Soil Compaction Measurement Using Laser Distance Gauge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional soil compaction measuring instruments require human intervention for precise adjustments and are prone to measurement errors due to subjective factors, making it difficult to obtain consistent results.
Innovation Solution
A device with a unique measuring head and reference piece arrangement that allows for contactless distance measurement between the measuring head and an immobile reference piece, combined with a programmable hydraulic load-transfer apparatus for automated loading cycles, eliminating the need for human intervention and reducing measurement errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional mechanical or digital gauges are used for measurement, then measurement capability is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to human intervention and subjective factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/digital contact-based gauges with an optical measurement system (laser distance gauge) that performs contactless measurement. The laser distance gauge measures the distance between the measuring head and reference piece optically, eliminating mechanical contact and human intervention in the measurement process, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation through automated measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system performs self-measurement automatically without human intervention. The laser distance gauge autonomously measures the distance between the measuring head and reference piece, and the system automatically records and processes the measurement data, eliminating the need for operators to manually read gauges or adjust measurement devices, thus improving both precision and ease of operation.
2Measurement precision
If structural elements require precise adjustment, then measurement accuracy can be improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple adjustment components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with an optical measurement system. Instead of requiring precise mechanical adjustment of contact gauges and their structural elements, the laser distance gauge performs contactless measurement, eliminating the need for multiple adjustable mechanical components while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reference piece as an intermediary element that simplifies the measurement system. The reference piece provides a stable reference point for the laser distance gauge to measure against, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms in the measuring head while ensuring measurement accuracy through the stable reference.
3Productivity
If automated loading cycles are implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to programmable hydraulic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a programmable hydraulic slave cylinder to implement automated loading cycles. The hydraulic system applies controlled loads to the soil through the device housing, with programmable control enabling automated loading and unloading cycles. This improves productivity by eliminating manual loading operations while the hydraulic system's inherent control capabilities manage the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable hydraulic slave cylinder performs automated loading cycles without human intervention. The system self-regulates the loading process according to pre-programmed parameters, automatically controlling the application and removal of loads through the device housing. This improves productivity significantly while the automation itself manages the operational 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 precise and repeatable measurement of soil compaction and other physical properties without human intervention, improving the accuracy and consistency of results, which is essential for engineering projects.
Implementation Method 1
the load-transfer apparatus has a hydraulic slave cylinder and piston that has a medium-transfer pipe end
Implementation Method 2
the measuring head has a contactless distance gauge measuring from the measuring head in the direction towards the lower surface of the reference piece
Data Source
AI summary
Device as well as method for using the device for the determination of the physical properties of soils and particulate materials, particularly their static compaction.