Feldspar Feature Analysis for Tunnel Rock Weathering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for evaluating the weathering resistance of clastic rocks in tunnels inadequately consider feldspar features, leading to inaccurate assessments and underutilization of feldspar's impact on rock stability, often relying on quartz content for determination.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that includes a sampling mechanism, automatic scanning, element analysis, and deep learning modules to analyze feldspar features such as cleavage, crystal structure, and chemical elements, providing a comprehensive evaluation of weathering resistance by classifying feldspar types and content within the rock stratum.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional methods rely on quartz content for determining weathering resistance, then the evaluation process is simple, but the measurement precision is low and large errors occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweathering resistance evaluation accuracyVSAvoidanalysis system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the weathering resistance evaluation into multiple independent analysis dimensions: feldspar content analysis, feldspar crystal structure analysis, and feldspar composition analysis. Each dimension is evaluated separately through dedicated analysis modules, and the results are integrated to provide a comprehensive assessment. This segmentation allows for high-precision measurement of each factor while maintaining systematic organization of the complex evaluation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from traditional single-dimension quartz-based evaluation to multi-dimensional feldspar-based evaluation. It introduces new analysis dimensions including feldspar content percentage, crystal structure characteristics, and chemical composition ratios (K/Na/Ca). This dimensional expansion enables more comprehensive and accurate weathering resistance assessment by considering multiple factors simultaneously rather than relying on a single mineral indicator.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If feldspar features are not considered in weathering resistance evaluation, then the evaluation method is simple, but the reliability is low and many clastic rocks cannot be accurately studied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweathering resistance evaluation reliabilityVSAvoidanalysis system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary classification of feldspar types (potash feldspar, plagioclase, alkali feldspar) based on composition ratios before conducting detailed weathering resistance evaluation. This preliminary action establishes a classification framework that guides subsequent analysis, ensuring that feldspar features are systematically considered. The system pre-defines evaluation criteria for different feldspar types, which improves reliability by ensuring consistent and comprehensive assessment across all clastic rock samples.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal evaluation system that can handle multiple rock types and feldspar varieties through a single integrated platform. The analysis system is designed to accommodate different feldspar compositions and crystal structures by adjusting analysis parameters, making it applicable to diverse clastic rocks. This multi-functionality enhances reliability by providing consistent evaluation standards across various rock types while adapting to specific feldspar characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If comprehensive feldspar analysis is performed, then the prediction accuracy is improved, but the productivity is reduced due to complex analysis procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweathering resistance prediction accuracyVSAvoidevaluation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical analysis methods with automated digital analysis systems. Image processing algorithms automatically identify and analyze feldspar crystal structures from microscopic images, eliminating the need for manual examination. Chemical composition is determined through automated spectroscopic analysis rather than manual laboratory procedures. This substitution of mechanical and manual processes with automated digital systems maintains high measurement precision while dramatically improving evaluation efficiency and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses digital imaging and spectroscopic copying to create virtual representations of feldspar samples for analysis. Instead of requiring physical manipulation and direct observation of each sample, the system creates digital copies through high-resolution imaging and spectral scanning. These digital copies can be analyzed repeatedly without additional sample preparation or handling, enabling comprehensive analysis while reducing time and resource consumption. The digital copies preserve all necessary information for accurate weathering resistance prediction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 allows for accurate determination of weathering resistance in clastic rocks by integrating feldspar analysis, overcoming previous method limitations and enhancing prediction accuracy through the use of deep learning and quantitative mineral analysis.

Implementation Method 1

the laser rock breaking system cut the block samples by laser

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

the element analysis module includes an X-ray analysis device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS11933713B2Determining system and method for weathering resistant capability of clastic rocks in tunnel based on feldspar features
Publication Date: 2024.03.19 SHANDONG UNIV
  • US11933713B2 patent drawing
  • US11933713B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a determining device for the weathering resistant capability of clastic rocks in a tunnel based on feldspar features, which overcomes the shortcomings of current evaluation methods, is easy to operate, can be used to detect the type, content, and crystal structure of feldspar in a rock stratum, and integrates the information by combining a computer deep learning method to determine the weathering resistant capability of clastic rocks containing different types of feldspar in a tunnel, with high accuracy.