Helical Pile Sensor Modules with Solar Data Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground pile systems lack the capability to effectively detect and report various loading forces, such as torsional, lateral, and axial forces, which can compromise the stability of structures like wind generators and telecommunications towers, especially in remote locations without established electrical or communication grids.
Innovation Solution
Integration of sensor modules with a data acquisition unit, including solar-powered batteries, modems, and computers, to monitor and transmit loading force data from helical piles to a remote operation center, ensuring real-time monitoring and analysis of forces applied to the piles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensor modules are integrated into helical piles to detect loading forces, then the ability to monitor and report forces is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor modules are nested within protective housings that are integrated into the helical pile structure. The data acquisition unit is housed within a protective enclosure that is part of the pile assembly, allowing the monitoring system to be embedded within the existing structure rather than added as separate external components.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional components are merged into integrated assemblies: sensor modules combine detection elements with protective housings, the data acquisition unit combines computing, power management, and communication functions, and the solar panel array integrates power generation with the monitoring system.
2Reliability
If sensor modules with protective housings are used, then the sensor protection during installation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective housings are pre-installed on the helical piles before the sensing elements are mounted. This preliminary installation of the protective structure ensures that sensors are protected from damage during the pile installation process, particularly during rotation and driving into the ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective housings serve as cushioning structures that absorb and distribute mechanical stresses and impacts that occur during pile installation. These housings are designed to protect the embedded sensors from damage during the high-stress installation process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a data acquisition unit with solar panel array and battery is implemented, then the ability to operate in remote locations is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The data acquisition unit is equipped with a solar panel array that provides autonomous power generation, allowing the system to operate independently in remote locations without external power supply. The battery stores energy to ensure continuous operation during periods without sunlight, making the system self-sufficient.
4Measurement precision
If multiple sensor modules are installed on the tubular body, then the measurement coverage is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into separate modular sensor modules, each capable of detecting specific loading forces. These modular units can be independently manufactured and then assembled onto the tubular body of the helical pile, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage.
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 continuous, reliable monitoring and reporting of loading forces on ground piles, enhancing the stability and performance of supported structures by providing timely data for maintenance and operational decisions, even in remote or disconnected locations.
Implementation Method 1
The data acquisition unit includes a solar panel array, a battery charged by the solar panel array
Data Source
AI summary
A pile for use in a ground pile system has a tubular body and one or more sensor modules attached to the tubular body. Each of the one of more sensor modules includes a sensor guard that has a perimeter and a sensor nested within the sensor guard. The sensor is recessed within the perimeter of the sensor guard to protect the sensor during installation of the pile. A data acquisition unit can be used to receive data from the one or more sensor modules. The data acquisition unit includes a solar panel array, a battery charged by the solar panel array, a modem powered by the battery, and a computer powered by the battery. The computer is configured to receive signals from the sensors and transmit the signals to a remote operation center through the modem.