Multi-Antenna Deflection Measurement via Harmonic Resonance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack the capability to concurrently measure deflections in structural members at multiple locations, which is essential for determining stiffness across various points, necessitating a more robust and reliable system for monitoring structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple antennae with distinct resonant frequency harmonics and a support structure, which induces magnetic or electromagnetic fields to measure deflections without physical contact, coupled with a load applying mechanism and a controller for data processing, allowing for simultaneous monitoring of deflections across multiple locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single antenna is used to measure deflection at one location, then the measurement precision at that location is improved, but the ability to concurrently measure at multiple locations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the measurement system into multiple separate antennas, with each antenna dedicated to measuring deflection at a specific location along the structural member. This segmentation allows simultaneous independent measurements at multiple locations without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and multi-location capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the spatial dimension by positioning multiple antennas at different locations along the structural member. Each antenna operates independently in its own spatial zone, enabling concurrent measurements across multiple points without compromising the precision at any single location.
2Productivity
If multiple antennas are used to measure deflections at multiple locations concurrently, then the productivity and measurement coverage are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs identical antenna designs and measurement procedures for all locations, where each antenna performs the same function of measuring deflection at its designated point. This universality simplifies the system compared to using different types of sensors for different locations, as the same antenna model and analysis method can be applied throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multiple copies of the same antenna design positioned at different locations. Each antenna is an identical replica that measures deflection in the same manner, allowing the system to scale by simply adding more copies rather than designing complex variations for different locations.
3Measurement precision
If contact-based sensors are used to measure deflection, then the measurement precision is improved, but the structural integrity and reliability of the monitored object are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based sensors with non-contact electromagnetic antennas that measure deflection through electromagnetic field interactions. This substitution eliminates physical contact between the measurement device and the structural member, preserving the structural integrity and reliability of the monitored object while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the antenna and the structural member. The electromagnetic field acts as a mediator that carries measurement information without requiring direct physical contact, allowing precise deflection measurement while maintaining the reliability and integrity of the structural member.
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 concurrent measurement of deflections and stiffness at multiple locations, providing a more robust and reliable assessment of structural integrity by analyzing shifts in electromagnetic field characteristics over time.
Implementation Method 1
Each antenna is configured to induce, upon applying a first electrical signal thereto, a magnetic or electromagnetic field in the SM and create a coupling of the magnetic or electromagnetic field between the respective antenna and the SM
Implementation Method 2
the characteristics of the magnetic or electromagnetic field coupling between (a) the first antenna and the SM are associated with a distance between a first predetermined region of the SM and the first coil region
Data Source
AI summary
Multiple deflections of a structural member (SM) can be measured at multiple locations thereof, which deflections can be used to monitor changes in stiffness over time, using at least one antenna to measure the resonant frequencies at different harmonic frequency numbers of a predetermined radio frequency spectrum. One antenna can include a plurality of coils providing a first coil region that has a maximum sensitive to a first resonant frequency harmonic number and another antenna can include a plurality of coils providing a second coil region that has a maximum sensitivity to a second resonant frequency harmonic number that is different from the first predetermined resonant frequency harmonic number. Using different harmonic resonant frequency numbers, deflections at multiple regions of the SM can be determined concurrently using a plurality of antennae.