Wood Biodegradation Detection Device Using Optical and Environmental Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices fail to detect xylophage fungi and do not provide early warning for wood biodegradation, especially in structures with high moisture content, leading to costly chemical treatments and premature wood replacement.
Innovation Solution
A device with a control module connected to insect detection sensors using light emitters and detectors, temperature sensors, and relative humidity sensors, which generates an alarm signal when insects are detected and wood moisture content exceeds thresholds conducive to xylophage agent development, housed in a casing to attract insects and measure wood moisture content based on ambient conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current detection devices are used, then termite intrusion can be detected, but xylophage fungi and early biodegradation cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The device integrates multiple detection functions into a single system: optical sensors detect insects (termites), while temperature and humidity sensors detect conditions favorable for xylophage fungi development. This multi-functional approach allows the device to monitor both direct insect intrusion and indirect fungal degradation risks, resolving the limitation of previous single-purpose detectors
2Loss of time
If detection is performed only when insects are present, then early warning is missed when moisture content permits attack but insects are not yet detected
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary detection by monitoring temperature and humidity parameters that indicate favorable conditions for xylophage agents before actual insect intrusion or visible damage occurs. By detecting these precursor conditions, the system provides early warning that enables preventive measures before biodegradation begins
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors environmental parameters (temperature, humidity) and provides ongoing feedback about biodegradation risk. This continuous feedback loop allows the system to adjust its detection strategy and provide timely warnings based on changing environmental conditions that may predispose wood to attack
3Reliability
If chemical treatments are applied to prevent biodegradation, then wood protection is achieved, but costly insecticides and premature replacement are required
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables preliminary detection of biodegradation risks through continuous monitoring of environmental parameters and insect presence. By identifying problems at an early stage, the system allows for targeted, minimal chemical treatments only when and where needed, rather than requiring widespread preventive chemical application
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring device provides self-service by continuously assessing wood condition and alerting occupants to problems. This enables building owners to take proactive measures based on actual conditions rather than relying on scheduled chemical treatments, reducing overall chemical usage and costs
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 early detection of biodegradation, preventing costly repairs and insecticide use by accurately identifying insect presence and suitable moisture conditions for xylophage fungi, applicable for monitoring both structural and decorative wood in buildings.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting part which emits a white light towards the subject board, and a light receiving part which is disposed on a light path of the white light reflected by the subject board
Data Source
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AI summary
Device and process for the detection of biodegradation of wood. The device is characterised by comprising a sensor (2) fitted with a light emitter (3) and a light detector (4) which are connected to the control module (1) which includes means of detection of small insects based on the detection of light and which generates an alarm. It comprises a temperature sensor and one for relative humidity in order to establish the moisture content of the wood starting from these parameters and to generate an alarm indicating that the conditions in the wood are suitable for the settlement of xylophage agents when the moisture content obtained exceeds an established threshold, It prevents the degradation of the wood by means of the early detection of the xylophage agents that can affect it.