Displacement Measurement for Encased Architectural Braces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing architectural braces face challenges in assessing structural integrity after deformation-inducing events due to the encasement of their intermediate portions in cement, making it difficult to determine if they need replacement without destroying the brace, and the complexity of predicting strain from deformation events.
Innovation Solution
A displacement measurement device is used to measure the displacement in architectural braces, which can be positioned through or outside the cement layer, providing data on displacement changes over time to calculate strain, and can be connected to a computing device for analysis, allowing for assessment of the brace's integrity without direct access to the intermediate portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the intermediate portion of the core member is encased in the cement layer to resist buckling, then the buckling resistance is improved, but the ability to examine the intermediate portion directly is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct physical examination of the core member with electronic sensing and data transmission. Sensors measure displacement, strain, and other parameters, converting mechanical information into electrical signals that can be transmitted and analyzed remotely, eliminating the need to physically access or expose the encased core member.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors, signal conditioners, and communication systems as intermediaries between the encased core member and the examiner. These intermediary devices enable indirect measurement and assessment of the core member's condition without requiring direct physical access to the encased portion.
2Reliability
If the core member undergoes alternating tension and compression displacements to resist deformation, then the structural support is improved, but the material is weakened due to reversed loading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements monitoring systems that track the number and amplitude of reversed loads before the material is significantly weakened. By preliminarily detecting and recording loading history, the system enables proactive assessment and replacement decisions, preventing catastrophic failure from excessive cyclic loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses sensors to continuously monitor displacement and strain, providing feedback on the cumulative effect of reversed loading. This feedback mechanism allows assessment of material degradation over time, enabling determination of when the core member has experienced sufficient cyclic loading to warrant replacement.
3Measurement precision
If the displacement measurement device is embedded in the cement layer, then the measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the displacement measurement device within the cement layer, nesting the sensing equipment inside the existing structural element. This nesting approach provides accurate measurements at the precise location needed while utilizing the existing cement matrix as the housing medium, reducing the need for separate external mounting structures.
4Measurement precision
If the sensor collects data continuously over an extended period, then the assessment accuracy is improved, but the power source is depleted faster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic data collection and transmission cycles rather than continuous operation. The sensor collects data continuously in memory but transmits information at intervals or when threshold changes are detected, reducing power consumption while maintaining assessment accuracy through adequate sampling frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs low-power sensor technologies and adjustable sampling rates that can change operational parameters based on conditions. The system can reduce measurement frequency during stable periods and increase it during active deformation events, optimizing the balance between assessment accuracy and power consumption over extended monitoring periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A system may measure displacement in an architectural brace that absorbs deformation inducing energy. The architectural brace may have a core member with first and second ends attachable to architectural features, and an intermediate portion between the first and second ends. The architectural brace may also have a buckling restraining assembly that encases the intermediate portion to resist buckling of the intermediate portion. The system may have a first coupling with a first attachment feature securable to the first end of the core member, and a second coupling with a second attachment feature securable to the second end of the core member. The second coupling may be displaced from the first coupling by a displacement. Further, the system may have a sensor that measures a plurality of changes in the displacement occurring over a period of time. The sensor may provide measurement data indicative of the changes.