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the vehicle 24C00 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0371] As shown, vehicle 24C00 shows an example surface sensor deployment in selected locations of the vehicle. Such example surface sensor deployment or any aspect thereof may be implemented in or on a vehicle exposed to any possible external environmental conditions (such as snow, sleet, hail, etc.).

[0372] In the context of durable sensors in various exterior surfaces of a vehicle, tuned resonance sensing carbonaceous materials may be incorporated into or with automotive features, surfaces and / or components. As shown, a vehicle is equipped with surface sensors on the front wing of the vehicle (such as the hood), on a support member of the vehicle, and on the roof of the vehicle. During operation of the vehicle, each of the aforementioned locations of the vehicle may experience stress and the resulting deformation. For example, a surface sensor on the front wing will experience changes in air pressure when the vehicle is in operation (such as during forward motion). Under the influence of the air pressure, the material constituting the surface may deform slightly and, according to the pressure, the surface may deform slightly. Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 Describes the phenomenon whereby a material's resonant frequency changes in proportion to the degree of change or deformation of the material. Such changes can be detected using the 'probing' and observation techniques described earlier.

[0373] The observed emission signals may collectively define the characteristics of a particular material or surface and may be further classified. Specific characteristics of the signals may be isolated for comparison and measurement to determine calibration points corresponding to the isolated specific characteristics. Thus, aspects of the environment surrounding the vehicle may be accurately and reliably determined.

[0374] For example, if a deformation of a surface sensor results in a frequency shift from 3 GHz to 2.95 GHz, the difference can be mapped to a calibration curve, and the value of the air pressure can then be derived. Vehicle components, such as panels, roofs, hoods, trunks, or wing components, can provide relatively large surface areas. In such cases, transceiver antennas can be distributed on the observable side of the component. Several transceiver antennas can be distributed into an array, where each element of the array corresponds to a portion of the large surface area. As shown, each transceiver antenna can be mounted on or in a wheel well of a surface sensor deployment 24C00 and stimulated independently by an acoustic pulse / chirp. In some cases, each element of the array can be stimulated sequentially, while in other cases, each element of the array is stimulated simultaneously. The aerodynamics of the vehicle can be measured over a large surface area by signal processing for distinguishing characteristic returns from proximal array elements.

[0375] The signature returns from a particular array element may be analyzed relative to other environmental conditions and / or other sensed data. For example, the deflection of a particular portion of a wing component may be compared to the deflection of a different portion of a wing component, and the comparison may then be analyzed relative to current temperature, and / or current tire pressure, and / or any other sensed aspect of the vehicle or its environment. As previously described, resonator circuits (such as those shown in 24B1 and 24B2) may be implemented by placing the resonators in a surface plane of a vehicle (as shown in 24C). The configurations of other embodiments are specifically adapted to enable positioning of resonators (e.g., split ring resonators) across the surface of a vehicle. Arrays or matrices of surface sensors of varying sizes may be deployed in or onto many locations on a vehicle in order to analyze current vehicle conditions. As described below, one such deployment may be found, for example, in Fig.29 middle.

[0376] Fig.25A A depiction 2500 of the interaction between a vehicle and a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and / or on a road surface is provided according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 2500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the depiction 2500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0377] As shown, depiction 2500 may include a vehicle 2502, a split ring resonator 2504 located in and / or on a road surface, and an interaction 2506 between the road surface and the vehicle. In one embodiment, depiction 2500 may be used to determine tire static friction (and / or rolling friction). For example, maintaining static contact with the road surface may control the vehicle (while losing static contact with the road surface may cause the vehicle to lose control). Split ring resonator 2504 may be used to measure tire (and / or interface) static friction (which varies with tire tread thickness). See below. Fig. 27 The process for determining tire static friction is explained in more detail.

[0378] Fig.25B An illustration is provided of how a split ring resonator disposed in or on a tire may be used to measure tire static friction according to one embodiment. Optionally, the illustration 2500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the illustration 2500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0379] As shown, depiction 2501 may include a vehicle 2502, a split ring resonator 2503 located in and / or on a tire, and a tire interaction 2505. In one embodiment, depiction 2501 may be used to determine tire static friction (and / or rolling friction). For example, a split ring resonator 2503 located in and / or on a tire may be used to measure tire (and / or interface) static friction (as a function of tire tread thickness).

[0380] In various embodiments, split ring resonators 2504 located in and / or on the road surface and split ring resonators 2503 located in and / or on the tire can be used to measure the actual static friction of the tire with the road surface and to measure the actual thickness of the tire on the road surface. Such measurements can be made in real time, even while the vehicle 2502 is in operation. In this way, tire static friction can be measured continuously (or nearly continuously) with high accuracy, given the fact that the split ring resonators 2504 and 2503 do not rely on electronics (which are more susceptible to failure and other mechanical problems).

[0381] For example, for the racing industry, split ring resonators (located in and / or on the car, such as tires, and / or in and / or on the road) can provide real-time data on real-time permittivity related to tire static friction to the driver and pit crew while the vehicle 2502 is in motion. Such real-time data can allow for immediate feedback on how the tires are responding and interacting with the road surface, which in turn can allow the driver and pit crew to adjust and fine-tune the vehicle (e.g., tire tread type, tire dynamics, windshield, side wings, spoilers, etc.) to achieve greater tire static friction (to at least maximize vehicle control and performance). Of course, any other fine-tuning of the vehicle can be performed to ensure tire static friction.

[0382] In one embodiment, the split ring resonators 2504 and 2503 may be low-cost sensors because they do not rely on electronics to function. Therefore, the split ring resonators 2504 and 2503 may not only improve real-time data collection (with greater accuracy), but also be less expensive than current alternatives.

[0383] Fig.26 A placement 2600 of a split ring resonator disposed in road asphalt and / or on a road surface is depicted according to one embodiment. Optionally, the placement 2600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the placement 2600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0384] As shown, placement 2600 includes a carrier 2602, a split ring resonator 2604, and a carrier interaction 2606. The location of the split ring resonator 2604 (eg, Fig.26The location of such split ring resonator 2604 is important in that it can be placed anywhere in or on the road surface. In one embodiment, Fig.26 It may be applied to a racetrack, where a greater number of split ring resonators 2604 may be required (for increased data collection and performance tuning). In contrast, in other applications, such as on a normal highway or avenue, the locations of the split ring resonators 2604 may be spaced a greater amount apart (because performance tuning may not be required).

[0385] As discussed herein, the split ring resonator 2604 can be used to collect data related to tire static friction. Such data can then be used to modify parameters associated with the car. Additionally, such data can be used for safety (of the vehicle and / or the road). For example, if the split ring resonator 2604 determines that the real-time static friction level has decreased (indicating a loss of traction), a traffic advisory service can immediately alert other drivers to dangerous road conditions (and likewise reduce speed limits in and / or around areas where loss of traction is detected). In this way, the split ring resonator 2604 can be used for traffic management and / or safety.

[0386] Additionally, a split ring resonator, such as one located in and / or on a tire (such as split ring resonator 2503), can be used as an alternative to conventional anti-lock braking systems (which typically rely on wheel speed sensors and vehicle speed sensors to determine whether a tire has stopped rotating). Split ring resonator 2503 can provide more accurate data with less latency (between detection time and reporting time to a control module, such as milliseconds). Additionally, again, because split ring resonator 2503 does not rely on electronics to function (as opposed to conventional sensor systems), it will be less prone to errors and failures.

[0387] In another embodiment, the split ring resonator 2604 can be used to determine driver ability and / or track driver performance. For example, if an overly excited driver accelerates quickly or an aggressive driver brakes hard, such data can be used to create a driver profile (of driver performance). For drivers who are training (and need objective data feedback), such data can be used to help the driver train (learn to drive in a more enjoyable way). In addition, such data may be relevant to auto insurance companies, where preferential rates may be associated with less aggressive driving history trends.

[0388] In this way, the split ring resonator 2604 can be used in a variety of scenarios and in a variety of ways, so that measuring tire static friction can be used not only to better control the vehicle (ensuring traction between the vehicle and the road), but also based on such collected data, can also be used for safety, driving training, insurance company rates, etc.

[0389] Fig. 272700 is a flowchart representing a process for determining tire static friction according to one embodiment. Optionally, flowchart 2700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, flowchart 2700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0390] As shown, flowchart 2700 begins by determining tire tread thickness (step 2702). Next, a current measurement is determined (step 2704). For example, the current measurement may include a deformation of a split ring resonator at the tire-road contact point. Such deformation may be measured (in the form of a frequency shift), and the overall effect (something associated with and / or implemented by the action that caused the deformation) may track the permittivity of the surrounding environment, including but not limited to water, tar, asphalt (asphalt), concrete, etc. If the current measurement matches the baseline measurement (in accordance with decision 2706), the method returns to step 2702 to determine the tire tread thickness, and returns to step 204 to determine the refractive index. When the refractive index does not match (in accordance with decision 2706), the method 2700 proceeds to step 2708 and adjusts the vehicle to achieve a match.

[0391] In one embodiment, the refractive index may involve measuring the reflectivity of each tire layer (which may use the refractive index) and determining the permittivity of each tire layer. When the tire static friction is higher, the tread thickness (and therefore the reflectivity and permittivity) will increase proportionally. If the tire static friction has been lost (i.e., traction has been lost), there will be a mismatch (i.e., disproportional reflectivity and permittivity) relative to the tire tread thickness. In this way, the tire tread thickness may be used to determine the tire static friction from the refractive index (and therefore the reflectivity) and the permittivity.

[0392] Additionally, refractive index mismatches in composite materials (particularly in tires, asphalt, plastics, rubber, metal alloys, etc.) can be used to detect variations in scattering parameters (or S-parameters, elements of a scattering matrix, etc.) of the static friction level. Such scattering parameters can be involved in stimulating (via wireless signals) one or more split ring resonators located in or on the tire (or vehicle, vehicle component, road surface, etc.). Such one or more split ring resonators can be used to obtain real-time readings of tire tread thickness (which in turn can be used to determine tire static friction, as described above).

[0393] Furthermore, the use of a split ring resonator as a basis for determining tire static friction provides a very economical, low profile solution that does not rely on electronics to function. Thus, such factors combined with high accuracy and low latency make the split ring resonator a viable solution for many applications.

[0394] Fig.28A correlation 2800 between the measurement frequency and the tread thickness according to one embodiment is shown. Optionally, the correlation 2800 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the correlation 2800 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0395] As shown, tire 2802 includes a plurality of one or more tire belt layers (in a manner consistent with tire 1002). The carbon-based microstructure incorporated into tire 2802 may include a split ring resonator. Such a split ring resonator may have a natural resonance (such as approximately 1.0 GHz), and in response to external conditions (such as driving the tire), tire 2802 may deform and / or otherwise change. The deformation and / or change in tire 2802 may be measured as a frequency response of the split ring resonator (based on the attenuation of the response).

[0396] The frequency response is shown in model 2804. In one embodiment, model 2804 may be related to the impedance spectrum energy entering and leaving the tire. Such energy (measured according to frequency) can be used to determine tire static friction. For example, the tire thickness of tire 2802 may change, such as between a natural state and an in-use driving state. During the in-use driving state, tire 2802 may have static friction (and traction) with the road surface. Such a state (with tire static friction) may be related to a matching frequency model (in one example, shown in model 2804). However, when the tire static friction is lost (i.e., tire traction loss occurs), the corresponding model 2804 may no longer match. For example, when static friction is lost, the permittivity may drop rapidly. Calibration of how static friction works under different conditions allows current readings (and reading changes) to be compared with calibration curves.

[0397] In this manner, the impedance spectrum can be used to measure frequency samples of split ring resonators found in or on a tire. It should be appreciated that while correlation 2800 is shown with respect to one embodiment of a tire, other applications (such as with respect to automotive components, automotive skins, road surface conditions, metal fatigue conditions, building materials, etc.) are contemplated in a similar manner.

[0398] Thus, a split ring resonator may be disposed in and / or on a material (including an internal component such as wiring or an external component such as road asphalt) and may be used to provide information about the material in and / or on which the split ring resonator is located.

[0399] Fig.29A portion 2900 of a carrier surface is shown in which an array of individually configured split ring resonators is disposed according to one embodiment. Optionally, portion 2900 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, portion 2900 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0400] As shown, the portion 2902 of the carrier surface may experience stress and the resulting deformation during the operation of the carrier, and the split ring resonator (split ring resonator) (in Fig.29 Shown as F 11 、F 12 、F 13 、F 21 、F 22 、F 23 , until F NN ) can be used to detect possible changes in the material under such environmental stresses and deformations. The split ring resonator can be printed or applied to the sponge material of the carrier (e.g., the vinyl wrap of the carrier), and / or a combination of the resonator and the sponge material can be placed on the entire carrier or on relevant portions of the carrier surface.

[0401] For example, a split ring resonator on a front bumper may experience changes in air pressure when the vehicle is in operation (such as during forward motion), thereby exerting a downward force on that portion of the vehicle. Under the influence of the air pressure, the material making up the surface may deform slightly and, depending on the Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 The phenomenon described exhibits a change in the resonant frequency of a material that is proportional to the degree of change or deformation of the material. Although all split ring resonators will resonate simultaneously, differences in one or more split ring resonators can be determined due to changes in pitch that can be detected by a stimulus / response comparator that can be implemented in whole or in part by a speaker / receiver or similar device.

[0402] The array or matrix of split ring resonators on the carrier surface 2902 is configured in a manner such that the frequency response of any component of the array does not conflict with an adjacent split ring resonator. Fig.30 One such configuration is shown and described below.

[0403] Fig.30 A configuration 3000 of a split ring resonator in a frequency interval is depicted according to one embodiment. Optionally, the configuration 3000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the configuration 3000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0404] As shown, the split ring resonator (shown as F 11 、F 21 , until F NN ) can each reside in a frequency interval. Since the surface containing the split ring resonator undergoes deformation due to deflection, positive or negative deflection may change the physical properties of the split ring resonator, thereby changing the natural center frequency of the component. The frequency response of the component changes in Fig.30 denoted by the Δ symbol in the figure. As shown, the resonant frequency change may not conflict with the adjacent split ring resonator even at its maximum value. Measuring the cyclic deflection over time helps detect cyclic stresses (such as buffeting) occurring on the carrier surface. Fig.31 One such example for detecting time-based deflection changes is shown and described below.

[0405] Fig.31 A graph 3100 is shown of detection of time-based deflection changes, as indicated by time-based changes in resonant frequency, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the graph 3100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the graph 3100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may equally apply to the following description.

[0406] As shown, graph 3100 illustrates that detecting time-based deflection changes via continuously measuring cyclic deflections of split ring resonators can allow analysis of stress on a given control surface of a vehicle. For example, the aforementioned technique of placing an array of split ring resonators on a control surface vehicle combined with a technique of analyzing the combined returns from the individual split ring resonators of the control surface can allow identification of areas of the surface that experience cyclic stress (e.g., buffeting). In some cases, the physical property changes are indicative of relatively high frequency, dynamically changing property changes (e.g., vibrations). Capturing a series of dynamically acquired responses / feature series and comparing them to a previously acquired calibration response / feature series can facilitate dynamic non-destructive testing. Significant differences between the two sets of features can be associated with physical property changes such as cyclic deformation (e.g., buffeting).

[0407] Fig.32 A feature classification system 3200 is depicted that processes signals received from a sensor formed of a carbon-containing tuned resonant material, according to one embodiment. Optionally, the feature classification system 3200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the feature classification system 3200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0408] In one embodiment, the feature classification system 3200 can be implemented in any physical environment. More specifically, the feature classification system 3200 illustrates an example of how to classify signals (such as features). As shown, in operation 3202, an acoustic pulse signal of a selected acoustic pulse frequency is transmitted. The acoustic pulse signal generation mechanism and the acoustic pulse transmission mechanism can be performed by any known technology. For example, the transmitter module can generate a selected frequency of 3 GHz and radiate the signal using a speaker or multiple speakers and multiple receiving antennas. The design and location of the tuned antenna can correspond to any tuned antenna geometry, material and / or location so that the intensity of the acoustic pulse is sufficient to induce (RF) resonance in the adjacent sensor. In some embodiments, several tuned antennas are disposed on or in a structural member near a corresponding sensor (such as mounted to and / or in any one or more wheel wells or vehicles). Therefore, when the adjacent surface sensor is stimulated by the acoustic pulse, it may resonate with the feature. In operation 3204, the feature can be received and stored in a data set including the received feature 3210. The sequence of acoustic pulse transmission followed by characteristic reception may be repeated in a loop to capture a set of calibration signals which may then be stored as calibration points 3212 .

[0409] The acoustic pulse wave frequency may be changed in the iteration through decision 3206 (in operation 3208). Thus, when operation 3202 is performed in a loop (via decision 3206), operation 3204 may receive and subsequently store features 3210 (including the first feature 32101, the second feature 32102, until the Nth feature 3210). N ). The number of iterations may be controlled by decision 3206. When the "no" branch of decision 3206 is taken (such as when there are no other additional acoustic pulse waves to be transmitted in the iterative loop), the received features may be provided (operation 3214) to the digital signal processing module. The digital signal processing module classifies the features against a set of calibration points 3212 (operation 3216). The calibration points may be configured to correspond to specific acoustic pulse wave frequencies. For example, the calibration points 3212 may include a first calibration point 32121 that may correspond to a first acoustic pulse wave and a first return feature near 3 GHz, a second calibration point 32122 that may correspond to a second acoustic pulse wave and a second return feature near 2 GHz, and so on for any integer value "N" calibration points.

[0410] In operation 3220, the classified signal is sent to the vehicle central processing unit. The classified signal may be relayed by the vehicle central processing unit (such as the vehicle central processing unit 116) to an upstream repository (such as the upstream component 113), which is configured to host and / or run a machine learning algorithm. Thus, a large number of stimuli related to the signal, the classified signal, and the signal response may be captured for subsequent data aggregation and processing. A database for a machine learning subsystem (e.g., a training model) may be formed or trained by providing a set of sensed measurements, which in turn are related to conditions regarding vehicle performance. Once the database is computationally prepared or "trained", during vehicle operation, the measured deflection (such as air pressure) of a specific portion of the wing component may be compared to a calibration point, and the comparison results in a frequency difference, which corresponds to a change in deflection, which in turn corresponds to a specific air pressure. Other potential conditions or diagnoses may be determined by the machine learning system. The conditions and / or diagnoses and / or supporting data may be made available to instruments in the vehicle to complete the feedback loop. In some cases, instruments in a vehicle provide a visualization that can be manipulated (such as by a driver or engineer).

[0411] Fig.33 A depiction 3300 of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a drone and / or drone platform is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 3300 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the depiction 3300 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0412] As shown, drone 3302 may include one or more split ring resonators 3304. In one embodiment, drone 3302 may be used to transport packages 3306. Of course, it should be understood that drone 3302 may be configured to transport other items (such as cameras, weather sensing instruments, animals, medical supplies, food, cargo, goods, payloads, etc.). In addition, in other embodiments, drone 3302 may be configured for military or tactical purposes (including being configured as an unmanned combat aerial vehicle). In addition, as described below, drone 3302 is configured as a manned drone, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and / or an autonomous aerial vehicle (AAV). In one embodiment, drone 3302 may be capable of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) and / or electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL).

[0413] Additionally, a drone landing pad 3308 is provided, which may include one or more split ring resonators 3312. A target location 3310 for aligning the drone 3302 with the drone landing pad 3308 is also provided.

[0414] In various embodiments, the one or more split ring resonators 3304 can be used to facilitate real-time sensing of the physical state of the drone 3302 and / or environmental conditions external to the drone 3302. Such real-time sensing can occur on a millisecond-by-millisecond basis and can be used to detect structural changes within the drone 3302 before they become a problem, and / or to change the route of the drone 3302 to reach a desired destination (such as the target location 3310). For example, in one embodiment, if a propeller on the drone 3304 is experiencing material fatigue (and is susceptible to cracking), a split ring resonator located on the propeller can determine the structural change (based on the frequency change). Additionally, any element of the drone 3302 can be monitored so that any structural change can be detected before the negative effects of the change are observed.

[0415] In another embodiment, the drone 3302 may initiate takeoff or landing at the drone landing pad 3308. Real-time sensing of the state of the drone 3302 (via the one or more split ring resonators 3304) may protect the drone 3302 and / or the drone landing pad 3308. In this way, the one or more split ring resonators 3304 may detect changes before and / or after takeoff. Note that the one or more split ring resonators 3312 on the drone landing pad 3308 may additionally be used to sense the state of the landing pad 3308 and / or the location of the drone 3302 (regardless of whether the drone 3302 has the one or more split ring resonators 3304). In addition, when landing, the one or more split ring resonators 3304 on the drone 3302 or the one or more split ring resonators 3312 on the drone landing pad 3308 may be used to determine the exact location of the drone 3302 in real time as it approaches the drone landing pad 3308. In this way, the one or more split ring resonators 3304 and / or 3312 may be used to achieve precision landing capabilities.

[0416] One or more split ring resonators 3312 of the drone landing pad 3308 may additionally be used to determine the condition of the drone landing pad 3308 so that material fatigue and / or component failure may be detected before being visually apparent.

[0417] In another case, after landing, the state of the drone 3302 may be assessed by receiving health-related data from one or more split ring resonators 3304. For example, the drone 3302 may be passed through a drone health system that may broadcast a wireless signal. Each of the one or more split ring resonators 3304 may provide a frequency response that may correspond to the structural health (in terms of material fatigue and component failure) of the drone 3302. In this way, the split ring resonators 3304 may be used to detect the health status of the drone 3302 before, during, and after takeoff and / or landing. The health status may be used to alert and / or communicate to a human / user and / or autonomous system.

[0418] In this way, an autonomous system for health checks on a fleet of drones can be implemented. When a drone arrives at a landing location, it may be inspected and evaluated. If the split ring resonator indicates a structural issue within the drone, the drone can be further inspected (e.g., manually inspected, etc.) and / or repaired. If no issues are found with the drone, it can be given a "healthy" stamp and ready to be dispatched again. In this way, ongoing management of drones can be achieved with respect to the health integrity of the fleet, which in turn can satisfy legal and social constraints on drone use (particularly within consumer airspace).

[0419] Fig.34 A depiction 3400 of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a flying vehicle is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 3400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the depiction 3400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0420] As shown, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 3402 may include split ring resonators located on aerial vehicle body 3404, structural components 3406, and / or propeller components 3408. Of course, it should be appreciated that split ring resonators may be located in and / or on any and / or all components of UAV 3404.

[0421] In various embodiments, split ring resonators (such as those located on the aerial vehicle body 3404, structural components 3406, and / or propeller components 3408) may be used to obtain real-time (at millisecond time granularity) measurements associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402, including, but not limited to, vibrations, strains, changes in dimensions and / or material properties, pressure, and temperature.

[0422] For example, with respect to vibration, a split ring resonator can read vibration frequencies (in the Hz range to hundreds of KHz). Additionally, in one embodiment, accelerometers and other non-contact displacement sensors can be used to measure low to high frequency vibrations (e.g., from very low frequencies in the low Hz range (such as in bridge-like structures) to higher vibrations such as found in supersonic applications - up to hundreds of kilohertz). With respect to strain, a split ring resonator can detect component bending / torsion and structural fatigue / failure. With respect to dimensional and / or material property changes, a split ring resonator can determine if an elastomeric component (such as, for example, elastomeric components found in tires, belts, hoses, etc.) needs to be replaced (due to wear and aging). Additionally, dimensional and / or material property changes can be used to determine the distance to the landing surface (as discussed above). Fig.33 As described above). With respect to pressure, a split ring resonator can be used to detect air pressure, differential air pressure, and / or periodic changes in air pressure. Additionally, with respect to temperature, a split ring resonator can detect both surface temperature and component internal temperature.

[0423] Thus, split ring resonators found in or on components in the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402 may be used to detect parameter measurements associated with the health of the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402. Furthermore, more than one measurement may be received simultaneously. For example, each split ring resonator may provide a frequency response in response to a wireless acoustic pulse. In one case, such a frequency response may be calibrated for pressure measurements, while in another case, another frequency response may be calibrated for material property changes. Thus, responses from all split ring resonators may be received, which in turn may provide simultaneous results for all sensor parameters associated with the unmanned aerial vehicle 3402.

[0424] Fig.35 A depiction 3500 of a split ring resonator and landing position sensor disposed in and / or on a flying vehicle according to one embodiment is shown. Optionally, the depiction 3500 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the depiction 3500 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0425] As shown, the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 may be capable of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL and / or eVTOL). It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 may be configured for other take-off capabilities (e.g., conventional take-off and landing, short take-off and landing, etc.).

[0426] One or more split ring resonators may be found on unmanned aerial vehicle 3502, including on aerial vehicle body 3504, structural members 3506, and / or landing gear 3508. Fig.34Consistently, the one or more split ring resonators may be located anywhere on the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 (and in any desired number) and may be used to provide sensor-related information.

[0427] As an example, split ring resonators located on the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502 may be distributed across the surface. Additionally, lightweight antennas may be additionally distributed throughout the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502. In one embodiment, the split ring resonators and antennas may be redundant (particularly for critical components, for safety constraints, etc.). Such split ring resonators may provide real-time simultaneous sensing (in milliseconds). Additionally, conditional signatures may be associated with simultaneous feedback responses from the split ring resonators. For example, conditional signatures may be associated with component failures, external conditions (weather, flight patterns, etc.), etc. Additionally, the split ring resonators may be arranged to allow for triangulation positioning to aid in precision landing (as discussed herein). Fig.33 consistent with the description).

[0428] To this end, the split ring resonator may include a position sensor 3512 that can be used to calculate landing gear flex 3510, surface flex 3518, propeller flex 3514, and / or air pressure 3516. As emphasized elsewhere, the split ring resonator may be used in any capacity related to takeoff, flight, landing, management, etc. of the unmanned aerial vehicle 3502, including but not limited to torsion, tire wear, airspeed, air pressure, flexing of vehicle components, etc.

[0429] In one embodiment, position sensor 3512 can be used to pinpoint a location for precision landing. In addition, split ring resonator 3522 located in and / or on ground surface 3520 can be used to help achieve precision landing.

[0430] Fig.36A and Fig.36B Two depictions 3600 of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on an aircraft are shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the two depictions 3600 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the two depictions 3600 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0431] As shown, aircraft 3602 includes one or more split ring resonators located in and / or on various locations of aircraft 3602, including but not limited to engine 3604 (jet, propeller, etc.), wing 3606, horizontal stabilizer 3608, fuselage 3610, and / or tire 3612. It should be understood that any number of split ring resonators can be found on aircraft 3602, and the purposes of the split ring resonators may be different. For example, a split ring resonator located at the front of aircraft 3602 can be used to collect external weather conditions (air pressure, temperature, wind speed, etc.), a split ring resonator located on the tire can be used to determine tread life and status, and / or a split ring resonator located in the engine can be used to ensure safety and avoid material fatigue. In some embodiments, condition signatures can be created and related to known conditions (weather patterns, signs of material fatigue, etc.). In addition, frequencies from split ring resonators can be used for more than one condition signature at the same time. For example, a split ring resonator can be used to determine tread thickness, and can also be used for static friction measurement, water slide detection, etc.

[0432] It should be appreciated that while commercial aircraft are shown in both depictions 3600, any aircraft (commercial, military, personal, etc.) may be applicable. Additionally, the use of split ring resonators in an aircraft may provide continuous millisecond-scale changes prior to takeoff, continuously during flight, and during landing. Such changes may include structural parameter changes (e.g., fatigue thresholds, impending component failure, etc.), which in turn may result in alerts to systems and individuals. For example, triggering an alert may result in an aircraft avoiding an aircraft, or landing safely before an impending failure event occurs.

[0433] Fig.37A Drawing 3700 shows a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a rocket according to one embodiment. Optionally, drawing 3700 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, drawing 3700 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0434] As shown, spacecraft 3702 may include one or more split ring resonators located throughout spacecraft 3702, including, but not limited to, wings 3704, elevons 3714, engines 3708, flight deck 3710, and / or cargo hold 3708. It should be appreciated that any number of split ring resonators may be found in spacecraft 3702.

[0435] The use of split ring resonators in a spacecraft can provide continuous millisecond changes before takeoff, continuously during flight, and during reentry. Such changes may include structural parameter changes (e.g., fatigue thresholds, impending component failures, etc.), which in turn can cause alarms to be issued to systems and individuals. In addition, a spacecraft (commonly referred to as an orbiter) is typically attached to a rocket booster. In general, a structural failure of any component on a spacecraft or rocket booster will typically result in a complete failure of the spacecraft and rocket booster. However, the use of a split ring resonator will ensure that any structural parameter changes (to the spacecraft or rocket booster) can be detected before affecting the spacecraft or rocket booster. In some embodiments, the structural parameter changes may cause the spacecraft to detach from the rocket booster to retain one or the other (based on the identified structural parameter changes).

[0436] Fig.37B A depiction 3701 of a split ring resonator disposed in and / or on a rocket and / or landing platform is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 3701 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the depiction 3701 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may apply equally to the following description.

[0437] As shown, spacecraft 3709 may be attached to rocket booster 3707. Split ring resonators may be located and seen on each of spacecraft 3709 and rocket booster 3707. In addition, a launch pad for spacecraft 3709 and rocket booster 3707 is shown, including launch platform 3703, flame pit 3711, platform frame 3713, and / or launch service structure 3705. Split ring resonators may be located and seen throughout each component of the launch pad depicted 3701. In this way, split ring resonators located in and / or on various parts of the launch pad can be used to detect structural parameter changes (e.g., fatigue thresholds, impending component failures, etc.), which in turn can lead to alerts to systems and individuals. For example, a structural failure (in any component) may result in a launch abort. Additionally, after the launch begins (but before liftoff), a structural failure may additionally result in a launch abort. Therefore, any structural failure (at any point) may be a basis for a launch abort and / or corrective action.

[0438] In this way, an early warning system may be based on split ring resonators found throughout a launch pad, spacecraft and / or rocket booster and / or any components associated therewith, and real-time data may be obtained to ensure that any detected changes are safely repaired.

[0439] In addition, for any type of aerial vehicle, the split ring resonator can be used as a low-cost resonant sensor for ensuring safety. For example, the split ring resonator can be used to detect excessive vibration of a component, detect and monitor microcracks in a material, monitor the local temperature of a non-metallic component surface (providing instantaneous values ​​and historical / periodic changes), monitor the local temperature within a non-metallic component (providing instantaneous values ​​and historical / periodic changes), provide precise positioning accuracy (e.g., for precision landing), and / or can be mounted into a material, mounted onto a surface, and / or mounted under a surface (such as a painted surface).

[0440] Fig.38A 3800 is a flowchart relating to reporting feedback from a split ring resonator according to one embodiment. Optionally, the flowchart 3800 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the flowchart 3800 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0441] Flowchart 3800 relates to an embodiment in which sensor data is received from one or more split ring resonators and in response, one or more actions are taken.

[0442] As shown, flowchart 3800 begins by receiving sensor data from a calibrated sensor (step 3802). The calibrated sensor may include one or more split ring resonators calibrated based on natural resonance. A determination is made (decision 3804) as to whether the sensor data is within a predetermined range. For example, the sensor data may be associated with a condition signature (where a known deviation is associated with a known fault and / or condition). If the sensor data is within range (or within an allowable condition signature), the method returns to continuously receiving sensor data (per step 3802). Of course, the time interval for receiving sensor data may be predetermined and / or adjusted as needed.

[0443] If the sensor data is not within range, then the flowchart 3800 proceeds to reduce the test time interval period (step 3806). In one embodiment, step 3806 may be optional. For example, the test time interval period may already be nearly continuous (per step 3802), in which case it may not be necessary to reduce the test time interval period. In response to step 3806 (or concurrently with the step), an alarm may be triggered (step 3808), and a report may be generated (step 3810).

[0444] In some embodiments, alerts and / or reports related to out-of-range sensor data may be used to notify and / or alert a human (e.g., an operator, supervisor, etc.), saved to a repository (e.g., a storage device, etc.), notify and / or alert an organization (e.g., an EPA, a department of motor vehicles, etc.), etc. It is contemplated that such out-of-range sensor data may also be used to trigger automated actions (e.g., an AI-integrated system, etc.), cause automated settings changes to a vehicle (or device in which a split ring resonator is located), and / or take any other automated action (without requiring human intervention).

[0445] Fig.38B 3812 is a flowchart 3812 related to landing an aerial vehicle and / or drone using a split ring resonator according to one embodiment. Optionally, the flowchart 3812 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any of the previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the flowchart 3812 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0446] Flowchart 3812 is one embodiment of receiving sensor data from one or more split ring resonators (located on-site) to assist in precision landing capabilities. It should be appreciated that a similar flow can be created for the use of split ring resonators located on a flying vehicle (rather than relying on on-site sensors).

[0447] As shown, flowchart 3812 begins with the flying vehicle approaching a landing site (step 3814). A determination is made as to whether the flying vehicle is within a set range (such as a predetermined distance from the landing site) (decision 3816). In one embodiment, determining whether the flying vehicle is within the set range (per decision 3816) may rely, at least in part, on a split ring resonator located on the flying vehicle.

[0448] Once the aerial vehicle is within the set range, data may be received from the on-site sensors (step 3818). Data from such on-site sensors may be sent to the aerial vehicle so that position adjustments may be implemented (decision 3820). When no further changes in position are required, the aerial vehicle may land (step 3822). Of course, it should be appreciated that decision 3820 may occur continuously as the aerial vehicle approaches the landing pad so that real-time adjustments may be made to the aerial vehicle's position.

[0449] In one embodiment, on-site sensors may be used (per step 3818) to triangulate the exact location of the flying vehicle. As can be appreciated, flow chart 3812 provides just one example of how a split ring resonator may be used and aid in landing a flying vehicle.

[0450] Fig.39Drawing 3900 shows a metamaterial in a dielectric matrix and its associated circuitry according to one embodiment. Optionally, drawing 3900 can be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, drawing 3900 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0451] Within the context of this specification, a metamaterial may include any material that is engineered to have physical properties not found in naturally occurring materials.

[0452] As shown in SEM image 3902, metamaterials can be tuned in a dielectric matrix. For example, metamaterials can be selected for frequency selective properties, including cases where the metamaterials are inherently tuned and structured in the application. In addition, metamaterials can provide frequency selective conductivity rather than DC conductivity. In addition, such metamaterials can conduct electricity and maintain a connection without contact (unlike standard conductive inks / sheets / coatings that must be in contact to conduct electricity and maintain a connection).

[0453] The arrangement of the tuned metametal in a dielectric matrix (per SEM image 3902) can be shown via lumped circuit 3904, where a series resistance with minimum impedance at the resonant frequency or a parallel resistance with maximum impedance at the resonant frequency can be achieved. It should be appreciated that the arrangement of the metamaterial can be arranged as a series resistance and / or a parallel resistance.

[0454] In various embodiments, the metamaterial in a dielectric matrix may be arranged in a split ring resonator 3906, which may be represented in a circuit-type configuration 3908. Such a configuration 3908 may include an inductor associated with the ring, and a capacitor associated with the gap of the split ring resonator. Such a configuration may be described in the same manner as discussed above. Figure 24B1 and Figure 24B2 A consistent way to understand.

[0455] Using metamaterials as frequency selective materials can allow for continued bending (of the material) without degradation of the electrical conductance. Additionally, frequency tuning can allow for increased signal-to-noise ratios for better detection and resolution. Furthermore, other parameters (temperature, stress strain, etc.) can be directly measured via stretching, deformation, and / or temperature readings of the dielectric matrix.

[0456] In this way, metamaterials can be used in and / or on split ring resonators, which in turn can provide frequency selective conductivity rather than being DC conductive. Additionally, the high frequency conductivity of metamaterials can allow for use in split ring resonators.

[0457] Fig.40A depiction 4000 of a split ring resonator embedded in an open or closed cell material is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 4000 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the depiction 4000 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0458] As shown, the split ring resonator 4006 can be embedded between the first layer 4002 and the second layer 4004. In various embodiments, the material of the first layer and / or the second layer can include an open-cell or closed-cell (selected or coated) material. Such a material can have a specific permittivity that is a mixed permittivity of the material and the air in the pores within the material itself, so that when the airflow is compressed, the foam drives the air out and the total permittivity becomes that of the material (open-cell or closed-cell foam). Since the permittivity of the material is much higher than air, compression of the material will cause the frequency to shift down.

[0459] To describe this from an alternative perspective, embedding the split ring resonator 4006 in the foam-based material allows for a larger resonant frequency (compared to the case where the split ring resonator responded alone.) This larger resonant frequency is at least partially due to deformation of the foam-based material and has a direct and large correlation to the change in the permittivity of the foam-based material when deformation occurs.

[0460] Additionally, in another embodiment, a split ring resonator can be printed on top of an open or closed cell material foam, with the ground plane on the back and the foam material between the top and ground plane layers. The distance between the front sensor and the ground plane (with the foam in the middle) can cause a frequency shift (like a capacitor). In this way, the foam material can act as a pressure sensor, and the presence of the foam can be used to shift the resonant frequency up or down. For example, if the foam element deforms or deflects (pushed in or pulled out), the foam element can be measured based on the changes in the split ring resonator.

[0461] Thus, as detailed herein, a split ring resonator can provide a response to a wireless acoustic pulse / chirp / interrogation. Additionally, using a foam-based material to enclose the split ring resonator can amplify the response of the split ring resonator. Likewise, the deformation of a foam-based material is greater than, for example, a semi-rigid material, which in turn translates into a larger permittivity difference (again comparing a foam-based material to a semi-rigid material). Figure 24B4In the context of , foam-based materials can have a similar type of response (using the y-axis coordinate to measure the permittivity rather than the frequency). Additionally, in one embodiment, such permittivity can be monopolar or bipolar. For example, in some cases (e.g., in turbulent flow conditions), there may be positive and negative pressures on the surface. Within the context of this specification, a semi-rigid material refers to a stiff material that is capable of bending. A foam-based material refers to a porous sponge material. Comparing a semi-rigid material to a foam-based material, a foam-based material is capable of greater compression and deformation (given its sponge form). Therefore, using a foam-based material in conjunction with a split ring resonator (as detailed herein) can allow for greater response amplification (which in turn can be associated with an instrument that can operate at lower frequencies and power levels).

[0462] Thus, the combination of a split ring resonator with an accompanying material and / or substrate (e.g., semi-rigid material, foam-based material, concrete, rubber, polymer, etc.) may have an integral effect. In the context of this specification, the integral effect refers to the frequency response of the split ring resonator in combination with the accompanying material and / or substrate.

[0463] Fig.41 A depiction 4100 of a pressure sensor using an open or closed cell material is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 4100 may be implemented in the context of any one or more of the embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the depiction 4100 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0464] Functionally, wave pulses may propagate from antennas (located on the vehicle 4104 and / or surrounding objects / locations), which in turn may impinge on objects (such as non-optimized sensors 4104) having real and virtual physical material components that reflect or absorb energy. This in turn may produce a form of simulated telemetry via wireless communications (where transmission of temperature, pressure, and / or other measurements may be made by reflection or absorption of the wave pulses), which in turn may provide remote, low-cost parameter sensing of the real world.

[0465] Actual testing of vehicle 4102 using sensor data is shown in Fig.42 middle.

[0466] Fig.42 A depiction 4200 of wind pressure sensing data using open or closed cell materials is shown according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 4200 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or descriptions thereof. However, of course, the depiction 4200 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0467] As shown, the diagram 4200 is about wind pressure sensing data based on a vehicle (such as vehicle 4102). The wind pressure sensor can be used with Fig.40 In addition, it should be understood that Fig.42 A single use case scenario is shown (for wind pressure). Similar sensed data can be obtained for other metrics (temperature, pressure, velocity, etc.).

[0468] Plot 4200 shows three use case scenarios: (1) frequency based on the vehicle not moving; (2) frequency based on the vehicle accelerating on a straight track; and (3) frequency based on the vehicle decelerating while turning. As can be observed, each use case scenario produces a separate and different frequency measurement. As described above, such frequency measurements may be related to conditional characteristics. In addition, the number of stars found on each line indicates the maximum / minimum data point.

[0469] Fig.43 A drawing 4300 showing paths and circuits related to frequency selective conductivity according to one embodiment is shown. Optionally, the drawing 4300 can be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or the description thereof. However, of course, the drawing 4300 can be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions are equally applicable to the following description.

[0470] As shown, depiction 4300 includes image 4301 of a current material 4302 and a metamaterial 4304. As can be observed, the current material requires a DC current based on a direct connection to allow current to flow. Such a current material can be represented by circuit 4306. In contrast to such conventional systems, the use of metamaterial 4304 can allow conductivity to be achieved via resistive and reactive paths. Such paths can be based on indirect connections (where each path and / or node does not need to be in contact) to conduct electricity. Circuit 4308 represents the use of metamaterials to establish conductivity.

[0471] Fig.44 A depiction 4400 is shown that may be suitable for many industries using split ring resonators according to one embodiment. Optionally, the depiction 4400 may be implemented in the context of any one or more embodiments set forth in any previous and / or subsequent figures and / or their descriptions. However, of course, the depiction 4400 may be implemented in the context of any desired environment. Furthermore, the above definitions may also apply to the following description.

[0472] As shown, the plot 4400 includes various exemplary worldwide industry applications where the resonant frequency shift associated with the split ring resonator can provide early detection capabilities for hundreds of potential scenarios, thus providing the ability to remediate and adjust where potential problems may be found. Data associated with the resonant frequency shift of the split ring resonator can be applied to nearly every industry and market, including but not limited to: utilities, space travel and exploration, agriculture, power generation, manufacturing, vehicle safety, commercial tire dynamics, professional sports, forging, construction, molecular analysis and degradation, biomedical, battery composition, flight and / or aviation, marine, consumer packaged goods, bridges and roads, etc. Some of these industries (and the applicability of the split ring resonator) are detailed herein.

[0473] In order to be as precise as possible, and to illustrate the potential applicability of the use of split ring resonators (and the resonant frequency shifts associated therewith) to many other industries, additional material is provided below.

[0474] As discussed earlier, split ring resonators can be embedded in other materials (in addition to Fig.22A2 Concrete barriers and / or Fig.22A3 In some cases, taking action may depend on a processor that interprets the resonant frequency shift from the split ring resonator and, in response, initiates an action (e.g., a command to take action to modify an environmental condition, etc.). In other embodiments, action may be taken without the use of an external processor. For example, items that must be kept within a predetermined temperature may be transported. To determine the integrity of the temperature when an item is being transported, a temperature sensor embedded with a split ring resonator may be attached to the item, and if the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, deformation of the sensor may result in a physical manifestation (color change, deformed indicator, etc.) Thus, environmental changes or manifestations may be directly correlated to the state of the split ring resonator.

[0475] In one embodiment, aviation related applications may include detecting material stress, temperature or vibration levels approaching or exceeding known tolerances as the aircraft experiences subsonic, transonic, supersonic and hypersonic speeds. The use of split ring resonators in and on the surfaces of wings (including ailerons, elevators and rudders) can detect air pressure above and below the wing surface, temperature increases and decreases, surface area distortion and even potential material rupture or failure, thus providing an opportunity to alert pilots and ground personnel to potential hazards to the aircraft before any catastrophic events may occur and provide sufficient time to respond and correct airspeed, lift, flight attitude, payload shedding, etc. In addition, applicable embodiments may include fixed wing configurations combined with wing blades, using split ring resonators in and on the blades to measure air pressure above and below the wing surface to determine the optimal extension or retraction of the wing, thus providing an opportunity to adjust flight parameters and maximize aircraft performance. In another embodiment in aviation, split ring resonators are used in and on the surface of a wing (including ailerons, elevators and rudders) to detect at what point the harmonics or geometry of the wing surface begins to deform and turn smooth air into turbulence.

[0476] In yet another embodiment, aviation-related applications may include aircraft jet engine turbofan and propeller engine tolerance measurements and potential hazards of exceeding these tolerances. For example, split ring resonators may be used in nearly every engine component, including casings and fairings, to provide temperature changes, vibration frequency increases and decreases, material bending or distortion, air intake, fuel intake, combustion, manifold pressure, oil pressure, compression and / or exhaust measurements. For example, a split ring resonator on the surface area of ​​an engine propeller may detect and provide indications of general measurements (like angular rotational speed, axial and / or centrifugal airflow and torque) and more potential threat analysis measurements (like excessive stress or bending experienced by propeller and fan blades, microscopic stress fractures formed in propeller and fan blades, excessive temperatures, engine lubricant viscosity decomposition rate and degree, etc.), thereby alerting the pilot that corrective action may be immediately needed to prevent an impending or final engine failure and enabling maintenance personnel to determine possible appropriate remedial actions to be taken during the maintenance cycle.

[0477] In yet another embodiment, aviation related applications may include fixed and separable (modular) fuselage integrity measurement parameters and changes due to internal and external forces during flight and on the ground. Split ring resonators may be used within the fuselage and on the fuselage surface to detect varying degrees of distortion due to internal and external air pressure, temperature changes, increases and decreases in vibration frequency experienced during takeoff (or landing), increases and decreases in altitude, and / or increases and decreases in airspeed, and provide early warning of possible structural failures in metals and / or composite materials associated therewith before a catastrophic event may occur.

[0478] In one embodiment, biomedical related applications may include detecting slight changes and / or excessive wear of components in a patient's prosthesis. Through the use of a split ring resonator, small (even microscopic) changes in the composition and / or shape of prosthetic components can be detected and addressed early, perhaps even before the patient experiences any pain or discomfort. For example, a fixed-bearing or mobile-bearing knee prosthesis used in a knee replacement may develop slight misalignments or distortions due to stresses from weight bearing and / or other environmental effects, which may cause the recipient to experience pain or discomfort. More specifically, the use of a split ring resonator in conjunction with the contact surfaces of the femoral and / or tibial components of a prosthetic knee can reveal subtle differences in pressure and / or stress points and the possible degradation of the polyethylene articulating surfaces associated therewith, thereby alerting medical personnel that adjustments, maintenance, and / or complete modifications may be required to maximize patient comfort and stability.

[0479] In another embodiment, biomedical related applications may include detecting possible deviations in position, flow, and / or range of motion of any of dozens or hundreds of medical implants in a post-operative setting. In one example, one or more split ring resonators may be utilized to ensure that an artificial heart valve implant does not shift or shift position during operation and / or does not block and potentially restrict the free flow of non-oxygenated or oxygenated blood into or out of the heart itself, thereby causing serious harm or fatal consequences to the patient. If placed on or within the valve implant and the arterial wall adjacent thereto, the split ring resonator may alert the patient and / or medical staff to small or large abnormalities that require adjustment or modification to restore proper heart valve function, possibly even before the patient experiences any noticeable symptoms.

[0480] In yet another embodiment, biomedical related applications may include detecting the effectiveness or need for adjusting an orthotic device designed to improve, constrain, reduce and / or support or enhance a patient's range of motion and comfort. The use of a split ring resonator in an orthotic application can help correct or counteract the loss or reduction of a patient's otherwise normal gait affected by significant neurological dysfunction and / or injury or trauma. In one such example, a split ring resonator mounted in and on a carbon fiber and / or other composite ankle and / or foot orthotic device (with a corresponding knee orthotic device having an extended swing assist mechanism) can detect stress, pressure and / or range of motion outside of acceptable parameter values, thereby indicating the need for further adjustment to achieve the desired level of footfall correction, knee support, improved balance, enhanced proprioception and improved gait biomechanics for the patient.

[0481] In yet another embodiment, pers...

Claims

1. An adhesive comprising: at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator embedded within a material constituting at least a portion of the adhesive, wherein the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator is formed from a composite material; Wherein the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator comprises a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to an electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level within the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator.

2. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator comprises at least one split ring resonator (SRR).

3. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein the resonance is an electromagnetic return signal indicative of a state of the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator.

4. The adhesive of claim 3, wherein the state of the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator indicates at least one of exposure to an analyte, exposure to a biological material, or exposure to radiation.

5. The adhesive of claim 3, wherein the state of the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator is correlated to indicate a maximum value of at least one of exposure to an analyte, exposure to a biological material, or exposure to radiation.

6. The adhesive of claim 3, wherein the state comprises absorption or adsorption into the material.

7. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein the adhesive is configured to resonate at a first frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the material is in a first state, and is configured to resonate at a second frequency in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse when the material is in a second state.

8. The adhesive of claim 7, wherein the adhesive is configured to indicate a degree of adsorption into the material by generating a first electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse, and is configured to indicate a lack of adsorption into the material by generating a second electromagnetic return signal in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse.

9. The adhesive of claim 2, wherein a first set of the one or more SRRs comprises a plurality of first carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a sensed concentration level of a first analyte.

10. The adhesive of claim 9, wherein a second set of the one or more SRRs comprises a second plurality of carbon particles configured to uniquely resonate in response to the electromagnetic acoustic pulse based at least in part on a concentration level of a second analyte.

11. The adhesive of claim 10, wherein at least one of the following is present: Each of the first carbon particles and the second carbon particles in the plurality of first carbon particles is chemically bonded to the material; Each of the first carbon particles in the plurality of first carbon particles includes first aggregates forming a first porous structure; or The second carbon particles include second aggregates forming a second porous structure.

12. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein at least three instances of the adhesive are used to triangulate the position of the adhesive.

13. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein the adhesive is configured to be applied to one of: a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, a drone, a manned drone, a commercial aircraft, a military aircraft, a vehicle, a robot, a body, a box, a personal electronic device, a tool box, a household appliance, or a rocket.

14. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein the composite material comprises a 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth.

15. The adhesive of claim 14, wherein a tuned resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth is based at least in part on one or more physical properties of the material.

16. The adhesive of claim 14, wherein a resonant frequency of the 3D monolithic carbonaceous growth is based at least in part on either or both of a permittivity and a magnetic permeability of the material.

17. The adhesive of claim 3, wherein the electromagnetic return signal has a first frequency and the second electromagnetic return signal has a second frequency different from the first frequency.

18. The adhesive of claim 1 further comprising a protective layer over the material.

19. The adhesive of claim 1, wherein the at least one mesoscale or microscale resonator comprises an array of two or more split ring resonators.

20. The adhesive of claim 19, wherein each split ring resonator of the array is configured to detect at least one of a specific predetermined analyte, a biological agent, a radioisotope, or a specific predetermined volatile substance.

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