Project
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | A micro-penetrometer for snow and soil structural analysis |
Chenghao Mo Chenxian Meng Xing Shen Zheyan Wu |
design_document1.pdf design_document2.pdf other2.pdf |
Shurun Tan | |
| # Problem When it comes to the disaster like avalanche bulletin and forest fires, we should investigate the landform with a specific technique. Also, this technique can deal with the snow profiling, ski track characterization or snow runaway characterization in snow. Understanding the structural integrity of soil and snow is vital for environmental management, agricultural practices, and civil engineering projects. Soil structure analysis informs us about the risk of erosion, the soil's ability to support plant life, and the stability of structures built upon it. Our project aims to fill the gap in on-site, accurate analysis of these structures and specifically designed for operation at low temperatures. By developing a portable and precise micro-penetrometer, we enable immediate, data-driven decision-making that can enhance safety, productivity, and environmental stewardship. # Solution Overview The main challenge of our project is to design an automated electronic control system capable of continuously drilling into different terrains, such as soil and snow, and using highly sensitive sensors at each location to record the penetration force and analyze the microstructural properties. The instrument must maintain a constant velocity during penetration, which requires a precise control mechanism. In addition, we need to design a mechanical system that is portable and field deployable to ensure operation in potentially harsh environmental conditions. We also need a software system to record real-time sensor data for subsequent analysis. Achieving such a high level of performance in a small, energy-efficient package that can withstand the rigors of varying ground conditions is a complex engineering task. It requires innovative approaches and collaborative efforts in mechanical, electrical and computer engineering to overcome these technical challenges. # Solution Components ## Control subsystem - piezo-electric force sensor with high accuracy to measure the penetration force at each location - the encoder of the motor ensures high accuracy in the vertical position - implement a feedback mechanism to adjust the drilling speed based on the resistance encountered. This will ensure optimal penetration regardless of varying soil or snow densities. ## Mechanical subsystem - the encoder of the motor ensures high accuracy in the vertical position - small brush can remove the snow from the gear teeth to avoid jamming of the motor and the rod - ski pols can be added to the measure unit to make the position stable - Li-Polymer battery to ensure the power of entire day - Aluminium profile to make the weight as light as possible so that it can be portable ## Software subsystem - Real-time data processing: To handle sensor input and control commands efficiently. - Data analysis algorithms: For interpreting penetration resistance and other measurements. - User interface: To display data and controls in an easily understandable format. - Data storage and export: For recording and sharing the collected data. - Potential integration of machine learning: For advanced pattern recognition in soil or snow structures. # Criterion for success There are three main criteria for the success of our project. The first is whether the device is portable. Compared to other similar products on the market today, we think that it’s successful if our device can be carried by one person on their back or by hand. The second criterion is to be able to ensure that the drill bit moves smoothly at a uniform speed through more precise electromechanical control. The final criterion is to have an algorithm that can read the snow or soil data within a reasonable margin of error. |
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