Geomorphological Monitoring via Embedded Sensor Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for monitoring scour depth in riverbeds or seabeds are inaccurate and unsafe, especially during heavy rain or typhoons, as they rely on manual measurements or vulnerable sensors that can be damaged, leading to delayed warnings and potential losses.
Innovation Solution
A geomorphological structure monitoring system with a supporting base and embedded sensing devices, such as acceleration and vibration sensors, that generate signals when exposed due to structural changes, processed by a signal processing device to calculate scour depth and trigger warnings when exceeding predetermined levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used to monitor scour depth, then the operation flexibility is maintained, but the measurement precision and response time deteriorate due to reliance on inspector experience and safety concerns during heavy rain or typhoon
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated sensing system. Multiple sensing devices (acceleration sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors) are embedded in the riverbed to automatically detect scour depth, eliminating the need for manual inspection and providing continuous, precise measurements without time delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system performs self-measurement through embedded sensors that automatically detect and record scour depth data. The system serves itself by continuously monitoring without requiring external human intervention, thus providing immediate response during heavy rain or typhoon conditions.
2Reliability
If contact type monitoring systems with noose and counterweight are used, then the measurement can be obtained, but the reliability deteriorates due to siltation affecting measurement accuracy and the need for on-site measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical noose and counterweight system with electronic sensing devices. Acceleration sensors, vibration sensors, and pressure sensors embedded in the riverbed provide reliable measurements without being affected by siltation, eliminating the need for physical contact measurement methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded sensing devices automatically perform measurements without requiring on-site human operation. The system continuously monitors scour depth and transmits data remotely, making the measurement process independent of human intervention and immune to siltation issues.
3Ease of operation
If non-contact type monitoring systems with thermometers are used, then the measurement can be obtained remotely, but the reliability deteriorates due to easy damage of thermometers under the riverbed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring function into multiple embedded sensing devices distributed at different locations and depths under the riverbed. Each sensor is protected by its own housing and positioned to minimize exposure to damage, while collectively providing comprehensive monitoring coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing devices use robust, composite protective housings that combine multiple materials to resist damage from the riverbed environment. The embedded sensors are protected by durable enclosures that maintain reliability while enabling remote operation.
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 immediate monitoring of scour depth and water levels, ensuring the safety of constructions by providing timely warnings and maintaining system integrity despite environmental challenges.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the sensing devices includes a main body having at least one elongated slot; at least one magnetic element disposed in the at least one elongated slot, and an induction coil winding the main body repeatedly and the induction coil is vertical to an extending direction of the at least one elongated slot, when the sensing devices are exposed from the ground due to structural change of the ground, the at least one magnetic element moves within the at least one elongated slot due to a fluid flow and causes the induction coil to generate a sensing current as the sensing signal.
Data Source
AI summary
A geomorphological structure monitoring system is disclosed, which comprises a supporting base having an accommodating space and a plurality of through holes, and at least a portion of the supporting base is embedded under a ground; a plurality of sensing devices arranged in the accommodating space vertically and embedded under the ground, the sensing devices may generate a sensing signal when the sensing devices are exposed from the ground due to the structural change of the ground; a signal processing device receiving and processing the sensing signal; and a transmission device connecting the sensing devices in series and the signal processing device.