초록 ▼

Described herein are wireless interrogation systems and methods that rely on a complementary sensing device and interrogator. The sensing device is disposed to measure a parameter indicative of the health of a structure. A sensor reading from the sensor indicates the level of a parameter being monit

Described herein are wireless interrogation systems and methods that rely on a complementary sensing device and interrogator. The sensing device is disposed to measure a parameter indicative of the health of a structure. A sensor reading from the sensor indicates the level of a parameter being monitored or whether one or more particular physical or chemical events have taken place. Using wireless techniques, the interrogator probes the device to determine its identity and its current sensor reading. This often includes transmission of a wireless signal through portions of the structure. When activated, the device responds with a wireless signal that identifies the device and contains information about the parameter being measured or a particular sensor state corresponding to the parameter. The identity of the device allows it to be distinguished from a number of similar devices. Thus this invention finds particular usefulness in the context of an array of devices that can be probed by a wireless interrogation unit. In one embodiment, the devices are passive and derive power from the interrogation signal.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A device comprising:an electrochemical cell comprising a reference electrode, an ion selective electrode, and an electrolyte, wherein the electrolyte is configured to provide a medium for movement of ions and to maintain an electrical connection between the reference electrode

What is claimed is: 1. A device comprising:an electrochemical cell comprising a reference electrode, an ion selective electrode, and an electrolyte, wherein the electrolyte is configured to provide a medium for movement of ions and to maintain an electrical connection between the reference electrode and the ion selective electrode;an enclosure including a permeable concrete membrane configured to allow an ion to pass into the electrolyte from outside of the device, wherein the enclosure contains the electrochemical cell;a sensor configured to determine a potential difference between the reference electrode and the ion selective electrode; anda transponder in electrical communication with the sensor, wherein the transponder is configured to transmit a wireless signal that includes the potential difference and an identifier associated with the device.