Non-Destructive Roadway Surface Characterization via Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the dimensions and density of construction materials, particularly in the asphalt paving industry, are prone to inaccuracies due to operator dependency and destructive testing processes, leading to unreliable results and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a translation mechanism with roller wheels to rotate cylindrically-shaped construction material samples, combined with non-destructive material-interacting devices such as light, sound, or radiation, to accurately determine dimensions and characteristics like density and moisture content, minimizing operator judgment and enabling precise, non-destructive testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If destructive testing methods are used to determine material dimensions and density, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but the sample is impaired and testing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based measurement systems with optical fields. Multiple imaging devices capture images of the construction material from different positions simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential mechanical measurements and sample destruction while achieving accurate dimension and density determination through image processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates optical copies (images) of the construction material using multiple imaging devices. These images serve as replicas that contain all necessary dimensional information, allowing measurement without physically touching or damaging the original sample, thus reducing testing time and preserving the sample
2Ease of operation
If operator-dependent methods are used to determine bulk specific gravity, then flexibility in measurement approaches is maintained, but measurement reliability decreases due to high variability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs measurements automatically without operator intervention. Multiple imaging devices autonomously capture images from different positions, and the processing system automatically determines dimensions and density, eliminating operator-dependent variability while maintaining ease of operation through simple sample placement
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multiple imaging devices to capture images from different positions simultaneously, providing redundant measurement data. This feedback mechanism allows for cross-validation and automated calculation of bulk specific gravity, eliminating operator bias and significantly improving measurement reliability
3Measurement precision
If gamma attenuation technology is used to determine bulk density, then precise electron density measurement is achieved, but the method is limited by operator ability to measure specimen height accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple imaging devices to simultaneously capture both the top and bottom surfaces of the specimen in a single operation. This combination of imaging perspectives eliminates the need for separate height measurements by operators, as the imaging system automatically determines specimen dimensions including height through image processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical height measurement tools (calipers) with optical imaging systems. The imaging devices capture images that are processed to automatically determine specimen height and other dimensions, eliminating operator skill limitations and improving both precision and ease of measurement
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 enhances the accuracy of dimension and density measurements, reduces testing time, and eliminates destructive sample impairment, leading to improved quality control and assurance in construction materials, ultimately resulting in more reliable and efficient construction processes.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging device, to thereby determine at least one surface characteristic of the construction material
Implementation Method 2
utilize a translation mechanism with roller wheels to rotate cylindrically-shaped construction material samples, combined with non-destructive material-interacting devices such as light, sound, or radiation
Implementation Method 3
non-destructive material-interacting devices such as light, sound, or radiation, to accurately determine dimensions and characteristics like density and moisture content
Implementation Method 4
non-destructive material-interacting devices such as light, sound, or radiation, to accurately determine dimensions and characteristics like density and moisture content
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a characteristic of a construction material is provided. The method includes imaging the construction material and determining a characteristic of the construction material based off of the imaging.