Remote Blast Wave Measurement via GPS-Synced Transducers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-point transducer systems for measuring blast wave pressure profiles face synchronization errors and mechanical differences that affect the accuracy of measurements due to cable network connections and impedance issues.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a master sensing unit synchronized with an external GPS signal to autonomously gather and transmit synchronized blast data from multiple independent transducers, eliminating the need for cable connections and allowing remote data collection using Autonomous Pressure Profile Recorder (APPR) apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cable network connections are used to connect transducers to a central device, then the system can collect blast wave pressure profiles, but synchronization errors and impedance errors occur that reduce measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement function into independent transducer units, each with its own microprocessor and timing capabilities. Each transducer operates autonomously to record pressure data with locally generated timestamps, eliminating the need for centralized signal routing and reducing synchronization dependencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. Transducers transmit data and synchronized timing information wirelessly to the receiver, eliminating cable-induced impedance errors and mechanical connection issues while maintaining data collection capability.
2Loss of information
If transducers are placed at varying distances from the blast source to capture pressure profiles, then comprehensive blast wave data can be obtained, but the system requires complex cable network connections that introduce synchronization errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the data collection function across multiple independent transducer units distributed at various distances from the blast source. Each unit autonomously captures pressure profiles and timestamps data locally, eliminating the need for a complex centralized cable network while maintaining comprehensive spatial coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces GPS satellite signals as an intermediary timing reference that all transducers independently access. This common external timing source synchronizes distributed sensors without requiring direct physical connections between them, simplifying the system architecture while maintaining data completeness.
3Productivity
If a centralized system is used to receive and record signals from multiple transducers, then data collection can be coordinated, but synchronization errors of a few thousandths of a second occur that interfere with measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary synchronization by having all transducers independently lock onto GPS satellite timing signals before data collection begins. Each transducer generates and stores timestamps based on this pre-synchronized reference, ensuring microsecond-level timing accuracy without requiring real-time coordination during the actual measurement event.
Solution Approach 2:
Each transducer unit independently performs timing, data acquisition, and timestamp generation without relying on the centralized system for these critical functions. The distributed units self-synchronize using GPS signals and autonomously manage their data recording, eliminating synchronization errors introduced by centralized signal routing.
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 approach ensures highly accurate and synchronized blast wave measurement data collection, reducing synchronization errors and mechanical differences, and enabling comprehensive analysis without entering the blast radius.
Implementation Method 1
pressure transducers are placed at varying distances from the blast source
Implementation Method 2
A master sensing unit is used to synchronize a sensed detonation signal to an external GPS signal
Data Source
AI summary
The method and system disclosed herein allow pressure profile data to be collected remotely from multiple autonomous sensors without entering the blast radius. The system obtains a GPS synchronized time value for detonation and obtains subsequent synchronized pressure data sets overtime from multiple independently functioning remote and correlates that data from each transducer with the initial detonation event.