Hydromechanical concrete shrinkage measurement device

Abstract

The "Hydromechanical Concrete Shrinkage Measurement Device" is a novel method and device designed to accurately measure the shrinkage of concrete in real-time, eliminating the need for traditional electrical deformation sensors. This invention introduces a hydromechanical method that detects tension deformations caused by concrete shrinkage within its matrix. As the concrete shrinks, the device responds to volumetric changes in a liquid-filled plastic container embedded within the concrete. These changes result in the liquid rising through a narrow tube, with the level of liquid directly correlating to the longitudinal deformation of the concrete matrix. The core of the device features an innovative internal mechanism, including a T-shaped inverted capillary tube system constructed from PVC or a similarly deformable material. This design allows for precise real-time measurements of shrinkage without relying on sensitive electronic components, making it robust and simple for use in both laboratory and construction field settings.

Description

[0001] Hydromechanical Concrete Shrinkage Measurement Device

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention pertains to the field of civil and construction engineering, with a particular focus on advanced measurement technologies for structural materials. Specifically, it addresses concrete technology by introducing a novel method for monitoring concrete shrinkage, a crucial factor in determining the durability and longterm performance of concrete structures. The invention is designed to provide accurate, real-time shrinkage measurements under varying environmental and structural conditions, thus improving the quality control, safety, and longevity of civil infrastructure. This system offers a critical advancement in the tools available to construction professionals and engineers for assessing concrete behavior during both the early curing stages and throughout its lifecycle.

[0004] Prior Art:

[0005] Existing patented technologies have approached the problem of concrete shrinkage through various methods, including chemical additives, curing enhancements, and optimized mixing processes. These innovations primarily focus on reducing the occurrence of shrinkage and improving concrete performance. However, few solutions have addressed the real-time, in-situ measurement of shrinkage during critical construction phases, leaving a gap in the market for a highly accurate, nonelectronic monitoring system such as the one proposed by this invention.

[0006] In the rapidly evolving field of concrete technology, numerous patents have emerged that address the challenges of measuring and managing concrete shrinkage. These innovations vary in their approaches, ranging from mechanical systems to advanced sensor technologies. This section reviews key patents in this domain, highlighting their contributions and limitations, ultimately setting the stage for the introduction of a novel solution that enhances accuracy, efficiency, and practicality in concrete shrinkage measurement.

[0007] In Patent No. US20140060391 A1 , the invention introduces a shrinkagecompensating concrete that eliminates the need for restraint elements. The expansive forces generated during hydration counteract shrinkage, allowing for the creation of crack-free slabs without steel bars or fibers. While this patent addresses the internal structure of concrete through chemical composition, our patent contributes by providing a mechanical solution for real-time, precise measurement of concrete shrinkage. Unlike US20140060391 A1 , which focuses on reducing shrinkage internally, our invention enables continuous monitoring of shrinkage, offering a complementary method to ensure long-term performance in various environmental conditions. This allows for dynamic control and adjustment during the construction process, enhancing both quality control and efficiency in real-time.

[0008] In Patent No. CN216956045U, the device is designed to accommodate various sizes of concrete blocks, allowing for adjustments to test shrinkage and expansion. While this patent offers a flexible solution for different block sizes, our patent stands out with its innovative hydromechanical design, utilizing a capillary tube system to displace fluid based on applied stress. This approach provides greater accuracy and simplicity compared to CN216956045U’s method, which still relies on mechanical components that need recalibration and repositioning for different samples. Our design’s simplicity eliminates the need for complex recalibrations, offering seamless, continuous measurements that are particularly useful in on-site applications. This novel mechanism not only improves ease of use but also ensures consistent and reliable data for real-time analysis during the concrete curing process.

[0009] In Patent No. EP1903014B1 , the concrete composition is designed to minimize shrinkage by incorporating a hydraulic binder that includes cement, fine particulate materials, and an expansive agent, along with larger granular elements. While this patent addresses shrinkage through a well-rounded mixture, our patent introduces an innovative hydromechanical design that utilizes a capillary tube system for more precise measurements of shrinkage and expansion. This method enhances accuracy and simplifies the testing process compared to the fixed ratios of ingredients in EP1903014B1 , which may still require adjustments based on specific environmental conditions. Our approach ensures seamless, real-time monitoring during the curing process, ultimately providing more reliable data for assessing concrete performance.

[0010] In Patent No. CN210233432U, a motorized concrete curing box is introduced, enhancing the efficiency of concrete curing by allowing for easy switching between movable and fixed modes. While this patent focuses on the efficiency of curing, our patent addresses the need for accurate shrinkage measurement during curing. By incorporating a hydromechanical mechanism with capillary tubes, our patent adds a new dimension to the curing process — enabling real-time shrinkage monitoring without the need for electronic systems. This approach ensures that concrete not only cures efficiently but also that any shrinkage is immediately detected and managed, which is crucial for long-term structural integrity.

[0011] In Patent No. CN209327352U, a laser sensor system is used to detect concrete shrinkage in real-time as the concrete moves on a conveyor. This approach provides precision but relies on optical technology that may be less practical in harsh on-site environments. Our patent differentiates itself with a hydromechanical system that uses fluid displacement, offering a simpler, more robust solution suited to varied and challenging environments. By removing the need for complex laser systems or electronic calibration, our patent ensures higher durability and ease of use in realtime concrete shrinkage testing on construction sites.

[0012] In Patent No. CN104764765A, the concrete shrinkage tester employs a transparent conical container with a scale ruler to measure shrinkage visually. While this patent provides a simple solution, our patent offers a more advanced and continuous measurement system through fluid displacement in a capillary tube. Our patent’s realtime monitoring capability eliminates the need for visual readings and manual intervention, providing a more automated and precise solution for shrinkage measurement that requires no specialized knowledge or equipment to operate. This makes our system more applicable for frequent, large-scale use in dynamic environments like construction sites.

[0013] The Concrete Shrinkage and Expansion Tester in Patent No. CN216956045U offers adjustable splicing blocks to accommodate various block sizes during shrinkage testing. However, this setup still requires mechanical adjustments and recalibrations based on the test block size. Our patent, by contrast, uses an automated fluid displacement system that adapts in real-time to concrete shrinkage without manual intervention. This novel approach eliminates the need for adjustments, providing a more user-friendly and efficient method for accurate shrinkage measurement across varying concrete sizes, all while maintaining precision without frequent recalibrations. In Patent No. CN107632143A, the tester uses a sliding baffle plate and displacement meter to measure shrinkage, which is connected to a data analysis device. While this provides detailed data, the reliance on sliding mechanical parts and electronic systems increases the risk of wear and tear over time. Our patent improves upon this by offering a hydromechanical solution that avoids such complexities. By using a fluidbased system with fewer moving parts, our patent provides a more durable and low- maintenance solution while still delivering accurate and continuous data on concrete shrinkage, extending the lifespan of the device in practical use.

[0014] In Patent No. CN217879196U, a locking assembly ensures that cement does not seep through gaps in the cylindrical mold during shrinkage tests. While this patent focuses on sealing and preventing leakage, our patent takes a more innovative approach by using a hydromechanical system to measure shrinkage. The precision and real-time feedback offered by our design go beyond simply preventing leakage, allowing for dynamic and continuous monitoring of shrinkage during the curing process, significantly improving quality control in construction projects.

[0015] Patent No. CN212748925U addresses the challenge of protecting measuring probes from damage during concrete shrinkage testing by using a movable plate and sleeve system. While this patent focuses on preserving the equipment, our patent eliminates such concerns altogether by using fluid-based measurement technology. Without the need for sensitive electronic probes or moving mechanical parts, our patent offers a more resilient and long-lasting solution, ensuring that accurate measurements can be made reliably over extended periods in real-time conditions without the risk of equipment failure.

[0016] In Patent No. CN215491382U, a dilatometer with a foundation plate, test rod, and dial indicator is used to measure shrinkage and expansion. While effective, this system requires manual adjustments and can be labor-intensive. Our patent, in contrast, provides a fully automated hydromechanical solution that uses fluid displacement to track shrinkage continuously. This hands-free operation is significantly more efficient and labor-saving, making our patent’s method ideal for large-scale and frequent testing without the need for manual repositioning or realignment of test samples. In Patent No. CN207318494U, a sliding damper system with rollers and a displacement meter for concrete shrinkage measurement is connected to a computer for data collection. While effective in a controlled environment, the reliance on mechanical sliding systems increases the potential for mechanical failure or inaccuracies over time. Our hydromechanical method removes the need for such complex mechanisms, offering a more stable and reliable solution. With continuous real-time measurements through fluid displacement, our patent ensures long-term accuracy and durability, particularly in construction environments where frequent testing is required.

[0017] The current hydromechanical concrete shrinkage measurement system distinguishes itself through its innovative design and technological advancements in assessing shrinkage across various concrete elements. Unlike existing patents, which are typically restricted to laboratory settings or rely on complex sensor systems, our system utilizes a fluid displacement mechanism to provide real-time shrinkage measurements in field applications. This approach ensures continuous data collection and immediate insights into concrete performance, enhancing quality control and structural integrity. Our system’s capacity to dynamically respond to environmental conditions during the curing process positions it as a comprehensive solution for effective concrete management, yielding significant benefits for construction efficiency and durability.

[0018] Description

[0019] The Hydromechanical Concrete Shrinkage Measurement Device is an innovative tool designed to accurately measure the shrinkage of concrete in real-time, utilizing hydromechanical principles rather than traditional electronic sensors. The invention operates by detecting volumetric changes in concrete as it undergoes shrinkage during the curing process. A plastic container filled with liquid is embedded within the concrete matrix. As shrinkage occurs, it causes tension that results in the displacement of the liquid within the system, making the level of liquid rise through a narrow capillary tube. This rise directly correlates to the deformation of the concrete, allowing for precise measurement of shrinkage. The core mechanism of the device includes a T-shaped, inverted capillary tube system made from PVC or a similarly flexible material. This design ensures that liquid displacement is directly proportional to the longitudinal deformation of the concrete, offering continuous and accurate readings without requiring electrical components or sensors. This device is particularly useful in environments where traditional electronic sensors may be unsuitable due to harsh environmental conditions, moisture, or temperature fluctuations. The mechanical nature of the device makes it robust and easy to use in both laboratory and field settings, providing a reliable and low-maintenance solution for monitoring concrete shrinkage at various stages of curing.

[0020] Description of the Invention

[0021] The present invention introduces a connected tube that displaces fluid based on the applied stress, indicating the shrinkage rate of concrete samples. Notably, this device and method do not require strain sensors, software, or specialized technology to record volumetric shrinkage data, making it a highly practical solution for construction site applications. This innovation ensures accessible, real-time measurements of concrete shrinkage, enabling better quality control during the construction process and providing a reliable alternative to lab-based methods. The invention is named the Hydromechanical Concrete Shrinkage Measurement Device, designed to facilitate accurate measurement of the shrinkage rate of fresh concrete directly at construction sites. Typically, concrete shrinkage is measured in laboratories due to the need for specialized equipment and electrical sensors, which are challenging to deploy in the field.

[0022] This invention addresses this gap by offering a portable, practical solution for on-site use, significantly improving efficiency and accuracy in real-time shrinkage measurement. Concrete shrinkage is a fundamental phenomenon in civil engineering, often described as the gradual contraction that occurs as the material hardens and loses moisture. This process can lead to surface cracking, which, if unchecked, compromises the structural integrity and durability of concrete structures. Understanding and controlling shrinkage is crucial to ensuring long-term performance.

[0023] Shrinkage primarily results from the loss of water during curing and hardening. As the concrete mix loses moisture over time, the material contracts. While these contractions are often microscopic, they accumulate, generating internal stresses that can cause cracks on the surface of hardened concrete. These cracks, depending on their severity, may necessitate repair work to prevent further deterioration, compromising the overall durability and quality of the structure. This invention represents a device for measuring concrete shrinkage, allowing for the measurement of the actual shrinkage value during the curing process (transition from liquid to solid state). The device's main internal structure, made of PVC, consists of two conical wings connected to a sphere, which in turn links to a tube perpendicular to the wings. When concrete is poured into a mold, it initially retains a significant amount of water. As this water evaporates, the concrete undergoes shrinkage, leading to a reduction in the material’s total volume. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in larger structural elements like walls, slabs, or columns, where it can induce cracking. Accurate monitoring and control of this shrinkage are critical for maintaining structural integrity.

[0024] To effectively measure shrinkage, the device serves as an important tool for tracking concrete contraction, whether on-site or in a materials laboratory. The device comprises two primary components: an internal tubular structure shaped like an inverted T, equipped with two heads that expand in volume at either end, featuring teeth that grip the concrete matrix for stable measurements. This tube is crafted from PVC or another easily deformable material and filled with liquid. As the concrete shrinks, it causes longitudinal and transverse deformations in the PVC tube, altering its volume and raising the liquid level in the vertical segment of the inverted T-shaped tube. This elevation directly correlates with the material's deformation, specifically reflecting the extent of concrete shrinkage. Additionally, the device includes a frame that envelops the principal structure to shield it from the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the concrete along the tube, which could otherwise cause lateral deformations. Only the ends of the tube, where the heads are located, contact the concrete, ensuring that longitudinal deformations affecting the tube are confined to these exposed ends. This design accurately reflects the shrinkage behavior of concrete, providing reliable and precise data essential for structural assessments.

[0025] This device is designed to measure concrete shrinkage with improved efficiency and precision, using a unique hydromechanical method that yields more accurate results compared to current techniques. It measures shrinkage via an inverted "T"-shaped capillary tube, distinguishing it from conventional structural models that rely on deformation sensors. It captures volumetric changes in the PVC component within the concrete, translating these deformations into fluid level changes in the vertical pipe to monitor shrinkage. The device evaluates concrete shrinkage behavior during curing by tracking shrinkage variations, thus enabling real-time assessments of structural integrity at construction sites, where such measurements are typically conducted in laboratories. It is specially designed to improve the quality control of concrete slabs during fabrication on-site, addressing common quality and durability issues by enabling early detection and prevention of fissures and cracks. This proactive approach ensures that potential flaws are identified and mitigated before they compromise the overall stability and safety of the structure. This measurement technology eschews electrical or high-precision mechanical sensors, reducing operational costs and complexity. This simplification allows for efficient on-site deployment and use across various construction environments.

[0026] The device's simplicity ensures accurate shrinkage measurements can be taken directly in situ during the early stages of concrete curing, providing valuable insights into the behavior of fresh concrete. By eliminating the complexity of traditional electronic sensors, this hydromechanical device streamlines the shrinkage measurement process, offering significant improvements in usability and accuracy. Its efficiency and practicality make it an essential tool for construction professionals and researchers alike, enhancing control over the quality, safety, and longevity of concrete structures. This invention represents a significant advancement in construction technology, offering a durable and versatile solution for monitoring concrete shrinkage across various applications.

[0027] Important Applications of the Concrete Shrinkage Meter:

[0028] 1. Quality Control in Construction: The device continuously monitors concrete shrinkage during setting, providing real-time data that helps ensure compliance with specified quality standards and serviceability performance criteria.

[0029] 2. Optimizing Concrete Mixes: Accurate shrinkage measurements assist in the research and development of new concrete mixes, allowing engineers to adjust compositions to minimize shrinkage and enhance durability. 3. Preventive Measures Against Cracking: Early detection of shrinkage rates alerts engineers to potential cracking risks, enabling the implementation of preventive strategies to preserve structural integrity.

[0030] 4. Academic and Industrial Research: The device is essential for research focused on improving concrete technology, allowing studies on the effects of various conditions and compositions on shrinkage.

[0031] 5. Regulatory Compliance and Documentation: In stringent regulatory environments, this device provides necessary documentation that concrete used in construction meets required guidelines and specifications.

[0032] Overview of the Drawings

[0033] Figure 1 : This figure displays an isometric view of the concrete shrinkage meter, showcasing its overall design. The prominent features include the conical ends that engage with the concrete and the central tube that houses the fluid mechanism. This perspective allows for a visual understanding of the device's 3D structure.

[0034] Figure 2: The front view of the concrete shrinkage meter is illustrated here, providing a clearer depiction of the dimensions and proportions of the various components. This view helps in visualizing how the device is oriented when placed in contact with the concrete.

[0035] Figure 3: This image presents the top view of the concrete shrinkage meter, highlighting the layout of the conical wings and the connection to the vertical tube. It helps to emphasize the symmetry and arrangement of the components, which are crucial for ensuring accurate measurements.

[0036] Figure 4: In this cross-sectional view, the internal structure of the concrete shrinkage meter is revealed. It shows the relationship between the conical wings, the sphere, and the connecting tube, illustrating how the internal mechanics operate during measurement.

[0037] Figure 5: This detail focuses on the lower conical ends of the concrete shrinkage meter. It emphasizes the design of the ends, which are specifically engineered to grip the concrete matrix, thus ensuring stable and reliable measurements. Figure 6: This drawing details the junction between the conical parts and the spherical part of the concrete shrinkage meter. It illustrates how these elements are integrated, providing insights into the mechanics of the device and ensuring fluid movement within the system.

[0038] Figure 7: Here, the figure highlights the notches present on the concrete shrinkage meter. These features may play a role in the gripping mechanism or in facilitating fluid movement, contributing to the accuracy of shrinkage measurements.

[0039] Figure 8: This drawing focuses on the upper section of the concrete shrinkage meter, showcasing its design and connection points. It is essential for understanding how the meter interfaces with the rest of the construction setup.

[0040] Figure 9: The final image depicts the isometric view of the protective coupling (frame) that shields the concrete shrinkage meter. This frame is crucial for protecting the delicate components from external pressures while ensuring that the measurement functionality remains uncompromised.

[0041] Figure 10: This figure presents the general view of the coupling that protects the concrete shrinkage meter. It showcases the outer design and layout, highlighting the coupling's role in safeguarding the internal components of the measurement device.

[0042] Figure 11 : In this top view of the coupling, the layout of the protective features is illustrated. This perspective allows for an understanding of how the coupling fits over the meter, ensuring that it adequately shields the internal mechanisms from external pressures.

[0043] Figure 12: This side view of the coupling further emphasizes the protective design, illustrating the dimensions and structural integrity of the armor. It demonstrates how the coupling provides support while maintaining access to necessary components.

[0044] Figure 13: This front view of part 1 of the coupling highlights specific design elements, including any connection points and reinforcing structures that ensure the coupling’s effectiveness in protecting the meter. Figure 14: The side view of part 1 of the coupling offers another perspective, reinforcing the details seen in the front view. This angle may also highlight any unique features that contribute to the overall functionality of the protective device.

[0045] Figure 15: This top view of part 1 of the coupling provides an aerial perspective, showing how the various components interconnect. This helps in understanding the assembly of the protective features around the concrete shrinkage meter.

[0046] Figure 16: The front view of part 2 of the coupling gives insights into how the second segment complements the first part, emphasizing the modularity and design continuity of the entire coupling system.

[0047] Figure 17: This side view of part 2 further details the dimensions and contours of the second segment of the coupling. It helps visualize how the two parts work together to encase the shrinkage meter securely.

[0048] Figure 18: The top view of part 2 of the coupling again emphasizes the arrangement and structural details, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of how the protective device encapsulates the concrete shrinkage measurement system.

Claims

Claims1. A device for measuring concrete shrinkage comprising an internal tubular structure shaped like an inverted T. This structure is equipped with two expanding heads at either end, featuring teeth specifically designed to grip the concrete matrix, ensuring precise measurements of shrinkage with no equivalent in current technology.

2. A device as described in claim 1 , wherein its configuration and shape are specifically tailored to provide accuracy and reliability in the real-time measurement of concrete shrinkage at construction sites.

3. The hydromechanical system according to claim 1 , utilizing mechanical displacement of fluid within the tubular structure to accurately measure the shrinkage of concrete.

4. The device according to claim 1 characterized by allows for continuous realtime monitoring of concrete shrinkage without the need for complex electronic systems, making it particularly suitable for various environmental conditions encountered in construction settings.

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