Magnetic Sensor System for UHPC Fiber Orientation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional non-destructive evaluation techniques are impractical for accurately determining the distribution and orientation of steel fibers in ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) due to their sensitivity to general heterogeneities rather than fiber content, and existing magnetic methods are not validated for field use or capable of real-time, 3D spatial distribution mapping.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic sensor system comprising orthogonal coils and a data analyzer is used to determine inductance changes and fiber orientation in UHPC by measuring inductance changes in two orthogonal directions, allowing for the detection of fiber volume and orientation without direct contact, and using varying frequencies to control sensing depth and resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional non-destructive evaluation techniques are used to assess UHPC, then general structural integrity can be evaluated, but fiber distribution and orientation cannot be accurately determined due to sensitivity to heterogeneities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or acoustic non-destructive evaluation techniques with a magnetic field-based sensing system. The magnetic sensor detects changes in magnetic flux caused by steel fibers, enabling precise measurement of fiber distribution and orientation without being affected by concrete heterogeneities that interfere with traditional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic parameters (flux density, field distribution) in response to steel fiber presence. By measuring how the magnetic field parameters change when interacting with ferromagnetic steel fibers versus non-magnetic concrete matrix, the system achieves selective detection of fiber characteristics.
2Productivity
If existing magnetic methods are applied to UHPC testing, then fiber detection is possible, but real-time 3D spatial distribution mapping cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs three magnetic sensors arranged in orthogonal directions (x, y, z axes) to capture magnetic field changes from multiple dimensions simultaneously. This multi-dimensional sensing approach enables reconstruction of 3D spatial fiber distribution through data processing, transforming 2D surface measurements into comprehensive 3D structural information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the measurement process into discrete sampling points across the UHPC structure surface. By systematically moving the sensor array and collecting data at multiple positions, the continuous 3D spatial distribution is constructed from segmented measurements, enabling complete volumetric mapping.
3Measurement precision
If a magnetic sensor system is positioned close to the UHPC surface for accurate measurement, then measurement precision improves, but the system becomes more vulnerable to surface irregularities and requires precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the magnetic sensor system with multiple sensors (at least three) that can detect magnetic field changes in different directions. This multi-functional capability allows the system to compensate for positioning variations and surface irregularities by analyzing data from multiple sensing angles, reducing the strict positioning requirements.
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 system effectively measures fiber density and orientation in UHPC, providing non-destructive evaluation images and validating results against X-ray computed tomography, demonstrating a clear relationship between inductance change and fiber volume, and enabling real-time, non-destructive testing of UHPC structures.
Implementation Method 1
determining, using the magnetic sensor, inductance change of the UHPC structure
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic sensor can be excited by a continuous wave at a first frequency to determine the inductance change in the two directions
Data Source
AI summary
Various examples related to magnetic non-destructive analysis and testing of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). In one example, a method includes positioning a magnetic sensor on or adjacent to a surface of an ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) structure; determining, using the magnetic sensor, inductance change of the UHPC structure in two directions that are substantially orthogonal to each other; and determining a fiber orientation within the UHPC structure based upon the determined inductance change in the two directions. In another example, a system includes a support structure that supports at least one magnetic sensor on or adjacent to a surface of a UHPC structure; at least one data analyzer that can determine inductance change of the UHPC structure using the at least one magnetic; and processing circuitry configured to determine a fiber orientation within the UHPC structure based upon the determined inductance change.