Elongation Detector for Building Pillar Load Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to effectively detect early signs of structural failure in human and natural structures due to geological changes below them, leading to potential weakening and damage.
Innovation Solution
The method involves placing elongation detectors above support points to monitor vertical load distribution changes, using optical fibers that measure light attenuation to detect subtle length variations, allowing for early diagnosis of structural instability and potential collapse or bulging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional monitoring methods are used, then the structure can be monitored for failures, but early detection of geological changes is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by installing elongation detectors on the structure before any failure or significant geological change occurs. These detectors continuously monitor elongation at support points, enabling early detection of load distribution changes caused by subsidence, swelling, or other geological evolutions. This proactive monitoring allows intervention before structural damage occurs, resolving the contradiction between reliable detection and timely detection.
2Measurement precision
If elongation detectors are placed at multiple support points, then load distribution changes can be detected, but the complexity of the monitoring system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the monitoring task into discrete measurement points at each support point of the structure. Each support point is equipped with an elongation detector that independently measures local elongation. This segmented approach enables precise measurement of load distribution changes across different support points while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular, independent detector units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses elongation detectors as intermediary devices that indirectly measure geological changes through load distribution variations. Instead of directly monitoring soil conditions, the detectors measure elongation of the structure at support points, which serves as an intermediary indicator of underlying geological evolutions. This intermediary measurement approach simplifies the monitoring system while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If detectors are placed close to the ground on the foundation slab, then detection sensitivity is maximized, but accessibility for installation and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning the detector placement from horizontal installation on the foundation slab to vertical installation on the structure above the support points. This vertical dimension allows detectors to be positioned close to the ground for maximum sensitivity to geological changes, while simultaneously being accessible on the structure's upper portions for installation and maintenance. The vertical orientation also aligns with the primary direction of elongation caused by vertical load changes.
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 approach enables early detection of geological changes affecting structural stability, facilitating timely interventions such as rebalancing or reinforcing the soil to prevent structural damage, and can also serve as a monitoring system for neighboring structures.
Implementation Method 1
an optical fiber extending in the direction of the elongation to be detected, and means sensitive to the attenuation of light power received at one end of the optical fiber relative to the power of a light source feeding the other end of the optical fiber
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A building (1) rests on soil (3). Vertical elongation detectors (6A, 6B, 6C, 6D) are placed at the base of pillars (4A, 4B, 4C, 4D) above bearing points of the building on the soil (3), in particular at the corners of the building. Variations in the measurements of vertical elongation of the pillars indicate a variation in the suitability of the soil (3) for supporting the building (1). In particular, the partial or total unloading of a pillar implies a compaction of the ground under said pillar. The invention can be used for very early detection of risk situations that might eventually compromise the safety of a structure.