Sensor-Integrated Fastening Elements for Building Segment Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building connection monitoring technologies lack a simple and precise method to assess the reliability of connections between building segments, particularly in complex structures like tunnels and bridges, where mechanical weakening can occur, making it difficult to detect and address stability issues in a timely manner.
Innovation Solution
A building arrangement that incorporates fastening elements with integrated sensors to monitor anchoring data, allowing for continuous and remote evaluation of mechanical integrity between neighboring segments, using transmission devices for data communication, and protective devices to safeguard sensors from mechanical damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensors are integrated into fastening elements for monitoring structural integrity, then measurement precision and reliability of connection monitoring are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is integrated directly into the fastening element, merging the monitoring function with the structural component. This combination allows precise measurement of anchoring forces and structural integrity while avoiding the need for separate monitoring devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite adding sensing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical connection between building segments and simultaneously acts as a sensor carrier for monitoring structural integrity. This multi-functionality improves measurement precision without requiring additional dedicated monitoring equipment, thus managing device complexity effectively.
2Reliability
If sensors are placed in hard-to-access areas for monitoring, then reliability of connection monitoring is improved, but ease of operation and maintenance difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor provides continuous feedback on anchoring forces and structural integrity through data transmission devices. This real-time monitoring allows early detection of mechanical weakening without requiring physical inspection of hard-to-access areas, maintaining reliability while reducing maintenance operational complexity through remote monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor system performs self-monitoring of the fastening element's performance and structural integrity. The system automatically detects and reports issues through data transmission, eliminating the need for manual inspection in difficult-to-access locations and improving both reliability and operational ease.
3Reliability
If protective devices are added to safeguard sensors, then reliability of sensor operation is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Protective elements are integrated into the fastening element design from the outset, rather than added as separate post-installation components. This preliminary incorporation of protection ensures sensor reliability while streamlining manufacturing processes, as the protective structure is formed during the primary manufacturing operation rather than requiring additional assembly steps.
Data Source
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AI summary
Structure arrangement (120) comprising a first structure segment (111), a second structure segment (113) adjacent to the first structure segment (111), and a fastening element (100) attached to the first structure segment (111) and to the second structure segment (113), the fastening element comprising a shaft section (102), a first fastening end (104) at a first end of the shaft section (102), wherein the first fastening end (104) is attached to the first structure segment (111), a second fastening end (106) at a second end of the shaft section (102), wherein the second fastening end (106) is attached to the second structure segment (113), a sensor (110) for detecting anchorage data of the fastening element (100) on and/or in the first structure segment (111) and/or the second structure segment (113), and a transmission device (114) for The transmission of anchoring data from the sensor (110) to an external receiver device (122) is shown.