Built-In Object Status Checking via External Thermochromic Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in monitoring the status of built-in objects within industrial machines and civil engineering structures due to limited space and interference issues with sensors, making it difficult to detect physical information such as strain, temperature, and lubricant deterioration without direct access.
Innovation Solution
A status checking device that acquires physical information from outside the object using an information acquisition unit and determines the status based on this information, including abnormality detection and malfunction prediction, using a combination of sensors like cameras, thermochromic members, and drones to capture images and data without direct contact or wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor is installed inside the built-in object to directly detect physical information, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary substance (thermochromic material) that changes color in response to temperature changes inside the built-in object. This color change is detected by a camera from the outside, eliminating the need for direct sensor installation inside the object while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/electrical sensor system with an optical detection system. Instead of using wired sensors that require physical installation and electrical connections, the system uses optical detection of color changes, simplifying the overall system architecture.
2Reliability
If a sensor is installed inside the built-in object, then status monitoring capability is improved, but space requirements and wiring interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies thermochromic material to the surface or inside of the built-in object, which acts as an intermediary that translates internal temperature conditions into external visible color changes. This allows status monitoring without occupying internal space or requiring wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes thermochromic materials that change color based on temperature. The color changes are captured by a camera and analyzed to determine the status of the built-in object, providing a space-efficient monitoring solution.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If direct sensor installation is performed on the built-in object, then detection capability is improved, but ease of operation and maintenance are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The thermochromic material serves as an intermediary that makes internal conditions externally visible. The camera captures color changes from the outside, eliminating the need for physical access to the built-in object for sensor installation or maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy or representation of the internal temperature condition through color changes. The camera captures this visual information from the outside, providing detection capability without requiring physical access to the internal components.
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 effective monitoring of built-in objects without the need for direct sensor installation, reducing space and interference concerns, allowing for timely detection of abnormalities and predicted malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
a status checking device for a built-in object, which is provided with an information acquisition unit for acquiring at least one piece of physical information regarding an article including a target built therein
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is provided with an information acquisition unit for acquiring at least one piece of physical information regarding an object including a target built therein, a status of the target being unable to be directly checked from outside, the at least one piece of physical information being manifested outside the object, and a status determination unit for determining the status of the target based on the acquired at least one piece of physical information.