Armored DSS Cable Structure for Accurate Long-Term Strain Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armored DSS cables face challenges in accurately measuring strain, particularly in distinguishing between temperature and strain changes, and maintaining measurement accuracy over long periods, especially when installed in environments like cement.
Innovation Solution
The armored DSS cable features a surface layer with optical fiber modules and third ropes, arranged concentrically with an inner layer of first ropes, ensuring precise strain measurement and resistance to deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the optical fiber is placed in the inner layer of the cable, then the cable structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the strain measurement precision deteriorates because the optical fiber cannot accurately detect surface strain
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is divided into two distinct layers: an inner layer for structural support and protection, and an outer layer for strain sensing. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally - the inner layer provides mechanical strength while the outer layer accurately measures strain through direct contact with the measurement object surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber sensing function is extracted from the inner layer and placed in the outer layer. This extraction allows the optical fiber to be positioned where it can directly sense surface strain, separating the sensing function from the structural support function and thereby improving measurement precision without compromising manufacturing ease.
2Ease of operation
If the cable diameter is reduced for easier installation, then the ease of operation improves, but the mechanical strength deteriorates making the cable more susceptible to damage during installation and use
Solution Approach 1:
The cable employs a composite structure combining different materials with complementary properties: the inner layer uses high-strength materials for mechanical support, while the outer layer incorporates optical fiber for sensing. This composite design allows the cable to maintain high strength despite a reduced overall diameter, enabling easy installation without sacrificing mechanical durability.
3Strength
If connection parts are added to the cable for secure installation, then the mechanical strength improves, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential connection failures and maintenance issues over long periods
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is extracted from the cable body and implemented through the outer layer design that allows direct bonding to the measurement object surface. This eliminates the need for separate connection parts within the cable structure, reducing potential failure points and improving long-term reliability while maintaining secure installation through surface bonding.
4Ease of manufacture
If the cable uses simple protective coating, then the manufacturing cost decreases, but the durability deteriorates when installed in harsh environments like cement
Solution Approach 1:
The cable uses a composite protective structure where the outer layer serves dual purposes: it protects the optical fiber from environmental damage and provides strain sensing capability. This layered composite design enhances durability in harsh environments like cement installation while avoiding the need for additional expensive protective coatings.
Data Source
AI summary
An armored DSS cable includes: an inner layer part including a first rope helically wound; and a surface layer part including an optical fiber module and a plurality of third ropes, the optical fiber module having an optical fiber and a plurality of second ropes helically surrounding the optical fiber and having a smaller outer diameter than the first rope, the third ropes having a larger outer diameter than the first rope, such that the optical fiber module and the third ropes are arranged on an identical circle and helically wound, wherein the inner layer part and the surface layer part are formed concentrically.