Ground Penetrating Radar for Real-Time Asphalt Density Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for quality control of asphalt concrete during pavement construction are inadequate, as they are either destructive, time-consuming, inaccurate, or pose safety concerns, and they cannot provide real-time measurements of asphalt density and moisture content.
Innovation Solution
The use of ground penetrating radar (GPR) systems with a controller and mounting structure to provide real-time asphalt density and moisture content prediction, allowing for continuous monitoring and immediate adjustments during the compaction process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If coring method is used to measure asphalt density, then measurement accuracy is improved, but construction time increases and the method becomes destructive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical coring methods with ground penetrating radar (GPR) technology to measure asphalt density. The GPR system uses electromagnetic waves to detect density variations in the asphalt concrete without physical contact, eliminating the need for destructive coring and significantly reducing measurement time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary GPR sensing system that indirectly measures asphalt density through electromagnetic wave propagation characteristics. Instead of directly extracting and measuring core samples, the system uses radar waves to infer density properties, providing non-destructive real-time measurements during construction.
2Measurement precision
If nuclear gauges are used to measure asphalt density, then measurement capability is improved, but safety concerns increase and construction is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces nuclear gauge measurement systems with ground penetrating radar technology. The GPR system uses non-ionizing electromagnetic waves instead of radioactive sources, eliminating safety hazards associated with nuclear materials while maintaining the ability to measure asphalt density through dielectric property detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a portable, non-radioactive GPR system that can be quickly deployed and removed from the construction site. The system uses safe, non-hazardous electromagnetic energy that does not require special licensing or safety protocols, allowing free movement during construction without obstructing workflow.
3Ease of manufacture
If lawnmower-device method is used to predict density after compaction, then measurement is non-destructive, but real-time correction becomes impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary density measurement capability by positioning GPR sensors on the compaction roller itself, allowing density assessment to occur during the compaction process rather than after. This enables real-time feedback and immediate correction of compaction issues before the asphalt cools and hardens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism where GPR measurements taken during compaction are immediately processed and used to adjust compaction parameters in real-time. The system provides continuous monitoring and feedback to operators, enabling dynamic optimization of the compaction process while the material is still pliable.
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 quick, accurate, and non-destructive measurements, reducing construction time and costs, and ensuring a longer service life for the asphalt concrete by ensuring optimal density and moisture levels.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining raw data from a ground penetrating radar sensing an asphalt concrete at a location
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatus, and storage medium for providing real-time asphalt density and/or moisture content prediction with ground penetrating radar. A method includes using raw data from a ground penetrating radar sensing an asphalt concrete at a location; processing the raw data to obtain processed data; determining an asphalt density of the asphalt concrete at the location based on the processed data according to an asphalt density prediction model; determining a compaction status of the asphalt concrete at the location based on the asphalt density and a target compaction threshold; and outputting the compaction status of the asphalt concrete at the location to an operator for determining whether to continue or stop compacting the asphalt concrete at the location. In another method, moisture content for cold recycling and existing asphalt concrete pavement is predicted in real-time from using raw from data of ground penetrating radar mounted on a vehicle.