Jet Grouting Radius Measurement via Vibration Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining the radius or diameter of ground columns produced by jet grouting are inefficient, as they require long preparatory times, are limited in depth, and suffer from measuring inaccuracies, especially when dealing with non-uniform soil structures and varying process parameters.

Innovation Solution

A process involving the introduction of level rods with sensors to record vibrations generated by a jet grouting tool during its rotational or pivoting movements, allowing for real-time evaluation of the radius or diameter of the ground column, suitable for depths exceeding 10 meters, and enabling immediate adjustment of parameters for improved accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If thermal temperature determining methods are used to measure ground column diameter, then measurement can be performed, but long preparatory periods of time are required and immediate evaluation cannot take place

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground column diameter measurementVSAvoidpreparatory time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces thermal measurement methods with a mechanical vibration-based measurement system. A sensor records vibrations generated by the jet grouting tool during operation, eliminating the need for thermal methods' long preparatory periods. The vibration signal is processed immediately to determine ground column diameter, enabling real-time evaluation during construction.

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

2Measurement precision

If geophone methods are used to determine diameter, then measurement can be performed, but only down to certain depth (8-15 meters) and additional technical facilities are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground column diameter measurementVSAvoidmeasurement depth
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces level rods as intermediary elements that extend the measurement capability to greater depths. The sensor records vibrations on these level rods, which serve as conduits for transmitting vibration signals from deep underground locations (exceeding 15 meters) to the surface where measurement and evaluation can occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If rod and microphone are lifted synchronously during measurement, then measurement can be performed, but additional technical facilities are required and measuring inaccuracies occur if lifting speeds differ

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediameter measurement accuracyVSAvoidsynchronization equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement system is designed to remain stationary on the ground surface while the jet grouting tool moves through the ground. The level rods passively transmit vibrations from the moving tool to the fixed sensor, eliminating the need for complex synchronous lifting mechanisms and associated coordination equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Reliability

If trial columns are produced and analyzed prior to actual jet grouting work, then quality can be assessed, but time is lost and productivity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground column qualityVSAvoidconstruction speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring vibrations during the actual jet grouting operation. The sensor records vibrations as the tool creates ground columns, and the system immediately processes this data to assess column quality. This eliminates the need for separate trial column testing while maintaining quality control throughout construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 method enables quick, accurate, and reliable determination of the radius or diameter of ground columns during production, allowing for immediate evaluation and parameter adjustment, thereby enhancing the quality and consistency of the ground columns produced.

Implementation Method 1

While the jet passes the level rod, vibrations are generated at the level rod; and recording a signal which represents the vibrations at the at least one level rod by means of a sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS10053831B2Process and assembly for determining the radius of a ground element which can be produced by jet grouting
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 KELLER HOLDING GMBH
  • US10053831B2 patent drawing
  • US10053831B2 patent drawing
  • US10053831B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for determining the radius of a pile in the ground that can be produced by means of a jet-grouting process, comprising the steps of: introducing at least one level-measuring stick into the ground; sinking a jet-grouting tool (3) down to a defined distance from the level-measuring stick (4), the distance being less than a maximum range R of the grouting jet; pulling the jet-grouting tool (3) while performing a rotating or swivelling motion with the grouting jet activated, thereby producing vibrations as the grouting jet passes the level-measuring stick (4); and recording a signal representative of the vibrations at the at least one level-measuring stick (4) by means of a sensor (5) that is fastened to the level-measuring stick (4). The invention also relates to a corresponding arrangement (2) for determining the radius of a pile in the ground that can be produced by means of a jet-grouting process.