Borehole Deformation Measurement Using Elastic Shell and Uniaxial Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for measuring deformations in boreholes are limited as they only measure specific components, lack comprehensive deformation measurement capabilities, and cannot determine mechanical properties of drilling materials and surrounding rock in situ.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a hollow elastic shell with uniaxial sensors and a pressurizing system to measure elongations in six directions, combined with a contactless measuring device for refractive index measurement and communication for data transmission, integrated into a drilling rig for comprehensive deformation analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional deformation measurement devices are used in boreholes, then installation is simplified with vertical placement and concrete securing, but only limited deformation components (3 out of 6) can be measured
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the measurement function into six independent uniaxial sensors, each measuring one component of the deformation tensor. This segmentation allows complete deformation field measurement while keeping each sensor simple and manageable, resolving the contradiction between measurement completeness and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic shell serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, transmits deformation to all six sensors uniformly, and maintains geometric stability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex components while achieving complete deformation measurement.
2Measurement precision
If existing deformation measurement devices are deployed, then installation procedures are established, but determination of mechanical properties of drilling material and surrounding rock cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a pressurization system that dynamically adjusts internal pressure to apply controlled radial loads on the elastic shell. This dynamic loading capability enables measurement of mechanical properties by observing deformation responses under varying stress conditions, transforming a static measurement device into an active testing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes the stress state parameter by applying controlled internal pressure to the elastic shell. This parameter change enables the determination of mechanical properties of surrounding materials through measured deformation responses, expanding the device's versatility beyond simple deformation monitoring.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive deformation measurement is implemented, then all six deformation components can be measured, but device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses an asymmetric tetrahedral arrangement of four strategic measurement points on the elastic shell, with uniaxial sensors oriented along specific directions. This asymmetric configuration efficiently captures all six deformation components with minimal sensors, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining measurement completeness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate measurement of all deformation components and determination of mechanical properties, providing precise data for geological and civil engineering applications with enhanced accuracy and long-term deformation monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a hollow elastic shell having a diameter compatible with the borehole into which it is inserted
Implementation Method 2
uniaxial sensors arranged inside the hollow elastic shell for measuring the elongation of the hollow elastic shell in at least six different directions
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring device for measuring deformation, suitable for being placed in a borehole, comprises: a hollow elastic shell having a diameter compatible with the borehole into which it is inserted; a pressurization system for pressurizing the hollow elastic shell; and uniaxial sensors for measuring the elongation of the hollow elastic shell in at least six different directions.