Optical Strain Gauge Transfer Device for Large Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional strain gauges are limited in measuring strain of large objects and are prone to degradation when used outdoors, necessitating the development of more robust and versatile measurement solutions.
Innovation Solution
The use of optical strain gauges with optical fibers that can be transferred and calibrated, utilizing a transfer device to maintain the optical fibers within their minimum bending radius and prevent degradation, allowing for accurate measurement of stress and strain in large structures without electromagnetic interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electrical resistance strain gauges are used, then measurement is possible for small objects, but measurement of large objects is limited and degradation occurs outdoors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electrical resistance-based strain measurement with optical fiber-based measurement. The optical fiber strain gauge uses light transmission through optical fibers instead of electrical resistance changes, eliminating the degradation issues of electrical components in outdoor environments while enabling measurement on large structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain gauge incorporates a composite structure with an insulating flexible backing supporting a metallic foil pattern, combined with optical fiber elements. This composite design integrates the advantages of traditional strain gauges with optical measurement capabilities to achieve both mechanical strain sensing and environmental durability.
2Ease of operation
If optical fibers are bent during transfer, then flexibility and ease of installation is improved, but fiber degradation occurs if minimum bending radius is not maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transfer device as an intermediary tool between the optical fiber strain gauge and the target structure. This device includes guides and support features that mediate the transfer process, ensuring the optical fiber maintains its minimum bending radius while being positioned, thus preventing fiber degradation during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device is designed with pre-configured guides and support structures that establish proper fiber routing and bending constraints before the actual transfer occurs. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the optical fiber is transferred to the target structure, it naturally follows paths that maintain the minimum bending radius, preventing degradation.
3Measurement precision
If calibration is performed before attachment, then measurement accuracy is improved, but transfer complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber strain gauge is designed to maintain its calibration state through the transfer process. The transfer device preserves the fiber's geometric configuration and strain state during transfer, allowing the gauge to essentially calibrate itself in its installed position without requiring complex external calibration equipment or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer device serves multiple functions: it guides the optical fiber during transfer, maintains minimum bending radius constraints, supports different attachment locations, and preserves calibration information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate calibration procedures while managing transfer complexity.
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 reliable and precise measurement of strain in large objects such as bridges, wind turbines, and buildings, with the optical fibers being resistant to environmental degradation and electromagnetic interference, and allowing for calibration before or after attachment.
Implementation Method 1
optical strain gauges with optical fibers that can be transferred and calibrated
Implementation Method 2
optical strain gauges have been developed to address the issues associated with measuring strain of large structures in addition to the degradation issue
Data Source
AI summary
An optical strain gauge, a transfer device for an optical strain gauge, and a test system are described. One instance of the disclosed transfer device includes a first and second gauge coupler that facilitate attachment to an optical strain gauge. The disclosed transfer device enables an optical strain gauge to be easily moved from one location to another; for example from a location of manufacture, testing, or calibration, to an object to be tested with the strain gauge or from one object to another object.