In Situ Concrete Modulus Sensor Using Segmented Piston
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring the static modulus of elasticity of concrete, such as ASTM C469 testing, require multiple test cylinders and can only provide approximate values, as they are based on compressing representative samples that can only be used once.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained sensor device capable of directly measuring in situ static concrete modulus of elasticity, which applies a known force to a sample and measures the associated deformation, allowing for repeated testing within a single concrete sample.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional ASTM C469 testing methods are used with test cylinders, then the modulus of elasticity can be measured, but the test cylinders can only be used once and require multiple samples
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is segmented into distinct functional components: a loading mechanism (piston), a measurement mechanism (displacement gauge), and a frame structure. This segmentation allows the loading and measurement functions to be separated and optimized independently, enabling the same concrete sample to be tested multiple times without degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention recovers and reuses the concrete sample multiple times through the reversible piston loading mechanism. The piston can be actuated repeatedly to apply load and measure deformation, and the system returns to its initial state after each test cycle, allowing the same sample to be tested multiple times without being discarded like traditional single-use cylinders.
2Measurement precision
If traditional compression testing is used, then the modulus of elasticity can be determined, but the testing process is complex and requires multiple samples
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the loading mechanism and measurement mechanism into a single integrated sensor device. The piston loading mechanism and displacement gauge are combined within one frame structure, allowing simultaneous application of load and measurement of deformation in a single device, simplifying the testing procedure compared to separate testing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device is designed as a self-contained system where the piston mechanism automatically applies load and the displacement gauge automatically measures deformation. The device serves itself by integrating both the loading and measurement functions, eliminating the need for complex external testing equipment and procedures.
3Measurement precision
If representative sample testing is performed, then the modulus of elasticity can be measured, but the values are approximate and not in situ
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor device is designed with universal applicability to test concrete in various locations and conditions. The same device can be used to test concrete samples from different structural elements, allowing the measurement procedure to be universally applied without requiring location-specific equipment, thereby enabling in situ measurement while maintaining measurement precision.
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 precise and repeatable measurement of the static modulus of elasticity in concrete, improving accuracy and reducing the need for multiple test samples, while also allowing for in situ testing within structural elements.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the associated deformation
Implementation Method 2
a portion of elastomeric material is positioned on said bottom inner face and said top inner face, said elastomeric material positioned to prevent contact with either the bottom inner face or the top inner face except for a portion along the longitudinal axis of the displacement measurement gauge
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device for detecting static modulus of elasticity in situ comprising: top and bottom frame end plates, the top and bottom frame end plates connected by frame side bars; a dry cavity connected to the top frame end plate and comprising a piston, precompression mechanism, and piston transfer plate; a displacement measurement gauge extending from the dry cavity along a longitudinal axis of the sensor device having a first end in contact with the piston transfer plate and a second end in contact with a bottom inner face of the bottom frame end plate; and a top inner face connected to the piston transfer plate wherein a portion of elastomeric material is positioned on the bottom and top inner faces, the elastomeric material positioned to prevent contact with either bottom or top inner faces except for a portion along the longitudinal axis of the displacement measurement gauge.