Concrete Curing Sensor with Capillary Humidity Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring and predicting the strength and performance of concrete are inadequate, requiring improved systems and methods for accurate in-place strength assessment and quality control in the construction industry.
Innovation Solution
A sensing device is attached to concrete test cylinders, equipped with temperature and humidity sensors, which transmit data to a network for processing, allowing for the prediction of concrete performance characteristics based on temperature and humidity measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional compressive strength testing methods are used (casting test cylinders and curing them under controlled conditions), then accurate strength measurement can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and requires extensive laboratory resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical compressive strength testing with acoustic wave-based measurement. Acoustic sensors measure the speed of sound through the concrete, which correlates to strength development. This substitution eliminates the need for lengthy curing periods and destructive compression tests, providing rapid strength assessment while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary embedding of acoustic sensors within the concrete mixture during placement. This allows continuous monitoring of strength development from an early stage, eliminating the need to wait for concrete to cure and then perform separate testing. The sensors are already in position to capture strength evolution in real-time.
2Reliability
If multiple test cylinders are cast and stored for strength testing, then comprehensive quality control data can be obtained, but the process requires significant space and manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the concrete itself to perform the testing function through embedded acoustic sensors that continuously monitor strength development. The concrete structure being constructed serves its own quality control needs, eliminating the requirement for separate test cylinders, storage space, and manual handling procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic sensing system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it monitors strength development, tracks curing conditions, and provides data for quality control decisions. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple separate testing systems and procedures.
3Productivity
If traditional field testing methods are employed, then in-place strength can be assessed, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient for accelerated construction schedules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces imprecise traditional field testing methods (such as rebound hammers or pull-out tests) with acoustic wave measurement technology. The acoustic sensors provide continuous, precise measurement of strength development based on sound velocity through the concrete, enabling reliable decision-making for construction schedule acceleration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous monitoring of concrete strength development through embedded acoustic sensors that operate throughout the curing process. This continuous data stream provides real-time information on strength gain, enabling proactive construction scheduling decisions rather than relying on periodic, discrete measurements with gaps in information.
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
This solution enhances the accuracy of concrete strength prediction and quality control, enabling more efficient construction schedules and improved quality management through real-time data analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The sensing device includes a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. After concrete is poured into the test cylinder, the sensing device obtains temperature measurements and/or humidity measurements.
Implementation Method 2
The sensing device includes a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor. After concrete is poured into the test cylinder, the sensing device obtains temperature measurements and/or humidity measurements.
Implementation Method 3
The sensing device includes a capillary needle disposed on and projecting outwardly from the concave side of the device. The capillary needle connects to a humidity sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing device includes a concave side adapted to conform to a curvature of an outer side of a standard concrete test cylinder, a temperature sensor, and a humidity sensor. In one embodiment, the sensing device includes a capillary needle disposed on the concave side. The capillary needle comprises a humidity sensor. The sensing device is attached to the side of a concrete test cylinder, temperature and humidity measurements are obtained by the sensing device, and a prediction of maturity and strength of the concrete is generated based on the temperature and humidity measurements.