Vibratory Compactor Density Estimation via Neural Network Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring compacted density of asphalt mats during the paving process are cumbersome, time-consuming, and lack precision, often requiring limited density readings, which can lead to significant cost overruns due to incomplete compaction or over-compaction issues.
Innovation Solution
A vibratory compactor equipped with sensors and a compaction analyzer featuring a feature extraction module, neural network module, and analyzer module that generates real-time density signals based on vibratory response signals, allowing for continuous monitoring and adjustment of compaction parameters to achieve uniform density across the pavement surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional density measurement methods are used, then density readings can be obtained, but the process is cumbersome, time-consuming, and requires extensive core sampling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical core extraction and laboratory testing system with a vibratory analysis system. Accelerometers mounted on the compactor measure vibratory responses, and signal processing algorithms convert these measurements into density estimates, eliminating the need for physical core sampling and laboratory analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vibratory response signals as an intermediary parameter to infer density. Instead of measuring density directly through core extraction, the system measures the compactor's vibratory response to the asphalt mat and uses signal processing to derive density information from these indirect measurements.
2Productivity
If limited density readings are taken, then measurement time is reduced, but the readings are not indicative of overall compaction and lead to cost overruns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous density monitoring throughout the compaction process. The accelerometers continuously measure vibratory responses as the compactor moves across the asphalt mat, providing a continuous stream of density data rather than discrete spot measurements, ensuring complete coverage of the compaction area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical core sampling process with a non-contact vibratory analysis method that can continuously monitor density across the entire compaction area without stopping the compaction process or requiring physical intervention.
3Loss of time
If vibratory response analysis is used to estimate density, then real-time monitoring is achieved, but the accuracy needs improvement and results are susceptible to data variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the measured vibratory responses are continuously processed and compared against reference data or target density values. The system provides real-time feedback to operators about compaction quality, allowing for immediate adjustments to achieve target density specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent analyzes multiple parameters from the vibratory response signals, including frequency, amplitude, and spectral characteristics. By examining changes in these parameters and their relationships, the system improves density estimation accuracy by considering the complex interaction between compactor dynamics and material properties.
4Strength
If compactor parameters are adjusted to maximize energy transfer, then compaction effectiveness increases, but the relationship between energy dissipation and compacted density remains problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct density measurement with vibratory response analysis. Instead of trying to predict density from energy transfer calculations, the system directly measures the compactor's vibratory response to the material, which inherently contains information about the material's compaction state and density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses vibratory response signals as an intermediary that directly reflects the interaction between the compactor and the asphalt mat. This intermediary measurement provides more reliable density information than energy transfer calculations because it captures the actual dynamic interaction between the compaction system and the material being compacted.
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 real-time, precise estimation of asphalt mat density, reducing the need for extensive core sampling and ensuring uniform compaction, thereby preventing under- or over-compaction and minimizing construction costs.
Implementation Method 1
applying a vibratory energy to a roadway section with the roller as it moves over the roadway section
Implementation Method 2
The compactor and the asphalt mat can be viewed as a mechanically coupled system
Implementation Method 3
repeatedly gathering responsive vibration signals of the roller as it moves over the roadway section
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of compacting a roadway section includes entering initial input parameters into a compaction analyzer, A plurality of passes is made with a roller over a portion of the roadway section and vibratory energy is applied thereto. Responsive vibration signals are gathered and the compaction analyzer generates estimated density signals. Actual density measurements are taken and the estimated densities are compared thereto. Selected ones of the initial input parameters are adjusted so that an adjusted density output signal which represents the actual density of a roadway section is generated.