Karst Cave Volume Measurement via Chemical Diffusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring the volume of closed water-filled karst caves, such as three-dimensional laser scanning and sonar, are inefficient due to laser attenuation in water and high costs, necessitating a rapid and precise volume measurement solution for engineering applications.
Innovation Solution
A volume measurement system comprising a water collecting device, a concentration tester, and a control system that uses a chemical substance to calculate the volume of the karst cave by dissolving the substance in the water and measuring its concentration, allowing for accurate volume determination through the formula V=mρ.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If three-dimensional laser scanning is used to establish a karst cave model, then the volume can be calculated, but the laser attenuates fast in water and cannot reach the karst cave wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a chemical substance as an intermediary medium. The substance is released into the water-filled karst cave and diffuses throughout the space. By measuring the concentration distribution of this chemical substance, the volume of the cave can be calculated indirectly, bypassing the problem of laser attenuation in water.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical measurement system (laser scanning) with a chemical measurement system. Instead of using light to map the cave space, the system uses chemical diffusion and concentration measurement to determine volume, which is effective in water-filled environments where light cannot penetrate.
2Measurement precision
If sonars are used for volume measurement, then the measurement can be performed in water, but the cost is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a chemical substance that can be easily released and diffused in the water-filled cave. This chemical approach is much cheaper than sonar equipment while achieving the same volume measurement objective. The chemical substance serves as a low-cost alternative to expensive acoustic measurement systems.
3Productivity
If traditional volume measurement methods are used, then the process is slow and uncertain, but the invention achieves quick and precise measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a chemical substance that automatically diffuses throughout the cave space upon release, performing the measurement function without requiring complex scanning or mapping procedures. This preliminary diffusion action followed by simple concentration measurement achieves rapid volume determination, significantly reducing the time needed compared to traditional methods.
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 quick and precise volume measurement of closed water-filled karst caves, reducing construction uncertainties and costs, and facilitating more efficient engineering planning and execution.
Implementation Method 1
dissolving the substance in the water and measuring its concentration
Implementation Method 2
the chemical substance powder is dissolved in the cavity and gradually diffuses
Data Source
AI summary
A volume measurement system and method for a closed water-filled karst cave, including a water collecting device, concentration tester and control system. The control system is connected to the water collecting device by a connecting piece. The water collecting device is a container with a top closed and bottom open. The water collecting device top is a piston. The piston is connected to a propulsion rod, and propulsion rod is controlled by control system to extend or retract, so as to realize the forward or backward movement of the piston. An openable and closeable placement table is hinged to the water collecting device's inner wall. The placement table is connected to piston, the placement table moves upward when piston is raised, and placement table moves downward when piston is lowered. The placement table is configured to accommodate a chemical substance. The concentration tester is configured to detect the solution's concentration.