Rheological Probe Pivot Shell for Concrete Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rheological probes used in ready-mix concrete production face limitations in durability, measurement precision, cost, and manufacturability, and are not adequately suited to monitor the changing rheological properties of concrete over time.
Innovation Solution
A rheological probe design featuring a shell member with pivotally engaged mating features and a securing member, along with a pushing member that communicates normal forces to a deformable portion, allowing for precise measurement of resistance pressure while preventing the transmission of unwanted forces, and incorporating wireless data transmission and self-powering capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the shell member is rigidly fixed to the base, then structural strength is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to transmission of unwanted forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the shell member and base is segmented into multiple pivot points rather than a single rigid connection. This segmentation allows the structure to maintain overall strength while enabling localized movement at each pivot point to accommodate forces independently, preventing force transmission that would affect measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection transitions from a static rigid fixation to a dynamic pivotable connection. The pivot features allow the shell member to rotate or pivot relative to the base, creating a dynamic system that can adapt to applied forces while maintaining the measurement function isolated from external force transmissions.
2Force
If the pushing member is rigidly connected to the shell member, then force transmission is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to transmission of longitudinal and circumferential forces
Solution Approach 1:
The unwanted force transmission paths (longitudinal and circumferential) are extracted or removed from the force transmission system. The sliding face connection selectively transmits only the normal force component while excluding other force components, effectively taking out the harmful force transmissions while retaining the useful normal force measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding face acts as an intermediary element between the pushing member and the measurement system. This intermediary selectively transmits forces based on the sliding constraint, allowing normal forces to pass through while blocking the transmission of longitudinal and circumferential forces to the measurement sensors.
3Ease of manufacture
If the probe uses traditional slump test methods, then ease of manufacture is improved, but measurement precision and real-time monitoring capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical slump test method is replaced with a force-based measurement system using strain gauges or similar sensors. This substitution transitions from a manual, post-placement measurement approach to an automated, real-time force measurement system that provides continuous rheological property monitoring with higher precision.
4Ease of manufacture
If the shell member lacks pivotable connection, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but durability deteriorates due to stress concentration
Solution Approach 1:
The static rigid connection is replaced with a dynamic pivotable connection that allows controlled movement. This dynamic feature distributes stresses during operation rather than concentrating them at fixed points, significantly improving durability while the pivot mechanism itself remains relatively simple to manufacture using standard bearing or hinge designs.
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
The probe provides improved durability, precision, and cost-effectiveness in monitoring rheological properties of ready-mix concrete, enabling real-time adjustments to maintain workability and extending the usability of the concrete.
Implementation Method 1
deform a deformable portion of the inner member when the rheological probe is moved in a rheological substance
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The rheological probe generally has a base; an inner member fixedly connected to the base and extending away from the base, the inner member having in succession a base portion proximate to the base, and a tip away from the base, and a deformable portion located between the base portion and the tip; a shell member covering the inner member, the shell member having a proximal portion being pivotally connected to the base for pivoting about a pivot axis when subjected to a resistance pressure imparted by a relative movement of the probe in a rheological substance, and a distal portion, the distal portion being engaged with the tip, the shell member having mating features being pivotally engaged with corresponding features of the base, the mating features being located on transversally opposite sides of the proximal portion; and a deformation sensor mounted to the deformable portion.