Abstract:
The present invention provides a non-intrusive method and device for determining the integrity of a support structure, such as a wooden utility pole. The determination of the structure's integrity is based on the relationship between the structures natural frequency and one or more mechanical and geometrical characteristics. The method includes the steps of generating an acoustic signal, converting the signal into digital signal that can be analyzed, and calculating the structure's strength and mechanical characteristics of the pole over time.
Abstract:
The present invention provides a non-intrusive method and device for determining the integrity of a support structure, such as a wooden utility pole. The determination of the structure's integrity is based on the relationship between the structures natural frequency and one or more mechanical and geometrical characteristics. The method includes the steps of generating an acoustic signal, converting the signal into digital signal that can be analyzed, and calculating the structure's strength and mechanical characteristics of the pole over time.