Detector Tape Structural Movement Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current structural monitoring systems for detecting movements or cave-ins in buildings are complex, costly, and limited to point-by-point detection, making them unsuitable for widespread use and unable to provide real-time information on structural state or position of cave-ins, especially for non-technical users.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising detector tapes with a layered structure, including high-flexibility support layers and embedded electric conductor branches, resistors, and electronic circuits that map structural movements by adjusting resistance to determine coordinates of displacement origin and propagation, allowing for easy installation and use by anyone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If point-by-point movement sensors (strain gauge, accelerometers) are used for structural monitoring, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sensor systems (strain gauges, accelerometers) with a simplified electrical resistance-based detection system. A conductive element is embedded in the structural component, and changes in electrical resistance directly indicate structural movements or deformations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical sensing apparatus while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electrical copy of the structural component's deformation state through the embedded conductive element. The resistance changes serve as an electrical replica of the physical structural changes, allowing indirect measurement of structural movements without requiring direct mechanical contact or complex sensor assemblies
2Reliability
If point-by-point movement sensors are used, then structural integrity monitoring is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates (limited to specialized operators)
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables non-specialized users to monitor structural integrity themselves through simple electrical resistance measurements. The embedded conductive element allows any user to connect measurement leads and obtain readings without requiring specialized knowledge of structural engineering or complex sensor operation, democratizing access to structural monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive electrical measurement components that can be easily replaced or reset. The basic resistance measurement setup uses affordable wires, connectors, and power sources, making the system economically accessible for frequent or widespread use by non-specialists rather than being restricted to expensive specialized equipment
3Measurement precision
If point-by-point detection methods are used, then local structural movements are detected, but information on superficial phenomena and propagation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the structural component into multiple segments along its length, with separate conductive elements embedded in each segment. This segmentation allows independent measurement of resistance changes in different sections, enabling detection of both local movements and the propagation patterns of superficial phenomena across the entire structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point detection to distributed multi-point detection by embedding conductive elements at multiple positions along the structural component. This adds a spatial dimension to the measurement, transforming isolated point data into a distributed map of structural behavior that reveals propagation patterns and superficial phenomena
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 economic, real-time monitoring of structural integrity, providing detailed information on displacement coordinates and propagation, suitable for widespread use beyond specialized operators, and promptly alerts users to critical structural conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Each circuit switch (6) is configured so as to switch between an opening state and a closing state in response to a movement/displacement of the portion of the tape (2) housing the circuit switch (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A system (1) to detect the coordinates (X,Y) of origin and propagation of displacements/movements in a structure comprising one or more movement/displacement detector tapes (2), which are arranged in/on said structure and comprise: a tape-shaped support layer (3), which extends along a longitudinal axis (A) and is arranged in/on said structure, a plurality of electric conductor branches (4), which are arranged in/on said support layer (3), a plurality of electric resistor components (5), which are arranged in/on said support layer (3) and are electrically connected to one another through at least one conductor branch (4), a plurality of circuit switches (6), which are arranged in the support layer (3) in respective predetermined positions and are each designed to switch between an opening state and a closing state in response to a movement/displacement, so as to connect a conductor branch (4) to a segment of another conductor branch; the switching of a circuit switch (6) determines a change in the electric resistance between the terminals (9) of said conductor branches (4), which depends on the position of the circuit switch (6) in the detector tape (2) and indicates the position of origin of the movement/displacement and of propagation in said structure.