Sensor network for subsurface impact protection system
US11460142B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 2019 |
| Grant date | Oct 4, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q2209/40
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A subsurface impact protection system for protecting an underground structure is provided. The protection system includes a subsurface polymer layer above the underground structure which is configured to absorb above-ground impact force from reaching the underground structure. A sensor network is embedded in the polymer layer. The sensor network includes a plurality of sensors configured to monitor the polymer layer by generating a corresponding plurality of sensor signals of conditions near the polymer layer and transmitting the generated sensor signals to one or more external receivers. In some embodiments, the polymer layer includes a protective mesh made up of a plurality of high density polyethylene (HDPE) strands in a woven pattern. In one such embodiment, the sensors occupy gaps in the protective mesh. A method of protecting an underground structure is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.